Variable annuities provide the opportunity for market appreciation—through a variety of investment options—with tax-deferred accumulation and future income.

Variable annuities are designed for people willing to take more risk with their money in exchange for greater growth potential. While there is more risk associated with a variable annuity, many variable annuities offer guarantees of principal and downside protection at an additional cost (depending on contract rider availability). However, these guarantees do not apply to the investment performance or safety of amounts held in the variable investment options.

Variable annuities offer:

• Tax-deferred Growth: Taxes are deferred on earnings until money is withdrawn.
• The opportunity for market appreciation: A variety of investment options are available. 
• Liquidity: Most variable annuities allow withdrawal of a portion of your account value without penalty. Withdrawals may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge within the first several years of any contribution, and if taken prior to age 59½, will be subject to a 10 percent IRS penalty.
• Benefits to Heirs: Death benefits paid directly to a named beneficiary are not subject to probate.
• Benefits to Spouses: Spousal beneficiaries may continue the contract and its tax deferral, if this option is chosen.

Variable annuity contracts have limitations, will fluctuate in value and are subject to market risk, including the possibility of loss of principal. Variable annuities generally impose withdrawal charges based on the withdrawal charge schedule. A combination of withdrawals and market declines could reduce a variable annuity’s account value to zero, in which case the contract would terminate.

Variable annuities are offered by prospectus, which you can obtain from your financial professional or the insurance company. The prospectus contains detailed information about investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. You should read the prospectus and consider this information carefully before purchasing a variable annuity contract.

Variable annuities are long-term investment products designed for retirement purposes. Variable annuity contract values will fluctuate and are subject to market risk, including the possibility of loss of principal. Variable annuity contracts have limitations. For cost and complete details on coverage, contact your financial professional/licensed life insurance agent.

Life insurance and annuities are issued by AXA Equitable Life Insurance Company (AXA Equitable) and by various unaffiliated carriers through AXA Network, LLC and its subsidiaries. Co-distributed by AXA Distributors, LLC and AXA Advisors, LLC, members FINRA, SIPC. AXA Equitable, AXA Network, AXA Distributors and AXA Advisors are affiliated companies.   All guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of AXA Equitable. The guarantees do not apply to the investment portfolios.

AXA Financial, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not provide tax or legal advice. This material is provided for informational purposes only. Please consult your tax and/or legal advisors regarding your particular circumstances.

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