What is a registered index-linked annuity?

A registered index-linked annuity (RILA) is a tax-deferred long-term savings option that provides the opportunity for growth and limits exposure to downside risk.

Returns are based in part on the performance of an underlying index or indexes, but a RILA is not a stock market investment and does not directly participate in any stock or equity investments. In addition, RILAs also provide an option to convert the annuity into a stream of income payments in retirement through annuitization.1

What registered index-linked annuities offer

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Opportunity for growth2

Your annuity has the potential to grow based on the performance of an index or indexes that you select.

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A level of protection from market downturns2

The money you place into your annuity will be partially protected from market downturns based on the level of protection you select.

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Tax advantages

The value of your annuity grows tax free, so you won’t pay taxes on any growth until you make a withdrawal.

Nationwide registered index-linked annuity products

Nationwide Defender® Annuity

This buffer RILA offers the opportunity for growth potential and protects the annuity from index strategy losses up to the selected buffer amount.3

Defined Protection® Annuity 2.0

This floor RILA offers additional protection from index strategy losses once they reach the selected floor level,4 with growth potential.2

Not sure if a registered index-linked annuity is right for you? Compare all annuity types.

Topics to discuss with your financial professional

  • Ask a professional about the different types of annuities and which one might work for you.
  • Risk tolerance: What type of investor are you?
  • Payout options: What are the different ways you can take income from an annuity?
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[1] A RILA does not directly invest in an index. A RILA includes index strategies which follow market performance; however, they are not actual investments in the stock market.
[2] The contract may gain or lose value before the end of the strategy term. Downside protection and growth potential are not fully realized until the end of the strategy term. As a result, you may experience a loss even if negative index performance is within the buffer percentage or protection level during a strategy term.
[3] There is potential for unlimited losses beyond the buffer amount.
[4] Even if the index losses continue beyond the floor level.

The guarantees and protections offered by the Nationwide Defender Annuity and the Nationwide Defined Protection® Annuity 2.0 are subject to the claims-paying ability of Nationwide Life Insurance Company.

This product is sold by prospectus. This client guide must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. Carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. The product prospectus contains this and other important information. Investors should read them carefully before investing. To request a copy, go to nationwide.com/prospectus or call 1-800-848-6331.

Index-linked annuity contracts are complicated investments. Prospective purchasers should consult with a financial professional about the Contract’s features, benefits, risks, and fees and whether the contract is appropriate based upon his or her financial situation and objectives.

Annuities have limitations. They are long-term vehicles designed for retirement purposes. They are not intended to replace emergency funds, to be used as income for day-to-day expenses or to fund short-term savings goals. Withdrawals are subject to income tax, and withdrawals before age 59½ may be subject to a 10% early withdrawal federal tax penalty. Please read the contract for complete details.

Nationwide DefenderSM Annuity and Defined Protection® Annuity 2.0 are individual single purchase payment deferred annuities with index-linked strategies issued by Nationwide Life Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio. The general distributor is Nationwide Investment Services Corporation, Member FINRA. Please note that the Defender Annuity and Defined Protection Annuity do not directly invest in an index. The product includes index strategies which follow market performance; however, they are not actual investments in the stock market.

Guarantees and protections referenced within are subject to the claims-paying ability of Nationwide Life Insurance Company.

Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, Nationwide is on your side, Nationwide Defender and Nationwide Defined Protection are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2024 Nationwide

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