Variable Annuities' Warning List Grows

Writing about tax-deferred annuities creates tremendous possibilities for misunderstandings and misleading uses of the information. So let me start with a series of warnings. Much like the label on your prescription medicine, these warnings inform you that the product within is designed to be a benefit, but only if you take it as directed, and avoid using it under the wrong conditions.

Here's the warning label for these tax-deferred, variable annuities:

• Purchase only through a reputable dealer, with expertise in these products.
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