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West Des Moines, Iowa, Feb. 21, 2020
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, a member of Sammons FinancialSMand one of America’s preeminent life insurance and annuities companies, is introducing a new Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance product. Smart Builder IUL is innovative in that it tackles a challenging consumer concern: how to quickly build cash value for liquidity while making sure money is in place for beneficiaries.
By design, Smart Builder IUL quickly builds the policy’s cash value as it does not have either a premium load charge or a surrender charge (if the Waiver of Surrender Charge Option Rider is selected1)—both common in traditional insurance policies. Without these charges, the premium a client pays goes immediately to building the policy’s cash value. This can be important to a policyowner’s overall strategic financial plan if in addition to the death benefit protection they seek liquidity coupled with an ability to grow cash value in the long-term. The surrender charge can be waived only if elected at time of application.
“The new Smart Builder IUL is designed to fill a void that could potentially exist in many clients’ financial strategy,” said Jerry Blair, chief distribution officer of North American Company. “Smart Builder combines the death protection that everyone who purchases life insurance needs with the flexibility they want.”
One of the key benefits of any IUL policy is tax-deferred cash accumulation—the cash value—that can be an extra source of emergency funds during retirement.
“Today’s high cost of medical care requires you to be prepared. Smart Builder includes accelerated death benefit endorsements2 for critical, chronic and terminal illness for no additional premium,” said Blair. “This can provide access to cash from the policy’s death benefit while the insured is living and if diagnosed with a qualifying illness.”
The ability to make funds available for an immediate need is a key distinction in the Smart Builder IUL.
“If you look at your overall financial plan as a puzzle—with each piece fitting securely into other parts of your plan—then Smart Builder may be an option,” said Blair. “Building cash value quickly meets a very real consumer need—liquidity for those ‘just-in-case’ scenarios in retirement.”
About North American Company for Life and Health Insurance
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is a member of Sammons FinancialSM. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2018). For more information, click here.
About Sammons Financial
The companies of Sammons FinancialSM are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., Sammons Financial is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry, and is comprised of three member companies: Midland National® Life Insurance Company, which includes Sammons® Corporate Markets; North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®; and Sammons Institutional GroupSM, which consists of Midland Retirement DistributorsSM and Sammons Retirement Solutions®. Together, the companies offer some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement-planning products. Sammons Financial: With You for Every Moment®.
THE ACCELERATED DEATH BENEFIT ENDORSEMENT FOR CRITICAL ILLNESS IS NOT HEALTH INSURANCE NOR IS IT INTENDED TO REPLACE HEALTH INSURANCE. THE ACCELERATED DEATH BENEFIT FOR CHRONIC ILLNESS IS NOT LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE NOR IS IT INTENDED TO REPLACE LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE.
Agents offering, marketing, or selling accelerated death benefits for chronic illness in California must be able to describe the differences between benefits provided under an accelerated death benefit for chronic illness and benefits provided under long-term care insurance to clients. You must provide clients with the ADBE Consumer Brochure for California that includes this comparison. Comparison is for solicitation purposes only, not for conversions.
- Not available in California. Available for an additional charge of $1,000 per month, depending on issue age and underwriting class. Surrender charges will be waived upon a full surrender or partial surrender. Surrender charges will not be waived if the policy is surrendered under a 1035 Exchange (except in Florida). A decrease charge will be assessed if a reduction in the policy face amount is requested during the Waiver of Surrender Charge Period. However, if a partial withdrawal results in a reduction of the face amount, the withdrawal charge is waived.
- Subject to eligibility requirements. An administration fee is required at time of election of an accelerated death benefit. The death benefit amount will be reduced by the accelerated death benefit amount. Since benefits are paid prior to death, a discount will be applied to the death benefit amount accelerated. As a result, the actual amount received will be less than the amount of death benefit amount accelerated.
Indexed Universal Life products are not an investment in the “market” or in the applicable index and are subject to all policy fees and charges normally associated with most universal life insurance.
Smart Builder IUL is issued on policy form series LS178 and the Waiver of Surrender Charge Option Rider is issued on form series LR479 or state variation, including all applicable endorsements and riders, by North American Company for Life and Health, Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Product, features, endorsements, riders or issue ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations or restrictions may apply.
Sammons FinancialSM is the marketing name for Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. and its member companies, including North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®. Annuities and life insurance are issued by, and product guarantees are solely the responsibility of, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®.
PR-70-2-20
West Des Moines, Iowa, Nov. 18, 2019
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® (North American), a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG) and one of America’s leading insurance companies, today announced the launch of its Protection Builder Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance product. The product combines guaranteed death benefit protection1; cash value growth potential; an accelerated death benefit endorsement for a qualifying critical, chronic, or terminal illness; and a premium recovery endorsement— all for the price of a guaranteed death benefit policy.
“Life insurance is an important investment, but we understand policyowners might be hesitant to commit to a long-term financial obligation. Guaranteed death benefit protection coupled with cash value growth potential and the addition of a Premium Recovery Endorsement gives the policyowner affordability, flexibility, and control that they might not expect from a life insurance product,” says Jerry Blair, chief distribution officer of SFG’s Life Division.
Protection Builder is unique due to the combined guaranteed death benefit protection and cash value growth potential. It’s an IUL policy, meaning cash value can grow based on the movement of a stock market index, without participation in the market. Cash value provides the opportunity to grow an extra funding source for use in the retirement years, or may provide some relief from the strict premium payment requirements of a guaranteed death benefit, especially in the later years.
“Unexpected financial needs can cause distress for any individual or family. That’s why it’s generally sound advice to have an emergency cash fund. The cash value potential of the new Protection Builder may provide policyowners an extra layer of emergency funds,” continued Blair.
Protection Builder includes an accelerated death benefit endorsement for critical, chronic, and terminal illnesses for no extra premium.2 This endorsement allows the policyowner to accelerate a portion of the death benefit for a qualifying illness.
This new product offering also features North American’s new Premium Recovery Endorsement, which is a return of premium feature that offers the policyowner an option to fully surrender the policy and recover some or all of their total premiums paid with a 60-day window after the 15, 20, and 25 policy year anniversary.3
Protection Builder is the latest addition to North American’s comprehensive line of life insurance products. It’s available with North American’s WriteAway® Accelerated Underwriting, which provides a faster and less invasive process for issuing a policy. The average time for an application that qualifies for WriteAway is a speedy 6.5 calendar days from submission to approval.4
About North American Company for Life and Health Insurance
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2018). For more information, please visit https://www.northamericancompany.com/why-choose-north-american.
Follow North American on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.
About Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.
The member companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG is comprised of three member companies: Midland National® Life Insurance Company, which includes Sammons® Corporate Markets; North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®; and Sammons Institutional GroupSM, which consists of Midland Retirement Distributors® and Sammons Retirement Solutions®, Inc. Together, SFG offers some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every Moment®.
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- Subject to premium payment requirements.
- Subject to eligibility requirements. The death benefit will be reduced by the amount of the death benefit accelerated. Since benefits are paid prior to death, a discount will be applied to the death benefit accelerated. As a result, the actual amount received will be less than the amount of the death benefit accelerated. An administrative fee applies for an election of the chronic or terminal illness. There is no administrative fee for critical illness. The Premium Recovery Endorsement is only available with the Premium Guarantee Rider option.
- The Premium Recovery Endorsement is only available with the Premium Guarantee Rider option.
- Source: Internal underwriting data, 6/14/2019. This process is not available in California.
THE ACCELERATED DEATH BENEFIT ENDORSEMENT FOR CRITICAL ILLNESS IS NOT HEALTH INSURANCE NOR IS IT INTENDED TO REPLACE HEALTH INSURANCE.
THE ACCELERATED DEATH BENEFIT FOR CHRONIC ILLNESS IS NOT LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE NOR IS IT INTENDED TO REPLACE LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE.
Life insurance policies have terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. Current cost of insurance rates and interest rates are not guaranteed. Therefore, the planned periodic premium may not be sufficient to carry the contract to maturity. Failure to meet premium requirements may result in a lapse in the policy and participation in the index accounts. The index accounts are subject to caps and participation rates. In no case will the interest credited be less than 0 percent. Please refer to the customized illustration provided by your agent for additional detail. The policy’s death benefit is paid upon the death of the insured. The policy does not continue to accumulate cash value and excess interest after the insured’s death. For costs and complete details, call or write North American, Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Telephone: 877-872-0757.
TEXAS RESIDENTS: Receipt of acceleration-of-life-insurance benefits may affect your, your spouse’s, or your family’s eligibility for public assistance programs such as medical assistance (Medicaid), Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC), supplementary social security income (SSI), and drug assistance programs. You are advised to consult with a qualified tax advisor and with social service agencies concerning how receipt of such a payment will affect your, your spouse’s, and your family’s eligibility for public assistance.
Protection Builder IUL is issued on policy form series LS186, or state variation, including all applicable endorsements and riders, by North American Company for Life and Health Insurace, Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57193. Products, features, riders, endorsements, or issues ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations or restrictions may apply.
May 21, 2019
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® (North American) introduced Classic Term, a top-ranked life insurance product featuring simplicity and highly competitive rates. Classic Term can be an ideal product for those seeking affordable, basic death benefit protection. It is consistently top tier for an annual premium, strongest in non-tobacco classes from $500,000 to $2,000,000 of the death benefit.
Classic Term is available for 10 and 15-year periods with a minimum face amount of $500,000. Applications must be submitted through the SimpleSubmit® e-app, which enables customers to apply for coverage electronically. Plus, North American’s WriteAway® accelerated underwriting is available with Classic Term.
According to the Life Insurance Barometer Study by Life Happens and LIMRA, over half of Americans think the cost of a term life insurance policy is three times or more than its actual cost.* “We’re excited to offer our new Classic Term at ultra-low rates,” said Jerry Blair, chief distribution officer, life division, Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (parent company of North American). “People don’t like to talk about it, yet life insurance can help mitigate the financial risk of death. It helps families stay in their homes, send children to college, and small businesses stay afloat. Classic Term can provide that protection at a very low rate,” added Blair.
With Classic Term, a 35-year-old male in the best underwriting class could obtain 10 years of $1,000,000 death benefit coverage for less than $22 per month. A female of the same age and underwriting class would pay less than $19. Quotes can be run at www.NorthAmericanCompany.com/free-term-quote.
Classic Term is currently approved and available in all U.S. states except Alabama and New York.
About North American Company
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Institutional GroupSM, Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
*2019 Insurance Barometer Study, Life Happens and LIMRA
West Des Moines, IA | June 24, 2018
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG) and one of America’s leading insurance companies, today announced new lower premiums for its ADDvantage® Term life insurance product. In addition to competitive rates, ADDvantage Term also features an accelerated death benefit for critical, chronic, and terminal illnesses at no extra cost1, subject to eligibility requirements. ADDvantage Term can help policyowners and their families with medical costs or bills due to a qualifying illness by providing access to a portion of the death benefit while the insured is still living.
“When a qualifying chronic or critical illness occurs, the potential costs can cause financial strain on a family during an already difficult time. Living benefits allow policyowners to access the death benefit funds in the event of a qualifying illness, which can help families feel a little more at ease,” says Jerry Blair, chief distribution officer of SFG. “ADDvantage Term provides a level of support and strength for you and your family during a time when you need it most.”
ADDvantage Term’s lower premiums build upon North American's commitment to their customers, making the death benefit protection that only life insurance can provide even more affordable. North American offers 10, 15, 20, and 30-year level premium guarantee periods, depending on issue age. It’s also available with North American's WriteAway® Accelerated Underwriting, which provides a faster and less invasive process for issuing a policy.
"Also, ADDvantage Term's generous conversion privilege creates additional opportunity for the policyholder. A person's financial golas can be quite different years down the road, and North American can help," continues Blair. ADDvantage Term provides the policyowner with the opportunity to convert to most of North American's currently available permanent life insurance products without evidence of insurability. Conversion is allowed during the level premium period of the policy, or to age 75 (69 for 30-year), whichever is earlier. The conversion period is never less than five years, regardless of issue age.
North American is continually rated A+ by agencies including A.M. Best, Fitch, and S&P Global Ratings. To learn more about the new North American ADDvantage Term product, you can find an agent near you.
About North American Company for Life and Health Insurance
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
About Sammons Financial Group
The member companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG is comprised of three member companies: Midland National® Life Insurance Company, which includes Sammons® Corporate Markets; North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®; and Sammons Institutional GroupSM, which consists of Midland Retirement DistributorsSM and Sammons Retirement Solutions®, Inc. Together, SFG offers some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every MomentSM.
1. An administration fee is required at time of election of an accelerated death benefit. The face amount will be reduced by the accelerated death benefit amount. Since benefits are paid prior to death, a discount will be applied to the face amount accelerated. As a result, the actual amount received will be less than the amount of face amount accelerated.
ADDvantage Term (policy form series LS174) and Accelerated Death Benefit Endorsement for Term Life for critical, chronic and Terminal illness (policy form series LR508) are issued by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193 Products, features, riders, endorsements, or issues ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations or restrictions may apply.
West Des Moines, IA | December 6, 2018
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG) has been honored with a Glassdoor Employees’ Choice Award, recognizing the Best Places to Work in 2019. The Employees’ Choice Awards program, now in its 11th year, is based solely on the input of employees who elect to provide feedback on their jobs, work environments, and companies on Glassdoor, one of the world’s largest job and recruiting sites.
“At SFG, we strive to create a healthy, high performing culture that demonstrates value and appreciation towards each and every one of our employees, said Anne Cooper, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for SFG. “We conduct an annual employee engagement survey and the results consistently indicate that SFG is a workplace where employees feel engaged, are satisfied in their roles and are committed to our organization. Being named one of Glassdoor’s 2019 Best Places to Work reiterates our high employee engagement ratings,” added Cooper.
On Glassdoor’s website, current and former employees voluntarily and anonymously share insights and opinions about their work environments by providing a company review, designed to capture a genuine and authentic inside look at what a specific job may be like at a particular company. When sharing a company review on Glassdoor, employees are asked to rate their satisfaction with the company overall, and key workplace factors like career opportunities, compensation and benefits, culture and values, senior management, and work/life balance. In addition, employees are asked to describe the best reasons to work at their companies as well as any downsides.
SFG has an overall rating of 4.8 on Glassdoor, with 96% indicating that they would recommend the company to a friend. One anonymous employee posted a review that stated, “SFG is unparalleled as a company in regards to the benefits it provides and how they treat their employees. Employees are viewed as valuable assets and compensated thusly in both salary, health benefits, and namely in the retirement benefits that are offered. People are continually challenged to grow and develop their skills with plenty of opportunities for promotion and advancement within the company,”
Glassdoor’s Best Places to Work were determined using company reviews shared by U.S.-based employees between October 23, 2017 and October 21, 2018. To be considered for the large category, a company must have had at least 1,000 or more employees and have received at least 75 ratings across each of the eight workplace attributes from U.S.-based employees during the period of eligibility. The final list is compiled using Glassdoor’s proprietary algorithm, led by its Economic Research Team, and takes into account quantity, quality, and consistency of reviews.
For the complete list of the Glassdoor Best Places to Work winners in 2019, please visit: https://www.glassdoor.com/Award/Best-Places-to-Work-LST_KQ0,19.htm.
About Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.
The member companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG’s member companies, Midland National Life Insurance Company®, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, and Sammons Institutional GroupSM offer some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every MomentSM.
For more information about starting a career at SFG, and to find a current listing of job openings, visit the SFG careers website.
About Glassdoor
Glassdoor combines all the latest jobs with millions of reviews and insights to make it easy for people to find a job that is uniquely right for them. As a result, Glassdoor helps employers hire truly informed candidates at scale through effective recruiting solutions like job advertising and employer branding products. Launched in 2008, Glassdoor now has reviews and insights for over 830,000 companies located in more than 190 countries. For more information, visit glassdoor.com.
Glassdoor® is a registered trademark of Glassdoor, Inc.
Originally published at http://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2018/12/07/1663537/0/en/Sammons-Financial-Group-Honored-as-One-of-Glassdoor-s-2019-Best-Places-to-Work.html
West Des Moines, IA | November 6, 2018
The Strategic Design AnnuitySM X (SDA X), fixed index annuity from North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® (North American) is being introduced to offer the flexibility needed to help meet the challenges of retirement income planning.
“SDA X is designed to be as dynamic as life itself,” said Rhonda Elming, North American’s senior vice president of annuity product development. “It’ll help you adapt to the unexpected twists and turns of retirement income planning.”
SDA X is the industry’s first fixed index annuity to offer an enhanced penalty-free withdrawal feature through the embedded benefits rider1, which increases up to 32 percent2. The SDA X penalty-free withdrawal amount is based on the customer’s deposit, making the withdrawal amounts predictable each year even after withdrawals are started. Additionally, SDA X boasts a strong guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit value that increases at 200% of the interest credited.
Another key feature of SDA X is the ability to choose which type of lifetime income payment is needed. As clients turn on their guaranteed lifetime income payments3, they can opt for either a level lifetime payment or an increasing lifetime payment.
In times of market corrections, SDA X provides much-needed interest to help balance clients’ overall retirement income plans. The Inverse Edge Trigger crediting strategy4 affords clients’ positive interest credits when the S&P 500 index is flat or loses value, providing a unique diversification option. The bigger the loss, the bigger the potential interest credit. According to Chris Conroy, North American’s head of annuity sales, "It’s just one more of the features that led the company to call SDA X the industry X-factor.”
“SDA X is another innovation from North American designed to help meet retirees where they are in life. As a retirement income planning tool, SDA X is designed to offer the needed flexibility and liquidity to meet planning challenges,” Conroy said.
SDA X is now available nationally in 42 states.
About North American Company
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Institutional GroupSM, Inc., and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
1 The embedded benefits rider is automatically included for a 0.95% annual charge.
2 Withdrawals taken prior to age 59 ½ may be subject to IRS penalties. 32 percent is based on the first year of withdrawal being in year 8 or after.
3 "Income” or "lifetime income” refers to guaranteed payment of lifetime payment amounts (“LPAs”) as defined in the rider. It does not refer to interest credited to the contract. You should consult with your own tax advisor regarding tax treatment of LPAs, which will vary according to individual circumstances.
4 Additional crediting method options are also available.
Insurance products issued by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, West Des Moines, Iowa. Product and features/options may not be available in all states or appropriate for all clients. See product materials for further details, specific features/options, and limitations by product and state.
The Strategic Design AnnuitySM X is issued on form NA1013A/ICC18-1013A.MVA (contract) or appropriate state variation.
Fixed index annuities are not a direct investment in the stock market. They are long term insurance products with guarantees backed by the issuing company. They provide the potential for interest to be credited based in part on the performance of specific indices, without the risk of loss of premium due to market downturns or fluctuation. Although fixed index annuities guarantee no loss of premium due to market downturns, deductions from your accumulation value for additional optional benefit riders could under certain scenarios exceed interest credited to the accumulation value, which would result in loss of premium. They may not be appropriate for all clients.
The "S&P 500®", Indices ("Indices") are products of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC or its affiliates ("SPDJI") and have been licensed for use by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® ("the Company"). Standard & Poor's® and S&P® are registered trademarks of Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC ("S&P"); Dow Jones® is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC ("Dow Jones"); and these trademarks have been licensed for use by SPDJI and sublicensed for certain purposes by the Company. Strategic Design Annuity X is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by SPDJI, Dow Jones, S&P, or their respective affiliates and none of such parties make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in such product(s) nor do they have any liability for any errors, omissions, or interruptions of the Indices.
Chicago, IL | Oct. 15, 2018
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® has been affirmed as a Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited business with an A+ BBB rating.
“We are very proud to be accredited by the Better Business Bureau,” said Steve Palmitier, president and chief operating officer of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance. “For more than 130 years, North American has been an industry leader because of our commitment to stability, innovation, and dedicated customer service.”
To be an accredited business means that the BBB has determined that North American Company for Life and Health Insurance meets BBB accreditation standards, including a commitment to make good faith efforts to resolve any consumer complaints. BBB Accredited Businesses pay a fee for accreditation review/monitoring and for support of BBB services to the public.
About North American Company
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Institutional GroupSM, Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
Article originally published at https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2018/10/15/1621429/0/en/North-American-Company-for-Life-and-Health-Insurance-Accredited-by-Better-Business-Bureau.html.
CHICAGO, August 2, 2018
A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating A+ (Superior) rating for Sammons® Financial Group, Inc’s (SFG) member companies, Midland National® Life Insurance Company (Midland National) and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® (North American). In addition, A.M. Best has affirmed the Long-Term ICR of A- and the Long-Term Issue Credit Rating (Long-Term IR) of A- on the $200 million 7.0% senior unsecured notes, due 2043 and the $500 million 4.45% senior unsecured notes, due 2027, of Sammons Financial Group, Inc. (Delaware).
A.M. Best also offered a stable outlook on the credit ratings for SFG. According to A.M. Best, “The ratings reflect SFG’s balance sheet strength, which A.M. Best categorizes as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.”
In its statement, A.M. Best cited SFG’s “prominent market positions in individual life and fixed indexed annuity marketplaces, with plans to grow its business in Sammons Retirement Solutions marketing products.” A.M. Best also noted that, “SFG’s financial and operating leverage is considered well-within an acceptable range at the current ratings level.”
“We are extremely pleased to have received an A+ (Superior) rating from A.M. Best," said Esfand Dinshaw, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SFG. “The assessment is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to meet the needs of our customers through our competitive portfolio of life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products in the market.”
A.M. Best is a large third-party independent reporting and rating company that rates insurance companies on the basis of the company's financial strength, operating performance, and ability to meet its obligations to contract holders. A+ (Superior) is the second highest rating, and was affirmed for Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.) and its member companies, Midland National Life Insurance Company and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® on August 2, 2018.
About Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.
The member companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG’s member companies, Midland National Life Insurance Company®, North American Company for Health and Life Insurance®, and Sammons Institutional GroupSM offer some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every MomentSM.
PR-44-8-18
PR-43-5-18
CHICAGO, IL | June 12, 2018
Sammons® Financial Group Member Companies employees recently participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony for Galileo Scholastic Academy of Math & Science’s (Galileo) new science laboratories. The event marked the completion of construction for the labs, a project that was initiated by a parent-led fundraising group, Friends of Galileo, and supported by Sammons Financial Group, Chicago Public Schools, a private family and the school’s 2017 Reach for the Stars fundraiser.
Galileo, a public elementary school located in Chicago, was in desperate need of science classrooms for 4-8th graders. Students were conducting science experiments in traditional classrooms using outdated equipment. The school’s administration recognized the need for labs for these students, and Friends of Galileo decided to take the lead in transforming a classroom into two adjoining science laboratories equipped with modern science learning tools.
When construction for the new labs began in 2017, Sammons Financial Group donated $60,000 towards the project. Furthermore, Sammons Financial Group contributed $14,863 more for lab furniture this year. “At Sammons Financial Group, our decision to support the building of new Galileo science labs was clear,” said Steve Palmitier, president of Sammons Financial Group’s Life Division. “It was a transformational opportunity that would help shape the learning experience for Galileo’s students for years to come.”
“The new labs would not have been possible without the cooperation of Galileo and Chicago Public Schools along with the generosity of our donors,” stated Mike Hrzic, a Galileo parent and member of Friends of Galileo. “Everyone worked together to complete our three-year initiative in just one year,” added Hrzic.
Following the ribbon cutting, students of Galileo immediately began learning in the new rooms. According to Galileo’s principal, Meredith Bawden, “Our students were thrilled to start conducting science experiments in the labs. Students now have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences in the new labs, which will prepare them for high school and future careers.”
About Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.
The member companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG’s member companies, Midland National Life Insurance Company®, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, and Sammons Institutional GroupSM offer some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every MomentSM.
PR-43-5-18
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa | June 4, 2018
Sammons® Financial Group Member Companies (SFG) employee, Mary Buscher, was awarded the Knights of Columbus Award at the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics Iowa Summer Games held on May 17, 2018. The Knights of Columbus Award is the highest honor given to volunteers of Special Olympics Iowa. Recipients have demonstrated the spirit of Special Olympics through dedication and unselfish efforts. John Kliegl, president and CEO of Special Olympics Iowa, stated, “We are lucky to have a friend like Mary Buscher in our Special Olympics family. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of the Knights of Columbus Award this year than her.”
Buscher, who works in the human resources department at SFG, became involved with Special Olympics after witnessing the amazing opportunities that her younger brother experienced as a participant of Special Olympics. She regularly recruits colleagues to volunteer with her for Special Olympics events. According to Buscher, “I take great pride in how the athletes, coaches, fans and Special Olympics Iowa staff repeatedly comment on the amazing volunteers from Sammons Financial Group.”
Special Olympics Iowa considers SFG a Champion Statewide Partner due to the volunteer efforts of employees and the funds that SFG has donated to Special Olympics each year since 2012. Buscher accredits her receiving the Knights of Columbus Award to the strong partnership between Special Olympics Iowa and SFG. “I am just the lucky one that happened to get the award, but it truly was because of Sammons Financial Group,” said Buscher.
At SFG, we care about our communities. That’s why we work hard to give back to many causes and organizations that matter to our employees. Special Olympics is just one example of the numerous groups that SFG supports.
About Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.
The member companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG’s member companies, Midland National Life Insurance Company®, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, and Sammons Institutional GroupSM offer some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every MomentSM.
PR-42-5-18
Chicago, IL | May 2, 2018
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® has announced the expansion of WriteAway Accelerated Underwriting to permanent life insurance products. Previously offered only on term products, this faster and less invasive process allows for a simple online application process with an underwriting decision to be made in as little as 48 to 72 hours. The process can also eliminate the need for invasive lab tests and paramedical examinations.
“WriteAway was designed to meet the demands of today’s digital consumer. Not only do they want to secure competitively priced life insurance, but they also want to avoid dealing with the hassle of going through an invasive paramedical exam and labs if possible,” said Garth Garlock, North American Company’s senior vice president and chief distribution officer.
The new underwriting process is designed to gather information from a short phone interview and publicly available data. People who are 50 or younger, without major medical conditions, meet certain height and weight requirements, and are classified as low risk have the potential to qualify. Individuals can submit an application through their producer using North American Company’s e-app system, SimpleSubmit®, which will include a few simple prequalification questions to determine the person’s eligibility. If the applicant meets all of the requirements, the process will continue with a short phone interview, they will typically get a decision in 48 to 72 hours.
“We think our distribution partners and their clients will love this new underwriting process,” said Garlock. “Financial professionals can now offer clients who qualify a simple application process for life insurance protection that is less invasive, and the quicker processing also allows them to get their compensation faster, as well.”
In addition to North American Company’s ADDvantage® Term life insurance products, WriteAway is now available on Custom Guarantee® Universal Life, Builder IUL®, Builder Plus IUL, Rapid Builder IUL®, and Guarantee Builder IUL®.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of Midland National® Life Insurance Company, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
ADDvantage (policy form series LS174), Custom Guarantee Universal Life (policy form series LS170), Builder IUL (policy form series LS172), Builder Plus IUL (policy form series LS183), Rapid Builder IUL (policy from series LS176 and LS176W with Waiver of Surrender Charge Option), Guarantee Builder IUL (policy form series LS175), are issued by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance, Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Product, features, riders, endorsements or issue ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations and restrictions may apply
Chicago, IL | April 17, 2018
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® announced the release of a new Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance product. The new Builder Plus IUL is a permanent life insurance policy offering death benefit protection with the ability to build cash value through interest crediting based on the performance of a selected stock index performance without participation directly in the stock market. Additional product features have been added to boost cash value potential.
Key new features include an account interest multiplier, which bumps up the interest credit by 10 percent beginning in policy year six, as well as a guaranteed 1 percent interest bonus on the index account that kicks in at policy year 111. A Return of Premium Death Benefit option is another welcome new addition2.
Builder Plus IUL also includes an improved version of North American’s popular Accelerated Death Benefit Endorsement3. Qualifying chronic illnesses do not need to be permanent and the maximum amount that can be accelerated has been increased to $2 million (lifetime maximum for all benefits).
“We’ve kept all the popular features people love about our Builder IUL® series, and added some new ones that significantly increase cash value potential,” said Garth Garlock, North American Company’s senior vice president and chief distribution officer. “The new Builder Plus IUL is designed for death benefit protection with stronger performance and marketability.”
Builder Plus IUL keeps the popular features found in previous Builder Series products as well, including a zero percent floor on any index credits, the minimum account value, which guarantees a 2.5 percent average annual return to the account value, and index credits included on the first annual statement.
“Builder Plus IUL allows the agent to illustrate higher cash value and income potential for their clients, but it doesn’t sacrifice transparency,” said Garlock. “The way the account interest multiplier and interest bonus work is both effective and clear. This product, like all of our products, is built for real life.”
WriteAwaySM, an accelerated underwriting process that allows applicants to skip the lab tests and paramedical exams commonly associated with life insurance, will be available to qualified applicants for Builder Plus IUL. “Not only is the product more attractive, but the process of obtaining it is also faster and much less invasive with WriteAway accelerated underwriting,” said Garlock.
Builder Plus IUL is now available on North American Company’s web based illustration software and applications can be submitted via traditional paper form or online through the SimpleSubmit® e-application, available on North American Company’s website.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
1 – Account Interest Multiplier is applied after the interest credit or index credit is determined and before any Interest Bonus. It is not applied to the Interest Bonus or any portion of the Account Value that is Policy Debt or the Minimum Account Value. This multiplier is conditionally guaranteed on the fixed account. North American Company will pay the multiplier only when the declared interest rate is greater than the Fixed Account Guaranteed Interest Rate shown in the policy. The interest bonus is conditionally guaranteed on the fixed account. North American Company will pay the bonus if we are crediting interest in excess of the guaranteed interest rate and the policy is in effect after the 10th policy anniversary.
2 – Subject to eligibility requirements.
3 – Subject to eligibility requirements. This product is not currently available California.
Indexed Universal Life products are not an investment in the “market” or in the applicable index and are subject to all policy fees and charges normally associated with most universal life insurance.
Life insurance policies have terms under which the policy may be continued in force or discontinued. Current cost of insurance rates and interest rates are not guaranteed. Therefore, the planned periodic premium may not be sufficient to carry the contract to maturity. Failure to meet premium requirements may result in a lapse in the policy and participation in the Index Accounts. The Index Accounts are subject to caps and participation rates. In no case will the interest credited be less than 0 percent. Please refer to the customized illustration provided by your agent for additional detail. The policy’s death benefit is paid upon the death of the insured. The policy does not continue to accumulate cash value and excess interest after the insured’s death. For costs and complete details, call or write North American Company for Life and Health Insurance, Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Telephone 877-872-0757.
Builder Plus IUL(policy form series LS183) and Accelerated Death Benefit Endorsement for Critical, Chronic and Terminal Illness (form series LR503) are issued by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance, Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Products, features, riders, endorsement or issue ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Restrictions or limitations may apply.
PR-38-4-18
Chicago, IL | February 13, 2018
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. announced today the launch of its newly revamped website, sammonsfinancialgroup.com. The newly redesigned website offers quick and easy access to essential information about the company and its financial services organizations, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, and Sammons Institutional GroupSM. The website features regularly updated company news, leadership and financial information, employment opportunities, community involvement highlights, and investor information.
“Sammons Financial Group and its companies have grown at a remarkable pace over the past decade, and we wanted a website that was reflective of the company that we are today, a company with more than $73 billion in total assets,” said John Myers, associate vice president, corporate communications. “What we have now is a website that speaks to what Sammons Financial Group and its member companies do for people and businesses across America: we help them be financially prepared for the future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today.”
The launch of the new website features a new video promoting the company’s tagline, With You for Every MomentSM, portraying a montage of the kind of “moments” Sammons Financial Group wants consumers to enjoy, knowing that their futures are financially protected with life insurance, annuities or other retirement planning products offered by its companies.
“We wanted a website that’s inviting, that’s simple to use, where people can explore and learn about our companies, our financial strength and private ownership, our leadership, and our extensive involvement in our communities,” said Myers. “We want to get the message out there: this is who we are, and this is what makes Sammons Financial Group so different among the landscape of big financial companies.”
The new mobile-responsive website works with any mobile or tablet device, and will be updated regularly with news of product launches, business activity, corporate milestones, organizational announcements, community involvement highlights, and investor and financial information. Visitors are encouraged to explore the website at sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
ABOUT SAMMONS FINANCIAL GROUP, INC.
The member companies of Sammons Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG’s member companies, Midland National Life Insurance Company®, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, and Sammons Institutional GroupSM offer some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every MomentSM.
Chicago, IL | February 12, 2018
Former Sammons Financial Group (SFG) Chairman and CEO John C. "Jack" Watson passed away on January 24, 2018.
Watson joined Midland National Life Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., in 1992 as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman. Four years later, Sammons Financial Holdings (later renamed Sammons Financial Group) was established to hold Sammons Enterprises’ investments in insurance companies, naming Watson the first Chairman and CEO. He retired in 2000 after serving eight years at the company.
“Jack had a huge impact on the company,” said Mike Masterson, former SFG Chairman and CEO, and currently on the board of directors for Midland National and North American Company for Life and Health. “He was responsible for changing the culture and helped set the stage for the significant growth the company has experienced over the last 20 years. Noting the influence Watson had on future leadership, Masterson stated, “Jack also created opportunities for me and a number of senior executives like John Craig (former Midland National president and CEO) and Steve Horvat (former SFG senior vice president and General Counsel). I will always be grateful for everything Jack did for me and for Sammons Financial Group.”
During his tenure, Midland National commemorated $50 billion of life insurance in force, as well as its 90th anniversary in 1996. Under his leadership from 1992 through 2000, Midland National increased life insurance in force from $42.3 billion to $69.3 billion; assets increased from $1.4 billion to $4.1 billion. Upon his retirement in 2000, Sammons Financial Group Member Companies had life insurance in force of $154.6 billion and assets of $5.6 billion.*
ABOUT MIDLAND NATIONAL
Founded as Dakota Mutual Life Insurance Company in 1906, Midland National® Life Insurance Company has protected families and preserved legacies for generations. Midland also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S.
Source:
Wink’s Sales & Market Report. For more information, please visit www.midlandnational.com.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Independent Annuity GroupSM (a division of Midland National), Sammons® Corporate Markets Group (a division of Midland National), North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
*Midland National internal information
Chicago, IL | January 30, 2018
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® announced the introduction of WriteAway Accelerated Underwriting, a faster and less invasive process for issuing a life insurance policy. WriteAway’s highly desirable benefits include a simple online application process that allows an underwriting decision on the application to be made in as little as 48 to 72 hours, and the process can eliminate the need for invasive lab tests and paramedical examinations.
“We created WriteAway knowing that consumers today want to secure life insurance that is competitively priced without potentially dealing with the hassle of going through an invasive paramedical exam and labs,” said Rick Gordon, vice president, corporate underwriting, for Sammons® Financial Group, an affiliate of North American Company. “WriteAway will appeal to those who not only want affordable protection, but also want it approved quickly.” The application for WriteAway is different than the traditional underwriting process for issuing life insurance policies, Gordon explained. The new underwriting process is designed to gather information from a short phone interview and publicly available data.
People who are 50 or younger, without major medical conditions, meet certain height and weight requirements, and are classified as low risk have the potential to qualify. Individuals can submit an application through their producer using North American Company’s e-app system, SimpleSubmit®, which will include a few simple prequalification questions to determine the person’s eligibility. If the applicant meets all of the requirements, the process will continue with a short phone interview, they will typically get a decision in 48 to 72 hours.
“Both our independently contracted producers and customers will love our new underwriting process,” said Garth Garlock, senior vice president and chief distribution officer. “They are able to offer their qualifying clients a simple application process for life insurance protection that is less invasive, and the quicker processing also allows them to get their compensation faster, too.”
WriteAway is currently available on North American Company’s ADDvantage® Term series life product and will offer it with its other life insurance products later in 2018.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of Midland National® Life Insurance Company, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
ADDvantage Term life insurance is issued on policy form series LS174 or state version by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance, Administrative Office, One Sammons Plaza, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Products, features, riders, endorsements, or issues ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations or restrictions may apply
Chicago, IL | October 3, 2017
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® today released the NAC VersaChoice 10, a fixed index annuity with an optional rider that allows clients to have more access to more of their money sooner, the first of its kind on the market.
“Retirement savers want three fundamental things when evaluating a vehicle for their retirement money,” said Rob TeKolste, president, Sammons Independent Annuity Group. “First, they want growth potential, second they want downside protection from market drops, and the third thing is having access to their hard-earned dollars in emergencies. The advantage of the NAC VersaChoice 10 fixed index annuity is that it offers all three of these benefits.”
The optional rider, called the enhanced liquidity benefit (ELB), has four features that provide access to the money in the annuity. An annual fee equivalent of 0.50 percent of the contract owner’s accumulated annuity value applies to the ELB rider.
“With the ELB rider, we've enhanced two basic annuity features, which include the penalty-free withdrawals benefit as well as the return of premium benefit,” TeKolste said.
TeKolste also recognized the need to access retirement savings if a health event leaves you unable to perform some of the basic activities of daily living. “We built in two additional liquidity benefits to access if you are permanently unable to complete two of the six activities of daily living,” he said. Initial eligibility for these liquidity benefits, and the trigger to turn those benefits on, are based on six activities of daily living – no underwriting or medical exam is required.
In a fixed index annuity, the performance of the account is tied to market performance but is not an actual investment in the stock market. Fixed index annuities offer participation for some of the market’s growth in up times but protection in down times. The premium used to purchase the index will never be at risk of decreasing due to market losses.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carrier in the U.S.1 In 2016, we ranked number 10 in life insurance sales, as part of Sammons Financial Group.2For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
1Source: Wink’s Sales & Market Report, 2017.
This is not a complete description of all features of the NAC VersaChoiceSM fixed index annuity and only describes one feature. For more information, please see the product brochure for further details on the features, limitations and complete product disclosures. NAC VersaChoiceSM is issued on form NA1012A/ICC17-NA1012A. MVA (contract) by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, West Des Moines, IA. This product, its features and riders may not be available in all states or appropriate for all clients. Fixed Index Annuities are not a direct investment in the stock market. They are long term insurance products with guarantees backed by the issuing company. They provide the potential for interest to be credited based in part on the performance of specific indexes, without the risk of loss of premium due to market downturns or fluctuation. Although Fixed Index Annuities guarantee no loss of premium due to market downturns, deductions from your Accumulation Value for additional optional benefit riders could under certain scenarios exceed interest credited to the Accumulation Value, which would result in loss of premium. They may not be appropriate for all clients.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
West Des Moines, IA | August 22, 2017
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, a member of Sammons® Financial Group, is pleased to announce the recent hiring of Charles Gipple, CLU, ChFC as Vice President of Sales, Life Division. Gipple will be responsible for the overall sales management of North American life insurance products.
“Charlie is a nationally known figure in the life insurance industry. Say his name and people know you’re dealing with a leader and a winner,” said Senior Vice President and Chief Distribution Officer, Garth Garlock.“We look forward to seeing him lead our sales efforts and take us to the next level.”
Gipple will be chiefly responsible for managing and expanding sales for North American’s Life Division and providing strategic direction for the distribution for life products. “I am very excited to join North American. I have always admired the company for its people, financial stability, long history of success, and its diverse product line. From term and guaranteed universal life insurance to some of the best indexed universal life insurance products in the industry, there is not much more a customer or distributor could ask for in a company."
Previous to his position at North American, Gipple served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Partners Advantage Insurance Services. He holds the CLU® and ChFC® designations. He is a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts degree in finance.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carrier in the U.S.1In 2016, we ranked number 10 in life insurance sales, as part of Sammons Financial Group.2 For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
1Source: Wink’s Sales & Market Report, 2017.
2Source: LIMRA International, U.S. Retail Individual Life Insurance Sales, fourth quarter 2016 results. Sales based on annualized premium plus excess.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National®Life Insurance Company, Sammons Retirement Solutions®, Inc. and Sammons Financial Network®, LLC, member FINRA.
Chicago, IL | August 9, 2017
Life insurance (IUL) product. Designed to provide a guaranteed death benefit in a single premium1, Legacy Optimizer touts desirable features like liquidity and living benefits.
“Legacy Optimizer is a great addition to our portfolio,” said Garth Garlock, senior vice president and chief distribution officer. “On top of the great features and the ability to leverage your client’s money into a larger guaranteed death benefit, what sets Legacy Optimizer apart is the smooth, simple application and underwriting process.”
Legacy Optimizer is available through North American Company’s e-app system, SimpleSubmit®. Medical information is generally collected on a 15 to 20-minute phone call without the typical requirements of a medical exam2 or blood work of the insured.
“We’ve really streamlined the process with Legacy Optimizer,” said Garlock. “Now the agent can provide a quote, complete the e-app, and get a decision over the phone typically in 20 minutes or less. It’s never been simpler to write IUL business.”
Legacy Optimizer also includes an Accelerated Death Benefit Feature, which means a policyowner may be able to use a portion of the death benefit while they are living. The policyowner can accelerate a portion of the death benefit should the insured become chronically or terminally ill, subject to eligibility requirements.
Legacy Optimizer is designed for people aged 50-80 who have between $25,000 and $200,000 ($150,000 for Ages 50-59) of liquid assets not needed for retirement or daily needs and are looking for a flexible and simple solution for passing on a portion of their estate to their beneficiaries. This latest release is the fifth product added to the company’s current IUL portfolio.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.3 Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: Wink Sales & Market Report, 2017). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Chronically ill is defined as unable to perform at least two of the six Activities of Daily Living (bathing, continence, dressing, eating, toileting and transferring) without substantial assistance from another person. Chronic illness also includes severe cognitive impairment which means the insured requires substantial supervision by another person to protect him or herself from threats to health and safety due to a severe cognitive impairment.
Indexed Universal Life Insurance products are not an investment in the “market” or in the applicable index and are subject to all policy fees and charges normally associated with most universal life insurance.
Legacy Optimizer (policy form series LS180) and Return of Premium Endorsement (form series LR500) are issued by North American, Administrative Office, Sioux Falls, SD 57193. Products, features, riders, endorsements, or issues ages may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations or restrictions may apply
Although Legacy Optimizer is filed as a Flexible Premium Universal Life and allows additional premiums, the product is designed for a single premium payment. There are limited benefits to adding premiums after policy issue - for example, the Account Value will increase with additional premium payments, but the guaranteed death benefit and the Return of Premium Value will NOT. Therefore, clients should carefully consider whether additional premiums should be paid.
2 Coverage is subject to some health and lifestyle questions.
3 Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National®Life Insurance Company, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
West Des Moines, IA | August 4, 2017
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is pleased to announce the recent hiring of Christopher Conroy as vice president, annuity sales. Conroy will establish the sales direction and initiatives for North American Annuities, part of Sammons Independent Annuity Distribution, a division of Sammons® Financial Group. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b8cd2b80-80bb-43b9-932c-54e5de231286.
"Chris has a proven track record as a sales leader with experience at product manufacturers and distributors including both life insurance and annuities," said Sammons Independent Annuity Distribution's Chief Distribution Officer, Ann Hughes. "His strong background in combination with his professional drive to create high performing sales teams and achieve results makes us excited to have him join our organization."
Conroy will be chiefly responsible for developing and managing the sales and distributions strategy for North American IMO/MGA distribution which includes expansion of management of the sales team and expansion of distribution.
Previous to his position at North American, Conroy served as senior vice president of national accounts at CreateOne Marketing Corporation. Conroy has been awarded the Fellow, Life Management Institure (FLMI) designation. He received his Bachelor of Science in communications studies from Northwestern University, his Juris Doctor from Washburn University School of Law and a Master of Business Administration from the Univeristy of Kansas School of Business.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S.1 In 2016, we ranked number 10 in life insurance sales, as part of Sammons Financial Group.2 For more information, please www.northamericancompany.com.
1 Source: Wink's Sales & Market Report
2 Source: LIMRA International, U.S. Retail Individual Life Insurance Sales, fourth quarter 2016 results. Sales based on annualized premium plus excess.
Sammons ® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, Sammons Retirement Solutions®, Inc. and Sammons Financial Network®, LLC, member FINRA.
PR29-7-17
Chicago, IL | April 26, 2017
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is proud to announce the appointment of Steve Zimmerman as Sales Vice President. He will support independent life insurance agencies in his territory on implementing North American’s proven Partner Program, which helps Partner Agencies grow their business, in addition to consulting sales and marketing strategies, recruiting, and case placement.
“Steve joins us with great experience and a track record of success managing long-term relationships with brokerage distributors and driving overall sales and profitability,” said Garth A. Garlock, Senior Vice President & Chief Distribution Officer. “In addition to his professional achievements, his passion for our business and alignment with our culture make him a terrific fit for the role.”
Zimmerman will be responsible for assisting insurance agencies primarily in the Northeast quadrant of the United States, including the following key states: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine.
Prior to joining North American Company, Zimmerman was Regional Sales Director for Transamerica. Zimmerman has earned designations for Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) and Accredited Estate Planner (AEP). He holds a Bachelor of Science in marketing and management from Bentley University.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S.1 In 2016, we ranked number 10 in life insurance sales, as part of Sammons Financial Group.2 For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Sammons® Financial Group is comprised of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity GroupSM and Sammons® Corporate Markets Group, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. and Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA.
1 Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report
2 Source: LIMRA International, U.S. Retail Individual Life Insurance Sales, fourth quarter 2016 results. Sales based on annualized premium plus excess.
Chicago, IL | April 12, 2017
Rick Gordon, vice president of corporate underwriting for Sammons Financial Group Member Companies, was inducted into the Association of Home Office Underwriters (AHOU) Hall of Fame in a ceremony in San Diego on April 3.
The AHOU Hall of Fame currently holds 18 members, with Rick Gordon and two other inductees being named this year. Hall of Fame inductees are nominated by colleagues and judged by qualifications that include over 10 years of experience, demonstration of industry leadership, volunteer work, and other achievements in the field.
"During his career, Rick has held a particular passion for developing mentoring relationships," said Cheryl Johns, past AHOU president and current executive council member, at the induction ceremony. "These relationships have been...particularly helpful in building much greater understanding of patterns and behaviors of anti-selection and fraud within the industry," Johns remarked.
Gordon, who was on the forefront of developing fraud mitigation tactics used widely in the life insurance industry today, has been credited with saving the industry hundreds of millions in potential fraud schemes.
"I'm so appreciative of this incredible honor," said Gordon. "What began as a humble job as a life insurance agent and then an underwriter has grown into an incredibly fulfilling career. It's very rewarding to have that career recognized by my peers in this way."
"We couldn't be prouder of Rick," said Steve Palmitier, president and chief operating officer of Sammons Financial Group's life insurance division, including Midland National® Life Insurance Company and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®. "He has contributed so much not only to our organization, but to the industry as a whole. We're honored to have an underwriting professional of his caliber on board."
ABOUT SAMMONS FINANCIAL GROUP
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), a Sammons Enterprises, Inc. wholly-owned subsidiary, is the parent of a group of member companies under the Insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial& services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, and Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
ABOUT AHOU
The Association of Home Office Underwriters (AHOU) is a group of professionals associated with risk selection in the life, health and living benefits insurance industries. The AHOU exists to promote knowledge of mortality, morbidity and risk management through networking and educational opportunities. For more information about AHOU visit www.ahou.org.
Chicago, IL | April 5, 2017
Life insurance sales were ranked number 10 for Sammons® Financial Group life companies, which include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® and Midland National Life Insurance Company, and its Corporate Market division, in combined sales, according to LIMRA International (LIMRA), a research association for life and health companies.1 The survey includes 83 major companies and the ranking was measured by annual premiums.
North American Company and Midland National President and Chief Operating Officer Steve Palmitier said, “This is quite the achievement when you consider some of the companies on each side of us are household names. The consistent execution of our strategy and relationships with our distribution partners has put us in a great place. Our growth rates have averaged 11% the past five years compared with an industry average of 2%."2
LIMRA, a worldwide research, consulting and professional development organization, is a trusted source for industry knowledge; helping more than 850 insurance and financial services companies in 73 countries increase their marketing and distribution effectiveness. Visit LIMRA at www.limra.com.
ABOUT SAMMONS FINANCIAL GROUP
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), an SEI wholly-owned subsidiary, is the parent of a group of member companies under the insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, variable annuities3, variable life insurance3, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity GroupSM and Sammons® Corporate Markets Group, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
1 Source: LIMRA International, U.S. Retail Individual Life Insurance Sales, fourth quarter 2016 results.
Sales based on annualized premium plus excess.
2 Source: Internal Distribution Reports, 2011 and 2016
3 Variable products distributed by Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA
Variable products distributed by Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Sammons Financial Network® LLC is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc. of Dallas, Texas.
Chicago, IL | January 10, 2017
The brand new NAC FoundationChoiceSM annuity from North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® has a three-year initial interest rate guarantee with annual rate declarations thereafter. The NAC FoundationChoicesm Plus annuity features an annual fixed interest rate declaration and offers two Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit options.
These are the highlights of what's being called the Foundation Series, the new series of traditional annuities from North American.
"Our agents have reported a strong demand for this kind of product, and we are happy to enhance our annuity portfolio with new products that will help serve consumers' needs," said Ann Hughes, vice president and chief distribution officer for Sammons Annuity Group.
Fixed annuities are appealing to investors because they offer a guaranteed minimum interest rate and tax-deferred growth. While the new Foundation Series includes some unique benefits, it still offers the traditional fixed annuity benefits of safety, stability and tax deferral.
"One fear that many retirees have is outliving their savings," said Hughes. "That makes the Foundation Series an option for those who are looking for a dependable flow of lifetime income in their retirement income planning. In addition, this series of annuities gives consumers the flexibility to withdraw money from their contracts without penalties, making it an even more attractive approach for financial protection."
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Products issued by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, West Des Moines, Iowa. Product features, riders and index options may not be available in all states or appropriate for all clients. See product brochures, disclosures and state availability chart for further details, limitations and information on appropriate state variations.
The NAC FoundationChoiceSM is issued on form NA1010A/ICC16-NA1010A.MVA (contract), ICC15-AE579B/AE579B, ICC15-AE577A/AE577A and ICC15-AE587A/AE587A (riders/endorsements).
The NAC FoundationChoiceSM Plus is issued on form NA1010A/ICC16-NA1010A.MVA (contract), ICC16-AE601A.OPT/AE601A.OPT, ICC16-AE602A/AE602A, ICC15-AE579B/AE579B, ICC15-AE577A/AE577A, and ICC15-AE587A/AE587A (riders/endorsements).
"Income” or "lifetime income” refers to guaranteed payment of Lifetime Payment Amounts (“LPAs”) through the Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB) rider. It does not refer to interest credited to the contract. Clients should consult with their own tax advisor regarding tax treatment of LPAs, which will vary according to individual circumstances.
Under current law, annuities grow tax deferred. An annuity is not required for tax deferral in qualified plans. Annuities may be subject to taxation during the income or withdrawal phase. Please note that neither North American, nor any agents acting on its behalf, should be viewed as providing legal, tax or investment advice. Your client should be advised to rely on their own qualified adviser.
Chicago, IL | August 9, 2016
A.M. Best has affirmed the A+ (Superior) rating of North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, a member company of Sammons® Financial Group. Additionally, the outlook for this rating was called stable.
In its statement, A.M. Best cited Sammons Financial Group's "prominent market positions in the individual life and fixed indexed annuity marketplaces," as well as an investment portfolio that is "considered well-managed and of good credit quality."
In the A.M. Best statement, it was noted that "the group has good financial flexibility and financial leverage and interest coverage ratios well within A.M. Best tolerances for the ratings."
"We are very gratified by A.M. Best's statement," said Esfandyar Dinshaw, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sammons Financial Group. "Our superior rating reflects our commitment to maintaining our obligations to our customers."
A.M. Best is a large third-party independent reporting and rating company that rates an insurance company on the basis of the company's financial strength, operating performance, and ability to meet its obligations to contract holders. A+ (Superior) is the second highest rating out of 15 categories, and was affirmed for North American Company for Life and Health Insurance as part of Sammons Financial Group on July 14, 2016.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
West Des Moines, IA | April 4, 2016
North American Company announced today the release of a new electronic application (e-App) system for fixed annuity products. The new system allows financial professionals to fill out and submit annuity applications online, effectively improving turnaround time for processing applications.
"We're thrilled to offer this technology to our financial professionals. It's going to help create cleaner applications, make doing business much easier and help clients get issued policies in their hands sooner," said Cindy Reed, president of North American's Annuity Division. "The e-App works effortlessly with our illustration software, making it a very robust tool for submitting business and helping clients."
E-App technology is attractive to financial professionals because it cuts down on the amount of back and forth with clients, and also because of its ability to reduce errors or missing information that can commonly hold up the processing of paper applications.
"It's going to change the way our distribution partners do business with North American," said Reed. "It allows them to be a more efficient resource for clients because of the faster processing time than with traditional paper applications."
The e-App option is offered on all annuity products currently available on the North American illustration software.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Chicago, IL | February 9, 2016
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® announced today the immediate availability of the SimpleSubmit e-app electronic application submission tool for its indexed universal life products.
Use of SimpleSubmit will allow North American Company's agents to schedule paramed exams online and submit complete application packages without re-keying the data. In addition to the increased efficiency of application submission, SimpleSubmit will allow faster turnaround times and quicker commission payments.
"Our agents have been enthusiastic about the way SimpleSubmit has made their administrative tasks easier, and we are very glad to be able to extend the functionality to our indexed universal life portfolio," said Garth A. Garlock, Senior Vice President & Chief Distribution Officer.
Indexed universal life insurance (IUL) is a form of permanent insurance that provides an opportunity to accumulate cash value, based on the performance of stock market indices, without the risk of investing directly in the market. Popular features of IUL insurance include living benefits, like access to cash value in the form of policy loans, or access to a portion of the death benefit through the accelerated death benefit feature.
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Chicago, IL | January 20, 2016
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is proud to announce the appointment of Scott Westfall-Voorvaart as Regional Sales Vice President. He will consult independent life insurance agencies in his territory on implementing new sales strategies, as well as growing new business placement and recruitment tactics.
"I'm pleased to add Scott to the ranks of the best sales team in the business," said Garth A. Garlock, Senior Vice President & Chief Distribution Officer. "Scott has the knowledge, relationships and drive that uniquely position him to help our partners grow their business."
Westfall-Voorvaart is responsible for assisting insurance agencies in the Southern region of the United States, including the following states: New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama.
Westfall-Voorvaart previously served as Regional Vice President at Genworth Financial, primarily focused on the Brokerage General Agency (BGA) life insurance and linked benefit distribution. In total, he brings over 18 years of financial services experience from Wachovia Bank, Indymac Bank, and Aames Home Loan in the financial investments and mortgage areas.
"I'm happy to be part of an industry-leading organization," said Westfall-Voorvaart. "I look forward to building upon some existing relationships with North American partner agencies, as well as cultivating new ones. It's an exciting time for growth in the life insurance industry, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it."
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
West Des Moines, IA | October 7, 2015
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® has introduced North American Charter Plus, a flexible premium, fixed index annuity that features an upfront premium bonus, as well as fixed and indexed crediting options.
"Multiple recessions coupled with uncertainty about Social Security and stock market volatility have created doubt about retirement readiness for many Americans," said Ann Hughes, Chief Distribution Officer of North American's Annuity Service Center. "The Charter Plus fixed index annuity provides policyholders with the opportunity to be financially prepared for retirement by jumpstarting their retirement savings with a premium bonus."
Fixed index annuities are a popular retirement saving option, offering potential for their retirement assets while also offering protection from losses due to downside market fluctuations. Charter Plus offers six index crediting options, each performing differently in various market scenarios, as well as a fixed interest account, which allows policyholders the flexibility to design a strategy for their retirement dollars based on their changing needs and personal situation.
"The Charter Plus fixed index annuity is an excellent solution for those looking to supplement their retirement income," said Hughes. "It allows a policyholder's savings to grow faster through tax-deferral, because they earn interest on dollars that would otherwise be paid in interest."
ABOUT NORTH AMERICAN COMPANY
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
Fixed Index Annuities are not a direct investment in the stock market. They are long-term insurance products with guarantees backed by the issuing company. They provide the potential for interest to be credited based in part on the performance of specific indices, without the risk of loss of premium due to market downturns or fluctuation. They may not be appropriate for all clients.
Premium bonus may vary by annuity product and surrender charge period. Products that have premium bonuses may offer lower credited interest rates, lower Index Cap Rates, lower Participation Rates and or greater Index Margins than products that don't offer a premium bonus. Over time and under certain scenarios the amount of the premium bonus may be offset by the lower credited interest rates, lower Index Cap Rates, lower Participation Rates and or greater Index Margins.
Under current law, annuities grow tax-deferred. An annuity is not required for tax-deferral in qualified plans. Annuities may be subject to taxation during the income or withdrawal phase.
The North American Charter Plus is issued on form NC/NA1007A (certificate/contract), AE576A, AE577A, AE578A, AE580A.PB, AE581A, AE582A, AE583A, AE584A, AE585A, AE586A and AE587A (riders/endorsements) or appropriate state by North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, West Des Moines, IA. This product, its features and riders may not be available in all states.
Before purchasing this product, buyers should be presented with complete product materials, which include describe issue ages, surrender charges, riders, and more.
Fargo, ND | September 11, 2015
Sammons Financial Group has provided a $110,000 gift to expand programming at the YWCA Cass Clay Emergency Shelter.
The program expansion includes a new storage garage for large donation items, updates to the facility to better serve victims of human trafficking and other building renovations, including three additional housing units. Additionally, the donation willbe used to support the Furthering Her Journey Fund, a new program to help women transitioning from the shelter into independent living pay security deposits on their own apartments, as well as the Road to Independence Fund, which provides transportation in the form of monthly bus passes, gas cards and funds for car insurance.
The YWCA Emergency Shelter is the largest shelter for women and children in the state of North Dakota and Northwest Minnesota and provides 45-day emergency shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness and/or domestic violence. Sammons' investment will make it possible for the YWCA to more effectively help victims of human trafficking, an emerging problem in our region.
"We are proud to contribute to this organization's mission to serve women and children as they escape domestic violence, homelessness and crisis situations," said Ron Ottenbacher, President, Sammons Corporate Markets Group, a division of Sammons Financial Group. "The work of the YWCA to transform crisis into independence is vital to the fabric of our community."
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About Sammons Financial Group
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), an SEI wholly-owned subsidiary, is the parent of a group of member companies under the insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, variable annuities 1, variable life insurance1, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance ®, Midland National ® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity GroupSM and Sammons Corporate Markets Group ®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network ® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
1. The distributor for Midland National's variable products is Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Sammons Financial Network LLC is a registered broker/dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Sammons Financial Network LLC is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., of Dallas, Texas, the ultimate parent company of Midland National® Life Insurance Company and Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc.
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West Des Moines, IA | August 27, 2015
Sammons Financial Group, a group of financial services companies located in West Des Moines, has provided vital support to Youth Emergency Services & Shelter's (YESS) Shelter Expansion Project. The $50,000 gift from Sammons will support a 19,000 square foot space to help support the growing needs of the YESS organization.
The expansion includes 32 new bedrooms, new classrooms, a library, and other dedicated spaces for art, music, and play therapy. "YESS' shelter expansion is critical to the safety of Iowa's children, and the generous support of Sammons Financial Group has brought us within sight of fully funding this important project," said Stephen Quirk, CEO of YESS. "We are very grateful to have SFG's help in achieving this important milestone for the agency and for children and families in crisis."
Through a unique combination of crisis stabilization services, emergency shelter, and community-based services, YESS currently cares for 1,900 children per year, and continues to expand to meet the growing needs of the community. YESS is the largest youth shelter and the only crisis nursery of its kind in the state of Iowa.
"We are honored to contribute to such a worthy organization," said Cindy Reed, President, Sammons Annuity Group, a division of Sammons Financial Group. "YESS provides services that help to keep children and families safe, provides healing and hope in times of crisis, and truly changes the lives of those it serves."
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About Sammons Financial Group
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), an SEI wholly-owned subsidiary, is the parent of a group of member companies under the insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, variable annuities1, variable life insurance1, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity GroupSM and Sammons Corporate Markets Group®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network ® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
1. The distributor for Midland National's variable products is Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Sammons Financial Network LLC is a registered broker/dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Sammons Financial Network LLC is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., of Dallas, Texas, the ultimate parent company of Midland National® Life Insurance Company and Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc.
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West Des Moines, IA | August 14, 2015
Sammons Financial Group has donated $50,000 to the Children and Family Urban Movement (CFUM), a non-profit organization that supports children and families through academic programs in the Des Moines community. The donated funds will allow CFUM to upgrade its technology infrastructure for both staff and participating youth to better meet the needs of computer technology in the classroom.
"The impact of the grant funds from Sammons Financial Group has been transformational in myriad ways that can be seen and measured, including better access to educational resources and learning opportunities for 120 children and youth, which will undoubtedly impact their academic success," said Carmen Lampe Zeitler, Executive Director at CFUM. "That is one of the things that Sammons does best. With its commitment and investment in the community, Sammons makes us all feel that our life together and our mutual success is of great value and worthy of investment."
CFUM provides out-of-school programs for children and youth kindergarten through high school, with their core mission focusing on the long-term growth of community youth and families in the Des Moines area.
"We consider it a privilege to participate in the worthy mission of the Children and Family Urban Movement," said Cindy Reed, President, Sammons Annuity Group, a division of Sammons Financial Group. "Their services to children, youth and families strengthen the fabric of the Des Moines community in which our employees work and live."
About Sammons Financial Group
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), an SEI wholly-owned subsidiary, is the parent of a group of member companies under the insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, variable annuities 1, variable life insurance 1, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance ®, Midland National ® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity GroupSM and Sammons Corporate Markets Group ®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network ® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
1. The distributor for Midland National's variable products is Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Sammons Financial Network LLC is a registered broker/dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Sammons Financial Network LLC is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., of Dallas, Texas, the ultimate parent company of Midland National® Life Insurance Company and Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc.
Chicago, IL | July 31, 2015
Standard & Poor's 1 has affirmed the A+ (strong) financial strength ratings of two Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. subsidiaries, Midland National® Life Insurance Company and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, and maintained its stable outlook for the companies.
"The S&P rating is a strong indicator of our financial ability to fulfill our obligations," said Esfand Dinshaw, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Sammons Financial Group. "Having our rating reaffirmed gives our policyholders confidence in our commitment to maintaining stability and creating long-term value for them."
In a report issued by S&P, the rating agency noted the strong competitive position of the Sammons Financial Group subsidiaries, "We view Sammons' competitive position as strong, reflecting the company's well-balanced portfolio of life insurance, annuity and BOLI/COLI products, as well as its proven ability to generate profitable growth in all of its key business segments."
S&P also noted the following factors in affirming the ratings for the Sammons Financial Group companies:
- Strong competitive position, supported by well-established distribution relationships and strong market share
- Very strong capital and earnings score, driven by continued robust net income and strong capital base
- High-quality and well-diversified investment portfolio, with weighted average credit quality of 'A'
- Favorable operating performance relative to peers
1. Standard & Poor's ratings effective July 2, 2015. Standard & Poor's Insurer Financial Strength Rating uses a scale 22 rating categories ranging from AAA (Extremely Strong) to R (Experienced Regulatory Action).
Chicago, IL | July 22, 2015
Sammons Annuity Group, a division of Sammons Financial Group is proud to announce the appointment of Ann Hughes as Vice President and Chief Distribution Officer. She will be responsible for setting strategic direction for distribution activities of the organization, which includes developing the sales, recruiting, and training strategy for distribution channels.
"We are pleased to have a leader with Ann's experience in annuity distribution join our team," stated Cindy Reed, President of Sammons Annuity Group. "She is an engaging leader who understands the needs of our distribution system and offers a strategic vision that will strengthen our standing in the marketplace."
Hughes has 15 years experience in the financial services industry, and most recently was the founder and CEO of a firm providing public speaking, consulting and coaching services to financial service professionals, broker dealers and financial service organizations. Prior to that, she helped launch Sammons Retirement Solutions as Head of Business and Sales Development. She also held various leadership roles at ING during her ten years at the organization, including Head of Sales and Business Development for Annuities.
Sammons Annuity Group is responsible for production, product development, management and operations of a wide-variety of traditional and fixed index annuities through Midland National® Life Insurance Company and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, both member companies of Sammons Financial Group. The combined sales of the Annuity Division consistently rank within the top 10 Indexed Annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs.com, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report).
About Sammons Financial Group
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), is the parent of a group of member companies under the insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, variable annuities1, variable life insurance1, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity Group and Sammons Corporate Markets Group, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
1. Securities distributed by Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Insurance products are issued by Midland National ® Life Insurance Company (West Des Moines, IA). Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. provides administrative services. Sammons Financial Network® LLC, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, and Sammons Retirement Solutions are affiliated companies and indirect wholly owned subsidiaries of Sammons Enterprises, Inc. of Dallas, Texas.
Chicago, IL | July 22, 2015
Sammons Annuity Group, a division of Sammons Financial Group is proud to announce the appointment of Greg Smith as Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Broker Dealer and Bank Distribution. He will be responsible for refining and implementing the bank and broker dealer strategy.
"We're very excited to have Greg as a member of our team." stated Cindy Reed, President of Sammons Annuity Group. "His expertise and experience in building highly profitable marketing and distribution systems of financial products will prove valuable as we seek to grow our organization to the next level."
Smith joins Sammons Annuity Group with nearly 20 years of executive sales and marketing experience that includes recruiting and building high-performing sales organizations in the insurance industry. Throughout his career, he has successfully demonstrated his leadership as a member of some of the leading insurance distribution teams in the U.S.
Sammons Annuity Group is responsible for production, product development, management and operations of a wide-variety of traditional and fixed index annuities through Midland National® Life Insurance Company and North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®. The combined sales of the Annuity Division consistently rank within the top 10 Indexed Annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs.com, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report).
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG) is the parent of a group of member companies under the insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, variable annuities1, variable life insurance1, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity GroupSM and Sammons Corporate Markets Group®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
1. Securities distributed by Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Insurance products are issued by Midland National® Life Insurance Company (West Des Moines, IA). Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. provides administrative services. Sammons Financial Network® LLC, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, and Sammons Retirement Solutions are affiliated companies and indirect wholly owned subsidiaries of Sammons Enterprises, Inc. of Dallas, Texas.
West Des Moines, IA | August 14, 2015
Sammons Enterprises Inc., parent company of Des Moines-based Sammons Financial Group, has donated $1.0 million to Drake University for the Sammons Endowed Professorship in Actuarial Science, a program that supports a new or existing professor of actuarial science and will be used to retain or attract outstanding faculty members.
"Actuaries are critical to our success as an insurance company," said Esfand Dinshaw, President, Sammons Enterprises Inc. and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Sammons Financial Group. "Drake University offers one of the best actuarial programs in the United States and we are proud to provide support that will help ensure that their program continues offering the highest quality of education for the next generation of actuaries."
"Actuarial Science is one of our flagship programs, attracting talented students from around the world. This wonderful gift from Sammons will support our ability to continue a tradition of excellence." said Therese M. Vaughan, Ph.D., Dean, College of Business and Public Administration at Drake University
Drake is one of 16 universities in the United States to be recognized as a Center for Actuarial Excellence by the Society of Actuaries and is one of the few private university actuarial science programs in the Midwest with a full set of actuarial science courses taught by actuaries.
Sammons Enterprises, Inc., (SEI) is a diverse holding company composed of financial services, industrial equipment, and real estate investment businesses operating in five countries. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Sammons was established in 1938. With more than four billion in annual revenues and $70 billion in assets, Sammons is one of the largest privately held companies in the U.S. For more information, visit www.sammonsenterprises.com.
Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), an SEI wholly-owned subsidiary, is the parent of a group of member companies under the insurance Holding Company Act made up of several successful financial services companies offering a variety of financial and retirement products through multiple distribution channels. These consist of retirement products, annuities, variable annuities1, variable life insurance1, and life insurance (including bank, corporate, and credit union-owned life insurance). The member companies of SFG include North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, including its divisions, Sammons Annuity GroupSM and Sammons Corporate Markets Group®, Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc., and Sammons Financial Network® LLC. For more information, please visit www.sammonsfinancialgroup.com.
1. The distributor for Midland National's variable products is Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Sammons Financial Network LLC is a registered broker/dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Sammons Financial Network LLC is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, Inc., of Dallas, Texas, the ultimate parent company of Midland National® Life Insurance Company and Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc.
Chicago, IL | July 2, 2015
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance® is proud to announce the appointment of Michael Martin as Regional Sales Vice President. He will assist independent life insurance agencies in his territory with implementing sales and marketing strategies; recruiting; training and case placement.
"Michael is a dedicated professional with extensive experience in life insurance distribution," said Garth A. Garlock, Senior Vice President & Chief Distribution Officer. "Over his career, he has worked within career agency systems, owned a BGA, managed a wholesaling team, and spent time in personal production. He will be a tremendous resource for life insurance agents, especially those seeking assistance with advanced markets."
Martin will be responsible for assisting insurance agencies primarily in the Northeast quadrant of the United States, including the following states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Washington D.C., West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky.
With more than 20 years of financial services experience, Martin has earned designations for Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), and Accredited Estate Planner. He holds a Master's degree in Financial Services (MSFS) from the American College in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. He is also a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.
North American Company for Life and Health Insurance is a member of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. Since 1886, North American has established a tradition of providing quality insurance products to consumers throughout the U.S. We offer a comprehensive portfolio of term, universal life, and indexed universal life insurance products. North American also offers a wide variety of traditional fixed and fixed index annuities and consistently ranks among the top fixed index annuity carriers in the U.S. (Source: AnnuitySpecs, Quarterly Indexed Sales & Market Report). For more information, please visit www.northamericancompany.com.
1. Securities distributed by Sammons Financial Network® LLC, member FINRA. Insurance products are issued by Midland National® Life Insurance Company (West Des Moines, IA). Sammons Retirement Solutions® Inc. provides administrative services. Sammons Financial Network® LLC, Midland National® Life Insurance Company, and Sammons Retirement Solutions are affiliated companies and indirect wholly owned subsidiaries of Sammons Enterprises, Inc. of Dallas, Texas.