Lincoln Financial Announces Availability of Company’s First Fixed Indexed Annuity in N.Y.

RADNOR, Pa., Feb. 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC) today introduced the company's first fixed indexed annuity product available in the state of New York, Lincoln OptiChoice(SM) NY, issued by Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, Syracuse, NY. Lincoln OptiChoice(SM) NY provides New York-based consumers with a retirement savings vehicle offering wealth preservation with growth potential, bridging the gap between conservative bank investments and risk-based equity market options.

"The introduction of Lincoln OptiChoice NY further demonstrates Lincoln's commitment to the annuities market, and expands the geographic footprint of our solutions," said Kris Kattmann, Vice President, Fixed Annuities, Lincoln Financial Group. "As one of the few fixed indexed annuities solutions available in New York, Lincoln OptiChoice NY provides consumers with a balanced approach to growing and protecting their retirement assets, with the insured backing of a proven company."

Lincoln OptiChoice NY clients can allocate their premium between a fixed account offering a set interest rate for one year, and an indexed account. The indexed account also offers a fixed interest rate as well as the opportunity for additional earnings. The additional earnings amount, determined by a pre-specified rate, will be credited to the account at the end of the one-year term depending on the performance of the S&P 500 Index®. If the S&P 500 Index value increases or remains level when compared to its beginning value, the client's account will receive the additional earnings amount. If the S&P value decreases over the one-year term, there are no additional earnings, but the client's principal and fixed interest rate earnings are preserved. Rates for the fixed and indexed accounts are declared annually.

Lincoln OptiChoice NY offers consumers several income options, including lifetime income payments. Lincoln OptiChoice NY includes a Nursing Home and Terminal Illness provision, with benefits available after the first contract anniversary.

Lincoln OptiChoice NY will be available through Lincoln's network of distribution partners starting March 1, 2012.  

About Lincoln Financial Group
Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE: LNC) and its affiliates. With headquarters in the Philadelphia region, the companies of Lincoln Financial Group had assets under management of $160 billion as of December 31, 2011. Through its affiliated companies, Lincoln Financial Group offers: annuities; life, group life, disability and dental insurance; 401(k) and 403(b) plans; savings plans; and comprehensive financial planning and advisory services. For more information, including a copy of our most recent SEC reports containing our balance sheets, please visit www.LincolnFinancial.com.

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SOURCE Lincoln Financial Group