We have a strong commitment to adhere to the suitability guidelines set forth in the NAIC Suitability in Annuity Transactions Model Regulation and applicable state laws. We have developed guidelines and forms for you to use to ensure that every sale and replacement of an annuity product is suitable. We rely on your insight and personal knowledge of your client and their financial situation to identify facts and information that may not be obvious to the individual reviewing the forms or application. We expect you to know and understand our products and our suitability standards and apply this knowledge in your every day practice of soliciting our products.
You must have reasonable grounds for believing that the recommendation to purchase or replace an annuity is suitable for the client based on the information provided by the client.
In Spring of 2020, the NAIC approved revisions to the Suitability in Annuity Transactions Model Regulation #275 requiring producers to use "reasonable diligence, care and skill" in making recommendations and to act in the "best interest" of consumers. In states which have adopted the new NAIC model regulation or similar regulations, all recommendations or sales must be in the best interest of the client. Under this new model regulation, in addition to existing suitability requirements:
The following is a summary of new producer responsibilities under the 2020 NAIC Suitability in Annuity Transactions model regulation:*
*This is only a summary. You are required to comply with all the regulations that are applicable in the state in which you are selling or recommending the purchase of an annuity.
**Nassau will not issue a contract if the Annuity Suitability Questionnaire is not completed or if the sale was not recommended by the producer.