N-4 1 d209675dn4.htm NW O SERIES (333-XXXXX) - N-4 NW O Series (333-xxxxx) - N-4
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM N-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 File No. 333-XXXXXX
Pre-Effective Amendment No.
Post-Effective Amendment No.
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 File No. 811-03330
Amendment No. 922
(Check appropriate box or boxes.)
Nationwide Variable Account-II

(Exact Name of Registrant)
Nationwide Life Insurance Company

(Name of Depositor)
One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215

(Address of Depositor's Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
(614) 249-7111

Depositor's Telephone Number, including Area Code
Denise L. Skingle, Senior Vice President and Secretary,
One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215

(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
As soon as possible after effectiveness of the registration statement

Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering
The Registrant hereby agrees to amend this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 


Nationwide® O Series
Individual Flexible Premium Deferred Variable Annuity Contracts
Issued by
Nationwide Life Insurance Company
through its
Nationwide Variable Account-II
The date of this prospectus is ______________________.
The contracts described in this prospectus are not available in the State of New York.
This prospectus contains basic information about the contracts that should be understood before investing. Read this prospectus carefully and keep it for future reference.
Variable annuities are complex investment products with unique benefits and advantages that may be particularly useful in meeting long-term savings and retirement needs. There are costs and charges associated with these benefits and advantages - costs and charges that are different, or do not exist at all, within other investment products. With help from financial professionals, investors are encouraged to compare and contrast the costs and benefits of the variable annuity described in this prospectus against those of other investment products, especially other variable annuity and variable life insurance products offered by Nationwide and its affiliates. Nationwide offers a wide array of such products, many with different charges, benefit features, and investment options. This process of comparison and analysis should aid in determining whether the purchase of the contract described in this prospectus is consistent with the purchaser’s investment objectives, risk tolerance, investment time horizon, marital status, tax situation, and other personal characteristics and needs.
Variable annuities are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other federal government agency, and are not deposits of, guaranteed by, or insured by the depository institution where offered or any of its affiliates. The SEC has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense. Additional information about certain investment products, including variable annuities, has been prepared by the SEC’s staff and is available at Investor.gov.
Under state insurance laws, Contract Owners have the right, during a limited period of time, to examine their contract and decide if they want to keep it or cancel it. This right is referred to as a "free look" right. The length of this time period depends on state law and may vary depending on whether the purchase is a replacement of another annuity contract. For ease of administration, Nationwide will honor any free look cancellation request that is in good order and received at the Service Center or postmarked within 30 days after the contract issue date (see Right to Examine and Cancel and Contacting the Service Center).
If the Contract Owner elects to cancel the contract pursuant to the free look provision, where required by law, Nationwide will return the greater of the Contract Value or the amount of purchase payment(s) applied during the free look period, less any withdrawals from the contract, and applicable federal and state income tax withholding. Otherwise, Nationwide will return the Contract Value, less any withdrawals from the contract, and applicable federal and state income tax withholding (see Right to Examine and Cancel).
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Glossary of Special Terms
Accumulation Unit – An accounting unit of measure used to calculate the Contract Value allocated to the Variable Account before the Annuitization Date.
Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base – The Original Income Benefit Base after it has been reduced proportionally as a result of a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal.
Annuitant – The person(s) whose length of life determines how long annuity payments are paid.
Annuitization Date – The date on which annuity payments begin.
Annuity Commencement Date – The date on which annuity payments are scheduled to begin.
Contingent Annuitant – The individual who becomes the Annuitant if the Annuitant dies before the Annuitization Date.
Contract Anniversary – Each recurring one-year anniversary of the date the contract was issued.
Contract Owner(s) – The person(s) who owns all rights under the contract.
Contract Value – The value of all Accumulation Units in a contract plus any amount held in the Fixed Account.
Contract Year – Each year the contract is in force beginning with the date the contract is issued.
Current Income Benefit Base – It is an amount equal to the Original Income Benefit Base adjusted throughout the life of the contract to account for subsequent purchase payments, excess withdrawals, reset opportunities, and if elected, the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal. This amount is multiplied by the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage to arrive at the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount.
Daily Net Assets – A figure that is calculated at the end of each Valuation Date and represents the sum of all the Contract Owners' interests in the Subaccounts after the deduction of underlying mutual fund expenses.
Fixed Account – An investment option that is funded by Nationwide's General Account. Amounts allocated to the Fixed Account will receive periodic interest subject to a guaranteed minimum crediting rate.
General Account – All assets of Nationwide other than those of the Variable Account or in other separate accounts of Nationwide.
Individual Retirement Account – An account that qualifies for favorable tax treatment under Section 408(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, but does not include Roth IRAs.
Individual Retirement Annuity or IRA – An annuity contract that qualifies for favorable tax treatment under Section 408(b) of the Internal Revenue Code, but does not include Roth IRAs or Simple IRAs.
Investment-Only Contract – A contract purchased by a qualified pension, profit-sharing, or stock bonus plan as defined by Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Lifetime Withdrawal – A withdrawal of all or a portion of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount.
Lifetime Withdrawal Amount – the maximum amount that can be withdrawn during a calendar year without reducing the Current Income Benefit Base. It is calculated annually, on each January 1, by multiplying the Current Income Benefit Base by the applicable Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage.
Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage – An age-based percentage used to determine the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount. The applicable percentage is multiplied by the Current Income Benefit Base to arrive at the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount for any given year. The Rate Sheet Supplement discloses the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages that are currently available for new contracts.
Monthly Contract Anniversary – Each recurring one-month anniversary of the date the contract was issued, measured beginning on the date the contract is issued. If the contract is issued on a date that does not have a counterpart day in all other months (e.g., issued on the 31st of a month), then the one-month anniversary date for any such month will instead be the last day of that month.
Nationwide – Nationwide Life Insurance Company.
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Net Asset Value – The value of one share of an underlying mutual fund at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange.
Non-Lifetime Withdrawal –A one-time only election to take a withdrawal from the contract that will not initiate the benefit under the option.
Non-Qualified Contract – A contract which does not qualify for favorable tax treatment as a Qualified Plan, IRA, Roth IRA, SEP IRA, Simple IRA, or Tax Sheltered Annuity.
Original Income Benefit Base – The initial benefit base calculated on the date the option is elected, which is equal to the Contract Value.
Purchase Payment - The amount paid to Nationwide by or on behalf of a Contract Owner as consideration for the benefits provided under the Contract.
Qualified Plan – A retirement plan that receives favorable tax treatment under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code, including Investment-Only Contracts. In this prospectus, all provisions applicable to Qualified Plans also apply to Investment-Only Contracts unless specifically stated otherwise.
Quarterly Contract Anniversary – Each recurring three-month period, measured beginning on the date the contract is issued. If the contract is issued on a date that does not have a counterpart day in all other months (e.g., issued on the 31st of a month), then the Quarterly Contract Anniversary for any such month will instead be the last day of that month.
Rate Sheet Supplement – Supplements to the prospectus that we file periodically with the SEC to provide for and modify certain rates that are associated with various optional benefits available under the contract. The Rate Sheet Supplements disclose the Roll-up Interest Rates, Roll-up Crediting Periods, Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages that are currently available for new contracts.
Roll-up Crediting Period – Beginning with the date the contract is issued, the Roll-up Crediting Period is the maximum period of time that the Roll-up Interest Rate will apply. The Rate Sheet Supplement discloses the Roll-up Crediting Periods that are currently available for new contracts.
Roll-up Interest Rate – The simple interest rate used to determine the roll-up in the calculation of the Current Income Benefit Base. The Rate Sheet Supplement discloses the Roll-up Interest Rates that are currently available for new contracts.
Roth IRA – An annuity contract that qualifies for favorable tax treatment under Section 408A of the Internal Revenue Code.
SEC – Securities and Exchange Commission.
SEP IRA – An annuity contract which qualifies for favorable tax treatment under Section 408(k) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Service Center – The department of Nationwide responsible for receiving all service and transaction requests relating to the contract. For service and transaction requests submitted other than by telephone (including fax requests), the Service Center is Nationwide's mail and document processing facility. For service and transaction requests communicated by telephone, the Service Center is Nationwide's operations processing facility. Information on how to contact the Service Center is in the Contacting the Service Center provision.
Simple IRA – An annuity contract which qualifies for favorable tax treatment under Section 408(p) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Subaccounts – Divisions of the Variable Account, each of which invests in a single underlying mutual fund.
Tax Sheltered Annuity – An annuity that qualifies for favorable tax treatment under Section 403(b) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Terminal Illness - An illness or injury diagnosed by a physician after the date the contract is issued that is expected to result in death within 12 months of diagnosis.
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Valuation Date – Each day the New York Stock Exchange is open for business or any other day during which there is a sufficient degree of trading such that the current Net Asset Value of the underlying mutual fund shares might be materially affected. Values of the Variable Account are determined as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange, which generally closes at 4:00 p.m. EST.
Valuation Period – The period of time commencing at the close of a Valuation Date and ending at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange for the next succeeding Valuation Date.
Variable Account – Nationwide Variable Account-II, a separate account that Nationwide established to hold Contract Owner assets allocated to variable investment options. The Variable Account is divided into Sub-Accounts, each of which invests in a separate underlying mutual fund.
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Key Information Table
Important Information You Should Consider About the Policy
FEES AND EXPENSES
Charges for Early Withdrawals If the Contract Owner withdraws money from the contract within 7 years following his/her last purchase payment, a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (or "CDSC") may apply (see Contingent Deferred Sales Charge). The CDSC will not exceed 7% of the amount of purchase payments withdrawn.

For example, for a contract with a $100,000 investment, a withdrawal taken during the CDSC period could result in a CDSC of up to $7,000.
Ongoing Fees and Expenses (annual charges) The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay each year, depending on the options chosen. Please refer to your contract specifications page for information about the specific fees you will pay each year based on the options you have elected.
Annual Fee Minimum Maximum
Base Contract (varies by Contract Class) 0.95% 1 1.50% 1
Investment options (underlying mutual fund fees and expenses) 0.41% 2 3.53% 2
Optional benefits available for an additional charge (for a single optional benefit, if elected) 0.20% 3 1.30% 3
1 As a percentage of Daily Net Assets.
2 As a percentage of underlying mutual fund assets.
3 As a percentage of Daily Net Assets or Current Income Benefit Base, depending on the optional benefit(s) elected.
Because each contract is customizable, the options elected affect how much each Contract Owner will pay. To help understand the cost of owning the contract, the following table shows the lowest and highest cost a Contract Owner could pay each year, based on current charges. This estimate assumes that no withdrawals are taken from the contract, which could add a CDSC that substantially increases costs.
Lowest Annual Cost Estimate:
$1,796
Highest Annual Cost Estimate:
$7,277
Assumes:
• Investment of $100,000
• 5% annual appreciation
• Least expensive underlying mutual fund fees and expenses
• No optional benefits
• No CDSC
• No additional purchase payments, transfers or withdrawals
Assumes:
• Investment of $100,000
• 5% annual appreciation
• Most expensive combination of optional benefits and underlying mutual fund fees and expenses
• No CDSC
• No additional purchase payments, transfers or withdrawals
    
RISKS
Risk of Loss Contract Owners of variable annuities can lose money by investing in the contract, including loss of principal (see Principal Risks).
Not a Short-Term Investment The contract is not a short-term investment and is not appropriate for an investor who needs ready access to cash (see Principal Risks).

A CDSC may apply for up to 7 years following the last purchase payment and could reduce the value of the contract if purchase payments are withdrawn during that time (see Contingent Deferred Sales Charge). The benefits of tax deferral and living benefit protections also mean that the contract is more beneficial to investors with a long time horizon (see Principal Risks).
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RISKS
Risks Associated with Investment Options • Investment in this contract is subject to the risk of poor investment performance of the investment options chosen by the Contract Owner.
• Each investment option (including the Fixed Account) has its own unique risks.
• Review the prospectuses and disclosures for the investment options before making an investment decision.
See Principal Risks.
Insurance Company Risks Investment in this contract are subject to the risks associated with Nationwide, including that any obligations (including interest payable for allocations to the Fixed Account), guarantees, or benefits are subject to the claims-paying ability of Nationwide. More information about Nationwide, including its financial strength ratings, is available by contacting Nationwide at the address and/or toll-free phone number indicated in Contacting the Service Center (see Principal Risks).
RESTRICTIONS
Investments • Nationwide reserves the right to add, remove, and substitute investment options available under the contract (see The Sub-Accounts and Underlying Mutual Funds ).
• Allocations to the Fixed Account may not be transferred to another investment option except at the end of a Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period (see The Fixed Account).
Optional Benefits • Certain optional benefits limit or restrict the investment options available for investment.
• Nationwide reserves the right to discontinue offering any optional benefit. Such a discontinuance will only apply to new contracts and will not impact any contracts already in force.
• For certain optional benefits, Nationwide reserves the right to refuse or limit subsequent purchase payments.
• For certain optional benefits, a Contract Owner’s ability to continue to receive certain benefits is contingent on a Contract Owner’s agreement to new terms and conditions.
• For certain optional benefits, while withdrawals are not restricted, the impact of certain withdrawals could have a negative impact on the amount of the benefit ultimately available.
• For certain optional benefits, certain withdrawals could negatively impact the amount of the benefit by an amount greater than the amount withdrawn and/or could terminate the optional benefit.
See Benefits Under the Contract.
TAXES
Tax Implications • Consult with a tax professional to determine the tax implications of an investment in and payments received under this contract.
• If the contract is purchased through a tax-qualified plan or IRA, there is no additional tax deferral.
• Earnings in the contract are taxed at ordinary income tax rates at the time of withdrawals and there may be a tax penalty if withdrawals are taken before the Contract Owner reaches age 59½.
See Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Investment Professional Compensation Some financial professionals receive compensation for selling the contract. Compensation can take the form of commission and other indirect compensation in that Nationwide may share the revenue it earns on this contract with the financial professional’s firm. This conflict of interest may influence a financial professional, as these financial professionals may have a financial incentive to offer or recommend this contract over another investment (see The Contract in General).
Exchanges Some financial professionals may have a financial incentive to offer an investor a new contract in place of the one he/she already owns. An investor should only exchange his/her contract after determining, after comparing the features, fees, and risks of both contracts, that it is preferable for him/her to purchase the new contract, rather than to continue to own the existing one (see The Contract in General).
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Overview of the Contract
Purpose of the Contract
The contract is intended to be a long-term investment vehicle to assist investors in saving for and living in retirement. It can provide the Contract Owner with a stream of periodic income payments upon the Contract Owner’s retirement. During the years leading up to those income payments, the Contract Owner manages his/her assets in the contract according to their specific goals and risk preferences by directing the allocation and reallocation among a variety of investment options. Contract growth is tax-deferred, meaning that gains in the contract are not taxable until withdrawn from the contract. Finally, in the event that the Contract Owner dies before beginning lifetime income payments, the contract offers a death benefit.
Prospective purchasers should consult with a financial professional to determine whether this contract is appropriate for them, taking into consideration their particular needs, including investment objectives, risk tolerance, investment time horizon, marital status, tax situation, and other personal characteristics. Generally speaking, this contract is intended as a long-term investment to provide benefits to a single individual and his/her beneficiaries. It is not intended as a short-term investment. Nationwide has designed the contract to offer features, pricing, and investment options that encourage long-term ownership. The contract is not intended to be used by institutional investors, in connection with other Nationwide contracts that have the same Owner, or in connection with other Nationwide contracts that have different Annuitants but the same Contract Owner. It is not intended to be sold to a terminally ill Contract Owner or Annuitant.
Phases of the Contract
The contract exists in two separate phases: accumulation (savings) and annuitization (income). During the accumulation phase, the contract offers a variety of investment options to which the Contract Owner can allocate and reallocate his/her Contract Value. The investment options available under the contract consist of Subaccounts that invest in underlying mutual funds, which offer a variable rate of return, and a Fixed Account, which offers a fixed rate of return. Additional information about the underlying mutual funds is available in Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract.
During the annuitization phase, Nationwide makes periodic income payments to the Annuitant. At the time of annuitization, the Annuitant elects the duration of the annuity payments – either for a fixed period of time or for the duration of the Annuitant’s (and possibly the Annuitant’s spouse’s) life. After annuitization begins, the only value associated with the contract is the stream of annuity payments; unless otherwise specified in the annuity option, the Annuitant cannot withdraw value from the contract over and above the annuity payments. Additionally, once annuitization has begun, there is no death benefit, which means that upon the death of the Annuitant (and the Annuitant’s spouse if a joint annuity option was elected), all payments stop and the contract terminates, unless the particular annuitization option provides otherwise.
Contract Features
Investment Options. Contract Owners can allocate Contract Value to Subaccounts that invest in underlying mutual funds, and/or the Fixed Account. Contract Owners can reallocate those assets at their discretion, subject to certain restrictions.
Deposits to the Contract. Contract Owners can apply additional purchase payments to the contract until the Annuitization Date, subject to certain restrictions.
Withdrawals from the Contract. Contract Owners can withdraw some or all of their Contract Value at any time prior to annuitization, subject to certain restrictions. A CDSC and Premium Based Sales Charge may apply. After annuitization, withdrawals other than annuity payments are not permitted.
Death Benefit. During the accumulation phase, the contract contains a standard death benefit (the greater of (i) Contract Value or (ii) net purchase payments) at no additional charge.
Death Benefit Options. A Highest Anniversary Value death benefit option is available for an additional charge, which may provide a greater death benefit than the standard death benefit.
Terminal Illness Surrender Benefit. The contract offers an Enhanced Surrender Value for Terminal Illness feature at no additional charge. Under this feature, if after the first Contract Anniversary, the Contract Owner/Annuitant is terminally ill and the Contract Owner fully surrenders the Contract, Nationwide will pay the Contract Value plus any additional amount necessary to equal the standard death benefit or, if elected, an optional death benefit, subject to certain conditions.
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Lifetime Income Option. The contract offers the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core living benefit option for an additional charge, which provides a guaranteed lifetime income stream for the Contract Owner and, if elected, the Contract Owner’s spouse.
Annuity Payments. On the Annuitization Date, Nationwide will make annuity payments based on the annuity payment option chosen prior to annuitization.
Tax Deferral. How distributions from an annuity are taxed depends on the type of contract issued, but generally, distributions from an annuity contract, including the payment of death benefits, are taxable to the extent the cash value exceeds the investment in the contract (see Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information).
Cancellation of the Contract. Under state insurance laws, Contract Owners have the right, during a limited period of time, to examine their contract and decide if they want to keep it or cancel it. Nationwide will honor any free look cancellation request that is in good order and received at the Service Center or postmarked within 30 days after the contract issue date (see Right to Examine and Cancel and Contacting the Service Center).
Contract Owners Services. The contract offers several services at no additional charge to assist Contract Owners in managing their contract, including:
Asset Rebalancing
Dollar Cost Averaging
Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging
Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits
Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging
Systematic Withdrawals
Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service
Static Asset Allocation Model
Fee Table
The following tables describe the fees and expenses that a Contract Owner will pay when buying, owning, and surrendering or making withdrawals from the contract. Please refer to the contract specifications page for information about the specific fees the Contract Owner will pay each year based on the options elected.
The first table describes the fees and expenses a Contract Owner will pay at the time the Contract Owner buys the contract, surrenders or makes withdrawals from the contract, or transfers Contract Value between investment options. Certain states or governmental entities charge premium tax on purchase payments. Nationwide will deduct an amount equal to the premium tax charged by the applicable governmental entity, which currently ranges between 0% and 3.5% of purchase payments.
Transaction Expenses
Maximum Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC")1 (as a percentage of purchase payments withdrawn)

7%
1 When you make a purchase payment, we assign that purchase payment to a specific purchase payment tier for purposes of calculating the CDSC, determined by reference to the tiered schedule in the table below. Except with respect to purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, the purchase payment tier applicable to a given purchase payment is determined by adding that purchase payment to all prior purchase payments, identifying the tier that the resulting total corresponds to, and then identifying the CDSC percentages that apply to that tier. With respect to all purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, we add all such payments to determine the appropriate purchase payment tier, and the CDSC percentages associated with that tier apply to each such purchase payment.
    
The tiers and CDSC percentages are as follows:
Total Purchase Payments CDSC Percentages (years refer to number of complete years since purchase payment made)
  Less than 1 year 1 year but less than 2 years 2 years but less than 3 years 3 years but less than 4 years 4 years but less than 5 years 5 years but less than 6 years 6 years but less than 7 years 7 years or more
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$0 to $49,999 7% 6% 6% 5% 4% 3% 2% 0%
$50,000 to $99,999 6% 5% 5% 4% 3% 2% 1% 0%
$100,000 to $249,999 5% 4% 4% 3% 2% 2% 1% 0%
$250,000 to $499,999 4% 3% 3% 2% 2% 1% 1% 0%
$500,000 to $999,999 3% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1% .50% 0%
$1,000,000 or more 2% 1% 1% 1% 1% .50% .50% 0%
The next table describes the fees and expenses that a Contract Owner will pay each year during the time that the Contract Owner owns the contract (not including underlying mutual fund fees and expenses). If an optional benefit is elected, an additional charge will be assessed, as shown below.
Annual Contract Expenses
Administrative Expenses1

$50
Base Contract Expenses2 (assessed as an annualized percentage of Daily Net Assets)

1.50%
Optional Benefit Expenses
 
Optional Death Benefits (assessed as an annualized percentage of Daily Net Assets)

 
Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option Charge

0.20%
Living Benefit Options (assessed annually as a percentage of the Current Income Benefit Base3)

 
Maximum Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core Charge

1.50% 4
Maximum Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core Charge

0.40% 5
    
1 Throughout this prospectus, the Administrative Expense will be referred to as the Contract Maintenance Charge. On each contract’s Contract Anniversary, Nationwide deducts the Contract Maintenance Charge if the Contract Value is less than $75,000 on such Contract Anniversary. This charge is permanently waived on a going-forward basis for any contracts valued at $75,000 or more on any Contract Anniversary.
2 Base Contract Expenses are comprised of (a) a Mortality and Expense Risk Charge equal to 0.70% annually of Daily Net Assets (b) an Administrative Charge equal to 0.10 % annually of Daily Net Assets and (c) the Premium Based Sales Charge ("PBSC"). A PBSC applies to each purchase payment you make and is equal to a percentage of the purchase payment. We deduct the quarterly portion of the annualized PBSC (i.e., one fourth of the annual charge) on each Quarterly Contract Anniversary for the first 28 quarters after the purchase payment was made. The Base Contract Expenses figure set forth in the table above assumes the maximum PBSC of 0.70% annually. Note that although each of the Mortality and Expense Risk Charge and the Administrative Charge is an ongoing charge, the PBSC is charged for only seven years after the purchase payment is made. Thus, for example, if your only purchase payment was made when you bought the contract, there would be no PBSC once seven years had passed.
  For purposes of assigning the PBSC percentages, we first add the value of all purchase payments you make prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary. That total then falls into a range, and the greater the amount of the purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, the lesser the PBSC percentage applicable to that range. A single PBSC percentage applies with respect to the total dollar value of all purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary. Each purchase payments made after the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary is assigned its own PBSC, based on the total purchase payments made to the contract since the contract issue date (including the current purchase payment). Withdrawals made after a purchase payment is assigned a PBSC will not change the PBSC assigned to that purchase payment. See "Charges and Deductions – Premium Based Sales Charge" below for additional information.
  The PBSC percentage charges are as follows:
   
Total Purchase Payments Premium Based Sales Charge
$0 to $49,999 0.70%
$50,000 to $99,999 0.60%
$100,000 to $249,999 0.50%
$250,000 to $499,999 0.35%
$500,000 to $999,999 0.25%
$1,000,000 or more 0.15%
3 For information about how the Current Income Benefit Base is calculated, see Determination of the Income Benefit Base Prior to the First Lifetime Withdrawal.
4 Currently, the charge associated with the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core is equal to 1.30% of the Current Income Benefit Base.
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  The Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core may only be elected if and when the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core is elected. Currently, the additional charge associated with the Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core is equal to 0.30% of the Current Income Benefit Base (i.e., for a total current charge of 1.60%). This charge is in addition to the charge for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core (single life version).
The next item shows the minimum and maximum total operating expenses charged by the underlying mutual funds that the Contract Owner may pay periodically during the life of the contract. A complete list of the underlying mutual funds available under the contract, including their annual expenses, may be found in Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract.
Annual Underlying Mutual Fund Expenses1  
    Minimum   Maximum  
(Expenses that are deducted from underlying mutual fund assets, including management fees, distribution and/or service (12b-1) fees, and other expenses, as a percentage of average underlying mutual fund assets.)   0.41%   3.53%  
1 The expenses listed are for the year ended December 31, 2020, and will vary from year to year. With respect to certain underlying funds, there may be expense reimbursements or fee waivers in effect, which if applied would result in lower charges that what is depicted here.
Example
This Example is intended to help Contract Owners compare the cost of investing in the contract with the cost of investing in other variable annuity contracts. These costs include transaction expenses, annual contract expenses, and annual underlying mutual fund expenses.
The Example assumes:
a $100,000 investment in the contract for the time periods indicated1;
a 5% return each year;
the maximum and the minimum annual underlying mutual fund expenses;
the most expensive combination of optional benefits available for an additional charge (2.10%).2
Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions, your costs would be:
  If the contract is surrendered
at the end of the applicable
time period
  If the contract is annuitized
at the end of the applicable
time period
  If the contract is not
surrendered
  1 Yr.   3 Yrs.   5 Yrs.   10 Yrs.   1 Yr.   3 Yrs.   5 Yrs.   10 Yrs.   1 Yr.   3 Yrs.   5 Yrs.   10 Yrs.
Maximum

Annual

Underlying

Mutual Fund

Expenses

(3.53%)

$7,277   $21,336   $34,763   $64,525   *   $21,336   $34,763   $64,525   $7,277   $21,336   $34,763   $64,525
Minimum Annual Underlying Mutual Fund Expenses (0.41%)

$4,001   $12,122   $20,406   $40,207   *   $12,122   $20,406   $40,207   $4,001   $12,122   $20,406   $40,207
* The contracts sold under this prospectus do not permit annuitization during the first two Contract Years.
1 The base contract expenses may be higher or lower depending on whether the purchase payments used to calculate the Premium Based Sales Charge are higher or lower than the Daily Net Assets. For purposes of this table, Nationwide assumes purchase payments are equal to the Daily Net Assets.
2 The total Variable Account charges associated with the most expensive allowable combination of optional benefits may be higher or lower depending on whether the Current Income Benefit Base is higher or lower than the Daily Net Assets. For purposes of this table, Nationwide assumes the Current Income Benefit Base is equal to the Daily Net Assets.
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Contract Owners should be aware of the following risks associated with owning a variable annuity:
Risk of loss. The Sub-Accounts invest in underlying mutual funds. Underlying mutual funds are variable investments, meaning their value will increase or decrease in value based on the performance of the underlying securities. Poor underlying mutual fund performance can result in a loss of Contract Value and/or principal.
Not a short-term investment. In general, deferred variable annuities are long-term investments; they are not suitable as short-term savings vehicles. Nationwide has designed the contract to offer features, pricing, and investment options that encourage long-term ownership. Specifically:
A Contract Owner who takes withdrawals from the contract in early Contract Years could be subject to a CDSC, which in the short-term will reduce Contract Value, and in the long-term will reduce the ability of the Contract Value to grow over time.
A Contract Owner who takes withdrawals from the contract before reaching age 59½ could be subject to tax penalties that are mandated by the federal tax laws.
Living benefit options are designed to offer greater payouts the longer that the contract is in force.
Living benefit options are designed to discourage excess and/or early withdrawals by reducing the benefit base (which determines the overall benefit amount). Those reductions could result in the forfeiture of benefits in an amount greater than what was actually withdrawn. Furthermore, such withdrawals could result in a complete forfeiture of the benefit or could cause the contract to terminate without value.
Sub-Account availability. Nationwide reserves the right to change the Subaccounts available under the contract, including adding new Subaccounts, discontinuing availability of Subaccounts, and substituting Subaccounts. Decisions to make such changes are at Nationwide’s discretion but will be in accordance with Nationwide’s internal policies and procedures relating to such matters. Any changes to the availability of Subaccounts will be subject to regulatory approval and notice will be provided.
Investment option restrictions. The living benefit options available under the contract impose restrictions on which investment options are available for investment and/or the portion of total Contract Value that is permitted to be allocated to certain investment options. These restrictions are imposed by Nationwide and depend on each investment option’s risk characteristics. The permitted investment options are more conservative than those that are not permitted. This helps Nationwide manage its obligation to provide the Contract Owners with Lifetime Withdrawals by reducing the likelihood that it will have to make unanticipated payments. By electing an optional living benefit and accepting the limited menu of investment options, Contract Owners may be foregoing investment gains that could otherwise be realized by investing in riskier investment options that are not available under the optional living benefit.
Active trading. Neither the contracts described in this prospectus nor the underlying mutual funds are designed to support active trading strategies that require frequent movement between or among Sub-Accounts. Nationwide discourages (and will take action to deter) short-term trading in this contract because the frequent movement between or among Sub-Accounts may negatively impact other investors in the contract. In certain circumstances, to address active trading, Nationwide may require transfer requests to be submitted via U.S. mail. Additionally, underlying mutual funds are required to take certain actions in order to protect shareholders from negative impacts of short-term trading, which may include requiring Nationwide to prohibit particular Contract Owners from investing in a Subaccount that invests in the impacted underlying mutual fund.
Financial strength. Contractual guarantees that exceed the value of the assets in the Variable Account (including death benefit guarantees that exceed the Contract Value, and Lifetime Withdrawals that continue after the Contract Value falls to zero) and interest credited to Fixed Account allocations are paid from Nationwide’s general account, which is subject to Nationwide’s financial strength and claims-paying ability.
Regulatory risk. The contract is governed by various state and federal laws and regulations, which are subject to change. Those changes could require Nationwide to make changes to the contract that alter the nature or value of certain benefits. Additionally, changes to the tax laws or regulations could limit or eliminate the tax benefits of the contract, resulting in greater tax liability or less earnings.
Cybersecurity. Nationwide’s businesses are highly dependent upon its computer systems and those of its business partners. This makes Nationwide potentially susceptible to operational and information security risks resulting from a cyber-attack. These risks include direct risks, such as theft, misuse, corruption, and destruction of data maintained by Nationwide, and indirect risks, such as denial of service, attacks on service provider websites and other operational
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disruptions that impede Nationwide’s ability to electronically interact with service providers. Cyber-attacks affecting Nationwide, the underlying mutual funds, intermediaries, and other service providers may adversely affect Nationwide and Contract Values. In connection with any such cyber-attack, Nationwide and/or its service providers and intermediaries may be subject to regulatory fines and financial losses and/or reputational damage. Cybersecurity risks may also impact the issuers of securities in which the underlying mutual funds invest, which may cause the underlying mutual funds to lose value. Although Nationwide undertakes substantial efforts to protect its computer systems from cyber-attacks, including internal processes and technological defenses that are preventative or detective, and other controls designed to provide multiple layers of security assurance, there can be no guarantee that Nationwide, its service providers, or the underlying mutual funds will avoid losses affecting contracts due to cyber-attacks or information security breaches in the future.
In the event that Contract Values are adversely affected as a result of the failure of Nationwide’s cybersecurity controls, Nationwide will take reasonable steps to restore Contract Values to the levels that they would have been had the cyber-attack not occurred. Nationwide will not, however, be responsible for any adverse impact to Contract Values that result from the Contract Owner or its designee’s negligent acts or failure to use reasonably appropriate safeguards to protect against cyber-attacks.
Risks Associated with COVID-19. In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic, which has resulted in operational disruptions, as well as market volatility and general economic uncertainty. While Nationwide has implemented risk management and contingency plans and taken preventative measures and other precautions so it can continue to provide products and services to its customers, even as many of its employees and the employees of its service providers continue to work remotely, it is not currently possible to accurately estimate the full impact that the COVID-19 pandemic will have on Nationwide’s businesses as Nationwide continues to be subject to certain risks that could negatively impact its operations.
Significant market volatility and negative investment returns in the market resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic could have a negative impact on returns of the underlying mutual funds in which the Variable Account invests. Additionally, prolonged current economic conditions, consumer behavior, economic shutdowns, state and federal legislation intended to ease the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumers and voluntary hardship assistance that Nationwide provides to its customers, among other factors related to COVID-19, could affect the amount of sales and profitability of Nationwide’s businesses and could have a negative impact on its financial condition and operations.
While Nationwide is confident in its ability to manage the financial risks related to COVID-19, the extent and duration or the risks related to the COVID-19 pandemic are unknown at this time. It is possible these risks could impact Nationwide’s financial strength and claims-paying ability. There are many factors beyond Nationwide’s control that cannot be mitigated or foreseen that could have a negative impact on Nationwide and the operation of the contract. Nationwide continues to monitor the economic situation and assess its impact on its business operations closely.
Business Continuity Risks. Nationwide is exposed to risks related to natural and man-made disasters and catastrophes, such as storms, fires, earthquakes, public health crises and terrorist acts, which could adversely affect Nationwide’s ability to administer the contract. Natural and man-made disasters may require a significant contingent of Nationwide’s employees to work from remote locations. During these periods, Nationwide could experience decreased productivity, and a significant number of Nationwide’s workforce or certain key personnel may be unable to fulfill their duties if Nationwide’s data or systems are disabled or destroyed. In addition, an extended period of remote work arrangements could introduce operational risk and impair Nationwide’s ability to administer the contract.
Nationwide outsources certain critical business functions to third parties and, in the event of a natural or man-made disaster, relies upon the successful implementation and execution of the business continuity planning of such entities. While Nationwide closely monitors the business continuity activities of these third parties, successful implementation and execution of their business continuity strategies are largely beyond Nationwide’s control. If one or more of the third parties to whom Nationwide outsources such critical business functions experience operational failures, Nationwide’s ability to administer the contract could be impaired.
Nationwide and the Variable Account
The contract is issued by Nationwide, with its home office at One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Nationwide Variable Account-II is a separate account of Nationwide that invests in the underlying mutual funds listed in Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract. Income, gains, and losses credited to or charged against the Variable Account reflect the Variable Account’s own investment experience and not the investment experience of
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Nationwide’s other assets. The Variable Account’s assets are held separately from General Account assets and may not be used to pay any liabilities of Nationwide other than those arising from the contract. The Variable Account is divided into Sub-Accounts, each of which invests in shares of a single underlying mutual fund.
The contracts are distributed by the general distributor, Nationwide Investment Services Corporation ("NISC"), One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215. NISC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Nationwide.
The Sub-Accounts and Underlying Mutual Funds
The Contract Owner can allocate Contract Value to Subaccounts of the Variable Account, subject to conditions in the contract and underlying mutual funds. Each Sub-Account invests in shares of a single underlying mutual fund. Nationwide uses the assets of each Sub-Account to buy shares of the underlying mutual funds based on Contract Owner instructions.
Information about each underlying mutual fund, including its name, type, adviser and subadviser (if applicable), current expenses, and performance, is available in Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract. Each underlying mutual fund issues its own prospectus that contains more detailed information about the underlying mutual fund. Contract Owners receive underlying mutual fund prospectuses when they make their initial Sub-Account allocations and any time they change those allocations. Contract Owners can obtain prospectuses for underlying mutual funds free of charge at any time by contacting the Service Center (see Contacting the Service Center). Contract Owners should read these prospectuses carefully before investing.
Underlying mutual funds in the Variable Account are NOT publicly available mutual funds. They are only available as investment options in variable life insurance policies or variable annuity contracts issued by life insurance companies, or in some cases, through participation in certain qualified pension or retirement plans.
The investment advisers of the underlying mutual funds may manage publicly available mutual funds with similar names and investment objectives. However, the underlying mutual funds are NOT the same as any publicly available mutual fund. Contract Owners should not compare the performance of a publicly available fund with the performance of underlying mutual funds participating in the Variable Account. The performance of the underlying mutual funds could differ substantially from that of any publicly available funds.
The particular underlying mutual funds available under the contract may change from time to time. Specifically, underlying mutual funds or underlying mutual fund share classes that are currently available may be removed or closed off to future investment. New underlying mutual funds or new share classes of currently available underlying mutual funds may be added. Contract Owners will receive notice of any such changes that affect their contract. The underlying mutual funds, which sell their shares to the Sub-Accounts pursuant to participation agreements, also may terminate these agreements and discontinue offering their shares to the Sub-Accounts. Additionally, the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core may limit how Contract Value may be allocated to help Nationwide manage its obligation to provide Contract Owners with Lifetime Withdrawals by reducing the likelihood that it will have to make unanticipated payment (see Income Benefit Investment Options).
In the future, additional underlying mutual funds managed by certain financial institutions, brokerage firms, or their affiliates may be added to the Variable Account. These additional underlying mutual funds may be offered exclusively to purchasing customers of the particular financial institution or brokerage firm, or through other exclusive distribution arrangements.
Voting Rights
Contract Owners are not shareholders of the underlying mutual funds in which the Sub-Accounts invest; however, Contract Owners with assets allocated to Sub-Accounts are entitled to certain voting rights. Nationwide will vote underlying mutual fund shares at special shareholder meetings based on Contract Owner instructions. However, if the law changes and Nationwide is allowed to vote in its own right, it may elect to do so.
Contract Owners with voting interests in an underlying mutual fund will be notified of issues requiring shareholder vote as soon as possible before the shareholder meeting. Notification will contain proxy materials and a form with which to give Nationwide voting instructions. Nationwide will vote shares for which no instructions are received in the same proportion as those that are received. What this means is that when only a small number of Contract Owners vote, each vote has a greater impact on, and may control, the outcome.
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The number of shares which a Contract Owner may vote is determined by dividing the cash value of the amount they have allocated to an underlying mutual fund by the Net Asset Value of that underlying mutual fund. Nationwide will designate a date for this determination not more than 90 days before the shareholder meeting.
Material Conflicts
The underlying mutual funds may be offered through separate accounts of other insurance companies, as well as through other separate accounts of Nationwide. Nationwide does not anticipate any disadvantages to this. However, it is possible that a conflict may arise between the interests of the Variable Account and one or more of the other separate accounts in which these underlying mutual funds participate.
Material conflicts may occur due to a change in law affecting the operations of variable life insurance policies and variable annuity contracts, or differences in the voting instructions of the Contract Owners and those of other companies. If a material conflict occurs, Nationwide will take whatever steps are necessary to protect Contract Owners and variable annuity payees, including withdrawal of the Variable Account from participation in the underlying mutual fund(s) involved in the conflict.
Substitution of Securities
Nationwide may substitute shares of another underlying mutual fund for shares already purchased or to be purchased in the future if either of the following occurs:
(1) shares of a current underlying mutual fund are no longer available for investment; or
(2) further investment in an underlying mutual fund is inappropriate.
Nationwide will not substitute shares of any underlying mutual fund in which the Sub-Accounts invest without any necessary prior approval of the appropriate state or federal regulatory authorities. All affected Contract Owners will be notified in the event there is a substitution, elimination, or combination of shares.
The substitute underlying mutual fund may have different fees and expenses. Substitution may be made with respect to existing investments or the investment of future purchase payments, or both. Nationwide may close Sub-Accounts to allocations of purchase payments or Contract Value, or both, at any time in its sole discretion. The underlying mutual funds, which sell their shares to the Sub-Accounts pursuant to participation agreements, also may terminate these agreements and discontinue offering their shares to the Sub-Accounts.
Deregistration of the Variable Account
Nationwide may deregister the Variable Account under the 1940 Act in the event the Variable Account meets an exemption from registration under the 1940 Act, if there are no shareholders in the separate account, or for any other purpose approved by the SEC.
No deregistration may take place without the prior approval of the SEC. All affected Contract Owners will be notified in the event Nationwide deregisters the Variable Account. If the Variable Account is deregistered, Nationwide’s contractual obligations to the Contract Owner will continue.
If the Variable Account is deregistered, Nationwide’s contractual obligations to the Contract Owner will continue.
The Contract Owner can allocate Contract Value to the Fixed Account, subject to conditions imposed by the contract. The Fixed Account is an investment option that is funded by assets of Nationwide’s General Account. The General Account contains all of Nationwide’s assets other than those in this and other Nationwide separate accounts and is used to support Nationwide’s annuity and insurance obligations. These obligations may include certain death benefits and living benefits as described in this prospectus. The General Account is not subject to the same laws as the Variable Account.
Purchase payments will be allocated to the Fixed Account by election of the Contract Owner. Nationwide reserves the right to limit or refuse purchase payments and/or transfers allocated to the Fixed Account at its sole discretion. Generally, Nationwide will invoke this right when interest rates are low by historical standards. Nationwide also reserves the right to limit the amount that can be transferred from the Fixed Account at the end of an interest rate guaranteed period. State law requires Nationwide to reserve the right to postpone payment or transfer out of the Fixed Account for a period of up to six months from the date of the withdrawal or transfer request. The Fixed Account may not be available in every state.
The investment income earned by the Fixed Account will be allocated to the contracts at varying guaranteed interest rate(s) depending on the following categories of Fixed Account allocations:
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New Money Rate – The rate credited on the Fixed Account allocation when the contract is purchased or when subsequent purchase payments are made. Subsequent purchase payments may receive different New Money Rates than the rate when the contract was issued, since the New Money Rate is subject to change based on market conditions.
Variable Account to Fixed Rate – Allocations transferred from any of the Sub-Accounts to the Fixed Account may receive a different rate. The rate may be lower than the New Money Rate. There may be limits on the amount and frequency of movements from the Sub-Accounts to the Fixed Account.
Renewal Rate – The rate available for maturing Fixed Account allocations which are entering a new guarantee period. The Contract Owner will be notified of this rate in a letter issued with the quarterly statements when a Contract Owner’s Fixed Account allocation matures. At that time, the Contract Owner will have an opportunity to leave the money in the Fixed Account and receive the Renewal Rate or the Contract Owner can move the money to any of the other investment options. If no instruction is received by Nationwide, the Contract Owner will remain invested in the Fixed Account and will receive the Renewal Rate.
Dollar Cost Averaging Rate – From time to time, Nationwide may offer a more favorable rate for an initial purchase payment into a new contract when used in conjunction with a Dollar Cost Averaging program. Rates will vary depending on the Dollar Cost Averaging program elected (see Contract Owner Services).
All of these rates are subject to change on a daily basis; however, once applied to the Fixed Account, the interest rates are guaranteed until the end of the calendar quarter during which the 12-month anniversary of the Fixed Account allocation occurs.
Credited interest rates are annualized rates – the effective yield of interest over a one-year period. Interest is credited to each contract on a daily basis. As a result, the credited interest rate is compounded daily to achieve the stated effective yield.
The guaranteed rate for any purchase payment will be effective for not less than 12 months. Nationwide guarantees that the rate will not be less than the minimum interest rate required by applicable state law. Any interest in excess of the minimum interest rate required by applicable state law will be credited to Fixed Account allocations at Nationwide’s sole discretion.
Nationwide guarantees that the value of Fixed Account allocations will not be less than the amount of the purchase payments allocated to the Fixed Account, plus interest credited as described above, less any withdrawals and any applicable charges including CDSC.
Fixed Account Interest Rate Guarantee Period
The Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period is the period of time that the Fixed Account interest rate is guaranteed to remain the same. During a Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period, transfers cannot be made from the Fixed Account, and amounts transferred to the Fixed Account must remain on deposit.
For new purchase payments allocated to the Fixed Account and transfers to the Fixed Account, the Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period begins on the date of deposit or transfer and ends on the one-year anniversary of the deposit or transfer. The guaranteed interest rate period may last for up to three months beyond the one-year anniversary because guaranteed terms end on the last day of a calendar quarter.
Contacting the Service Center
All inquiries, paperwork, information requests, service requests, and transaction requests should be made to the Service Center:
by telephone at 1-800-848-6331 (TDD 1-800-238-3035)
by mail to P.O. Box 182021, Columbus, Ohio 43218-2021
by fax at 1-888-634-4472
by Internet at www.nationwide.com.
Nationwide reserves the right to restrict or remove the ability to submit service requests via Internet, phone, or fax upon written notice.
Not all methods of communication are available for all types of requests. To determine which methods are permitted for a particular request, refer to the specific transaction provision in this prospectus or call the Service Center. Requests submitted by means other than described in this prospectus could be returned or delayed.
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Service and transaction requests will generally be processed on the Valuation Date they are received at the Service Center as long as the request is in good order, see Operation of the Contract. Good order generally means that all necessary information to process the request is complete and in a form acceptable to Nationwide. If a request is not in good order, Nationwide will take reasonable actions to obtain the information necessary to process the request. Requests that are not in good order may be delayed or returned. Nationwide reserves the right to process any purchase payment or withdrawal request sent to a location other than the Service Center on the Valuation Date it is received at the Service Center. On any day the post office is closed, Nationwide is unable to retrieve service and transaction requests that are submitted by mail. This will result in a delay of the delivery of those requests to the Service Center.
Nationwide will use reasonable procedures to confirm that instructions are genuine and will not be liable for following instructions that it reasonably determined to be genuine. Nationwide may record telephone requests. Telephone and computer systems may not always be available. Any telephone system or computer can experience outages or slowdowns for a variety of reasons. The outages or slowdowns could prevent or delay processing. Although Nationwide has taken precautions to support heavy use, it is still possible to incur an outage or delay. To avoid technical difficulties, submit transaction requests by mail.
Charges and Deductions
Mortality and Expense Risk Charge
Nationwide deducts a Mortality and Expense Risk Charge equal to an annualized rate of 0.70% of the Daily Net Assets. The Mortality and Expense Risk Charge compensates Nationwide for providing the insurance benefits under the contract, including the contract's standard death benefit. It also compensates Nationwide for assuming the risk that Annuitants will live longer than assumed. Finally, the Mortality and Expense Risk Charge compensates Nationwide for guaranteeing that charges will not increase regardless of actual expenses. Nationwide may realize a profit from this charge.
Administrative Charge
Nationwide deducts an Administrative Charge equal to an annualized rate of 0.10% of the Daily Net Assets. The Administrative Charge reimburses Nationwide for administrative costs it incurs resulting from providing contract benefits, including preparation of the contract and prospectus, confirmation statements, annual account statements and annual reports, legal and accounting fees, as well as various related expenses. Nationwide may realize a profit from this charge.
Contract Maintenance Charge
A $50 Contract Maintenance Charge is assessed on each Contract Anniversary and upon full surrender of the contract. This charge reimburses Nationwide for administrative expenses involved in issuing and maintaining the contract. If on any Contract Anniversary (or on the date of a full surrender) the Contract Value is $75,000 or more, Nationwide will waive the Contract Maintenance Charge from that point forward.
The deduction of the Contract Maintenance Charge will be taken proportionally from each Sub-Account and the Fixed Account based on the value in each option as compared to the total Contract Value. Nationwide will not reduce or eliminate the Contract Maintenance Charge where it would be discriminatory or unlawful.
No sales charge deduction is made from purchase payments upon deposit into the contract. However, if any part of the contract is withdrawn, Nationwide may deduct a CDSC. The CDSC will not exceed 7% of purchase payments withdrawn.
For purposes of calculating the CDSC, withdrawals are considered to come first from the oldest purchase payment made to the contract, then the next oldest purchase payment, and so forth.
When you make a purchase payment, we assign that purchase payment to a specific purchase payment tier for purposes of calculating the CDSC, determined by reference to the tiered schedule in the table below. Except with respect to purchase payments made during the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, the purchase payment tier applicable to a given purchase payment is determined by adding that purchase payment to all prior purchase payments, identifying the tier that the resulting total corresponds to, and then identifying the CDSC percentages that apply to that tier. With respect to all purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, we add all such payments to determine the appropriate purchase payment tier, and the CDSC percentages associated with that tier apply to each such purchase payment.
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Having assigned a given purchase payment to a particular purchase payment tier, the CDSC percentages associated with that tier apply to that purchase payment, even if you make subsequent purchase payments. In addition, the amount of a purchase payment that will be multiplied by the appropriate CDSC percentage when the purchase payment is withdrawn is not reduced by any charges deducted from your Contract Value.
When a given purchase payment is withdrawn, we determine the applicable CDSC percentage based on the number of years elapsed since the purchase payment being withdrawn was made. In general, as indicated in the table below, the greater the "age" of the purchase payment being withdrawn, the lower the applicable CDSC.
The tiers and CDSC percentages are as follows:
Total Purchase Payments CDSC Percentages (years refer to number of complete years since purchase payment made)
  Less than 1 year 1 year but less than 2 years 2 years but less than 3 years 3 years but less than 4 years 4 years but less than 5 years 5 years but less than 6 years 6 years but less than 7 years 7 years or more
$0 to $49,999 7% 6% 6% 5% 4% 3% 2% 0%
$50,000 to $99,999 6% 5% 5% 4% 3% 2% 1% 0%
$100,000 to $249,999 5% 4% 4% 3% 2% 2% 1% 0%
$250,000 to $499,999 4% 3% 3% 2% 2% 1% 1% 0%
$500,000 to $999,999 3% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1% .50% 0%
$1,000,000 or more 2% 1% 1% 1% 1% .50% .50% 0%
Earnings are not subject to the CDSC, but may not be distributed prior to the distribution of all purchase payments. (For tax purposes, a withdrawal is usually treated as a withdrawal of earnings first.)
The CDSC is paid to us, and is used to cover sales expenses, including commissions, production of sales material, and other promotional expenses. The maximum gross commission that Nationwide will pay on the sale of the contracts is 8.00% of purchase payments. If expenses are greater than the CDSC, the shortfall will be made up from Nationwide’s general assets, which may indirectly include portions of the Variable Account charges, since Nationwide may generate a profit from these charges.
All or a portion of any withdrawal may be subject to federal income taxes. Contract Owners taking withdrawals before age 59½ may be subject to a 10% penalty tax.
Waiver of Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
The maximum amount that can be withdrawn annually without a CDSC is the greatest of:
(1) 10% of purchase payments that are still subject to CDSC (which is equal to the total purchase payments subject to CDSC minus purchase payments previously withdrawn that were subject to CDSC);
(2) any amount withdrawn to meet minimum distribution requirements for this contract under the Internal Revenue Code; or
(3) for those contracts with the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option, withdrawals up to the annual benefit amount.
This CDSC-free withdrawal privilege is non-cumulative. Free amounts not taken during any given Contract Year cannot be taken as free amounts in a subsequent Contract Year.
Note: CDSC-free withdrawals do not count as "purchase payments previously withdrawn that were subject to CDSC" and, therefore, do not reduce the amount used to calculate subsequent CDSC-free withdrawal amounts.
In addition, no CDSC will be deducted:
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(1) upon the annuitization of contracts which have been in force for at least two years;
(2) upon payment of a death benefit; or
(3) from any values which have been held under a contract for at least seven years.
No CDSC applies to transfers between or among the various investment options in the contract.
The CDSC will not be eliminated if to do so would be unfairly discriminatory or prohibited by state law.
The CDSC-free withdrawal privilege does not apply to full surrenders of the contract. For purposes of the CDSC-free withdrawal privilege, a full surrender is:
multiple withdrawals taken within a Contract Year that deplete the entire Contract Value; or
any single net withdrawal of 90% or more of the Contract Value.
Long-Term Care/Nursing Home and Terminal Illness Waiver
The contract includes a Long-Term Care/Nursing Home and Terminal Illness Waiver at no additional charge. This benefit may not be available in every state.
Under this provision, no CDSC will be charged if:
(1) the first Contract Anniversary has passed and the Contract Owner has been confined to a long-term care facility or hospital for a continuous 90-day period that began after the contract issue date; or
(2) the Contract Owner has been diagnosed by a physician at any time after contract issuance to have a terminal illness and Nationwide receives and records a letter from that physician indicating such diagnosis.
Written notice and proof of terminal illness or confinement for 90 days in a hospital or long-term care facility must be received in a form satisfactory to Nationwide and recorded at the Service Center prior to waiver of the CDSC.
In the case of joint ownership, the waivers will apply if either joint owner meets the qualifications listed above.
For those contracts that have a non-natural person as Contract Owner as an agent for a natural person, the Annuitant may exercise the right of the Contract Owner for purposes described in this provision. If the non-natural Contract Owner does not own the contract as an agent for a natural person (e.g., the Contract Owner is a corporation or a trust for the benefit of an entity), the Annuitant may not exercise the rights described in this provision.
Note: The benefit associated with this feature is the waiver of CDSC under certain circumstances. This feature is not intended to provide or imply that the contract provides long-term care or nursing home insurance coverage.
Premium Based Sales Charge ("PBSC")
How the PBSC Percentage Charge is Set
One of the charges under the contract is the premium based sales charge. The PBSC is paid to us, and is one of the charges we impose to recoup our expenses associated with distribution of the contracts (e.g., commission costs).
The PBSC is expressed as a percentage of purchase payments you have made. For purposes of assigning the PBSC percentages, we first add the value of all purchase payments you make prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary. That total then falls into a range, and as specified in the table below the greater the amount of the purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, the lesser the PBSC percentage applicable to that range. A single PBSC percentage applies with respect to the total dollar value of all purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary). Purchase payments made after the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary are also assigned a PBSC, but such subsequent purchase payments are not added together as is done with respect to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary. Instead, to determine the PBSC percentage that is applied to each subsequent purchase payment made after the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, we determine the total purchase payments made since the contract issue date (including the current purchase payment) and then assign the PBSC percentage that corresponds to that purchase payment to the range indicated in the table below. Thus, for example, subsequent purchase payment A could correspond to an annualized PBSC percentage of .50% whereas purchase payment B made two weeks later could push your total purchase payments into a new PBSC range that corresponds to an annualized PBSC percentage of 0.35% for purchase payment B. Withdrawals made after a purchase payment is assigned a PBSC will not change the PBSC assigned to that purchase payment.
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How the PBSC Charge is Deducted
Purchase Payments Made Prior to First Quarterly Contract Anniversary. As indicated above, a single PBSC percentage applies to all purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary. The table below shows the percentage charges that apply on an annualized basis. Because we deduct the PBSC quarterly, we first convert the annual percentage set forth in the table to the equivalent amount corresponding to each quarter by dividing the annual percentage by 4 (e.g., a 0.60% annual charge equates to a quarterly charge of 0.15%). Then each quarter, we deduct the dollar amount that equals that quarterly percentage multiplied by the amount of all purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary. We make the deduction as of each Quarterly Contract Anniversary during the first 28 quarters after the contract issue date (i.e., during the first seven years of the contract). Thus, each purchase payment has a seven year period during which it is subject to the PBSC, but after that seven year period the purchase payment is no longer subject to the PBSC. If the Quarterly Contract Anniversary is not a Valuation Date, we make the deduction on the next date that is a Valuation Date. We deduct the PBSC proportionally from your investment in the Sub-accounts and the Fixed Account.
Purchase Payments Made After First Quarterly Contract Anniversary. Purchase payments made after the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary are assigned a PBSC. To determine the PBSC percentage that is applied to the amount of each subsequent purchase payment made after the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, we determine the total purchase payments made since the contract issue date (including the current purchase payment) and then assign the PBSC percentage that corresponds to the range indicated in the table below. Having assigned a PBSC percentage to each such subsequent purchase payment, we first convert the annual percentage to the equivalent amount corresponding to each quarter by dividing the annual percentage by 4. We then deduct that quarterly amount as of each Quarterly Contract Anniversary during the first 28 quarters after the purchase payment was made. Thus, each purchase payment has a seven year period during which it is subject to the PBSC, but after that seven year period the purchase payment is no longer subject to the PBSC. If the Quarterly Contract Anniversary is not a Valuation Date, we make the deduction on the next date that is a Valuation Date. We deduct the PBSC proportionally from your investment in the Sub-accounts and the Fixed Account.
Viewing purchase payments made before and after the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary together:
Your total PBSC at any one time will consist of the sum of the PBSCs associated with all purchase payments you have made; and
That total amount can fluctuate over time as (a) new purchase payments are made after the first Quarterly Anniversary (which add to the overall PBSC amount) and (b) the PBSC with respect to purchase payments expires after seven years (e.g., in year eight of the contract, the PBSC based on all purchase payments made prior to the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary will have expired, thereby reducing the overall PBSC amount under the contract).
In general, we deduct the charge proportionally from your Contract Value allocated to both the Sub-accounts and the Fixed Account by (a) redeeming Sub-account units and (b) withdrawing the proportionate dollar value from the Fixed Account. Withdrawals that we make to assess the PBSC are not subject to the CDSC. However, under the version of the contract sold in certain States:
we will not make a withdrawal from the Fixed Account that would result in the value of the Fixed Account declining to less than the amount invested in the Fixed Account appreciated at the guaranteed minimum crediting rate;
we will deduct the PBSC from only your Sub-accounts;
we will deduct the PBSC first from the Sub-accounts and then from the Fixed Account only if amounts withdrawn from the Sub-accounts are insufficient to pay the charge.
Additionally:
We will not deduct the PBSC after you annuitize the contract;
We will not deduct the PBSC from the amount of any death benefit (except that if a surviving spouse continues the contract, the PBSC will apply with respect to both purchase payments made prior to the Contract Owner’s death and to purchase payments made by the surviving spouse);
When a purchase payment is withdrawn and incurs a CDSC, we will continue to assess a PBSC against that purchase payment.
The PBSC will be deducted upon full surrender of the contract. A prorated PBSC will be deducted upon full surrender of the contract if the full surrender is made between Quarterly Contract Anniversaries.
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The PBSC percentages are as follows:
Total Purchase Payments Premium Based Sales Charge
$0 to $49,999 0.70%
$50,000 to $99,999 0.60%
$100,000 to $249,999 0.50%
$250,000 to $499,999 0.35%
$500,000 to $999,999 0.25%
$1,000,000 or more 0.15%
As a hypothetical example of how the PBSC works, please assume the following:
Example:
• During the first Quarterly Contract Anniversary, you make purchase payments of $10,000, $5,000, and $17,000
• At the beginning of the second year of your contract, you make a purchase payment of $20,000
• Based on these assumptions, after your third purchase payment but before your purchase payment of $20,000, your PBSC equals [$10,000 + $5000 + $17,000] * 0.70% or $224. Beginning with your $20,000 purchase payment in year two, your PBSC would be the sum of $224 and [$20,000 * 0.60%] or $334 in total.
Premium Taxes
Certain states or other governmental entities charge premium tax on purchase payments. Nationwide will charge against the Contract Value any premium taxes levied by a state or other government entity. Premium tax rates currently range from 0% to 3.5% and vary from state to state. The range is subject to change. Nationwide will assess premium taxes to the contract at the time Nationwide is assessed the premium taxes by the state. Premium taxes may be deducted from death benefit proceeds.
Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option
For an additional charge at an annualized rate of 0.20% of the Daily Net Assets, an applicant can elect the Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option. The Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option is only available for contracts with Owners age 75 or younger at the time of application. This option must be elected at the time of application, and the option is irrevocable. The Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option is not available if you elect the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option. The charge associated with this option is calculated and deducted daily as part of the Accumulation Unit value calculation, and will be assessed until annuitization. Nationwide may realize a profit from the charge assessed for this option. This option, and any charge associated with it, will automatically terminate on the Annuitization Date.
If the Owner dies before the Annuitization Date and the total of all purchase payments made to the contract is less than or equal to $3,000,000, the death benefit will be the greatest of:
(1) the Contract Value as of the date that Nationwide receives all the information necessary to pay the death benefit;
(2) the total of all purchase payments, less an adjustment for amounts withdrawn; or
(3) the highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary before the Owner’s 81st birthday, less an adjustment for amounts subsequently withdrawn, plus purchase payments received after that Contract Anniversary.
Any adjustment for amounts withdrawn will reduce the applicable factor above in the same proportion that the Contract Value was reduced on the date(s) of the partial withdrawal(s). For example, if the death benefit value is $120,000, the Contract Value is $100,000, and a partial withdrawal of $10,000 is taken, then the death benefit value is decreased by $12,000 [$120,000 x ($10,000/$100,000)].
Note: For Contract Owners who have elected this option, if the total of all purchase payments made to the contract is greater than $3,000,000, the death benefit calculation will be adjusted as described in the Death Benefit Calculations provision.
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Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core
The Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core is a living benefit option that provides for Lifetime Withdrawals, up to a certain amount each calendar year, even after the Contract Value is $0, provided that the Contract Owner does not deplete the Current Income Benefit Base by taking excess withdrawals and does not make certain assignments or Contract Owner changes.
For an additional charge not to exceed 1.50% of the Current Income Benefit Base, an applicant can elect Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core. Currently, the charge for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core rider is 1.30% of the Current Income Benefit Base. The current charge will not change, except, possibly, upon the Contract Owner’s election to reset the benefit base. If the current charge does change, it will not exceed the maximum charge of 1.50% of the Current Income Benefit Base.
The charge will be assessed on each Contract Anniversary and will be deducted via redemption of Accumulation Units. The charge will be assessed until annuitization or the Contract Value reaches $0. A prorated charge will also be deducted upon full surrender of the contract. Accumulation Units will be redeemed proportionally from each Sub-Account in which the Contract Owner is invested at the time the charge is taken. For more detailed information about this option, see Benefits Under the Contract. Nationwide may realize a profit from this charge.
Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core
For an additional charge not to exceed 0.40% of the Current Income Benefit Base, if the applicant elected Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core rider, an applicant can elect the Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core rider. The current charge for the Joint Option is 0.30% of the Current Income Benefit Base and the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages will be lower than if the Joint Option was not elected.
The Joint Option allows a surviving spouse to continue to receive, for the duration of his/her lifetime, the benefit associated with the corresponding Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core rider, provided that certain conditions are satisfied. For more detailed information about this option, see Benefits Under the Contract. Nationwide may realize a profit from this charge.
Underlying Mutual Fund Charges
In addition to the charges indicated above, the underlying mutual funds in which the Sub-Accounts invest have their own fees and charges which are paid out of the assets of the underlying mutual fund. More information about the fees and charges of the underlying mutual funds can be found in the prospectus for each underlying mutual fund which can be obtained free of charge by contacting Nationwide’s Service Center.
Types of Contracts Issued
The contracts can be categorized as:
Individual Retirement Annuities ("IRAs")
Investment-Only Contracts (Qualified Plans)
Non-Qualified Contracts
Roth IRAs
Simplified Employee Pension IRAs ("SEP IRAs")
Simple IRAs
For more detailed information about the differences in contract types, see Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information.
Prospective purchasers may apply to purchase a contract through broker dealers that have entered into a selling agreement with Nationwide Investment Services Corporation.
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Minimum Initial and Subsequent Purchase Payments
All purchase payments must be paid in the currency of the United States of America. The minimum initial purchase payment is $10,000. A Contract Owner will meet the minimum initial purchase payment requirement if purchase payments equal to the required minimum are made over the course of the first Contract Year. The minimum subsequent purchase payment is $500. However, for subsequent purchase payments sent via electronic deposit, the minimum subsequent purchase payment is $100.
Some states have different minimum initial and subsequent purchase payment amounts, and subsequent purchase payments may not be permitted in all states. Contact the Service Center for information on initial and subsequent purchase payment requirements in a particular state.
Some optional benefits may restrict the Contract Owner's ability to make subsequent purchase payments.
Nationwide reserves the right to refuse any purchase payment that would result in the cumulative total for all contracts issued by Nationwide or its affiliates or subsidiaries on the life of any one Annuitant or owned by any one Contract Owner to exceed $1,000,000. Its decision as to whether or not to accept a purchase payment in excess of that amount will be based on one or more factors, including, but not limited to: age, spouse age (if applicable), Annuitant age, state of issue, total purchase payments, optional benefits elected, current market conditions, and current hedging costs. All such decisions will be based on internally established actuarial guidelines and will be applied in a non-discriminatory manner. In the event that Nationwide does not accept a purchase payment under these guidelines, the purchase payment will be immediately returned in its entirety in the same manner as it was received. If Nationwide accepts the purchase payment, it will be applied to the contract immediately and will receive the next calculated Accumulation Unit value. Any references in this prospectus to purchase payment amounts in excess of $1,000,000 are assumed to have been approved by Nationwide.
Nationwide prohibits subsequent purchase payments made after death of the Contract Owner(s), the Annuitant, or Co-Annuitant. If upon notification of death of the Contract Owner(s), the Annuitant, or Co-Annuitant, it is determined that death occurred prior to a subsequent purchase payment being made, Nationwide reserves the right to return the purchase payment.
Dollar Limit Restrictions
Certain features of the contract have additional purchase payment and/or Contract Value limitations associated with them:
Annuitization. Annuity payment options will be limited if the Contract Owner submits total purchase payments in excess of $2,000,000. Furthermore, if the amount to be annuitized is greater than $5,000,000, Nationwide may limit both the amount that can be annuitized on a single life and the annuity payment options (see Annuity Payment Options).
Death Benefit Calculations. Purchase payments in excess of $3,000,000 may result in a proportionally lower death benefit payment than purchase payments up to $3,000,000 (see Death Benefit Calculations).
Subsequent Purchase Payments. If the Contract Owner elects the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core, Nationwide reserves the right to refuse any subsequent purchase payments.
Money Laundering
In order to comply with the USA PATRIOT Act and rules promulgated thereunder, Nationwide has implemented procedures designed to prevent contracts described in this prospectus from being used to facilitate money laundering or the financing of terrorist activities. If mandated under applicable law, Nationwide may be required to reject a purchase payment and/or block a Contract Owner’s account and thereby refuse to process any request for transfers, withdrawals, surrenders, loans, or death benefits until instructions are received from the appropriate regulators. Nationwide may also be required to provide additional information about a Contract Owner or a Contract Owner’s account to governmental regulators.
Replacements
If the contract described in this prospectus is replacing another variable annuity, the mortality tables used to determine the amount of annuity payments for this contract may be less favorable than those in the contract being replaced. Additionally, upon replacement, all benefits accrued under the replaced contract are forfeited. The issuance of this contract as a replacement for any investment product may result in the payment of compensation to the financial professional, which could create a conflict of interest.
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Contestability
Except in certain circumstances involving fraud and where permitted by state law, Nationwide will not contest the contract after it has been in force during the lifetime of the Annuitant/Owner for two years after the date of contract issuance or effective date of certain contract changes, as defined in the contract.
Payments to Minors
Nationwide will not pay insurance proceeds directly to minors. Contact a legal advisor for options to facilitate the timely availability of monies intended for a minor’s benefit.
Contract Misuse
The annuity described in this prospectus is intended to provide benefits to a single individual and his/her beneficiaries. It is not intended to be used by institutional investors, in connection with other Nationwide contracts that have the same Annuitant, or in connection with other Nationwide contracts that have different Annuitants, but the same Contract Owner. If Nationwide determines that the risks it intended to assume in issuing the contract have been altered by misusing the contract as described above, Nationwide reserves the right to take any action it deems necessary to reduce or eliminate the altered risk. Nationwide also reserves the right to take any action it deems necessary to reduce or eliminate altered risk resulting from materially false, misleading, incomplete, or otherwise deficient information provided by the Contract Owner.
Nationwide’s General Account Obligations
Nationwide is obligated to pay all amounts promised to Contract Owners under the contracts. Any obligations Nationwide has to Contract Owners under the contracts in excess of the Contract Value are paid from the General Account and are subject to Nationwide's creditors and ultimately, its overall claims paying ability.
Contractual Guarantees
These contracts are offered to customers of various financial institutions and brokerage firms. No financial institution or brokerage firm is responsible for any of the contractual insurance benefits and features guaranteed under the contracts. These guarantees are the sole responsibility of Nationwide.
Reservation of Rights
In addition to rights that Nationwide specifically reserves elsewhere in this prospectus, Nationwide reserves the right, subject to any applicable regulatory approvals, to perform any or all of the following:
close Sub-Accounts to additional purchase payments on existing contracts or close Sub-Accounts for contracts purchased on or after specified dates. Changes of this nature will be made as directed by the underlying mutual funds or because Nationwide determines that the underlying mutual fund is no longer suitable (see Identification of Underlying Mutual Funds);
make changes required by or to comply with any change in the federal securities laws, including, but not limited to, the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Investment Company Act of 1940, or any other changes to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and regulations thereunder or interpretation thereof;
make any changes necessary to maintain the status of the contracts as annuities under the Internal Revenue Code;
make any changes required by or to comply with federal or state laws with respect to annuity contracts; and
suspend or discontinue sale of the contracts. The decision to suspend or discontinue sale of the contracts is made at Nationwide's discretion. Any decision of this nature would not impact current Contract Owners.
Contract Owners will be notified of any resulting changes by way of a supplement to the prospectus.
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Distribution, Promotional, and Sales Expenses
Nationwide pays commissions to the firms that sell the contracts. Note: The individual financial professionals typically receive only a portion of this amount; the remainder is retained by the firm. Nationwide may also, instead of a premium-based commission, pay an asset-based commission (sometimes referred to as "trails" or "residuals"), or a combination of the two.
In addition to or partially in lieu of commission, and to the extent permitted by SEC and FINRA rules and other applicable laws and regulations, Nationwide may also pay the selling firms a marketing allowance, which is based on the firm’s ability and demonstrated willingness to promote and market Nationwide’s products. How any marketing allowance is spent is determined by the firm, but generally will be used to finance firm activities that may contribute to the promotion and marketing of Nationwide’s products, which may include but not be limited to providing conferences or seminars, sales or training programs, advertising and sales campaigns regarding the contracts, and payments to assist a firm in connection with its administrative systems, operations and marketing expenses and/or other events or activities sponsored by the firms.
Nationwide may also host training and/or educational meetings including the cost of travel, accommodations and meals for firms that sell the contracts as well as assist such firms with marketing or advertisement costs.
For more information on the exact compensation arrangement associated with this contract, consult your financial professional.
Underlying Mutual Fund Service Fee Payments
Nationwide’s Relationship with the Underlying Mutual Funds
The underlying mutual funds incur expenses each time they sell, administer, or redeem their shares. The Variable Account aggregates Contract Owner purchase, redemption, and transfer requests and submits net or aggregated purchase/redemption requests to each underlying mutual fund on each Valuation Date. The Variable Account (not the Contract Owners) is the underlying mutual fund shareholder. When the Variable Account aggregates transactions, the underlying mutual fund does not incur the expense of processing individual transactions it would normally incur if it sold its shares directly to the public. Nationwide incurs these expenses instead.
Nationwide also incurs the distribution costs of selling the contract (as discussed above), which benefit the underlying mutual funds by providing Contract Owners with Sub-Account options that correspond to the underlying mutual funds.
An investment adviser or subadviser of an underlying mutual fund or its affiliates may provide Nationwide or its affiliates with wholesaling services that assist in the distribution of the contract and may pay Nationwide or its affiliates to participate in educational and/or marketing activities. These activities may provide the adviser or subadviser (or their affiliates) with increased exposure to persons involved in the distribution of the contract.
Types of Payments Nationwide Receives
In light of the above, the underlying mutual funds and their affiliates make certain payments to Nationwide or its affiliates (the "payments"). The amount of these payments is typically based on a percentage of assets invested in the underlying mutual funds attributable to the contracts and other variable contracts Nationwide and its affiliates issue, but in some cases may involve a flat fee. These payments are made for various purposes, including payments for the services provided and expenses incurred by the Nationwide companies in promoting, marketing and administering the contracts and underlying funds. Nationwide may realize a profit on the payments received.
Nationwide or its affiliates receive the following types of payments:
Underlying mutual fund 12b-1 fees, which are deducted from underlying mutual fund assets;
Sub-transfer agent fees or fees pursuant to administrative service plans adopted by the underlying mutual fund, which may be deducted from underlying mutual fund assets; and
Payments by an underlying mutual fund’s adviser or subadviser (or its affiliates), from their own revenues. Such payments are not from underlying mutual fund assets. However, the revenues from which such payments are made may be derived from advisory fees, which are deducted from underlying mutual fund assets and are reflected in mutual fund charges.
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Furthermore, Nationwide benefits from assets invested in Nationwide’s affiliated underlying mutual funds (i.e., Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust) because its affiliates also receive compensation from the underlying mutual funds for investment advisory, administrative, transfer agency, distribution, and/or other services provided. Thus, Nationwide may receive more revenue with respect to affiliated underlying mutual funds than unaffiliated underlying mutual funds.
Nationwide took into consideration the anticipated mutual fund service fee payments from the underlying mutual funds when it determined the charges imposed under the contracts. Without these mutual fund service fee payments, Nationwide would have imposed higher charges under the contract.
Amount of Payments Nationwide Receives
For the year end December 31, 2020, the underlying mutual fund service fee payments Nationwide and its affiliates received from the underlying mutual funds did not exceed 0.75% (as a percentage of the average Daily Net Assets invested in the underlying mutual funds) offered through the contract or other variable contracts that Nationwide and its affiliates issue. Payments from investment advisers or subadvisers to participate in educational and/or marketing activities have not been taken into account in this percentage.
Most underlying mutual funds or their affiliates have agreed to make payments to Nationwide or its affiliates, although the applicable percentages may vary from underlying mutual fund to underlying mutual fund and some may not make any payments at all. Because the amount of the actual payments Nationwide and its affiliates receive depends on the assets of the underlying mutual funds attributable to the contract, Nationwide and its affiliates may receive higher payments from underlying mutual funds with lower percentages (but greater assets) than from underlying mutual funds that have higher percentages (but fewer assets).
For contracts owned by an employer sponsored retirement plan subject to ERISA, upon a plan trustee’s request, Nationwide will provide a best estimate of plan-specific, aggregate data regarding the amount of underlying mutual fund service fee payments Nationwide received in connection with the plan’s investments either for the previous calendar year or plan year, if the plan year is not the same as the calendar year.
Identification of Underlying Mutual Funds
Nationwide may consider several criteria when identifying the underlying mutual funds, including some or all of the following: investment objectives, investment process, risk characteristics, investment capabilities, experience and resources, investment consistency, fund expenses, asset class coverage, the alignment of the investment objectives of the underlying mutual fund with Nationwide’s hedging strategy, the strength of the adviser’s or subadviser’s reputation and tenure, brand recognition, and the capability and qualification of each investment firm. Other factors Nationwide may consider during the identification process are: whether the underlying mutual fund’s adviser or subadviser is a Nationwide affiliate; whether the underlying mutual fund or its service providers (e.g. the investment adviser or subadvisers), or its affiliates will make mutual fund service fee payments to Nationwide or its affiliates in connection with certain administrative, marketing, and support services; or whether affiliates of the underlying mutual fund can provide marketing and distribution support for sales of the contracts. For additional information on these arrangements, see Types of Payments Nationwide Receives. Nationwide reviews the funds periodically and may remove a fund or limit its availability to new contributions and/or transfers of account value if Nationwide determines that a fund no longer satisfies one or more of the selection criteria, and/or if the fund has not attracted significant allocations from Contract Owners.
Nationwide does not recommend or endorse any particular fund and it does not provide investment advice.
There may be underlying mutual funds with lower fees and expenses, as well as other variable contracts that offer underlying mutual funds with lower fees and expenses. The purchaser should consider all of the fees and charges of the contract in relation to its features and benefits when making a decision to invest. Note: Higher contract and underlying mutual fund fees and expenses have a direct effect on and may lower investment performance.
Treatment of Unclaimed Property
Every state has unclaimed property laws which generally declare annuity contracts to be abandoned after a period of inactivity of three to five years from the contract's Annuity Commencement Date or the date Nationwide becomes informed that a death benefit is due and payable. For example, if the payment of a death benefit has been assessed, but, if after a thorough search, Nationwide is still unable to locate the beneficiary of the death benefit, or the beneficiary does not come forward to claim the death benefit in a timely manner, the death benefit will be surrendered and placed in a non-interest bearing account. While in the non-interest bearing account, Nationwide will continue to perform due diligence required by state law. Once the state mandated period has expired, Nationwide will escheat the death benefit to the abandoned property division or unclaimed property office of the state in which the beneficiary or the Contract Owner last
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resided, as shown on Nationwide’s books and records, or to Ohio, Nationwide’s state of domicile. If a claim is subsequently made, the state is obligated to pay any such amount (without interest) to the designated recipient upon presentation of proper documentation.
To prevent escheatment, it is important to update beneficiary designations - including complete names, complete addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers - as they change. Such updates should be sent to the Service Center.
Profitability
Nationwide does consider profitability when determining the charges in the contract. In early Contract Years, Nationwide does not anticipate earning a profit, since that is a time when administrative and distribution expenses are typically higher. Nationwide does, however, anticipate earning a profit in later Contract Years. In general, Nationwide’s profit will be greater the higher the investment return and the longer the contract is held.
The following tables summarize information about the benefits under the contract. The Standard Benefits table indicates the benefits that are available under the contract and for which there is no additional charge. The Optional Benefits table indicates the benefits that are available under the contract that are optional – they must be affirmatively elected by the applicant and may have an additional charge.
Standard Benefits Table
Name of Benefit Purpose Maximum Fee Brief Description of Restrictions/Limitations
Standard Death Benefit Death benefit upon death of Contract Owner prior to Annuitization None • Certain ownership changes and assignments could reduce the death benefit
• Nationwide may limit purchase payments to $1,000,000
• Death benefit calculation is adjusted if purchase payments exceed $3,000,000
Enhanced Surrender Value for Terminal Illness Early payment of death benefit (applicable to both standard and optional death benefits) None • Benefit is available after the first Contract Anniversary
• Annuitant (or co-annuitant) must be terminally ill
• Requires full surrender of the contract
• Restrictions exist on the parties named to the contract
Asset Rebalancing (see Contract Owner Services) Automatic reallocation of assets on a predetermined percentage basis None • Assets in the Fixed Account are excluded from the program
Dollar Cost Averaging (see Contract Owner Services) Long-term transfer program involving automatic transfer of assets None • Transfers are only permitted from the Fixed Account and a limited number of Sub-Accounts
• Transfers may not be directed to the Fixed Account
• Transfers from the Fixed Account must be equal to or less than 1/30th of the Fixed Account value at the time the program is requested
Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging (see Contract Owner Services) Long-term transfer program involving automatic transfer of Fixed Account allocations with higher interest crediting rate None • Transfers are only permitted from the Fixed Account
• Only new purchase payments to the contract are eligible for the program
• Transfers may not be directed to the Fixed Account
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Name of Benefit Purpose Maximum Fee Brief Description of Restrictions/Limitations
Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits (see Contract Owner Services) Long-term transfer program involving automatic transfer of assets None • Only available for contracts that elect a living benefit
• Transfers are only permitted from the Fixed Account
• Only new purchase payments to the contract are eligible for the program
• Only those investment options available with the elected living benefit are eligible for the program
• Once elected, no transfers among or between Sub-Accounts are permitted until the program is completed or terminated
Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging (see Contract Owner Services) Automatic transfer of interest earned on Fixed Account allocations None • Transfers may not be directed to the Fixed Account
Systematic Withdrawals (see Contract Owner Services) Automatic withdrawals of Contract Value on a periodic basis None • Withdrawals must be at least $100 each
Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service (see Contract Owner Services) Customizable asset allocation tool with automatic reallocation on a periodic basis None • Only available for contracts that elect a living benefit
• During the program, cannot participate in other asset allocation or asset rebalancing programs
• Allocation limitations exist based on asset class
Static Asset Allocation Model (see Contract Owner Services) Preset asset allocation models with periodic rebalancing None • Only available for contracts that elect a living benefit
• Availability may be restricted based on the living benefit elected
• The entire Contract Value must be allocated to the elected model
Optional Benefits Table
Name of Benefit Purpose Maximum Fee Current Fee Brief Description of Restrictions/Limitations
Death Benefit Options        
• Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Enhanced Death Benefit 0.20% (Daily Net Assets) 0.20% (Daily Net Assets) •  Owner(s) must be 75 or younger at application
•  May not be elected if a living benefit is elected
• Must be elected at application
• Election is irrevocable
• Not available for beneficially owned contract
• Current charge could change
• Nationwide may limit purchase payments to $1,000,000
• Certain ownership changes and assignments could reduce the death benefit
• Death benefit calculation is adjusted if purchase payments exceed $3,000,000
Lifetime Income Options        
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Name of Benefit Purpose Maximum Fee Current Fee Brief Description of Restrictions/Limitations
• Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core Guaranteed lifetime income stream 1.50% (Current Income Benefit Base) 1.30% (Current Income Benefit Base) • Must be elected at application
• Election is irrevocable
• Not available for beneficially owned contracts
• Investment limitations
• Current charge could change
• Nationwide may limit subsequent purchase payments
• Certain ownership changes and assignments could terminate the benefit
• Determining life must be between 45 and 85 at application
• Determining life cannot be changed
• Restrictions exist on the parties named to the contract
Spousal Lifetime Income Extensions        
• Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core Extension of guaranteed lifetime income stream for spouse 0.40% (Current Income Benefit Base) 0.30% (Current Income Benefit Base) • Only available if the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option is elected
• Must be elected at application
• Limitations on revocability
• Not available for beneficially owned contracts
• Only available to Contract Owner’s spouse
• Both spouses must be between 45 and 85 at application
• Restrictions exist on the parties named to the contract
Standard Death Benefit (Return of Premium)
If the Contract Owner, or Annuitant if the Contract Owner is a non-natural owner, dies prior to the Annuitization Date and the total of all purchase payments made to the contract is less than or equal to $3,000,000, the death benefit will be the greater of:
(1) the Contract Value as of the date that Nationwide receives all the information necessary to pay the death benefit; or
(2) the total of all purchase payments, less an adjustment for amounts withdrawn.
The amount of the adjustment made for amounts withdrawn varies, depending on whether or not the Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core benefit was in effect at the time of the withdrawal.
If the Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core optional benefit was not in effect at the time of the withdrawal, or the withdrawal was a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, then the withdrawal reduces total purchase payments by the percentage the withdrawal proportionally reduces the Contract Value.
If the Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core optional benefit was in effect at the time of the withdrawal and the withdrawal was not a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal:
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(1) The amount of the withdrawal that was not an excess withdrawal will first reduce total purchase payments by the amount of the withdrawal.
(2) Any excess withdrawal amount will then reduce the total purchase payments by the percentage the excess withdrawal amount proportionally reduces the Contract Value.
   
Example:
On June 1, which is before her Annuitization Date, Ms. P passes away. She has elected the standard death benefit. On the date of Ms. P’s death, her Contract Value = $24,000 and her total purchase payments (adjusted for amounts withdrawn) = $22,000. The death benefit for Ms. P’s contract will equal $24,000.
If the Contract Owner dies prior to the Annuitization Date and the total of all purchase payments made to the contract is greater than $3,000,000, the death benefit will be determined using the following formula:
(A x F) + B(1 - F), where
A = the greater of:
    (1) the Contract Value; or
    (2) the total of all purchase payments, less an adjustment for amounts withdrawn.
B = the Contract Value; and
F = the ratio of $3,000,000 to the total of all purchase payments made to the contract.
Any adjustment for amounts withdrawn will reduce the applicable factor above in the same proportion that the Contract Value was reduced on the date(s) of the partial withdrawal(s).
The practical effect of this formula is that, in down markets, the beneficiary recovers a lesser percentage of purchase payments in excess of $3,000,000 than for purchase payments up to $3,000,000. In up markets, the formula is less likely to have a negative effect. In no event will the beneficiary receive less than the Contract Value.
Example:
On June 1, which is before her Annuitization Date, Ms. P passes away. She has elected the standard death benefit. On the date of Ms. P’s death, her Contract Value = $3,500,000, her total purchase payments (adjusted for amounts withdrawn) = $4,000,000, and F = $3,000,000 / $4,000,000 or 0.75. The death benefit for Ms. P’s contract is determined as follows:
(A x F) + B(1 - F), which is
($4,000,000 x 0.75) + $3,500,000(1 - 0.75), which is
$3,000,000 + $875,000
The death benefit for Ms. P’s contract is $3,875,000.
In all cases, there is no death benefit when the Contract Value reaches $0.
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Enhanced Surrender Value for Terminal Illness
Nationwide will pay the Contract Value plus any additional amount necessary to equal the standard death benefit or, if elected, an optional death benefit, if the Contract Owner/Annuitant (or Co-Annuitant, if applicable) is terminally ill and the Contract Owner fully surrenders the Contract after the first Contract Anniversary. There is no additional charge for this benefit and no Premium Based Sales Charge will be deducted from the surrender proceeds. May not be available in all states..
Example:
Mr. V, who has owned his contract for 4 years, was recently diagnosed with a terminal illness and wishes to surrender his contract. Under the Enhanced Surrender Value for Terminal Illness, assuming all conditions were met, upon surrender of the contract, Nationwide will pay Mr. V his Contract Value and an additional amount necessary to equal the death benefit that Mr. V elected.
Under this provision, no enhanced surrender value will be paid unless:
The same person is named as Owner and as Annuitant since Contract issuance, and
The Contract Owner or Co-Annuitant has been diagnosed by a physician to have a terminal illness and Nationwide receives and records an application, on a form satisfactory to Nationwide, containing a certification from that physician indicating such diagnosis.
Once the Contract Owner submits an approved application, the decision to surrender the contract and receive the enhanced surrender value is irrevocable.
Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option
For an additional charge at an annualized rate of 0.20% of the Daily Net Assets, an applicant can elect the Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option. The Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option is only available for contracts with Contract Owners age 75 or younger at the time of application. This option must be elected at the time of application, and the option is irrevocable. The Highest Anniversary Value Death Benefit Option is not available if you elect the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option. The charge associated with this option is calculated and deducted daily as part of the Accumulation Unit value calculation, and will be assessed until annuitization. Nationwide may realize a profit from the charge assessed for this option. This option, and any charge associated with it, will automatically terminate on the Annuitization Date.
If the Contract Owner dies before the Annuitization Date and the total of all purchase payments made to the contract is less than or equal to $3,000,000, the death benefit will be the greatest of:
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(1) the Contract Value as of the date that Nationwide receives all the information necessary to pay the death benefit;
(2) the total of all purchase payments, less an adjustment for amounts withdrawn; or
(3) the highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary before the Contract Owner’s 81st birthday, less an adjustment for amounts subsequently withdrawn, plus purchase payments received after that Contract Anniversary.
Any adjustment for amounts withdrawn will reduce the applicable factor above in the same proportion that the Contract Value was reduced on the date(s) of the partial withdrawal(s). For example, if the death benefit value is $120,000, the Contract Value is $100,000, and a partial withdrawal of $10,000 is taken, then the death benefit value is decreased by $12,000 [$120,000 x ($10,000/$100,000)].
Example:
On June 1, which is before her Annuitization Date, Ms. W passes away at age 82. She has elected the Highest Anniversary Value death benefit. On the date of Ms. W’s death, her Contract Value = $24,000 and her total purchase payments (adjusted for amounts withdrawn) = $22,000. Her highest Contract Value on the Contract Anniversary immediately after her 81st birthday = $30,000 (adjusted for amounts subsequently withdrawn plus purchase payments received after that Contract Anniversary), and her highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary prior to her 81st birthday = $28,000 (adjusted for amounts subsequently withdrawn plus purchase payments received after that Contract Anniversary). The death benefit for Ms. W’s contract will equal $28,000 (the $30,000 highest Contract Value is disregarded because it was attained after Ms. W’s 81st birthday.
If the Contract Owner dies before the Annuitization Date and the total of all purchase payments made to the contract is greater than $3,000,000, the death benefit will be determined using the following formula:
A x F + B (1 - F), where
A = the greatest of:
    (1) the Contract Value;
    (2) the total of all purchase payments made to the contract, less an adjustment for amounts withdrawn; or
    (3) the highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary before the Contract Owner’s 81st birthday, less an adjustment for amounts subsequently withdrawn, plus purchase payments received after that Contract Anniversary.
B = the Contract Value;
F = the ratio of $3,000,000 to the total of all purchase payments made to the contract.
Any adjustment for amounts withdrawn will reduce the applicable factor above in the same proportion that the Contract Value was reduced on the date(s) of the partial withdrawal(s).
The practical effect of this formula is that, in down markets, the beneficiary recovers a lesser percentage of purchase payments in excess of $3,000,000 than for purchase payments up to $3,000,000. In up markets, the formula is less likely to have a negative effect. In no event will the beneficiary receive less than the Contract Value.
Example:
On June 1, which is before her Annuitization Date, Ms. W passes away at age 82. She has elected the Highest Anniversary Value death benefit. On the date of Ms. W’s death:
• her Contract Value = $3,400,000
• her total purchase payments (adjusted for amounts withdrawn) = $3,100,000
• her highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary prior to her 81st birthday = $3,800,000 (including the effect of an adjustment for amounts subsequently withdrawn plus purchase payments received after that Contract Anniversary)
The death benefit for Ms. W’s contract will equal (A x F) + B(1 - F), which is:
[$3,800,000 x .9677] + [$3,400,000 x .0323] = $3,677,260 + $109,820 = $3,787,080.
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In all cases, there is no death benefit when the Contract Value reaches $0.
Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core
The Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider provides for Lifetime Withdrawals, up to a certain amount each calendar year, even after the Contract Value is $0, provided that the Contract Owner does not deplete the Current Income Benefit Base by taking excess withdrawals and does not make certain assignments or Contract Owner changes. Investment restrictions apply. The age of the person upon which the benefit depends (the "determining life") must be between 45 and 85 years old at the time of application. For most contracts, the determining life is that of the Contract Owner. For those contracts where the Contract Owner is a non-natural person, for purposes of this option, the determining life is that of the Annuitant, and all references in this option to "Contract Owner" shall mean Annuitant. If, in addition to the Annuitant, a joint annuitant has been elected, the determining life will be that of the primary Annuitant as named on the application. The determining life may not be changed.
Availability
The Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider is only available under the contract at the time of application. Once elected, the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider is irrevocable. The Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider is not available on beneficially owned contracts – those contracts that are inherited by a beneficiary and the beneficiary continues to hold the contract as a beneficiary (as opposed to treating the contract as his/her own) for tax purposes. However, if such contract becomes beneficially owned by the spouse of the Contract Owner, and the Joint Option for that Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider is elected, then the spouse may keep the applicable Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider. However, once a contract becomes beneficially owned, the contract will not receive the benefit of the RMD privilege discussed later in this section.
Rider Charge
In exchange for Lifetime Withdrawals, Nationwide will assess an annual charge not to exceed 1.50% of the Current Income Benefit Base. Currently, the charge for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider is 1.30% of the Current Income Benefit Base. The current charge will not change, except, possibly, upon the Contract Owner’s election to reset the benefit base, as discussed herein. If the current charge does change, it will not exceed the maximum charge of 1.50% of the Current Income Benefit Base.
The charge will be assessed on each Contract Anniversary and will be deducted via redemption of Accumulation Units. The charge will be assessed until annuitization. A prorated charge will also be deducted upon full surrender of the contract. Accumulation Units will be redeemed proportionally from each Sub-Account in which the Contract Owner is invested at the time the charge is taken. Amounts redeemed as the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider charge will not negatively impact calculations associated with other benefits elected or available under the contract, will not be subject to a CDSC, and will not reduce amounts available under the CDSC-free withdrawal privilege.
Investment Restrictions
Election of the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider requires that the Contract Owner, until annuitization, allocate the entire Contract Value to a limited set of investment options currently available in the contract, or if the Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service is elected (see Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service), all underlying mutual funds currently available in the contract are permitted subject to applicable allocation limitations of Custom Choice. For the list of available investment options, see Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract. Allocation requests to investment options other than those listed in Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract will not be honored; they will be treated as though no allocation request was submitted. Nationwide may offer Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits described in the Contract Owner Services provision. Allocation to the Fixed Account is not permitted (except as the originating account when the Contract Owner elects Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits).
Transfers Among Permitted Investment Options
The Contract Owner may reallocate the Contract Value among the limited set of investment options in accordance with the Transfers Prior to Annuitization provision. The Contract Owner may reallocate the Contract Value within the Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service in accordance with that provision. Additionally, Contract Owners may change from the Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service to the permitted investment options, and vice versa.
Subsequent Purchase Payments
Currently, subsequent purchase payments are permitted under the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider as long as the Contract Value is greater than $0. Any subsequent purchase payments will increase the Current Income Benefit Base by the amount of the purchase payment submitted.
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Nationwide reserves the right to reject subsequent purchase payments in the event subsequent purchase payments create a financial risk that Nationwide is unwilling to bear. This reservation of right may limit the amount a Contract Owner can invest in the contract. Contract Owners should consider this reservation of right when making the initial purchase payment. If Nationwide exercises this right to refuse purchase payments, the restriction will apply to all Contract Owners who have purchased the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider, and the entire purchase payment will be immediately returned to the Contract Owner in the same form in which it was received. Generally, Nationwide may invoke this right in times of economic instability in the United States economy. Nationwide will notify Contract Owners if subsequent purchase payments are no longer being accepted, and Contract Owners may contact the Service Center to find out if Nationwide will accept subsequent purchase payments.
Rate Sheet Supplements for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Riders
For contracts with applications signed on or after the date of the prospectus, the Roll-up Interest Rate, Roll-up Crediting Period, and Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages are disclosed in the Rate Sheet Supplement that is attached to the front of this prospectus delivered to you. In order to receive the applicable Roll-up Interest Rate, Roll-up Crediting Period, and Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages stated in a Rate Sheet Supplement, the application must be signed and received in good order by Nationwide within the stated time period during which that Rate Sheet Supplement remains in effect. The Roll-up Interest Rate, Roll-up Crediting Period, and Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages applicable in time periods other than the time period when the application is signed are not applicable to the contract. Nationwide reserves the right to change the Roll-up Interest Rate, Roll-up Crediting Period, and Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages at any time; however, Nationwide will not change the Roll-up Interest Rate, Roll-up Crediting Period, and Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages for contracts once issued. You should not purchase the contract without first obtaining the applicable Rate Sheet Supplement that contains the Roll-up Interest Rate, Roll-up Crediting Period, and Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages that are applicable at the time. All Rate Sheet Supplements are available by contacting the Service Center, and also are available on the SEC’s EDGAR system at www.sec.gov (file number: 333-177439).
For contracts with applications signed prior to the date of the prospectus, see Appendix E: Historical Rates, Periods, and Percentages.
Determination of the Income Benefit Base Prior to the First Lifetime Withdrawal
Upon contract issuance, the Original Income Benefit Base is equal to the Contract Value. Thereafter, Nationwide tracks, on a continuous basis, the Current Income Benefit Base which is used to calculate the benefit amount. The Current Income Benefit Base from the date of contract issuance until the first Lifetime Withdrawal will reflect any additional purchase payments, reset opportunities, and if elected, a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, as described below.
The Roll-up Interest Rate and Roll-up Crediting Period (discussed herein) are disclosed in the Rate Sheet Supplement that is attached to the front of this prospectus delivered to you. For additional information on Rate Sheet Supplements, see Rate Sheet Supplements for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core Rider.
Provided no withdrawals are taken from the contract, the Current Income Benefit Base for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will equal the greater of:
(1) Highest Contract Value: the highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary plus purchase payments submitted applied after that Contract Anniversary; or
(2) Roll-up Value: the roll-up amount, which is equal to the sum of the following calculations:
(a) Original Income Benefit Base with Roll-up: the Original Income Benefit Base, plus the Roll-up Interest Rate based on the Original Income Benefit Base for each Contract Anniversary up to the Roll-up Crediting Period; plus
(b) Subsequent Purchase Payments with Roll-up: any purchase payments submitted after contract issuance and before the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period, increased by simple interest at an annual rate of the Roll-up Interest Rate each year from the date the subsequent purchase payments are applied through the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period; plus
(c) Subsequent Purchase Payments with No Roll-up: any purchase payments submitted after the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period.
If a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal is taken on or before the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period, the Current Income Benefit Base for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will equal the greatest of:
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(1) Adjusted Current Income Benefit Base: the Current Income Benefit Base immediately before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, proportionally reduced as described in the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal section;
(2) Highest Contract Value: the highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary on or after the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, plus purchase payments submitted and after that Contract Anniversary; or
(3) Roll-up Value: the adjusted roll-up amount, which is equal to the sum of the following calculations:
(a) Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base with Roll-up: the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base, plus the Roll-up Interest Rate based on the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base for each Contract Anniversary up to and including the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period; plus
(b) Subsequent Purchase Payments with Roll-up: the sum of the following calculations:
(aa) Before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal: any purchase payments submitted after contract issuance and before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, proportionally reduced as described in the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal section, increased by simple interest at an annual rate of the Roll-up Interest Rate each year from the date the subsequent purchase payments are applied through the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period; plus
(bb) After the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal and before the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period: any purchase payments submitted and applied on or after the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal and before the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period, increased by simple interest at an annual rate of the Roll-up Interest Rate each year from the date the subsequent purchase payments are applied through the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period; plus
(c) Subsequent Purchase Payments with No Roll-up: any purchase payments submitted after the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period. If a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal is taken after the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period, the Current Income Benefit Base for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will equal the greatest of:
(1) Adjusted Current Income Benefit Base: the Current Income Benefit Base immediately before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, proportionally reduced as described in the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal section;
(2) Roll-up Value: the adjusted roll-up amount, which is equal to the sum of the following calculations:
(a) Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base with Roll-up: the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base, plus the Roll-up Interest Rate based on the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base for each Contract Anniversary up to and including the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period; plus
(b) Subsequent Purchase Payments with Roll-up: any purchase payments submitted after contract issuance and before the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period, proportionally reduced as described in the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal section, increased by simple interest at an annual rate of the Roll-up Interest Rate each year from the date the subsequent purchase payments are applied through the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period; plus
(c) Subsequent Purchase Payments with No Roll-up: the sum of the following calculations:
(aa) After the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period and before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal: any purchase payments submitted after the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period and before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, proportionally reduced as described in the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal section; plus
(bb) After the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal: any purchase payments submitted on or after the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal; or
(3) Highest Contract Value: the highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary after the Contract Anniversary after the Roll-up Crediting Period, plus purchase payments submitted after that Contract Anniversary.
When a purchase payment is applied on a date other than a Contract Anniversary, simple interest is calculated using a prorated method based upon the number of days from the date of the purchase payment to the next Contract Anniversary. However, if at any time prior to the first Lifetime Withdrawal the Contract Value equals $0, no additional purchase payments will be accepted and no further benefit base calculations will be made. The Current Income Benefit Base will be set equal to the benefit base calculated on the most recent Contract Anniversary minus adjustments made for excess withdrawals after that date, and the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount will be based on that Current Income Benefit Base. Since
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the roll-up is only calculated for the duration of the Roll-up Crediting Period or prior to the first Lifetime Withdrawal, whichever comes first, any purchase payments the Contract Owner makes during that time period will increase the Current Income Benefit Base more than purchase payments made after that time period.
Non-Lifetime Withdrawal
After the first Contract Anniversary, the Contract Owner may request a one-time withdrawal ("Non-Lifetime Withdrawal") without initiating the lifetime income benefit under the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider. The Non-Lifetime Withdrawal will not lock in the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage and will not stop the simple interest roll-up (the Roll-up Interest Rate). However, the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal will reduce the Current Income Benefit Base, and consequently, the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount calculated for subsequent years. As with all withdrawals, a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal will reduce the Contract Value and death benefit. In addition, it will be subject to the CDSC provisions of the contract. A Non-Lifetime Withdrawal cannot be taken after the Contract Owner initiates the Lifetime Withdrawals.
A Non-Lifetime Withdrawal will cause a reduction to three factors used to calculate the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount: (1) the Current Income Benefit Base; (2) the Original Income Benefit Base (resulting in the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base); and (3) Subsequent purchase payments applied before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal. All three factors are reduced by a figure representing the proportional amount of the withdrawal, as follows:
Reduction to Current Income
Benefit Base
= Gross dollar
amount of the Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal
X Current Income Benefit Base
prior to the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal
Contract Value (prior to the Non-
Lifetime Withdrawal)
    
Reduction to Original Income
Benefit Base
= Gross dollar
amount of the Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal
X Original Income Benefit Base
Contract Value (prior to the Non-
Lifetime Withdrawal)
    
Reduction to subsequent
purchase payments applied before
the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal
= Gross dollar
amount of the Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal
X Subsequent purchase payments applied before the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal
Contract Value (prior to the Non-
Lifetime Withdrawal)
    
Example:
For an example of how the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal is calculated, see Appendix D: L.inc Plus Core rider Examples.
All Non-Lifetime Withdrawal requests must be made on a Nationwide form which is available by contacting the Service Center. If the Contract Owner requests a withdrawal without using the Nationwide form, the withdrawal request will be treated as a Lifetime Withdrawal request and will not be treated as a request for a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal.
Lifetime Withdrawals
At any time after the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider is elected, the Contract Owner may begin taking the lifetime income benefit by taking a Lifetime Withdrawal from the contract. Unless the Contract Owner requests a one-time Non-Lifetime Withdrawal, the first withdrawal under the contract constitutes the first Lifetime Withdrawal, even if such withdrawal is taken to meet minimum distribution requirements under the Internal Revenue Code or is taken to pay advisory or investment management fees. Nationwide will surrender Accumulation Units proportionally from the Sub-Accounts as of the date of the withdrawal request. As with any withdrawal, Lifetime Withdrawals reduce the Contract Value and consequently, the amount available for annuitization.
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At the time of the first Lifetime Withdrawal, the Roll-up Interest Rate terminates and the Current Income Benefit Base is locked in and will not change unless the Contract Owner takes excess withdrawals, elects a reset opportunity (both discussed later in this provision), or submits additional purchase payments. Additional purchase payments submitted after the first Lifetime Withdrawal from the contract will increase the Current Income Benefit Base by the amount of the purchase payment.
The applicable Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage is determined as follows:
The applicable Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage is determined based on the age of the Contract Owner at the time of the first Lifetime Withdrawal. Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core uses a single applicable Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage, that once established, will not change for the life of the contract.
The Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage is disclosed in the Rate Sheet Supplement that is attached to the front of this prospectus delivered to you. For additional information on Rate Sheet Supplements, see Rate Sheet Supplements for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Riders.
For contracts that elect the Joint Option for that Nationwide L.inc Plus Core Rider, the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages will be equal to or less than the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core Rider.
Note: The Internal Revenue Code requires that IRAs, SEP IRAs, and Simple IRAs begin distributions no later than April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the Contract Owner reaches age 72. Contract Owners subject to minimum required distribution rules may not be able to take advantage of the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages available at higher age bands if distributions are taken from the contract to meet these Internal Revenue Code requirements. Contract Owners who elect not to take minimum required distributions from this contract, i.e., they take minimum required distributions from other sources, may be able to take advantage of Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages at the higher age bands. Consult a qualified tax advisor for more information.
At the time of the first Lifetime Withdrawal and for each calendar year thereafter, the applicable Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage is multiplied by the Current Income Benefit Base to determine the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount for that calendar year. The Lifetime Withdrawal Amount is the maximum amount that can be withdrawn from the contract during the next calendar year without reducing the Current Income Benefit Base. If the contract is issued in the same calendar year as the first Lifetime Withdrawal, then the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount for the first calendar year will be prorated based upon the number of calendar months, including the month of issue, from the date the contract was issued to the end of the calendar year (December 31st). The ability to withdraw the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount will continue until the earlier of the Contract Owner’s death or annuitization.
The Contract Owner can elect to set up Systematic Withdrawals or can request each Lifetime Withdrawal separately. All Lifetime Withdrawal requests must be made on a Nationwide form available by contacting the Service Center.
Generally, each calendar year’s Lifetime Withdrawal Amount is non-cumulative, except where the Income Carryforward privilege (discussed below) applies. Unless the Income Carryforward privilege applies, a Contract Owner cannot take a previous calendar year’s Lifetime Withdrawal Amount in a subsequent calendar year without causing an excess withdrawal (discussed herein) that will reduce the Current Income Benefit Base. Although Lifetime Withdrawals up to the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount do not reduce the Current Income Benefit Base, they do reduce the Contract Value and the death benefit.
Income Carryforward
The Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider includes an Income Carryforward privilege whereby Nationwide permits a Contract Owner to withdraw any part of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount not taken in a given calendar year (the Income Carryforward amount) in the next calendar year, and the next calendar year only. Lifetime Withdrawals first reduce any available Income Carryforward amount. In addition, the Income Carryforward amount is non-cumulative, and therefore will be forfeited if not withdrawn in the calendar year when available; the Income Carryforward amount cannot be carried over from one year to the next. Any amounts available under the Income Carryforward privilege are not treated as excess withdrawals.
The Income Carryforward amount available in any given calendar year is not adjusted as a result of any additional purchase payments or reset opportunities during that year.
Example:
For an example of how the Income Carryforward feature of the L.inc Plus Riders is calculated, see Appendix H: L.inc Plus Riders Example.
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Impact of Withdrawals in Excess of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount
The Contract Owner is permitted to withdraw Contract Value in excess of that year’s Lifetime Withdrawal Amount provided that the Contract Value is greater than $0. Withdrawals in excess of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount will reduce the Current Income Benefit Base, and consequently, the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount calculated for subsequent calendar years. In the event of excess withdrawals, the Current Income Benefit Base will be reduced by the greater of:
(1) the dollar amount of the withdrawal in excess of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount; or
(2) a figure representing the proportional amount of the withdrawal. This amount is determined by the following formula:
   
dollar amount of the excess withdrawal X Current Income Benefit Base
prior to the withdrawal
Contract Value (reduced by the amount
of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount withdrawn)
In situations where the Contract Value exceeds the existing Current Income Benefit Base, excess withdrawals will typically result in a dollar amount reduction to the new Current Income Benefit Base. In situations where the Contract Value is less than the existing Current Income Benefit Base, excess withdrawals will typically result in a proportional reduction to the new Current Income Benefit Base.
Amounts available under the Income Carryforward privilege are not treated as excess withdrawals, and therefore withdrawals under the Income Carryforward privilege will not reduce the Current Income Benefit Base.
The Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will automatically terminate if an excess withdrawal reduces the Current Income Benefit Base to $0.
Example:
If the Current Income Benefit Base is $50,000, the Contract Value is $60,000, the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount is $5,000, there is no Income Carryforward amount available, and a withdrawal of $55,000 is taken, then $50,000 of the amount withdrawn is an excess withdrawal ($55,000-$5,000). As a result, the Current Income Benefit Base of $50,000 is reduced by $50,000 (the dollar amount of the excess withdrawal), which is the greater of $50,000 or $45,455 [[$50,000/($60,000-$5,000)] x $50,000], and therefore the rider terminates as the Current Income Benefit Base would be reduced to $0.
RMD Privilege
In addition, currently, Nationwide allows for an "RMD privilege" whereby Nationwide permits a Contract Owner to withdraw Contract Value in excess of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount (plus any amount available under the Income Carryforward privilege, if applicable) without reducing the Current Income Benefit Base if such excess withdrawal is for the sole purpose of meeting Internal Revenue Code required minimum distributions for this contract. The RMD privilege is not available in the calendar year of the date the contract is issued. In order to qualify for the RMD privilege, the Contract Owner must:
(1) be at least 72 years old as of the date of the request, or will be at least age 72 in the calendar year that the RMD privilege would first apply;
(2) own the contract as an IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA; and
(3) submit a completed administrative form in advance of the withdrawal to the Service Center.
Nationwide reserves the right to modify or eliminate the RMD privilege if there is any change to the Internal Revenue Code or IRS rules relating to required minimum distributions, including the issuance of relevant IRS guidance. If Nationwide exercises this right, Nationwide will provide notice to Contract Owners and any withdrawal in excess of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount will reduce the remaining Current Income Benefit Base.
Once the Contract Value falls to $0, the Contract Owner is no longer permitted to submit additional purchase payments or take withdrawals in excess of the then applicable Lifetime Withdrawal Amount. Additionally, there is no Contract Value to annuitize, making the payment of the benefit associated with this option the only income stream producing benefit remaining in the contract.
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Reset Opportunities
Nationwide offers an automatic reset of the Current Income Benefit Base. If, on any Contract Anniversary, the Contract Value exceeds the Current Income Benefit Base, Nationwide will automatically reset the Current Income Benefit Base to equal that Contract Value. This higher amount will be the new Current Income Benefit Base. This automatic reset will continue until either the current charge for, or the list of permitted investment options associated with the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider changes.
In the event the current charge for, or the list of permitted investment options of the applicable Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider changes, the reset opportunities still exist, but are no longer automatic. An election to reset the Current Income Benefit Base must be made by the Contract Owner to Nationwide. On or about each Contract Anniversary, Nationwide will provide notice to the Contract Owner with information necessary to make this determination. Specifically, Nationwide will provide: the Contract Value; the Current Income Benefit Base; the current terms and conditions associated with the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider; and instructions on how to communicate an election to reset the benefit base.
If the Contract Owner elects to reset the Current Income Benefit Base, it will be at the then current terms and conditions of the option as described in the most current prospectus. If Nationwide does not receive a Contract Owner’s election to reset the Current Income Benefit Base within 60 days after the Contract Anniversary, Nationwide will assume that the Contract Owner does not wish to reset the Current Income Benefit Base. If the Current Income Benefit Base is not reset, it will remain the same and the terms and conditions of the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will not change (as applicable to that particular contract).
Contract Owners may cancel the automatic reset feature of the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider by notifying Nationwide as to such election.
Annuitization
If the Contract Owner elects to annuitize the contract, the elected Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will terminate. Specifically, the charge associated with the option will no longer be assessed and all benefits associated with the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will terminate.
Death of Determining Life
For contracts with no Joint Option for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider, upon the death of the determining life, the benefits associated with the option terminate and the death benefit will be paid in accordance with the Death Benefits provision.
For contracts with the Joint Option for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider, upon the death of the determining life, the surviving spouse continues to receive the same benefit associated with the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider which had been received by the deceased spouse, for the remainder of the survivor’s lifetime. The Contract Value will reflect the death benefit.
Tax Treatment
Although the tax treatment for Lifetime Withdrawals under withdrawal benefits such as the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core Rider is not clear, Nationwide will treat a portion of each Lifetime Withdrawal as a taxable distribution, as follows:
First, Nationwide determines which is greater: (1) the Contract Value immediately before the Lifetime Withdrawal; or (2) the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount immediately before the Lifetime Withdrawal. That amount (the greater of (1) or (2)) minus any remaining investment in the contract at the time of the Lifetime Withdrawal will be reported as a taxable distribution.
For any Lifetime Withdrawal taken when the Contract Value is less than or equal to the total investment in the contract, Nationwide treats the Lifetime Withdrawal as a tax-free return of investment until the entire investment in the contract has been received tax-free. Once the entire investment in the contract has been received tax-free, Lifetime Withdrawals will be reported as taxable distributions. Consult a qualified tax advisor.
Automatic Termination of the Nationwide L.inc Plus Riders
Upon termination of the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider, Nationwide will no longer assess the charge associated with the option, and all benefits associated with the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will terminate. In the following instances, the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will automatically terminate:
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(1) When withdrawals are taken in excess of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount that reduce the Current Income Benefit Base to $0;
(2) On the Annuitization Date;
(3) Upon the death of the determining life for contracts with no Joint Option; or
(4) Where permitted under state law, if the Contract Owner is changed or if the contract is assigned (including a collateral assignment), except as follows:
(a) The new Contract Owner or assignee assumes full ownership of the contract and is essentially the same person (e.g., individual ownership is changed to ownership by a personal revocable or irrevocable trust, a change to the Contract Owner’s spouse or a spouse’s revocable or irrevocable trust during the Contract Owner’s lifetime, a change to a court appointed guardian representing the Contract Owner during the Contract Owner’s lifetime, etc.);
(b) Ownership of a contract issued as an IRA or Roth IRA is being changed from one custodian to another, from the determining life to a custodian, or from a custodian to the determining life;
(c) The assignment is for the purpose of effectuating an exchange pursuant to Section 1035 under the Internal Revenue Code;
(d) The change is merely the removal of a Contract Owner where the contract is jointly owned; or
(5) A full surrender of the contract.
Nationwide will provide notice to Contract Owners prior to processing a change in ownership or assignment that will automatically terminate the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider. Contract Owners contemplating changes to the ownership of their contract, including assignments, should contact their financial professional to determine how the changes impact the benefit associated with the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider.
Other Important Considerations
The Nationwide L.inc Plus Core Rider is designed for those intending to take Lifetime Withdrawals. The benefit of the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will be reduced, potentially significantly, if the Contract Owner takes excess withdrawals or a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal.
Other important considerations include the following:
The chance of outliving Contract Value and receiving Lifetime Withdrawals from Nationwide may be reduced due to the investment restrictions imposed on the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider.
If the Contract Value is greater than $0, then Lifetime Withdrawals are paid from the Contract Owner’s Contract Value.
If the Contract Value is equal to $0, then Lifetime Withdrawals are paid form Nationwide’s General Account.
Lifetime Withdrawals paid from the General Account are subject to Nationwide’s creditors and ultimately, its overall claims paying ability.
Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core
At the time the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core is elected (at time of application), the Contract Owner may elect the Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core. The Joint Option allows a surviving spouse to continue to receive, for the duration of his/her lifetime, the benefit associated with the corresponding Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider, provided certain conditions are met. Once the Joint Option is elected, it may not be removed from the contract, except as provided in the Marriage Termination section. If the Joint Option is elected, the determining life for purposes of the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider will be that of the younger spouse.
Example:
At the time of application, Ms. J purchased the Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core. She began taking Lifetime Withdrawals when she was 62. Three years later, Ms. J passed away. Mr. J, Ms. J’s surviving spouse, is entitled to continue to receive the same Lifetime Withdrawals for the duration of his lifetime. At Mr. J’s death, the contract will terminate.
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The annual charge for the Joint Option will not exceed 0.40% of the Current Income Benefit Base. The charge will be assessed until annuitization. Currently, the charge for the Joint Option is 0.30% of the Current Income Benefit Base. If the Contract Owner elects the Joint Option, Nationwide will reduce the Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages associated with the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core rider.
The Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages for the Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core is disclosed in the Rate Sheet Supplement that is attached to the front of this prospectus delivered to you. For additional information on Rate Sheet Supplements, see Rate Sheet Supplements for the Nationwide L.inc Plus Core Rider.
To be eligible for the Joint Option, the following conditions must be met:
(1) Both spouses must be between 45 and 85 years old at the time of application;
(2) Both spouses must be at least age 45 before either spouse is eligible to begin withdrawals. Note: the Internal Revenue Code imposes a penalty tax if a distribution is made before the Contract Owner reaches age 59½ unless certain exceptions are met (see Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information);
(3) If the Contract Owner is a non-natural person, both spouses must be named as Co-Annuitants;
(4) One or both spouses (or a revocable trust of which either or both of the spouses is/are grantor(s)) must be named as the Contract Owner. For contracts issued as IRAs and Roth IRAs, only the person for whom the IRA or Roth IRA was established may be named as the Contract Owner;
(5) Both spouses must be named as primary beneficiaries;
(6) No person other than the spouse may be named as Contract Owner, Annuitant, or primary beneficiary; and
(7) If both spouses are alive upon annuitization, the Contract Owner must specify which spouse is the Annuitant upon whose continuation of life any annuity payments involving life contingencies depend (for IRA and Roth IRA contracts, this person must be the Contract Owner).
Marriage Termination
If, prior to taking any withdrawals from the contract, the marriage terminates due to divorce, dissolution, or annulment, the Contract Owner may remove the Joint Option from the contract. Nationwide will remove the benefit and the associated charge after the Contract Owner submits to the Service Center a written request and evidence of the marriage termination satisfactory to Nationwide. Once the Joint Option is removed from the contract, the benefit may not be re-elected or added to cover a subsequent spouse.
If, after taking any withdrawals from the contract, the marriage terminates due to divorce, dissolution, or annulment, the Contract Owner may not remove the Joint Option from the contract.
Risks Associated with Electing the Joint Option
There are situations where a Contract Owner who elects the Joint Option will not receive the benefits associated with the option. This will occur if:
(1) the Contract Owner’s spouse (Co-Annuitant) dies before him/her;
(2) the contract is annuitized;
(3) after the first withdrawal, the marriage terminates due to divorce, dissolution, or annulment; or
(4) the Contract Owner, Annuitant, Co-Annuitant, and/or beneficiary is changed.
Additionally, in the situations described in (1), (3), and (4) above, not only will the Contract Owner not receive the benefit associated with the Joint Option, but he/she must continue to pay any applicable charge until annuitization.
Ownership and Interests in the Contract
Contract Owner
Prior to the Annuitization Date, the Contract Owner has all rights under the contract, unless a joint owner is named. If a joint owner is named, each joint owner has all rights under the contract. Purchasers who name someone other than themselves as the Contract Owner will have no rights under the contract.
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On the Annuitization Date, the Contract Owner cedes all ownership rights to the Annuitant and the Annuitant becomes the Contract Owner.
Joint Owner
Prior to annuitization, joint owners each own an undivided interest in the contract.
Non-Qualified Contract Owners can name a joint owner at any time before annuitization. However, joint owners must be spouses at the time joint ownership is requested, unless state law requires Nationwide to allow non-spousal joint owners. Joint ownership is not permitted on contracts owned by a non-natural Contract Owner.
Generally, the exercise of any ownership rights under the contract must be in writing and signed by both joint owners. However, if a written election, signed by both Contract Owners, authorizing Nationwide to allow the exercise of ownership rights independently by either joint owner is submitted, Nationwide will permit joint owners to act independently. If such an authorization is submitted, Nationwide will not be liable for any loss, liability, cost, or expense for acting in accordance with the instructions of either joint owner.
On the Annuitization Date, both joint owners cede all ownership rights to the Annuitant and the Annuitant becomes the Contract Owner.
Annuitant
Prior to the Annuitization Date, the Annuitant has no interest in the contract, but must be named in the application. Only Non-Qualified Contract Owners may name someone other than himself/herself as the Annuitant. This Annuitant must be age 85 or younger at the time of contract issuance, unless Nationwide approves a request for an Annuitant of greater age.
On the Annuitization Date, the Annuitant becomes the new owner and has all ownership rights in the contract. The Annuitant is the person who receives annuity payments and the person upon whose continuation of life any annuity payment involving life contingencies depends.
Contingent Annuitant
Prior to the Annuitization Date, if the Annuitant dies before the Annuitization Date, the Contingent Annuitant becomes the Annuitant. Only Non-Qualified Contract Owners may name a Contingent Annuitant. The Contingent Annuitant need not be named at the time of application. Regardless of when the Contingent Annuitant is added he/she but must be (or must have been) age 85 or younger at the time of contract issuance, unless Nationwide approves a request for a Contingent Annuitant of greater age.
Joint Annuitant
Prior to annuitization, there is no joint annuitant.
At annuitization, if applicable, a joint annuitant is named. The joint annuitant is designated as a second person (in addition to the Annuitant) upon whose continuation of life any annuity payment involving life contingencies depends.
Beneficiary and Contingent Beneficiary
Prior to annuitization, the beneficiary is the person who is entitled to the death benefit if the Contract Owner dies before the Annuitization Date and there is no joint owner. The Contract Owner can name more than one beneficiary. Multiple beneficiaries will share the death benefit equally, unless otherwise specified.
A contingent beneficiary will succeed to the rights of the beneficiary if no beneficiary is alive when a death benefit is paid. The Contract Owner can name more than one contingent beneficiary. Multiple contingent beneficiaries will share the death benefit equally, unless otherwise specified.
After annuitization, the beneficiaries and contingent beneficiaries have no interest in the contract.
Changes to the Parties to the Contract
Prior to the Annuitization Date (and subject to any existing assignments), the Contract Owner may request to change the following:
Contract Owner (Non-Qualified Contracts only);
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joint owner (must be the Contract Owner's spouse);
Annuitant (subject to Nationwide’s underwriting and approval);
Contingent Annuitant (subject to Nationwide's underwriting and approval);
beneficiary; or
contingent beneficiary.
The Contract Owner must submit the request to Nationwide in writing and Nationwide must receive the request at the Service Center before the Annuitization Date. Once Nationwide receives and records the change request, the change will be effective as of the date the written request was signed (unless otherwise specified by the Contract Owner), whether or not the Contract Owner or Annuitant is living at the time it was recorded. The change will not affect any action taken by Nationwide before the change was recorded. Nationwide reserves the right to reject any change request that would alter the nature of the risk that Nationwide assumed when it originally issued the contract.
If the Contract Owner is not a natural person and there is a change of the Annuitant, distributions will be made as if the Contract Owner died at the time of the change, regardless of whether the Contract Owner named a Contingent Annuitant.
Any request to change the Contract Owner must be signed by the existing Contract Owner and the person designated as the new Contract Owner. Nationwide may require a signature guarantee. Changes in contract ownership may result in federal income taxation and may be subject to state and federal gift taxes. Changes in ownership and contract assignments could have a negative impact on certain benefits under the contract, including the death benefit and the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option.
Certain options and features under the contract have specific requirements as to who can be named as the Contract Owner, Annuitant, Co-Annuitant, and/or beneficiary in order to receive the benefit of the option or feature. Changes to the parties to the contract may result in the termination or loss of benefit of these options or features. Further, changes to the parties to the contract may result in the Contract Owner not receiving the benefit associated with an option while still continuing to pay any applicable charge for the option. Contract Owners contemplating changes to the parties to the contract should contact their financial professional to determine how the changes impact the options and features under the contract.
Assignment
Contracts other than Non-Qualified Contracts may not be assigned, pledged or otherwise transferred except where allowed by law.
A Non-Qualified Contract Owner may assign some or all rights under the contract subject to Nationwide’s consent. Additionally, Nationwide reserves the right to refuse to recognize assignments on a non-discriminatory basis. Nationwide is not responsible for the validity or tax consequences of any assignment and Nationwide is not liable for any payment or settlement made before the assignment is recorded. Assignments will not be recorded until Nationwide receives sufficient direction from the Contract Owner and the assignee regarding the proper allocation of contract rights.
Where permitted under state law, an assignment or collateral assignment may negatively impact certain benefits under this contract, including the death benefit and the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option.
Impact of Ownership Changes and Assignment on the Death Benefits
Where permitted under state law, if the Contract Owner is changed or if the contract is assigned (including a collateral assignment), the elected death benefit will be forfeited and replaced with a death benefit equal to the Contract Value on the date Nationwide receives proper proof of the Contract Owner's death, an election specifying the distribution method, and any state required forms. Where prohibited by state law, or if any of the following situations apply, the death benefit forfeiture will not apply:
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(1) The new Contract Owner or assignee assumes full ownership of the contract and is essentially the same person (e.g., individual ownership is changed to ownership by a personal revocable or irrevocable trust, a change to the Contract Owner's spouse, or a spouse’s irrevocable or revocable trust, during the Contract Owner's lifetime, a change to a court appointed guardian representing the Contract Owner during the Contract Owner's lifetime, etc.);
(2) Ownership of a contract issued as an IRA or Roth IRA is being changed from one custodian to another, from the determining life to a custodian, or from a custodian to the determining life;
(3) The assignment is for the purpose of effectuating an exchange pursuant to Section 1035 under the Internal Revenue Code; or
(4) The change is merely the removal of a Contract Owner where the contract is jointly owned.
Contract Owners contemplating changes to the ownership of their contract, including assignments, should contact their financial professional to determine how the changes impact the death benefit.
Beneficially Owned Contracts
A beneficially owned contract is a contract that is inherited or purchased by a beneficiary and the beneficiary holds the contract as a beneficiary (as opposed to treating the contract as his/her own) to facilitate the distribution of a death benefit or Contract Value in accordance with the applicable federal tax laws (see Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information). An owner of a beneficially owned contract is referred to as a "beneficial owner."
There are two types of beneficially owned contracts, a "continued beneficially owned contract" and a "purchased beneficially owned contract." A continued beneficially owned contract is when a beneficiary inherits a contract and continues that contract as a beneficial owner. A "purchased beneficially owned contract" is when a beneficiary purchases a new contract using a death benefit or Contract Value that the beneficiary inherited under a different annuity contract.
Not all options and features described in this prospectus are available to beneficially owned contracts:
Subsequent purchase payments are not permitted under any beneficially owned contract.
Withdrawals under beneficially owned contracts are subject to applicable CDSC except when the withdrawals are made from a continued beneficially owned contract that is inherited as death benefit proceeds (as opposed to inherited contract value).
No optional benefits are permitted under any beneficially owned contract, except that a purchased beneficially owned contract may elect an optional death benefit.
A beneficial owner must be both the Contract Owner and the Annuitant of a beneficially owned contract, and no additional parties may be named, except that a purchased beneficially owned contract may name a Co-Annuitant if an optional death benefit is elected.
No changes to the parties will be permitted on any beneficially owned contract, except that a beneficial owner may request changes to their successor beneficiary(ies).
Beneficially owned contracts cannot be assigned, except that a beneficial owner may assign rights to the distribution payments.
There is no death benefit payable on a continued beneficially owned contract. After the death of the beneficial owner, any remaining death benefit or Contract Value to be distributed will be payable to a successor beneficiary in accordance with applicable federal tax laws.
A beneficiary who is the surviving spouse of a Contract Owner has the option under the tax laws to continue the contract as the sole Contract Owner and treat the contract as the spouse’s own. If a spouse continues the contract as the sole Contract Owner, the spouse will not be treated as a beneficial owner and this section will not apply.
Operation of the Contract
Pricing
Generally, Nationwide prices Accumulation Units on each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open. (Pricing is the calculation of a new Accumulation Unit value that reflects that day's investment experience.)
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Accumulation Units are not priced when the New York Stock Exchange is closed or on the following nationally recognized holidays:
New Year's Day
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Presidents' Day
Good Friday
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas
Nationwide also will not price purchase payments, withdrawals, or transfers if:
(1) trading on the New York Stock Exchange is restricted;
(2) an emergency exists making disposal or valuation of securities held in the Variable Account impracticable; or
(3) the SEC, by order, permits a suspension or postponement for the protection of security holders.
Rules and regulations of the SEC will govern as to when the conditions described in (2) and (3) exist. If Nationwide is closed on days when the New York Stock Exchange is open, Contract Value may change and Contract Owners will not have access to their accounts.
Application and Allocation of Purchase Payments
Initial Purchase Payments
Initial purchase payments will be priced at the Accumulation Unit value next determined no later than two business days after receipt of an order to purchase if the application and all necessary information are complete and are received at the Service Center before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange, which generally occurs at 4:00 p.m. EST. If the order is received after the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange, the initial purchase payment will be priced within two business days after the next Valuation Date.
If an incomplete application is not completed within five business days after receipt at the Service Center, the prospective purchaser will be informed of the reason for the delay. The purchase payment will be returned unless the prospective purchaser specifically consents to allow Nationwide to hold the purchase payment until the application is completed.
Generally, initial purchase payments are allocated according to Contract Owner instructions on the application. However, in some states, Nationwide will allocate initial purchase payments to the money market Sub-Account during the free look period. After the free look period, Nationwide will reallocate the Contract Value among the investment options based on the instructions contained on the application. In other states, Nationwide will immediately allocate initial purchase payments to the investment options based on the instructions contained on the application. Contact the Service Center or refer to your contract for state specific information on the allocation of initial purchase payments.
Subsequent Purchase Payments
Any subsequent purchase payment received at the Service Center (along with all necessary information) before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange on any Valuation Date will be priced at the Accumulation Unit value next determined after receipt of the purchase payment. If a subsequent purchase payment is received at the Service Center (along with all necessary information) after the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange, it will be priced at the Accumulation Unit value determined on the following Valuation Date.
Allocation of Purchase Payments
Nationwide allocates purchase payments to the Fixed Account and/or Sub-Accounts as instructed by the Contract Owner. Shares of the underlying mutual funds in which the Sub-Accounts invest are purchased at Net Asset Value, then the Contract Owner receives Accumulation Units in the Sub-Account(s) to which the Contract Owner allocated purchase payments.
Contract Owners can change allocations or make exchanges among the Sub-Accounts after the time of application by submitting a written request to the Service Center. However, no change may be made that would result in an amount less than 1% of the purchase payments being allocated to any Sub-Account. In the event that Nationwide receives such a request, Nationwide will inform the Contract Owner that the allocation instructions are invalid and that the contract's allocations among the Sub-Accounts prior to the request will remain in effect. Certain transactions may be subject to conditions imposed by the underlying mutual funds.
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Determining the Contract Value
The Contract Value is the sum of the value of amounts allocated to the Sub-Accounts plus any amount held in the Fixed Account. If charges are assessed against the whole Contract Value, Nationwide will deduct a proportionate amount from each Sub-Account and the Fixed Account based on current cash values.
Determining Variable Account Value - Valuing an Accumulation Unit
Sub-Account allocations are accounted for in Accumulation Units. Accumulation Unit values (for each Sub-Account) are determined by calculating the Net Investment Factor for the Sub-Accounts for the current Valuation Period and multiplying that result with the Accumulation Unit values determined on the previous Valuation Period. For each Sub-Account, the Net Investment Factor is the investment performance of the underlying mutual fund in which a particular Sub-Account invests, including the charges assessed against that Sub-Account for a Valuation Period.
Nationwide uses the Net Investment Factor as a way to calculate the investment performance of a Sub-Account from Valuation Period to Valuation Period.
The Net Investment Factor for any particular Sub-Account before the Annuitization Date is determined by dividing (a) by (b), and then subtracting (c) from the result, where:
(a) is the sum of:
(1) the Net Asset Value of the underlying mutual fund as of the end of the current Valuation Period; and
(2) the per share amount of any dividend or income distributions made by the underlying mutual fund (if the date of the dividend or income distribution occurs during the current Valuation Period).
(b) is the Net Asset Value of the underlying mutual fund determined as of the end of the preceding Valuation Period.
(c) is a factor representing the daily total Variable Account charges, which may include charges for optional benefits elected by the Contract Owner. The factor is equal to an annualized rate ranging from 0.40% to 3.60% of the Daily Net Assets, depending on which optional benefits the Contract Owner elects.
Note: The range shown above reflects only those Variable Account charges that are assessed daily as part of the daily Accumulation Unit calculation. It does not reflect the cost of other optional benefits that assess charges via the redemption of Accumulation Units.
Based on the change in the Net Investment Factor, the value of an Accumulation Unit may increase or decrease. Changes in the Net Investment Factor may not be directly proportional to changes in the Net Asset Value of the underlying mutual fund shares because of the deduction of Variable Account charges.
Though the number of Accumulation Units will not change as a result of investment experience, the value of an Accumulation Unit may increase or decrease from Valuation Period to Valuation Period.
Determining Fixed Account Value
Nationwide determines the value of the Fixed Account by:
(1) adding all amounts allocated to the Fixed Account minus amounts previously transferred or withdrawn from the Fixed Account;
(2) adding any interest earned on the amounts allocated to the Fixed Account; and
(3) subtracting charges deducted in accordance with the contract.
Transfer Requests
Contract Owners may submit transfer requests in writing, over the telephone, or via the Internet to the Service Center. Some benefits or features under the contract may limit the manner in which transfer requests can be submitted, as indicated in the respective provision. Nationwide may restrict or withdraw the telephone and/or Internet transfer privilege at any time.
Generally, Sub-Account transfers will receive the Accumulation Unit value next computed after the transfer request is received at the Service Center. However, if a contract that is limited to submitting transfer requests via U.S. mail submits a transfer request via the Internet or telephone pursuant to Nationwide's one-day delay policy, the transfer will be executed on the next Valuation Date after the exchange request is received at the Service Center (see Managers of Multiple Contracts).
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Transfers Prior to Annuitization
Transfers from the Fixed Account
A Contract Owner may request to transfer allocations from the Fixed Account to the Sub-Accounts only upon reaching the end of a Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period. Fixed Account transfers must be made within 45 days after the end of the interest rate guarantee period.
Normally, Nationwide will permit 100% of the maturing Fixed Account allocations to be transferred. However, Nationwide may limit the amount that can be transferred from the Fixed Account. Nationwide will determine the amount that may be transferred and will declare this amount at the end of the Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period. The maximum transferable amount will never be less than 10% of the Fixed Account allocation reaching the end of a Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period. Any limit on the amount that can be transferred from the Fixed Account will be communicated to impacted Contract Owners at the end of the Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period. Any such limitations will substantially extend the amount of time it takes to transfer the entire Fixed Account allocation to another investment option. Any limit on the amount that can be transferred from the Fixed Account will be communicated to impacted Contract Owners at the end of the Fixed Account interest rate guarantee period. Any such limitations will substantially extend the amount of time it takes to transfer the entire Fixed Account allocation to another investment option.
Contract Owners who use Dollar Cost Averaging may transfer from the Fixed Account under the terms of that program.
Nationwide is required by state law to reserve the right to postpone payment or transfer of assets from the Fixed Account for a period of up to six months from the date of the withdrawal or transfer request.
Transfers from the Sub-Accounts
A Contract Owner may request to transfer allocations from the Sub-Accounts to the Fixed Account at any time.
Nationwide reserves the right to limit or refuse transfers to the Fixed Account. Generally, Nationwide will invoke this right when interest rates are low by historical standards.
Transfers Among the Sub-Accounts
A Contract Owner may request to transfer allocations among the Sub-Accounts at any time, subject to terms and conditions imposed by this prospectus and the underlying mutual funds.
Transfer Restrictions
Neither the contracts described in this prospectus nor the underlying mutual funds are designed to support active trading strategies that require frequent movement between or among Sub-Accounts (sometimes referred to as "market-timing" or "short-term trading"). A Contract Owner who intends to use an active trading strategy should consult his/her financial professional and request information on other Nationwide variable annuity contracts that offer investment in underlying mutual funds that are designed specifically to support active trading strategies.
Nationwide discourages (and will take action to deter) short-term trading in this contract because the frequent movement between or among Sub-Accounts may negatively impact other investors in the contract. Short-term trading can result in:
the dilution of the value of the investors' interests in the underlying mutual fund;
underlying mutual fund managers taking actions that negatively impact performance (keeping a larger portion of the underlying mutual fund assets in cash or liquidating investments prematurely in order to support redemption requests); and/or
increased administrative costs due to frequent purchases and redemptions.
To protect investors in this contract from the negative impact of these practices, Nationwide has implemented, or reserves the right to implement, several processes and/or restrictions aimed at eliminating the negative impact of active trading strategies. Nationwide makes no assurances that all risks associated with short-term trading will be completely eliminated by these processes and/or restrictions.
Nationwide cannot guarantee that its attempts to deter active trading strategies will be successful. If Nationwide is unable to deter active trading strategies, the performance of the Sub-Accounts that are actively traded may be adversely impacted.
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U.S. Mail Restrictions
Nationwide monitors transfer activity in order to identify those who may be engaged in harmful trading practices. Transaction reports are produced and examined. Generally, a contract may appear on these reports if the Contract Owner (or a third party acting on their behalf) engages in a certain number of "transfer events" in a given period. A "transfer event" is any transfer, or combination of transfers, occurring on a given trading day (Valuation Period). For example, if a Contract Owner executes multiple transfers involving 10 investment options in one day, this counts as one transfer event. A single transfer occurring on a given trading day and involving only two investment options will also count as one transfer event.
As a result of this monitoring process, Nationwide may restrict the method of communication by which transfer orders will be accepted. In general, Nationwide will adhere to the following guidelines:
Trading Behavior Nationwide's Response
Six or more transfer events within one calendar quarter Nationwide will mail a letter to the Contract Owner notifying them that:
(1) they have been identified as engaging in harmful trading practices; and
(2) if their transfer events total 11 within two consecutive calendar quarters or 20 within one calendar year, the Contract Owner will be limited to submitting transfer requests via U.S. mail on a Nationwide issued form.
11 transfer events within two consecutive calendar quarters
OR
20 transfer events within one calendar year
Nationwide will automatically limit the Contract Owner to submitting transfer requests via U.S. mail on a Nationwide issued form.
For purposes of Nationwide's transfer policy, U.S. mail includes standard U.S. mail, overnight U.S. mail, and overnight delivery via private carrier.
For calendar year restrictions, each January 1, Nationwide will start the monitoring anew, so that each contract starts with 0 transfer events each January 1. However, for restrictions on transfer events within two consecutive calendar quarters, Nationwide does not start the monitoring anew on January 1. Instead, Nationwide refreshes the transfer event restriction period at the beginning of each calendar quarter considering only transfers that occur in the current calendar quarter and occurred in the immediately preceding calendar quarter. See, however, the Other Restrictions provision.
Contract Owners that are required to submit transfer requests via U.S. mail will be required to use a Nationwide issued form for their transfer request. Nationwide will refuse transfer requests that either do not use the Nationwide issued form for their transfer request or fail to provide accurate and complete information on their transfer request form. In the event that a Contract Owner's transfer request is refused by Nationwide, they will receive notice in writing by U.S. mail and will be required to resubmit their transfer request on a Nationwide issued form.
Managers of Multiple Contracts
Some investment financial professionals manage the assets of multiple Nationwide contracts pursuant to trading authority granted or conveyed by multiple Contract Owners. These multi-contract financial professionals will generally be required by Nationwide to submit all transfer requests via U.S. mail.
Nationwide may, as an administrative practice, implement a "one-day delay" program for these multi-contract financial professionals, which they can use in addition to or in lieu of submitting transfer requests via U.S. mail. The one-day delay option permits multi-contract financial professionals to continue to submit transfer requests via the Internet or telephone. However, transfer requests submitted by multi-contract financial professionals via the Internet or telephone will not receive the next available Accumulation Unit value. Rather, they will receive the Accumulation Unit value that is calculated on the following Valuation Date. Transfer requests submitted under the one-day delay program are irrevocable. Multi-contract financial professionals will receive advance notice of being subject to the one-day delay program.
Other Restrictions
Nationwide reserves the right to refuse or limit transfer requests, or take any other action it deems necessary in order to protect Contract Owners, Annuitants, and beneficiaries from the negative investment results that may result from short-term trading or other harmful investment practices employed by some Contract Owners (or third parties acting on their
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behalf). In particular, trading strategies designed to avoid or take advantage of Nationwide's monitoring procedures (and other measures aimed at curbing harmful trading practices) that are nevertheless determined by Nationwide to constitute harmful trading practices, may be restricted.
Any restrictions that Nationwide implements will be applied consistently and uniformly.
Underlying Mutual Fund Restrictions and Prohibitions
Pursuant to regulations adopted by the SEC, Nationwide is required to enter into written agreements with the underlying mutual funds which allow the underlying mutual funds to:
(1) request the taxpayer identification number, international taxpayer identification number, or other government issued identifier of any Contract Owner;
(2) request the amounts and dates of any purchase, redemption, transfer, or exchange request ("transaction information"); and
(3) instruct Nationwide to restrict or prohibit further purchases or exchanges by Contract Owners that violate policies established by the underlying mutual fund (whose policies may be more restrictive than Nationwide's policies).
Nationwide is required to provide such transaction information to the underlying mutual funds upon their request. In addition, Nationwide is required to restrict or prohibit further purchases or requests to exchange into a specific Sub-Account upon instruction from the underlying mutual fund in which that Sub-Account invests. Nationwide and any affected Contract Owner may not have advance notice of such instructions from an underlying mutual fund to restrict or prohibit further purchases or requests to exchange. If an underlying mutual fund refuses to accept a purchase or request to exchange into the Sub-Account associated with the underlying mutual fund submitted by Nationwide, Nationwide will keep any affected Contract Owner in their current Sub-Account allocation.
Right to Examine and Cancel
If the Contract Owner elects to cancel the contract, he/she may return it to the Service Center within a certain period of time known as the "free look" period. Depending on the state in which the contract was purchased (and, in some states, if the contract is purchased as a replacement for another annuity contract), the free look period may be 10 days or longer. For ease of administration, Nationwide will honor any free look cancellation request that is in good order and received at the Service Center or postmarked within 30 days after the contract issue date. The contract issue date is the date the initial purchase payment is applied to the contract.
Where state law requires the return of purchase payments for free look cancellations, Nationwide will return all purchase payments applied to the contract, less any withdrawals from the contract and any applicable federal and state income tax withholding.
Where state law requires the return of Contract Value for free look cancellations, Nationwide will return the Contract Value as of the date of the cancellation, less any withdrawals from the contract and any applicable federal and state income tax withholding.
Liability of the Variable Account under this provision is limited to the Contract Value in each Sub-Account on the date of revocation. Any additional amounts refunded to the Contract Owner will be paid by Nationwide.
Allocation of Purchase Payments during Free Look Period
Where state law requires the return of purchase payments for free look cancellations, Nationwide will allocate initial purchase payments allocated to Sub-Accounts to the money market Sub-Account during the free look period.
Where state law requires the return of Contract Value for free look cancellations, Nationwide will immediately allocate initial purchase payments to the investment options based on the instructions contained on the application.
Surrender/Withdrawal Prior to Annuitization
Prior to annuitization and before the Contract Owner's death, Contract Owners may generally withdraw some or all of their Contract Value. Withdrawals from the contract may be subject to federal income tax and/or a tax penalty (see Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information). Withdrawal requests may be submitted in writing or by telephone to the Service Center and Nationwide may require additional information. Requests submitted by telephone may be subject to dollar amount limitations and may be subject to payment and other restrictions to prevent fraud. Nationwide reserves the right to
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require written requests to be submitted on current Nationwide forms for withdrawals. Nationwide reserves the right to remove the ability to submit requests by telephone upon written notice. Contact the Service Center for current limitations and restrictions. When taking a full surrender, Nationwide may require that the contract accompany the request. Nationwide may require a signature guarantee.
Surrender and withdrawal requests will receive the Accumulation Unit value next determined at the end of the current Valuation Period if the request and all necessary information is received at the Service Center before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (generally, 4:00 pm EST). If the request and all necessary information is received after the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange, the request will receive the Accumulation Unit value determined at the end of the next Valuation Day.
Nationwide will pay any amounts withdrawn from the Sub-Accounts within seven days after the request is received in good order at the Service Center (see Determining the Contract Value). However, Nationwide may suspend or postpone payment when it is unable to price a purchase payment or transfer, or as permitted or required by federal securities laws and rules and regulations of the SEC.
Nationwide is required by state law to reserve the right to postpone payment or transfer of assets from the Fixed Account for a period of up to six months from the date of the withdrawal or transfer request.
Partial Withdrawals
If a Contract Owner requests a partial withdrawal, Nationwide will redeem Accumulation Units from the Sub-Accounts and an amount from the Fixed Account. The amount withdrawn from each investment option will be in proportion to the value in each option at the time of the withdrawal request, unless Nationwide is instructed otherwise.
Partial withdrawals are subject to the CDSC provisions of the contract. If a CDSC is assessed, the Contract Owner may elect to have the CDSC deducted from either:
(a) the amount requested; or
(b) the Contract Value remaining after the Contract Owner has received the amount requested.
If the Contract Owner does not make a specific election, any applicable CDSC will be deducted from the amount requested by the Contract Owner.
The CDSC deducted is a percentage of the amount requested by the Contract Owner. Amounts deducted for CDSC are not subject to subsequent CDSC.
Partial Withdrawals to Pay Investment Advisory Fees
Some Contract Owners utilize an investment advisor(s) to manage their assets, for which the investment advisor assesses a fee. Investment advisors are not endorsed or affiliated with Nationwide and Nationwide makes no representation as to their qualifications. The fees for these investment advisory services are specified in the respective account agreements and are separate from and in addition to the contract fees and expenses described in this prospectus. Some Contract Owners authorize their investment advisor to take a partial withdrawal(s) from the contract in order to collect investment advisory fees. Withdrawals taken from this contract to pay advisory or investment management fees are subject to the CDSC provisions of the contract and may be subject to income tax and/or tax penalties. In addition, withdrawals taken from the contract to pay advisory or investment management fees may negatively impact the benefit associated with the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option.
Termination for Low Contract Value
Nationwide reserves the right to treat a request for a withdrawal as a request for a full surrender of the contract if:
the withdrawal would reduce the Contract Value to an amount less than $2,000;
cumulative purchase payments, less any withdrawals, is less than $2,000; and
no subsequent purchase payments have been submitted for the preceding two consecutive Contract Years.
No contract will be surrendered due solely to negative investment performance, and federal tax law may impose additional restrictions on Nationwide’s right to surrender the contract. Nationwide reserves the right to exercise this termination provision, subject to obtaining any required regulatory approvals.
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Full Surrenders
Upon full surrender, the Contract Value may be more or less than the total of all purchase payments made to the contract. The Contract Value will reflect:
standard contract charges
charges for optional benefits elected by the Contract Owner
underlying mutual fund charges
investment performance of the Sub-Accounts
interest credited to Fixed Account allocations
Except for a surrender made in accordance with the Enhanced Surrender Value for Terminal Illness provision, the CDSC-free withdrawal privilege does not apply to full surrenders of the contract. For purposes of the CDSC-free withdrawal privilege, a full surrender is:
multiple withdrawals taken within a Contract Year that deplete the entire Contract Value; or
any single net withdrawal of 90% or more of the Contract Value.
Surrender/Withdrawal After Annuitization
After the Annuitization Date, withdrawals other than regularly scheduled annuity payments are not permitted.
Contract Owner Services
Asset Rebalancing
Asset Rebalancing is the automatic reallocation of Contract Values to the Sub-Accounts on a predetermined percentage basis. Asset Rebalancing is not available for assets held in the Fixed Account. Requests for Asset Rebalancing must be on a Nationwide form and submitted to the Service Center. Once Asset Rebalancing is elected, it will only be terminated upon specific instruction from the Contract Owner; manual transfers will not automatically terminate the program. Currently, there is no additional charge for Asset Rebalancing.
Asset Rebalancing occurs every three months or on another frequency if permitted by Nationwide. If the last day of the designated rebalancing period falls on a Saturday, Sunday, recognized holiday, or any other day when the New York Stock Exchange is closed, Asset Rebalancing will occur on the next business day. Each Asset Rebalancing reallocation is considered a transfer event (see Transfer Restrictions).
Contract Owners should consult a financial professional to discuss the use of Asset Rebalancing.
Nationwide reserves the right to stop establishing new Asset Rebalancing programs. Existing Asset Rebalancing programs will remain in effect unless otherwise terminated.
Example:
Mr. C elects to participate in Asset Balancing and has instructed his Contract Value be allocated as follows: 40% to Sub-Account A, 40% to Sub-Account B, and 20% to Sub-Account C. Each quarter, Nationwide will automatically rebalance Mr. C’s Contract Value by transferring Contract Value among the three elected Sub-Accounts so that his 40%/40%/20% allocation remains intact.
Dollar Cost Averaging
Dollar Cost Averaging is a long-term transfer program that allows the Contract Owner to make regular, level investments over time. Dollar Cost Averaging involves the automatic transfer of a specific amount from the Fixed Account and/or certain Sub-Accounts into other Sub-Accounts. With this service, the Contract Owner benefits from the ability to invest in the Sub-Accounts over a period of time, thereby smoothing out the effects of market volatility. Nationwide does not guarantee that this program will result in profit or protect Contract Owners from loss.
Contract Owners direct Nationwide to automatically transfer specified amounts from the Fixed Account and the following Sub-Account(s) (if available):
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Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Core Bond Fund: Class II
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Government Bond Fund: Class I
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Government Money Market Fund: Class I
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Short Term Bond Fund: Class II
PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust - Low Duration Portfolio: Advisor Class
PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust - Short-Term Portfolio: Advisor Class
or to any other Sub-Account(s). Dollar Cost Averaging transfers may not be directed to the Fixed Account. Transfers from the Fixed Account must be equal to or less than 1/30th of the Fixed Account value at the time the program is requested. Contract Owners that wish to utilize Dollar Cost Averaging should first inquire whether any Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging programs are available.
Transfers occur monthly or on another frequency if permitted by Nationwide. Nationwide will process transfers until either the value in the originating investment option is exhausted or the Contract Owner instructs Nationwide to stop the transfers. When a Contract Owner instructs Nationwide to stop the transfers, all amounts remaining in the originating Fixed Account or Sub-Account will remain allocated to the Fixed Account or Sub-Account, unless Nationwide is instructed otherwise. Dollar Cost Averaging transfers are not considered transfer events.
Nationwide reserves the right to stop establishing new Dollar Cost Averaging programs.
Nationwide is required by state law to reserve the right to postpone payment or transfer of assets from the Fixed Account for a period of up to six months from the date of the withdrawal or transfer request.
Example:
Ms. T elects to participate in Dollar Cost Averaging and has transferred $25,000 to the Fixed Account, which will serve as the source investment option for her Dollar Cost Averaging program. She would like the Dollar Cost Averaging transfers to be allocated as follows: $500 to Sub-Account L and $1,000 to Sub-Account M. Each month, Nationwide will automatically transfer $1,500 from the Fixed Account and allocate $1,000 to Sub-Account M and $500 to Sub-Account L.
Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging
Nationwide may, periodically, offer Dollar Cost Averaging programs with an enhanced interest rate referred to as "Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging." Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging involves the automatic transfer of a specific amount from an enhanced rate Fixed Account into any Sub-Account(s). With this service, the Contract Owner benefits from the ability to invest in the Sub-Accounts over a period of time, thereby smoothing out the effects of market volatility. Nationwide does not guarantee that this program will result in profit or protect Contract Owners from loss.
Only new purchase payments to the contract are eligible for Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging. Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging transfers may not be directed to the Fixed Account. Amounts allocated to the enhanced rate Fixed Account as part of an Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging program earn a higher rate of interest than assets allocated to the standard Fixed Account. Each enhanced rate is guaranteed for as long as the corresponding program is in effect.
Transfers occur monthly or on another frequency if permitted by Nationwide. Nationwide will process transfers until either amounts allocated to the Fixed Account as part of an Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging program are exhausted or the Contract Owner instructs Nationwide to stop the transfers. When a Contract Owner instructs Nationwide to stop the transfers, Nationwide will automatically reallocate any amount remaining in the enhanced rate Fixed Account according to future investment allocation instructions, unless directed otherwise. Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging transfers are not considered transfer events.
Nationwide reserves the right to stop establishing new Enhanced Fixed Account Dollar Cost Averaging programs.
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Nationwide is required by state law to reserve the right to postpone payment or transfer of assets from the Fixed Account for a period of up to six months from the date of the withdrawal or transfer request.
Example:
Mr. E elects to participate in Enhanced Dollar Cost Averaging and has allocated new purchase payments of $25,000 to the Fixed Account, which will receive an enhanced interest crediting rate. He would like the Enhanced Dollar Cost Averaging transfers to be allocated as follows: $500 to Sub-Account L and $1,000 to Sub-Account M. Each month, Nationwide will automatically transfer $1,500 from the Fixed Account and allocate $1,000 to Sub-Account M and $500 to Sub-Account L.
Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits
Nationwide may periodically offer Dollar Cost Averaging programs with the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option referred to as "Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits." Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits involves the automatic transfer of a specific amount from the Fixed Account into another Sub-Account(s). With this service, the Contract Owner benefits from the ability to invest in the Sub-Account over a period of time, thereby smoothing out the effects of market volatility. Nationwide does not guarantee that this program will result in profit or protect Contract Owners from loss.
Only new purchase payments to the contract are eligible for Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits. Only those investment options available with the elected option are available for use in Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits. If a Contract Owner elected Custom Choice, Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits transfers will be allocated to the Sub-Accounts in the same percentages as the most recent allocations for the contract’s Custom Choice portfolio. Refer to Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract for the investment options available for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option .
Once a Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits program has begun, no transfers among or between Sub-Accounts are permitted until the Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits program is completed or terminated.
Transfers occur monthly or on another frequency if permitted by Nationwide. Nationwide will process transfers until either amounts allocated to the Fixed Account as part of a Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits program are exhausted or the Contract Owner instructs Nationwide to stop the transfers. When a Contract Owner instructs Nationwide to stop the transfers, Nationwide will automatically reallocate any amount remaining in the Fixed Account according to future investment allocation instructions, unless directed otherwise. Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits transfers are not considered transfer events.
Nationwide reserves the right to stop establishing new Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits programs.
Nationwide is required by state law to reserve the right to postpone payment or transfer of assets from the Fixed Account for a period of up to six months from the date of the withdrawal or transfer request.
Example:
Ms. S, who has elected a living benefit, elects to participate in Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits and has allocated new purchase payments of $25,000 to the Fixed Account. She would like the Dollar Cost Averaging for Living Benefits transfers to be allocated as follows: $500 to Sub-Account L and $1,000 to Sub-Account M, both of which are permitted Sub-Accounts in the living benefit that Ms. S elected. Each month, Nationwide will automatically transfer $1,500 from the Fixed Account and allocate $1,000 to Sub-Account M and $500 to Sub-Account L.
Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging
Nationwide may, periodically, offer a Dollar Cost Averaging program that permits the transfer of interest earned on Fixed Account allocations referred to as "Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging." Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging involves the automatic transfer of the interest earned on Fixed Account allocations into any other Sub-Account(s). With this service, the Contract Owner benefits from the ability to invest in the Sub-Accounts over a period of time, thereby smoothing out the effects of market volatility. Nationwide does not guarantee that this program will result in profit or protect Contract Owners from loss.
Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging transfers may not be directed to the Fixed Account.
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Transfers occur monthly or on another frequency if permitted by Nationwide. Nationwide will continue to process transfers until the Contract Owner instructs Nationwide in writing to stop the transfers. Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging transfers are not considered transfer events.
Nationwide reserves the right to stop establishing new Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging programs.
Nationwide is required by state law to reserve the right to postpone payment or transfer of assets from the Fixed Account for a period of up to six months from the date of the withdrawal or transfer request.
Example:
Mr. V elects to participate in Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging and has allocated new purchase payments of $25,000 to the Fixed Account. He would like the Fixed Account Interest Out Dollar Cost Averaging transfers to be allocated as follows: 50% to Sub-Account L and 50% to Sub-Account M. Each month, Nationwide will automatically transfer the interest credited to the Fixed Account allocations to Sub-Account M and Sub-Account L on a 50%/50% basis.
Systematic Withdrawals
Systematic Withdrawals allow Contract Owners to receive a specified amount (of at least $100) on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual basis. Requests for Systematic Withdrawals and requests to discontinue Systematic Withdrawals must be submitted in good order and in writing to the Service Center.
The withdrawals will be taken from the Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account proportionally unless Nationwide is instructed otherwise.
Nationwide will withhold federal income taxes from Systematic Withdrawals unless otherwise instructed by the Contract Owner. The Internal Revenue Service may impose a 10% penalty tax if the Contract Owner is under age 59½, unless the Contract Owner has made an irrevocable election of distributions of substantially equal payments.
A CDSC may apply to amounts taken through Systematic Withdrawals. If the Contract Owner takes Systematic Withdrawals, the maximum amount that can be withdrawn annually without a CDSC is the amount available under the CDSC-free withdrawal privilege (see Contingent Deferred Sales Charge).
The CDSC-free withdrawal privilege for Systematic Withdrawals is non-cumulative. Free amounts not taken during any Contract Year cannot be taken as free amounts in a subsequent Contract Year. In any given Contract Year, any amount withdrawn in excess of the amount permitted under this program will be subject to the CDSC provisions (see Contingent Deferred Sales Charge).
Nationwide reserves the right to stop establishing new Systematic Withdrawal programs. Systematic Withdrawals are not available before the end of the free look period.
Contract Owners should fully understand the impact of taking Systematic Withdrawals if they have elected the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option. Systematic Withdrawals are subject to the same terms and conditions under one of these optional benefits as manual withdrawals. As such, a Systematic Withdrawal may initiate Lifetime Withdrawals and could be an excess withdrawal depending on the facts and circumstances. Systematic Withdrawals will continue to be taken for as long as the instructions remain in effect, even if there are negative consequences. Contract Owners should consult with a financial professional before initiating Systematic Withdrawals.
Example:
Ms. H elects to take Systematic Withdrawals equal to $5,000 on a quarterly basis. She has not directed that the withdrawals be taken from specific Sub-Accounts, so each quarter, Nationwide will withdraw $5,000 from Ms. H’s contract proportionally from each Sub-Account, and will mail her a check or wire the funds to the financial institution of her choice.
Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service
For Contract Owners that have elected the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option, Nationwide makes available the Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service ("Custom Choice") at no extra charge. Custom Choice is an asset allocation framework that Contract Owners can use to build their own customized portfolio of investments, subject to the applicable fund category (Groups A and B) allocation limitations. Asset allocation is the process of investing in
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different asset classes (such as equity funds, fixed income funds, and specialty funds) and may reduce the risk and volatility of investing. There are no guarantees that Custom Choice will result in a profit or protect against loss in a declining market.
Enrolling in Custom Choice
To participate in Custom Choice, eligible Contract Owners may enroll by submitting the proper Custom Choice administrative form to the Service Center in good order. While Custom Choice is elected, Contract Owners cannot participate in any asset reallocation or asset rebalancing program other than as permitted by Custom Choice, as described below. Only one Custom Choice program may be created and in effect at a time, and the entire Contract Value must participate in Custom Choice.
At the time of enrollment, the Contract Owner selects from the specific Sub-Accounts (classified according to Groups A and B) and directs their investment percentages within the applicable allocation limitations, enabling the Contract Owner to create their own unique "Custom Choice" portfolio. The specific Sub-Accounts comprising Groups A and B and the current allocation limitations are identified in the enrollment form.
Note: Contract Owners should consult with a qualified financial professional regarding the use of Custom Choice and to determine which Sub-Accounts and investment percentages are appropriate for them.
Once enrollment is complete, the contract’s Custom Choice portfolio is static. This means that the investment percentages allocated to each Sub-Account are not monitored or adjusted to reflect changing market conditions, except for quarterly rebalancing or other Contract Owner driven changes, as described below.
Note: Nationwide may subsequently change allocation limitations and/or Sub-Accounts within Groups A and B; the changes will apply only to new enrollees in Custom Choice and existing participants in Custom Choice that implement a change to their Custom Choice portfolio after the change implementation date. Sub-Accounts may also become unavailable due to a change impacting the availability of an underlying mutual fund under the contract (see The Sub-Accounts and Underlying Mutual Funds).
Quarterly Rebalancing
At the end of each calendar quarter, Nationwide will automatically reallocate the Contract Values in each Sub-Account to make the Contract Values in each Sub-Account match the previously selected investment percentages. If the end of a calendar quarter is a Saturday, Sunday, recognized holiday, or any other day that the New York Stock Exchange is closed, the quarterly rebalancing will occur on the next business day. Rebalancing will be priced using the unit value determined on the last Valuation Date of the calendar quarter. Quarterly rebalancing is not considered a transfer event.
Changing Custom Choice Allocations
Contract Owners enrolled in Custom Choice may change the specified Sub-Accounts and/or the investment percentages at any time while their Custom Choice program is in effect. Any such changes will be subject to the allocation limitations applicable to new enrollees in Custom Choice. To implement changes, Contract Owners must submit new allocation instructions via written request and in good order (on Nationwide’s administrative form) to the Service Center, or by calling the Service Center. Any changes will count as a transfer event, as described in the Transfer Restrictions provision.
Nationwide reserves the right to limit the number of allocation changes a Contract Owner can make each year.
Terminating Participation in Custom Choice
Contract Owners can terminate participation in Custom Choice by submitting a written request to the Service Center or by calling the Service Center. For the termination to be effective, the termination request must contain valid reallocation instructions that are in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option. Termination is effective on the date the termination request is received at the Service Center in good order.
Example:
Mr. U, who elected the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core, enrolls in Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service. At the time of enrollment, allocation limitations are 100% to Group A and 60% to Group B. He selects one Sub-Account from Group A (40%) and two Sub-Accounts from Group B (30% each). Each quarter, Nationwide will automatically rebalance Mr. U’s Contract Value by transferring Contract Value among the three elected Sub-Accounts so that his allocation percentages remain intact.
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Static Asset Allocation Model
For Contract Owners that have elected the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option, Nationwide makes available as a permitted investment option the following Static Asset Allocation Model(s):
Static Asset Allocation Models - American Funds Moderate Option (40% NVIT American Funds Growth-Income Fund, 40% NVIT American Funds Asset Allocation Fund and 20% NVIT American Funds Bond Fund)
Static Asset Allocation Models - American Funds Managed Moderate Option (40% NVIT - NVIT Managed American Funds Growth-Income Fund, 40% NVIT - NVIT Managed American Funds Asset Allocation Fund and 20% NVIT - NVIT American Funds Bond Fund)
Static Asset Allocation Models - Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust iShares Moderate Option (60% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Global Equity ETF Fund: Class II and 40% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Fixed Income ETF Fund: Class II)
Static Asset Allocation Models – BlackRock Moderate Option (40% NVIT BlackRock Equity Dividend V.I. Fund, 33% NVIT BlackRock Managed Global Allocation Fund and 27% BlackRock Total Return V.I. Fund)
Static Asset Allocation Models - Fidelity® VIP Funds Moderate Option (40% Fidelity VIP Growth & Income Portfolio - Service Class 2, 30% Fidelity VIP Balanced Portfolio - Service Class 2 and 30% Fidelity VIP Investment Grade Bond Portfolio - Service Class 2)
Static Asset Allocation Models - J.P. Morgan Moderate Option (40% NVIT - NVIT J.P.Morgan Disciplined Equity Fund, 40% NVIT - NVIT J.P. Morgan Mozaic℠ Multi-Asset Fund and 20% JPMorgan Insurance Trust Core Bond Portfolio)
Static Asset Allocation Models - American Funds Option (33% NVIT American Funds Asset Allocation Fund, 33% NVIT American Funds Bond Fund and 34% NVIT American Funds Growth-Income Fund)
Static Asset Allocation Models - American Funds Managed Option (33% NVIT - NVIT American Funds Bond Fund, 33% NVIT - NVIT Managed American Funds Asset Allocation Fund, 34% NVIT - NVIT Managed American Funds Growth-Income Fund)
Static Asset Allocation Models - BlackRock Option (34% NVIT BlackRock Equity Dividend V.I. Fund, 33% NVIT BlackRock Managed Global Allocation Fund, 33% BlackRock Total Return V.I. Fund)
Static Asset Allocation Models - Fidelity® VIP Funds Option (35% Fidelity VIP Balanced Portfolio - Service Class 2, 30% Fidelity VIP Growth & Income Portfolio - Service Class 2, 35% Fidelity VIP Investment Grade Bond Portfolio - Service Class 2)
Static Asset Allocation Models - Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust iShares Option (50% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Fixed Income ETF Fund: Class II, 50% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Global Equity ETF Fund: Class II)
Static Asset Allocation Models - J.P. Morgan Option (34% JPMorgan Insurance Trust Core Bond Portfolio, 33% NVIT - NVIT J.P. Morgan Mozaic℠ Multi-Asset Fund, 33% NVIT - NVIT J.P. Morgan U.S. Equity Fund: Class II)
The availability of some models may be restricted (see Income Benefit Investment Options).
A Static Asset Allocation Model is an allocation strategy comprised of two or more underlying mutual funds that together provide a unique allocation mix not available as a single underlying mutual fund. Contract Owners that elect a Static Asset Allocation Model directly own Sub-Account units of the Sub-Accounts investing in the underlying mutual funds that comprise the particular model. In other words, a Static Asset Allocation Model is not a portfolio of underlying mutual funds with one Accumulation Unit value, but rather, direct investment in a certain allocation of Sub-Accounts. There is no additional charge associated with investing in a Static Asset Allocation Model.
A Static Asset Allocation Model is just that: static. The allocations or "split" between one or more Sub-Accounts is not monitored and adjusted to reflect changing market conditions. However, a Contract Owner's investment in a Static Asset Allocation Model is rebalanced quarterly to ensure that the assets are allocated to the percentages in the same proportion that they were allocated at the time of election. The entire Contract Value must be allocated to the elected model.
With respect to transferring into and out of a Static Asset Allocation Model, the model is treated like a Sub-Account and is subject to the Transfers Prior to Annuitization provision. The Contract Owner may request to transfer from a model to a permitted Sub-Account. Each transfer into or out of a Static Asset Allocation Model is considered one transfer event.
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For additional information about the underlying mutual funds that comprise a Static Asset Allocation Model, see Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract.
Example:
Mr. Y, who elected a living benefit, elects a Static Asset Allocation Model, the Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust iShares Option. As a result, Mr. Y’s entire Contract Value will be allocated as follows: 50% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Fixed Income ETF Fund: Class II, 50% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Global Equity ETF Fund: Class II. Each quarter, Nationwide will automatically rebalance Mr. Y’s Contract Value by transferring Contract Value among the Sub-Accounts so that the selected Static Asset Allocation Model percentages remain intact.
Death Benefit
Death of Contract Owner
The Annuity provides a death benefit prior to Annuitization. If a Contract Owner (including a joint owner) dies before the Annuitization Date, a death benefit is payable to the surviving joint owner. If there is no surviving joint owner, the death benefit is payable to the beneficiary. Multiple beneficiaries will share the death benefit equally unless otherwise specified. If no beneficiaries survive the Contract Owner/Annuitant, the contingent beneficiary receives the death benefit. Multiple contingent beneficiaries will share the death benefit equally unless otherwise specified. If no contingent beneficiaries survive the Contract Owner, the last surviving Contract Owner's estate will receive the death benefit.
If a surviving joint owner elects to continue the contract the Contract Value will be adjusted to equal the death benefit and the surviving joint owner may name a new beneficiary. When a surviving joint owner dies before the Annuitization Date the death benefit is equal to the Contract Value.
Death of Annuitant
If the Contract Owner is a non-natural owner (for example a custodian, trust or corporation) and the Annuitant dies before the Annuitization Date, a death benefit is payable to the beneficiary. Multiple beneficiaries will share the death benefit equally unless otherwise specified. If no beneficiaries survive the Annuitant, the contingent beneficiary receives the death benefit. Multiple contingent beneficiaries will share the death benefit equally unless otherwise specified. If no contingent beneficiaries survive the Annuitant, the Annuitant's estate will receive the death benefit.
If an Annuitant that is not a Contract Owner dies before the Annuitization date and the Contract Owner is not a non-natural owner the Contingent Annuitant becomes the Annuitant. If there is no Contingent Annuitant the Contract Owner must name a new Annuitant.
If the Annuitant dies after the Annuitization Date, any benefit that may be payable will be paid according to the selected annuity payment option.
A distribution of the Contract Value will be made in accordance with tax rules and as described in Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information. A Premium Based Sales Charge may apply.
Death Benefit Payment
The recipient of the death benefit may elect to receive the death benefit:
(1) in a lump sum;
(2) as an annuity (see Annuity Payment Options); or
(3) in any other manner permitted by law and approved by Nationwide.
Premium taxes may be deducted from death benefit proceeds. Nationwide will pay (or will begin to pay) the death benefit after it receives proof of death and the instructions as to the payment of the death benefit. Death benefit claims must be submitted to the Service Center. If the recipient of the death benefit does not elect the form in which to receive the death benefit payment, Nationwide will pay the death benefit in a lump sum. Contract Value will continue to be allocated according to the most recent allocation instructions until the death benefit is paid.
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If the contract has multiple beneficiaries entitled to receive a portion of the death benefit, the Contract Value will continue to be allocated according to the most recent allocation instructions until the first beneficiary provides Nationwide with all the information necessary to pay that beneficiary's portion of the death benefit proceeds. At the time the first beneficiary’s proceeds are paid, the remaining portion(s) of the death benefit proceeds that are allocated to Sub-Accounts will be reallocated to the available money market Sub-Account until instructions are received from the remaining beneficiary(ies).
Any Contract Value not allocated to the Sub-Accounts will remain invested and will not be reallocated to the available money market Sub-Account.
Death Benefit Calculations
An applicant may elect either the standard death benefit (Return of Premium) or an available death benefit option that is offered under the contract for an additional charge. If no election is made at the time of application, the death benefit will be the standard death benefit.
As indicated previously, the death benefit calculations discussed in this provision may not apply if the Contract Owner has been changed or the contract has been assigned.
The value of each component of the death benefit calculation will be determined as of the date of the Contract Owner's death, except for the Contract Value component, which will be determined as of the date Nationwide receives:
(1) proper proof of the Contract Owner's death;
(2) an election specifying the distribution method; and
(3) any state required form(s).
Nationwide reserves the right to refuse any purchase payment that would result in the cumulative total for all contracts issued by Nationwide or its affiliates or subsidiaries on the life of any one Annuitant or owned by any one Contract Owner to exceed $1,000,000. If a Contract Owner does not submit purchase payments in excess of $1,000,000, or if Nationwide has refused to accept purchase payments in excess of $1,000,000, the references in this provision to purchase payments in excess of $1,000,000 will not apply.
Annuity Commencement Date
The Annuity Commencement Date is the date on which annuity payments are scheduled to begin. Generally, the Contract Owner designates the Annuity Commencement Date at the time of application. If no Annuity Commencement Date is designated at the time of application, Nationwide will establish the Annuity Commencement Date as the date the Annuitant reaches age 90. The Contract Owner may initiate a change to the Annuity Commencement Date at any time. Additionally, Nationwide will notify the Contract Owner approximately 90 days before the impending Annuity Commencement Date of the opportunity to change the Annuity Commencement Date or annuitize the contract.
Any request to change the Annuity Commencement Date must meet the following requirements:
the request is made prior to annuitization;
the requested date is at least two years after the date of issue;
the requested date is not later than the Annuitant’s 90th birthday (or the 90th birthday of the oldest Annuitant if there are joint Annuitants) unless approved by Nationwide; and
the request for change is made in writing, submitted in good order to the Service Center, and approved by Nationwide.
Generally, Nationwide will not initiate annuitization until specifically directed to do so. However, for Non-Qualified Contracts only, Nationwide will automatically initiate annuitization within 45 days after the Annuity Commencement Date (whether default or otherwise), unless (1) Nationwide has had direct contact with the Contract Owner (indicating that the contract is not abandoned); or (2) the Contract Owner has taken some type of action which is inconsistent with the desire to annuitize.
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Annuitizing the Contract
Annuitization Date
The Annuitization Date is the date that annuity payments begin. If the Contract Owner has elected the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option, an election to begin annuity payments will terminate all benefits, conditions, guarantees, and charges associated with the elected option.
In addition, any optional death benefit that the Contract Owner elects will automatically terminate upon annuitization.
The Annuitization Date will be the first day of a calendar month unless otherwise agreed. Unless otherwise required by state law, the Annuitization Date must be at least two years after the contract is issued, but may not be later than either:
the age (or date) specified in the contract; or
the age (or date) specified by state law, where applicable.
The Internal Revenue Code may require that distributions be made prior to the Annuitization Date (see Appendix C: Contract Types and Tax Information).
Annuitization
Annuitization is the period during which annuity payments are received. It is irrevocable once payments have begun. Upon arrival of the Annuitization Date, the Annuitant must choose an annuity payment option. Annuity purchase rates are used to determine the amount of the annuity payments based upon the annuity payment option elected. Actual purchase rates used to determine annuity payments will be those in effect on the Annuitization Date, and will not be less than the guaranteed minimum purchase rates as provided in the contract.
Nationwide guarantees that each payment under a fixed payment annuity will be the same throughout annuitization.
The Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service and the Static Asset Allocation Models are not available after annuitization.
Any allocations in the Sub-Accounts that are to be annuitized as a fixed payment annuity must be transferred to the Fixed Account prior to the Annuitization Date.
Fixed Annuity Payments
Fixed annuity payments provide for level annuity payments. Premium taxes are deducted prior to determining fixed annuity payments. The fixed annuity payments will remain level unless the annuity payment option provides otherwise.
Frequency and Amount of Annuity Payments
Annuity payments are based on the annuity payment option elected.
If the net amount to be annuitized is less than $2,000, Nationwide reserves the right to pay this amount in a lump sum instead of periodic annuity payments.
Nationwide reserves the right to change the frequency of payments if the amount of any payment becomes less than $100. The payment frequency will be changed to an interval that will result in payments of at least $100. Nationwide will send annuity payments no later than seven days after each annuity payment date.
Annuity Payment Options
The Annuitant must elect an annuity payment option before the Annuitization Date. If the Annuitant does not elect an annuity payment option by that date, a fixed payment Single Life with a 20 Year Term Certain annuity payment option will be assumed as the automatic form of payment upon annuitization. Once elected or assumed, the annuity payment option may not be changed.
Not all of the annuity payment options may be available in all states. Additionally, the annuity payment options available may be limited based on the Annuitant's age (and the joint Annuitant's age, if applicable) or requirements under the Internal Revenue Code.
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Nationwide reserves the right to refuse any purchase payment that would result in the cumulative total for all contracts issued by Nationwide or its affiliates or subsidiaries on the life of any one Annuitant or owned by any one Contract Owner to exceed $1,000,000. If a Contract Owner does not submit purchase payments in excess of $1,000,000, or if Nationwide has refused to accept purchase payments in excess of $1,000,000, the references in this provision to purchase payments in excess of $1,000,000 will not apply. If the Contract Owner is permitted to submit purchase payments in excess of $1,000,000, additional restrictions apply, as follows.
Annuity Payment Options for Contracts with Total Purchase Payments and Contract Value Annuitized Less Than or Equal to $2,000,000
If, at the Annuitization Date, the total of all purchase payments made to the contract and the Contract Value annuitized is less than or equal to $2,000,000, the annuity payment options available are:
Single Life;
Standard Joint and Survivor; and
Single Life with a 10 or 20 Year Term Certain.
Each of the annuity payment options is discussed more thoroughly below.
Single Life
The Single Life annuity payment option provides for annuity payments to be paid during the lifetime of the Annuitant. This option is not available if the Annuitant is 86 or older on the Annuitization Date.
Payments will cease with the last payment before the Annuitant's death. For example, if the Annuitant dies before the second annuity payment date, the Annuitant will receive only one payment. The Annuitant will only receive two annuity payments if he or she dies before the third payment date, and so on. No death benefit will be paid.
No withdrawals other than the scheduled annuity payments are permitted.
Standard Joint and Survivor
The Standard Joint and Survivor annuity payment option provides for annuity payments to continue during the joint lifetimes of the Annuitant and joint Annuitant. After the death of either the Annuitant or joint Annuitant, payments will continue for the life of the survivor. This option is not available if the Annuitant or joint Annuitant is 86 or older on the Annuitization Date.
Payments will cease with the last payment due prior to the death of the last survivor of the Annuitant and joint Annuitant. As is the case of the Single Life annuity payment option, there is no guaranteed number of payments. Therefore, it is possible that if the Annuitant dies before the second annuity payment date, the Annuitant will receive only one annuity payment. No death benefit will be paid.
No withdrawals other than the scheduled annuity payments are permitted.
Single Life with a 10 or 20 Year Term Certain
The Single Life with a 10 or 20 Year Term Certain annuity payment option provides that monthly annuity payments will be paid during the Annuitant's lifetime or for the term selected, whichever is longer. The term may be either 10 or 20 years.
If the Annuitant dies before the end of the 10 or 20 year term, payments will be paid to the beneficiary for the remainder of the term.
No withdrawals other than the scheduled annuity payments are permitted.
Any Other Option
Annuity payment options not set forth in this provision may be available. Any annuity payment option not set forth in this provision must be approved by Nationwide.
Annuity Payment Options for Contracts with Total Purchase Payments and/or Contract Value Annuitized Greater Than $2,000,000
If, at the Annuitization Date, the total of all purchase payments made to the contract and/or the Contract Value to be annuitized is greater than $2,000,000, Nationwide may limit the annuity payment option to the longer of:
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(1) a Fixed Life Annuity with a 20 Year Term Certain; or
(2) a Fixed Life Annuity with a Term Certain to Age 95.
Annuitization of Amounts Greater than $5,000,000
Additionally, Nationwide may limit the amount that may be annuitized on a single life to $5,000,000. If the total amount to be annuitized is greater than $5,000,000 under this contract and/or for all Nationwide issued annuity contracts with the same Annuitant, the Contract Owner must:
(1) reduce the amount to be annuitized to $5,000,000 or less by taking a partial withdrawal from the contract;
(2) reduce the amount to be annuitized to $5,000,000 or less by exchanging the portion of the Contract Value in excess of $5,000,000 to another annuity contract; or
(3) annuitize the portion of the Contract Value in excess of $5,000,000 under an annuity payment option with a term certain, if available.
Statements and Reports
Nationwide’s default delivery method is U.S. mail and Nationwide will deliver required documents by U.S. mail unless other delivery methods (e.g. electronic delivery) are permitted by law or regulation. Therefore, Contract Owners should promptly notify the Service Center of any address change.
Nationwide will mail to Contract Owners:
statements showing the contract's quarterly activity; and
confirmation statements showing transactions that affect the contract's value. Confirmation statements will not be sent for recurring transactions (i.e., Dollar Cost Averaging or salary reduction programs). Instead, confirmation of recurring transactions will appear in the contract's quarterly statements; and
Contract Owners can receive information from Nationwide faster and reduce the amount of mail received by signing up for Nationwide's eDelivery program. Nationwide will notify Contract Owners by email when important documents (statements, prospectuses, and other documents) are ready for a Contract Owner to view, print, or download from Nationwide's secure server. To choose this option, go to: www.nationwide.com.
Contract Owners should review statements and confirmations carefully. All errors or corrections must be reported to Nationwide immediately to assure proper crediting to the contract. Unless Nationwide is notified within 30 days of receipt of the statement, Nationwide will assume statements and confirmation statements are correct.
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING DELIVERY OF SECURITY OWNER DOCUMENTS
When multiple copies of the same disclosure document(s), such as prospectuses, supplements, proxy statements, and semi-annual and annual reports are required to be mailed to multiple Contract Owners in the same household, Nationwide will mail only one copy of each document, unless notified otherwise by the Contract Owner(s). Household delivery will continue for the life of the contracts.
A Contract Owner can revoke their consent to household delivery and reinstitute individual delivery by contacting the Service Center. Nationwide will reinstitute individual delivery within 30 days after receiving such notification.
Legal Proceedings
Nationwide Life Insurance Company
Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. (NFS, or collectively with its subsidiaries, (the "Company") was formed in November 1996. NFS is the holding company for Nationwide Life Insurance Company (NLIC), Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company (NLAIC) and other companies that comprise the life insurance and retirement savings operations of the Nationwide group of companies (Nationwide). This group includes Nationwide Financial Network (NFN), an affiliated distribution network that markets directly to its customer base. NFS is incorporated in Delaware and maintains its principal executive offices in Columbus, Ohio.
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The Company is subject to legal and regulatory proceedings in the ordinary course of its business. These include proceedings specific to the Company and proceedings generally applicable to business practices in the industries in which the Company operates. The outcomes of these proceedings cannot be predicted due to their complexity, scope, and many uncertainties. The Company believes, however, that based on currently known information, the ultimate outcome of all pending legal and regulatory proceedings is not likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position. The Company maintains Professional Liability Insurance and Director and Officer Liability insurance policies that may cover losses for certain legal and regulatory proceedings. The Company will make adequate provision for any probable and reasonably estimable recoveries under such policies.
The various businesses conducted by the Company are subject to oversight by numerous federal and state regulatory entities, including but not limited to the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the Department of Labor, the Internal Revenue Service, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and state insurance authorities. Such regulatory entities may, in the normal course of business, be engaged in general or targeted inquiries, examinations and investigations of the Company and/or its affiliates. With respect to all such scrutiny directed at the Company or their affiliates, the Company is cooperating with regulators.
Nationwide Investment Services Corporation
The general distributor, NISC (the "Company"), is subject to legal and regulatory proceedings in the ordinary course of its business. These include proceedings specific to the Company and proceedings generally applicable to business practices in the industries in which the Company operates. The outcomes of these proceedings cannot be predicted due to their complexity, scope and many uncertainties. The Company believes, however, that based on currently known information, the ultimate outcome of all pending legal and regulatory proceedings is not likely to have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position. The Company has agreements with Nationwide Life Insurance Company (NLIC) under which, NLIC pays all litigation costs on behalf of the Company. Should NLIC be unable or unwilling to pay these costs in the future, the Company would be liable for such costs.
The various businesses conducted by the Company are subject to oversight by numerous federal and state regulatory entities, including but not limited to the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the Department of Labor, the Internal Revenue Service, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and state insurance authorities. Such regulatory entities may, in the normal course of business, be engaged in general or targeted inquiries, examinations and investigations of the Company and/or its affiliates. With respect to all such scrutiny directed at the Company or its affiliates, the Company is cooperating with regulators.
Financial Statements
Financial statements for the Variable Account and financial statements and schedules of Nationwide are located in the Statement of Additional Information. A current Statement of Additional Information may be obtained, without charge, by contacting the Service Center, or can be found online at https://vpx.broadridge.com/GetContract1.asp?clientid=nwvpx&fundid=63890A173..
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Appendix A: Underlying Mutual Funds Available Under the Contract
The following is a list of underlying mutual funds available under the contract. More information about the underlying mutual funds is available in the prospectuses for the underlying mutual funds, which may be amended from time to time and can be found online at [___________________].This information can also be obtained at no cost by calling 1-800-848-6331 or by sending an email request to IASVCTR@nationwide.com. Depending on the optional benefits chosen, access to certain underlying mutual funds may be limited.
The current expenses and performance information below reflects fees and expenses of the underlying mutual funds, but do not reflect the other fees and expenses that the contract may charge. Expenses would be higher and performance would be lower if these other charges were included. Each underlying mutual fund’s past performance is not necessarily an indication of future performance.
Type Underlying Mutual Fund and Adviser/Subadviser Current
Expenses
Average Annual Total
Returns
(as of 12/31/2020)
1 year 5 year 10 year
Small Cap Stocks AllianceBernstein Variable Products Series Fund, Inc. - AB VPS Small/Mid Cap Value Portfolio: Class B
Investment Adviser: AllianceBernstein L.P.
1.08% 3.05% 8.07% 8.48%
Bonds American Century Variable Portfolios II, Inc. - American Century VP Inflation Protection Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: American Century Investment Management, Inc.
0.72% 9.55% 4.64% 3.34%
Mid Cap Stocks American Century Variable Portfolios, Inc. - American Century VP Mid Cap Value Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: American Century Investment Management, Inc.
1.00% 1.11% 9.2% 10.28%
Bonds BlackRock Variable Series Funds II, Inc. - BlackRock High Yield V.I. Fund: Class III
Investment Adviser: BlackRock Advisors, LLC
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.
0.82% 7.07% 7.6% 6.27%
Bonds BlackRock Variable Series Funds II, Inc. - BlackRock Total Return V.I. Fund: Class III
Investment Adviser: BlackRock Advisors, LLC
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Financial Management, Inc.
0.83% 8.57% 4.47% 4.07%
Bonds Columbia Funds Variable Series Trust II - Columbia Variable Portfolio - High Yield Bond Fund: Class 2 (formerly, Columbia Funds Variable Series Trust II - Columbia VP High Yield Bond Fund: Class 2)
Investment Adviser: Columbia Management Investment Advisors, LLC
0.92% 6.31% 7.11% 6.4%
Small Cap Stocks Delaware Variable Insurance Product Trust - Delaware VIP Small Cap Value Series: Service Class
Investment Adviser: Delaware Management Company, Inc.
1.08% -2.18% 8.74% 8.38%
Bonds Eaton Vance Variable Trust - Eaton Vance VT Floating-Rate Income Fund: Initial Class
Investment Adviser: Eaton Vance Management
1.20% 2% 4.23% 3.42%
Asset Allocation Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - VIP Balanced Portfolio: Service Class 2
Investment Adviser: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
0.73% 22.13% 12.47% 10.1%
Large Cap Stocks Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - VIP Contrafund® Portfolio: Service Class 2
Investment Adviser: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
0.86% 30.23% 15.9% 13.23%
Large Cap Stocks Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - VIP Equity-Income Portfolio: Service Class 2
Investment Adviser: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
0.78% 6.44% 10.41% 9.89%
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Type Underlying Mutual Fund and Adviser/Subadviser Current
Expenses
Average Annual Total
Returns
(as of 12/31/2020)
1 year 5 year 10 year
Large Cap Stocks Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - VIP Growth & Income Portfolio: Service Class 2
Investment Adviser: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
0.79% 7.59% 11.34% 11.37%
Large Cap Stocks Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - VIP Growth Portfolio: Service Class 2
Investment Adviser: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
0.87% 43.55% 21.02% 16.96%
Bonds Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - VIP Investment Grade Bond Portfolio: Service Class 2
Investment Adviser: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
0.64% 9.16% 5.18% 4.08%
International Stocks Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - VIP Overseas Portfolio: Service Class 2
Investment Adviser: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
Sub-Adviser: FMR Co., Inc. (FMRC), FMR Investment Management (UK) Limited (FMR UK), and other investment advisers serve as sub-advisers for the fund.
1.04% 15.33% 8.98% 6.56%
International Stocks Invesco - Invesco V.I. Global Fund: Series II (formerly, Invesco Oppenheimer V.I. Global Fund: Series II)
Investment Adviser: Invesco Advisers, Inc.
1.02% 27.34% 14.56% 11.36%
Small Cap Stocks Invesco - Invesco V.I. Main Street Small Cap Fund: Series II (formerly, Invesco Oppenheimer V.I. Main Street Small Cap Fund: Series II)
Investment Adviser: Invesco Advisers, Inc.
1.05% 19.64% 12.59% 11.85%
Mid Cap Stocks Ivy Variable Insurance Portfolios - Mid Cap Growth: Class II
Investment Adviser: Ivy Investment Management Company
1.10% 49% 22.57% 15.22%
Bonds Janus Aspen Series - Janus Henderson Flexible Bond Portfolio: Service Shares
Investment Adviser: Janus Capital Management LLC
0.82% 10.25% 4.67% 4.19%
Bonds JPMorgan Insurance Trust - JPMorgan Insurance Trust Core Bond Portfolio: Class 2
Investment Adviser: J.P. Morgan Investment Management Inc.
0.81% 7.68% 4.04% 3.61%
Bonds Lord Abbett Series Fund, Inc. - Total Return Portfolio: Class VC
Investment Adviser: Lord, Abbett & Co. LLC
0.72% 7.43% 4.53% 4.22%
Small Cap Stocks MFS® Variable Insurance Trust - MFS New Discovery Series: Service Class
Investment Adviser: Massachusetts Financial Services Company
1.12% 45.58% 22.68% 14.41%
Large Cap Stocks MFS® Variable Insurance Trust - MFS Value Series: Service Class
Investment Adviser: Massachusetts Financial Services Company
0.96% 3.22% 9.86% 10.57%
International Stocks MFS® Variable Insurance Trust II - MFS International Intrinsic Value Portfolio: Service Class
Investment Adviser: Massachusetts Financial Services Company
1.15% 20.21% 12.42% 10.87%
International Stocks MFS® Variable Insurance Trust II - MFS Research International Portfolio: Service Class
Investment Adviser: Massachusetts Financial Services Company
1.21% 12.71% 9.34% 5.71%
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Type Underlying Mutual Fund and Adviser/Subadviser Current
Expenses
Average Annual Total
Returns
(as of 12/31/2020)
1 year 5 year 10 year
Mid Cap Stocks MFS® Variable Insurance Trust III - MFS Mid Cap Value Portfolio: Service Class
Investment Adviser: Massachusetts Financial Services Company
1.06% 3.67% 9.47% 10.58%
International Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT AllianzGI International Growth Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Allianz Global Investors U.S. LLC
1.22% 50.76% 15.36% 9.73%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT American Funds Asset Allocation Fund: Class II (formerly, Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - American Funds NVIT Asset Allocation Fund: Class II)
Investment Adviser: Capital Research and Management Company, Nationwide Fund Advisors
0.94% 12% 10.16% 9.49%
Bonds Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT American Funds Bond Fund: Class II (formerly, Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - American Funds NVIT Bond Fund: Class II)
Investment Adviser: Capital Research and Management Company, Nationwide Fund Advisors
0.85% 9.21% 4.52% 3.51%
International Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT American Funds Global Growth Fund: Class II (formerly, Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - American Funds NVIT Global Growth Fund: Class II)
Investment Adviser: Capital Research and Management Company, Nationwide Fund Advisors
1.21% 29.93% 15.79% 12.39%
Large Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT American Funds Growth Fund: Class II (formerly, Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - American Funds NVIT Growth Fund: Class II)
Investment Adviser: Capital Research and Management Company, Nationwide Fund Advisors
1.00% 51.49% 22.27% 16.38%
Large Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT American Funds Growth-Income Fund: Class II (formerly, Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - American Funds NVIT Growth-Income Fund: Class II)
Investment Adviser: Capital Research and Management Company, Nationwide Fund Advisors
0.94% 13.08% 13.49% 12.31%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Aggressive Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
1.14% 12.56% 10.08% 8.86%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Capital Appreciation Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
1.03% 11.47% 8.88% 7.71%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Moderate Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Nationwide Asset Management, LLC
1.01% 10.69% 8.13% 7.05%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Moderately Aggressive Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
1.08% 12.26% 9.54% 8.23%
International Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Columbia Overseas Value Fund: Class Z
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC
1.15% 5.18% 4.36% 3.23%
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Type Underlying Mutual Fund and Adviser/Subadviser Current
Expenses
Average Annual Total
Returns
(as of 12/31/2020)
1 year 5 year 10 year
Bonds Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Core Bond Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Nationwide Asset Management, LLC
0.85% 6.77% 4.75% 3.87%
Bonds Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Core Plus Bond Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Neuberger Berman Investment Advisers LLC
0.9% 9.04% 4.78% 3.9%
Bonds Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Federated High Income Bond Fund: Class I (formerly, Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - Federated NVIT High Income Bond Fund: Class I)
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Federated Investment Management Company
0.91% 6.02% 7.54% 6.22%
Bonds Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Government Bond Fund: Class I
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Nationwide Asset Management, LLC
0.70% 6.08% 2.99% 2.53%
Cash Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Government Money Market Fund: Class I
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Federated Investment Management Company
0.49% 0.24% 0.77% 0.38%
International Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT International Index Fund: Class VIII
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Investment Management, LLC
0.85% 7.13% 6.88% 4.87%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Aggressive Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
0.88% 12.82% 10.53% 9.28%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Capital Appreciation Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
0.84% 11.62% 9.14% 7.97%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Moderate Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
0.83% 10.34% 8.2% 7.22%
Asset Allocation Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Moderately Aggressive Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
0.86% 12.33% 9.83% 8.54%
Bonds Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Fixed Income ETF Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Investment Management, LLC
0.75% 7.12%    
International Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Global Equity ETF Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Investment Management, LLC
0.76% 15.76%    
Large Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Mellon Dynamic U.S. Core Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Mellon Investments Corporation
0.86% 18.53% 16.04% 14.19%
Mid Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Mid Cap Index Fund: Class I
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Investment Management, LLC
0.41% 13.11% 11.89% 11.04%
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Type Underlying Mutual Fund and Adviser/Subadviser Current
Expenses
Average Annual Total
Returns
(as of 12/31/2020)
1 year 5 year 10 year
Mid Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Multi-Manager Mid Cap Value Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: American Century Investment Management, Inc. and Thompson, Siegel & Walmsley LLC
1.03% -1.14% 7.31% 9.57%
Small Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Multi-Manager Small Cap Growth Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Invesco Advisers, Inc. and Wellington Management Company, LLP
1.34% 40.51% 18.65% 14.62%
Small Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Multi-Manager Small Cap Value Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Jacobs Levy Equity Management, Inc. and WCM Investment Management, LLC
1.31% 4.95% 7.12% 8.43%
Small Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Multi-Manager Small Company Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Jacobs Levy Equity Management, Inc. and Invesco Advisers, Inc.
1.34% 22.36% 13.15% 10.81%
Large Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Newton Sustainable U.S. Equity Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Newton Investment Management Limited
0.87% 13.34% 11.87% 11.15%
Specialty Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Real Estate Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Wellington Management Company LLP
1.18% -5.7% 6.07% 7.45%
Large Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT S&P 500® Index Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Investment Management, LLC
0.50% 17.85% 14.65% 13.31%
Short-term Bonds Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Short Term Bond Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Nationwide Asset Management, LLC
0.79% 2.83% 2.36% 1.68%
Small Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Small Cap Index Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: BlackRock Investment Management, LLC
0.61% 19.32% 12.78% 10.8%
Mid Cap Stocks Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Wells Fargo Discovery Fund: Class II
Investment Adviser: Nationwide Fund Advisors
Sub-Adviser: Wells Capital Management, Inc.
1.07% 60.5% 22.52% 15.79%
Short-term Bonds PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust - Low Duration Portfolio: Advisor Class
Investment Adviser: PIMCO
0.79% 2.89% 1.91% 1.69%
Short-term Bonds PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust - Short-Term Portfolio: Advisor Class
Investment Adviser: PIMCO
0.72% 2.14% 2.17% 1.6%
Bonds PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust - Total Return Portfolio: Advisor Class
Investment Adviser: PIMCO
0.79% 8.54% 4.65% 3.83%
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Type Underlying Mutual Fund and Adviser/Subadviser Current
Expenses
Average Annual Total
Returns
(as of 12/31/2020)
1 year 5 year 10 year
International Stocks Putnam Variable Trust - Putnam VT International Equity Fund: Class IB
Investment Adviser: Putnam Investment Management, LLC
Sub-Adviser: The Putnam Advisory Company, LLC
1.11% 12.1% 6.98% 5.43%
International Stocks Putnam Variable Trust - Putnam VT International Value Fund: Class IB
Investment Adviser: Putnam Investment Management, LLC
Sub-Adviser: Putnam Investments Limited and The Putnam Advisory Company, LLC
1.19% 3.94% 5.35% 3.97%
Large Cap Stocks Putnam Variable Trust - Putnam VT Large Cap Value Fund: Class IB (formerly, Putnam Variable Trust - Putnam VT Equity Income Fund: Class IB)
Investment Adviser: Putnam Investment Management, LLC
Sub-Adviser: Putnam Investments Limited
0.82% 5.8% 11.25% 11.6%
Small Cap Stocks Wells Fargo Variable Trust - VT Small Cap Growth Fund: Class 2
Investment Adviser: Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC
Sub-Adviser: Wells Capital Management, Inc.
1.18% 57.78% 22.03% 14.83%
* Indicates amount reflected includes reimbursements and waivers.
Income Benefit Investment Options
Unless the Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service is elected, only certain investment options are available to Contract Owners that elect the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core optional benefit. The investment options available under the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option are chosen by Nationwide based on each investment option’s risk characteristics. The permitted investment options are more conservative than those that are not permitted. This helps Nationwide manage its obligation to provide Contract Owners with the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option by reducing the likelihood that it will have to make unanticipated payments. By electing an optional living benefit and accepting the limited menu of investment options, Contract Owners may be foregoing investment gains that could otherwise be realized by investing in riskier investment options that are not available under the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option. Only the investment options shown below are available for election.
Investment Option Nationwide
Lifetime
Income
Rider Plus
Core
Custom Choice Asset Rebalancing Service X
Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund - Fidelity VIP Freedom Fund 2010 Portfolio: Service Class 2 X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Balanced Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Conservative Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Managed Growth & Income Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Managed Growth Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Moderate Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Blueprint(SM) Moderately Conservative Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Balanced Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Conservative Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Managed Growth & Income Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Managed Growth Fund: Class II X
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Investment Option Nationwide
Lifetime
Income
Rider Plus
Core
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Moderate Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Investor Destinations Moderately Conservative Fund: Class II X
Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT Managed American Funds Asset Allocation Fund: Class II X
Static Asset Allocation Models - American Funds Managed Moderate Option (40% NVIT - NVIT Managed American Funds Growth-Income Fund, 40% NVIT - NVIT Managed American Funds Asset Allocation Fund and 20% NVIT - NVIT American Funds Bond Fund) X
Static Asset Allocation Models - American Funds Moderate Option (40% NVIT American Funds Growth-Income Fund, 40% NVIT American Funds Asset Allocation Fund and 20% NVIT American Funds Bond Fund) X
Static Asset Allocation Models – BlackRock Moderate Option (40% NVIT BlackRock Equity Dividend V.I. Fund, 33% NVIT BlackRock Managed Global Allocation Fund and 27% BlackRock Total Return V.I. Fund) X
Static Asset Allocation Models - Fidelity® VIP Funds Moderate Option (40% Fidelity VIP Growth & Income Portfolio - Service Class 2, 30% Fidelity VIP Balanced Portfolio - Service Class 2 and 30% Fidelity VIP Investment Grade Bond Portfolio - Service Class 2) X
Static Asset Allocation Models - J.P. Morgan Moderate Option (40% NVIT - NVIT J.P.Morgan Disciplined Equity Fund, 40% NVIT - NVIT J.P. Morgan Mozaic℠ Multi-Asset Fund and 20% JPMorgan Insurance Trust Core Bond Portfolio) X
Static Asset Allocation Models - Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust iShares Moderate Option (60% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Global Equity ETF Fund: Class II and 40% Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust - NVIT iShares® Fixed Income ETF Fund: Class II) X
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Appendix B: State Variations
Due to state law variations, the options and benefits described in this prospectus may vary or may not be available depending on the state in which the contract is issued. Possible state law variations include, but are not limited to, minimum initial and subsequent purchase payment amounts, age issuance limitations, availability of certain investment options, optional benefits, free look rights, annuity payment options, ownership and interests in the contract, assignment, death benefit calculations, and CDSC-free withdrawal privileges. This prospectus describes all the material features of the contract. State variations are subject to change without notice at any time. To review a copy of the contract and any endorsements, contact the Service Center.
State State Law Variations
California • The Enhanced Surrender Value for Terminal Illness is not available.
• Right to Examine and Cancel – Refund of the contract value in full, without any deductions for any applicable policy fees. For Seniors: 30 day Right to Examine and Cancel. Money will be placed in a fixed account or money-market, stock or bond, unless directed otherwise. If invested in a stock or bond, refund will be the policy’s account value, plus any policy fees paid.
• Joint Owners are not limited to spouses.
• Contingent Deferred Sales Charge is referred to as Surrender Charge.
• The Long-Term Care/Nursing Home and Terminal Illness Waiver is not available.
Delaware •  Joint Owners are not limited to spouses.
Florida • Right to Examine and Cancel period is 21 days; Refund the payment, plus any fees and/or charges deducted from the purchase payment in full. The amount returned will not be less than the contract value or premium paid.
• Total cumulative Purchase Payments for the contract may not exceed $2,000,000 unless Nationwide agrees in writing to accept Purchase Payments exceeding $2,000,000. This is applicable to all riders.
• Surrenders – Surrender payments made 30 days after the date that the request is received by Nationwide shall include interest.
• Annuity Commencement Date – Must be at least one year after the Date of Issue.
• Asset rebalancing fee cannot exceed $25 per year.
• Transfer fees will vary by mutual fund but will never exceed 5.0% of the transferred amount.
• Florida does not allow restrictions on assignment.
Illinois • Joint Owners are not limited to spouses.
Montana •  Contracts are issued on a unisex basis.
North Dakota • Right to Examine and Cancel period is 20 days.
New Jersey • Joint Owners are not limited to spouses.
Oregon • Joint Owners are not limited to spouses.
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Types of Contracts
The contracts described in this prospectus are classified according to the tax treatment to which they are subject under the Internal Revenue Code (the "Code"). Following is a general description of the various contract types. Eligibility requirements, tax benefits (if any), limitations, and other features of the contracts will differ depending on contract type.
Non-Qualified Contracts
A non-qualified contract is a contract that does not qualify for certain tax benefits under the Code, such as deductibility of purchase payments, and which is not an IRA, Roth IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA.
Upon the death of the owner of a non-qualified contract, mandatory distribution requirements are imposed to ensure distribution of the entire balance in the contract within a required period.
Non-qualified contracts that are owned by natural persons allow the deferral of taxation on the income earned in the contract until it is distributed or deemed to be distributed. Non-qualified contracts that are owned by non-natural persons, such as trusts, corporations, and partnerships are generally subject to current income tax on the income earned inside the contract, unless the non-natural person owns the contract as an agent of a natural person.
Individual Retirement Annuities (IRAs)
IRAs are contracts that satisfy the provisions of Section 408(b) of the Code, including the following requirements:
the contract is not transferable by the owner;
the premiums are not fixed;
if the contract owner is younger than age 50, the annual premium cannot exceed $6,000; if the contract owner is age 50 or older, the annual premium cannot exceed $7,000 (although rollovers of greater amounts from Qualified Plans, Tax Sheltered Annuities, certain 457 governmental plans, and other IRAs can be received);
certain minimum distribution requirements must be satisfied after the owner attains the age of 70½ prior to January 1, 2020. See Tax Changes for the change the SECURE Act made to this requirement;
the entire interest of the owner in the contract is nonforfeitable; and
after the death of the owner, additional distribution requirements may be imposed to ensure distribution of the entire balance in the contract within the statutory period of time.
Depending on the circumstance of the owner, all or a portion of the contributions made to the account may be deducted for federal income tax purposes.
IRAs may receive rollover contributions from other individual retirement accounts, other individual retirement annuities, tax sheltered annuities, certain 457 governmental plans, and qualified retirement plans (including 401(k) plans).
When the owner of an IRA attains the age of 70½ prior to January 1, 2020, the Code requires that certain minimum distributions be made. The SECURE Act, which was enacted on December 20, 2019, increased the age an IRA owner is required to begin certain minimum distributions from age 70½ to age 72 for those who turn age 70½ on or after January 1, 2020. In addition, upon the death of the owner of an IRA, mandatory distribution requirements are imposed by the Code to ensure distribution of the entire contract value within the required statutory period. Due to the Treasury Regulation’s valuation rules, the amount used to compute the mandatory distributions may exceed the contract value.
Failure to make the mandatory distributions can result in an additional penalty tax of 50% of the excess of the amount required to be distributed over the amount that was actually distributed.
For further details regarding IRAs, refer to the disclosure statement provided when the IRA was established and the annuity contract’s IRA endorsement.
As used herein, the term "individual retirement plans" shall refer to both individual retirement annuities and individual retirement accounts that are described in Section 408 of the Code.
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One-Rollover-Per-Year Limitation
A contract owner can receive a distribution from an IRA and roll it into another IRA within 60 days from the date of the distribution and not have the amount of the distribution included in taxable income. Only one rollover per year from a contract owner’s IRA is allowed. The one-year period begins on the date the contract owner receives the IRA distribution, and not on the date the IRA was rolled over.
The one-rollover-per-year limitation applies in the aggregate to all the IRAs that a taxpayer owns. This means that a contract owner cannot make an IRA rollover distribution if, within the previous one-year period, an IRA rollover distribution was taken from any other IRAs owned by the taxpayer. Also, rollovers between an individual’s Roth IRAs would prevent a separate rollover between the individual’s traditional IRAs within the one-year period, and vice versa.
Direct transfers of IRA funds between IRA trustees are not subject to the one rollover per year limitation because such transfers are not considered rollover distributions. Also, a rollover from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA (a conversion) is not subject to the one roll over per year limitation, and such a rollover is disregarded in applying the one rollover per year limitation to other rollovers.
Roth IRAs
Roth IRA contracts are contracts that satisfy the provisions of Section 408A of the Code, including the following requirements:
the contract is not transferable by the owner;
the premiums are not fixed;
if the contract owner is younger than age 50, the annual premium cannot exceed $6,000; if the contract owner is age 50 or older, the annual premium cannot exceed $7,000 (although rollovers of greater amounts from other Roth IRAs and other individual retirement plans can be received);
the entire interest of the owner in the contract is nonforfeitable; and
after the death of the owner, certain distribution requirements may be imposed to ensure distribution of the entire balance in the contract within the statutory period of time.
A Roth IRA can receive a rollover from an individual retirement plan or another eligible retirement plan; however, the amount rolled over from the individual retirement plan or other eligible retirement plan to the Roth IRA is required to be included in the owner's federal gross income at the time of the rollover, and will be subject to federal income tax. However, a rollover or conversion of an amount from an IRA or eligible retirement plan after December 31, 2017 cannot be recharacterized back to an IRA.
For further details regarding Roth IRAs, please refer to the disclosure statement provided when the Roth IRA was established and the annuity contract’s IRA endorsement.
Simplified Employee Pension IRAs (SEP IRA)
A SEP IRA is a written plan established by an employer for the benefit of employees which permits the employer to make contributions to an IRA established for the benefit of each employee.
An employee may make deductible contributions to a SEP IRA subject to the same restrictions and limitations as an IRA. In addition, the employer may make contributions to the SEP IRA, subject to dollar and percentage limitations imposed by both the Code and the written plan.
A SEP IRA plan must satisfy:
minimum participation rules;
top-heavy contribution rules;
nondiscriminatory allocation rules; and
requirements regarding a written allocation formula.
In addition, the plan cannot restrict withdrawals of non-elective contributions, and must restrict withdrawals of elective contributions before March 15th of the following year.
When the owner of a SEP IRA attains the age of 70½ prior to January 1, 2020, the Code requires that certain minimum distributions be made. The SECURE Act, which was enacted on December 20, 2019, increased the age a SEP IRA owner is required to begin certain minimum distributions from age 70½ to age 72 for those who turn age 70½ on or after January
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1, 2020. Because of Treasury Regulation valuation rules, the amount used to compute the minimum distributions may exceed the contract value. In addition, upon the death of the owner of a SEP IRA, mandatory distribution requirements are imposed by the Code to ensure distribution of the entire contract value within the required statutory period.
Simple IRAs
A Simple IRA is an Individual Retirement Annuity that is funded exclusively by a qualified salary reduction arrangement and satisfies:
vesting requirements;
participation requirements; and
administrative requirements.
The funds contributed to a Simple IRA cannot be commingled with funds in other individual retirement plans or SEP IRAs.
A Simple IRA cannot receive rollover distributions except from another Simple IRA.
When the owner of a Simple IRA attains the age of 70½ prior to January 1, 2020, the Code requires that certain minimum distributions be made. The SECURE Act, which was enacted on December 20, 2019, increased the age a Simple IRA owner is required to begin certain minimum distributions from age 70½ to age 72 for those who turn age 70½ on or after January 1, 2020. Because of Treasury Regulation valuation rules, the amount used to compute the minimum distributions may exceed the contract value. In addition, upon the death of the owner of a Simple IRA, mandatory distribution requirements are imposed by the Code to ensure distribution of the entire contract value within the required statutory period.
Federal Tax Considerations
Federal Income Taxes
The tax consequences of purchasing a contract described in this prospectus will depend on:
the type of contract purchased;
the purposes for which the contract is purchased; and
the personal circumstances of individual investors having interests in the contracts.
Existing tax rules are subject to change and may affect individuals differently depending on their situation. Nationwide does not guarantee the tax status of any contracts or any transactions involving the contracts.
The following is a brief summary of some of the federal income tax considerations related to the types of contracts sold in connection with this prospectus. In addition to the federal income tax, distributions from annuity contracts may be subject to state and local income taxes. Nothing in this prospectus should be considered to be tax advice. Purchasers and prospective purchasers of the contract should consult a financial professional, tax advisor, or legal counsel to discuss the taxation and use of the contracts.
IRAs, SEP IRAs, and Simple IRAs
Distributions from IRAs, SEP IRAs, and Simple IRAs are generally taxed as ordinary income when received. If any of the amounts contributed to the Individual Retirement Annuity was non-deductible for federal income tax purposes, then a portion of each distribution is excludable from income.
If distributions of income from an IRA are made prior to the date that the owner attains the age of 59½ years, the income is subject to an additional penalty tax of 10% unless an exception applies. (For Simple IRAs, the 10% penalty is increased to 25% if the distribution is made during the 2-year period beginning on the date that the individual first participated in the Simple IRA.) The 10% penalty tax can be avoided if the distribution is:
made to a beneficiary on or after the death of the owner;
attributable to the owner becoming disabled (as defined in the Code);
part of a series of substantially equal periodic payments made not less frequently than annually for the life (or life expectancy) of the owner, or the joint lives (or joint life expectancies) of the owner and his or her designated beneficiary;
used for qualified higher education expenses; or
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used for expenses attributable to the purchase of a home for a qualified first-time buyer.
Other exceptions to the penalty tax may be available. If the contract owner dies before the contract is completely distributed, the balance will be included in the contract owner’s gross estate for tax purposes.
Roth IRAs
Distributions of earnings from Roth IRAs are taxable or nontaxable depending upon whether they are "qualified distributions" or "non-qualified distributions." A "qualified distribution" is one that is made after the Roth IRA has satisfied the five-year rule and meets one of the following requirements:
it is made on or after the date on which the contract owner attains age 59½;
it is made to a beneficiary (or the contract owner’s estate) on or after the death of the contract owner;
it is attributable to the contract owner’s disability; or
it is used for expenses attributable to the purchase of a home for a qualified first-time buyer.
The five-year rule is satisfied if a five taxable-year period has passed beginning with the first tax year in which a contribution is made to any Roth IRA established by the owner.
A qualified distribution is not included in gross income for federal income tax purposes.
A non-qualified distribution is not includable in gross income to the extent that the distribution, when added to all previous distributions, does not exceed the total amount of contributions made to the Roth IRA. Any non-qualified distribution in excess of total contributions is includable in the contract owner’s gross income as ordinary income in the year that it is distributed to the contract owner.
Special rules apply for Roth IRAs that have proceeds received from an individual retirement plan prior to January 1, 1999 if the owner elected the special four-year income averaging provisions that were in effect for 1998.
If non-qualified distributions of income from a Roth IRA are made prior to the date that the owner attains the age of 59½ years, the income is subject to an additional penalty tax of 10% unless an exception applies. The penalty tax can be avoided if the distribution is:
made to a beneficiary on or after the death of the owner;
attributable to the owner becoming disabled (as defined in the Code);
part of a series of substantially equal periodic payments made not less frequently than annually for the life (or life expectancy) of the owner, or the joint lives (or joint life expectancies) of the owner and his or her designated beneficiary;
for qualified higher education expenses; or
used for expenses attributable to the purchase of a home for a qualified first-time buyer.
Other exceptions to the penalty tax may be available. If the contract owner dies before the contract is completely distributed, the balance will be included in the contract owner’s gross estate for tax purposes.
Non-Qualified Contracts - Natural Persons as Contract Owners
Generally, the income earned inside a non-qualified annuity contract that is owned by a natural person is not taxable until it is distributed from the contract.
Distributions before the annuitization date are taxable to the contract owner to the extent that the cash value of the contract exceeds the investment in the contract at the time of the distribution. In general, the investment in the contract is equal to the purchase payments made with after-tax dollars reduced by any prior nontaxable distribution. Distributions, for this purpose, include full and partial surrenders, any portion of the contract that is assigned or pledged as collateral for a loan, amounts borrowed from the contract, or any portion of the contract that is transferred by gift. For these purposes, a transfer by gift may occur upon annuitization if the contract owner and the annuitant are not the same individual.
With respect to annuity distributions on or after the annuitization date, a portion of each annuity payment is excludable from taxable income. The amount excludable from each annuity payment is determined by multiplying the annuity payment by a fraction which is equal to the contract owner’s investment in the contract, divided by the expected return on the contract. Once the entire investment in the contract is recovered, all distributions are fully includable in income. The
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maximum amount excludable from income is the investment in the contract. If the annuitant dies before the entire investment in the contract has been excluded from income, and as a result of the annuitant's death no more payments are due under the contract, then the unrecovered investment in the contract may be deducted on his or her final tax return.
Commencing after December 31, 2010, the Code provides that if only a portion of a non-qualified annuity contract is annuitized for either (a) a period of 10 years or greater, or (b) for the life or lives of one or more persons, then the portion of the contract that has been annuitized would be treated as if it were a separate annuity contract. This means that an annuitization date can be established for a portion of the annuity contract (rather than requiring the entire contract to be annuitized at once) and the above description of the taxation of annuity distributions after the annuitization date would apply to the portion of the contract that has been annuitized. The investment in the contract is required to be allocated pro rata between the portion of the contract that is annuitized and the portion that is not. All other benefits under the contract (e.g., death benefit) would also be reduced pro rata. For example, if 1/3 of the cash value of the contract were to be annuitized, the death benefit would also be reduced by 1/3.
In determining the taxable amount of a distribution that is made prior to the annuitization date, all non-qualified deferred annuity contracts issued after October 21, 1988 by the same company to the same contract owner during the same calendar year will be treated as one annuity contract.
A special rule applies to distributions from contracts that have investments in the contract that were made prior to August 14, 1982. For those contracts, distributions that are made prior to the annuitization date are treated first as the nontaxable recovery of the investment in the contract as of that date. A distribution in excess of the amount of the investment in the contract as of August 14, 1982, will be treated as taxable income.
The Code imposes a penalty tax if a distribution is made before the contract owner reaches age 59½. The amount of the penalty is 10% of the portion of any distribution that is includable in gross income. The penalty tax does not apply if the distribution is:
the result of a contract owner’s death;
the result of a contract owner’s disability (as defined in the Code);
one of a series of substantially equal periodic payments made over the life (or life expectancy) of the contract owner or the joint lives (or joint life expectancies) of the contract owner and the beneficiary selected by the contract owner to receive payment under the annuity payment option selected by the contract owner; or
is allocable to an investment in the contract before August 14, 1982.
If the contract owner dies before the contract is completely distributed, the balance will be included in the contract owner’s gross estate for tax purposes.
Non-Qualified Contracts - Non-Natural Persons as Contract Owners
The previous discussion related to the taxation of non-qualified contracts owned by individuals. Different rules (the so-called "non-natural persons" rules) apply if the contract owner is not a natural person.
Generally, contracts owned by corporations, partnerships, trusts, and similar entities are not treated as annuity contracts for most purposes of the Code. Therefore, income earned under a non-qualified contract that is owned by a non-natural person is taxed as ordinary income during the taxable year in which it is earned. Taxation is not deferred, even if the income is not distributed out of the contract. The income is taxable as ordinary income, not capital gain.
The non-natural persons rules do not apply to all entity-owned contracts. For purposes of the non-natural persons rule, a contract that is owned by a non-natural person as an agent of an individual is treated as owned by the individual. This would cause the contract to be treated as an annuity under the Code, allowing tax deferral. However, this exception does not apply when the non-natural person is an employer that holds the contract under a non-qualified deferred compensation arrangement for one or more employees.
The non-natural persons rules also do not apply to contracts that are:
acquired by the estate of a decedent by reason of the death of the decedent;
issued in connection with certain qualified retirement plans and individual retirement plans;
purchased by an employer upon the termination of certain qualified retirement plans; or
immediate annuities within the meaning of Section 72(u) of the Code.
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If the annuitant, who is the individual treated as owning the contract, dies before the contract is completely distributed, the balance may be included in the annuitant’s gross estate for tax purposes, depending on the obligations that the non-natural owner may have owed to the annuitant.
Exchanges
As a general rule, federal income tax law treats exchanges of property in the same manner as a sale of the property. However, pursuant to Section 1035 of the Code, an annuity contract may be exchanged tax-free for another annuity contract, provided that the obligee (the person to whom the annuity obligation is owed) is the same for both contracts. If the exchange includes the receipt of other property, such as cash, in addition to another annuity contract, special rules may cause a portion of the transaction to be taxable to the extent of the value of the other property.
Tax Treatment of a Partial 1035 Exchange With Subsequent Withdrawal
IRS Rev. Proc. 2011-38 addresses the income tax consequences of the direct transfer of a portion of the cash value of an annuity contract in exchange for the issuance of a second annuity contract. A direct transfer that satisfies the revenue procedure will be treated as a tax-free exchange under Section 1035 of the Code if, for a period of at least 180 days from the date of the direct transfer, there are no distributions or surrenders from either annuity contract involved in the exchange. In addition, the 180-day period will be deemed to have been satisfied with respect to amounts received as an annuity for a period of 10 years or more, or as an annuity for the life of one or more persons. The taxation of distributions (other than distributions described in the immediately preceding sentence) received from either contract within the 180-day period will be determined using general tax principles to determine the substance of those payments. For example, they could be treated as taxable "boot" in an otherwise tax-free exchange, or as a distribution from the new contract. Please discuss any tax consequences concerning any contemplated or completed transactions with a professional tax advisor.
Taxation of Lifetime Withdrawals Under the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option
While the tax treatment for withdrawals under the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option is not clear under federal tax law, Nationwide intends to treat withdrawals under that option as taxable to the extent that the cash value of the contract exceeds the contract owner's investment in the contract at the time of the withdrawal. Specifically, Nationwide intends to treat the following amount of each withdrawal as a taxable distribution:
The greater of:
(1) A–C; or
(2) B–C,
Where:
A = the contract value immediately before the withdrawal;
B = the guaranteed annual benefit amount immediately before the withdrawal; and
C = the remaining investment in the contract.
In certain circumstances, this treatment could result in the contract value being less than the investment in the contract after such a withdrawal. If the Contract Owner subsequently takes withdrawals from the contract under such circumstances, the Contract Owner would have a loss that may be deductible. If the Contract Owner purchases one of these options in an IRA, withdrawals in excess of the annual benefit amount may be required to satisfy the minimum distribution requirements under the Code. Consult a qualified tax adviser.
Same-Sex Marriages, Domestic Partnership, and Other Similar Relationships
The Treasury issued final regulations that address what relationships are considered marriages for federal tax purposes. The final regulation’s definition of a marriage reflects the United States Supreme Court holdings in Windsor and Obergefell, as well as Rev. Proc. 2017-13.
The final regulations define the terms "spouse", "husband", "wife", and "husband and wife" to be gender neutral so that such terms can apply equally to same sex couples and opposite sex couples. In addition, the regulations adopt the "place of celebration" rule to determine marital status for federal tax purposes. A marriage of two individuals is recognized for federal tax purposes if the marriage is recognized by a state, possession, or territory of the US in which the marriage was entered into, regardless of the couple’s place of domicile.
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Consistent with Rev. Proc. 2013-17, the final regulations provide that relationships entered into as civil unions or registered domestic partnerships that are not denominated as marriages under state law are not marriages for federal tax purposes. Therefore, the favorable income-tax deferral options afforded by federal tax law to a married spouse under Code Sections 72 and 401(a)(9) are not available to individuals who have entered into these formal relationships.
Withholding
Pre-death distributions from the contracts are subject to federal income tax. Nationwide is required to withhold the tax from the distributions unless the contract owner requests otherwise. Under some circumstances, the Code will not permit contract owners to waive withholding. Such circumstances include:
if the payee does not provide Nationwide with a taxpayer identification number; or
if Nationwide receives notice from the Internal Revenue Service that the taxpayer identification number furnished by the payee is incorrect.
If a contract owner is prohibited from waiving withholding, as described above, the portion of the distribution that represents income will be subject to withholding rates established by Section 3405 of the Code.
Non-Resident Aliens
Generally, a pre-death distribution from a contract to a non-resident alien is subject to federal income tax at a rate of 30% of the amount of income that is distributed.
Nationwide is required to withhold this amount and send it to the Internal Revenue Service. Some distributions to non-resident aliens may be subject to a lower (or no) tax if a treaty applies. In order to obtain the benefits of such a treaty, the non-resident alien must:
(1) provide Nationwide with a properly completed withholding certificate claiming the treaty benefit of a lower tax rate or exemption from tax; and
(2) provide Nationwide with an individual taxpayer identification number.
If the non-resident alien does not meet the above conditions, Nationwide will withhold 30% of income from the distribution.
Another exemption from the 30% withholding rate is available if the non-resident alien provides Nationwide with sufficient evidence that:
(1) the distribution is connected to the non-resident alien’s conduct of business in the United States;
(2) the distribution is includable in the non-resident alien’s gross income for United States federal income tax purposes; and
(3) provide Nationwide with a properly completed withholding certificate claiming the exemption.
Note that for the preceding exemption, the distributions would be subject to the same withholding rules that are applicable to payments to United States persons.
This prospectus does not address any tax matters that may arise by reason of application of the laws of a non-resident alien’s country of citizenship and/or country of residence. Purchasers and prospective purchasers should consult a financial professional, tax advisor or legal counsel to discuss the applicability of laws of those jurisdictions to the purchase or ownership of a contract.
FATCA
Under Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Internal Revenue Code (commonly referred to as FATCA), distributions from a contract to a foreign financial institution or to a nonfinancial foreign entity, each as described by FATCA, may be subject to United States tax withholding at a flat rate equal to 30% of the taxable amount of the distribution, irrespective of the status of any beneficial owner of the contract or of the distribution. Nationwide may require a contract owner to provide certain information or documentation (e.g., Form W-9 or Form W-8BEN) to determine its withholding requirements under FATCA.
Additional Medicare Tax
Section 1411 of the Code imposes a surtax of 3.8% on certain net investment income received by individuals and certain trusts and estates. The surtax is imposed on the lesser of (a) net investment income or (b) the excess of the modified adjusted gross income over a threshold amount. For individuals, the threshold amount is $250,000 (married filing jointly); $125,000 (married filing separately); or $200,000 (other individuals). The threshold for an estate is $7,500.
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Modified adjusted gross income is equal to adjusted gross income with several modifications; consult with a qualified tax advisor regarding how to determine modified adjusted gross income for purposes of determining the applicability of the surtax.
Net investment income includes, but is not limited to, interest, dividends, capital gains, rent and royalty income, and income from nonqualified annuities. Net investment income does not include, among other things, distributions from certain qualified plans (such as IRAs, Roth IRAs, and plans described in Code Sections 401(a), 401(k), 403(a), 403(b) or 457(b)); however, such distributions, to the extent that they are includible in income for federal income tax purposes, are includible in modified adjusted gross income.
Federal Estate, Gift and Generation Skipping Transfer Taxes
The following transfers may be considered a gift for federal gift tax purposes:
a transfer of the contract from one contract owner to another; or
a distribution to someone other than a contract owner.
Upon the contract owner’s death, the value of the contract may be subject to estate taxes, even if all or a portion of the value is also subject to federal income taxes.
Section 2612 of the Code may require Nationwide to determine whether a death benefit or other distribution is a "direct skip" and the amount of the resulting generation skipping transfer tax, if any. A direct skip is when property is transferred to, or a death benefit or other distribution is made to:
(a) an individual who is two or more generations younger than the contract owner; or
(b) certain trusts, as described in Section 2613 of the Code (generally, trusts that have no beneficiaries who are not two or more generations younger than the contract owner).
If the contract owner is not an individual, then for this purpose only, "contract owner" refers to any person:
who would be required to include the contract, death benefit, distribution, or other payment in his or her federal gross estate at his or her death; or
who is required to report the transfer of the contract, death benefit, distribution, or other payment for federal gift tax purposes.
If a payment is subject to the generation skipping transfer tax, Nationwide may be required to deduct the amount of the transfer tax from the death benefit, distribution or other payment, and remit it directly to the Internal Revenue Service.
Charge for Tax
Nationwide is not required to maintain a capital gain reserve liability on non-qualified contracts. If tax laws change requiring a reserve, Nationwide may implement and adjust a tax charge.
Diversification
Code Section 817(h) contains rules on diversification requirements for variable annuity contracts. A variable annuity contract that does not meet these diversification requirements will not be treated as an annuity, unless:
the failure to diversify was inadvertent;
the failure is corrected; and
a fine is paid to the Internal Revenue Service.
The amount of the fine will be the amount of tax that would have been paid by the contract owner if the income, for the period the contract was not diversified, had been received by the contract owner.
If the violation is not corrected, the contract owner will be considered the owner of the underlying securities and will be currently taxed on the earnings of his or her contract. Nationwide believes that the investments underlying this contract meet these diversification requirements.
Representatives of the Internal Revenue Service have informally suggested, from time to time, that the number of underlying mutual funds available or the number of transfer opportunities available under a variable product may be relevant in determining whether the product qualifies for the desired tax treatment. In 2003, the Internal Revenue Service issued formal guidance, in Revenue Ruling 2003-91, indicating that if the number of underlying mutual funds available in a variable insurance product does not exceed 20, the number of underlying mutual funds alone would not cause the
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contract to fail to qualify for the desired tax treatment. The Internal Revenue Service also indicated that exceeding 20 investment options may be considered a factor, along with other factors including the number of transfer opportunities available under the contract, when determining whether the contract qualifies for favorable tax treatment. The revenue ruling did not indicate the actual number of underlying mutual funds that would cause the contract to not provide the desired tax treatment. Should the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury issue additional rules or regulations that would limit the number of underlying mutual funds, transfers between underlying mutual funds, exchanges of underlying mutual funds or changes in investment objectives of underlying mutual funds such that the contract would no longer qualify for tax deferred treatment under Section 72 of the Code, then Nationwide will take whatever steps are available to remain in compliance.
Based on the above, the contract should be treated as an annuity contract for federal income tax purposes.
Required Distributions
The Code requires that certain distributions be made from the contracts issued in conjunction with this prospectus. Following is an overview of the required distribution rules applicable to each type of contract. Consult a qualified tax or financial professional for more specific required distribution information.
If the Contract Owner purchases the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core option, withdrawals in excess of the annual benefit amount may be required to satisfy the minimum distribution requirements under the Code. Consult a qualified tax adviser.
Required Distributions – General Information
In general, a beneficiary is an individual or other entity that the contract owner designates to receive death proceeds upon the contract owner’s death. The distribution rules in the Code make a distinction between "beneficiary" and "designated beneficiary" when determining the life expectancy that may be used for payments that are made from IRAs, SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, and Roth IRAs after the death of the contract owner, or that are made from non-qualified contracts after the death of the contract owner. A designated beneficiary is a natural person who is designated by the contract owner as the beneficiary under the contract. Non-natural beneficiaries (e.g. charities or certain trusts) are not designated beneficiaries for the purpose of required distributions and the life expectancy of such a beneficiary is zero.
Life expectancies and joint life expectancies will be determined in accordance with the relevant guidance provided by the Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury Department, including but not limited to Treasury Regulation 1.72-9 and Treasury Regulation 1.401(a)(9)-9.
Required distributions paid upon the death of the contract owner are paid to the beneficiary or beneficiaries stipulated by the contract owner. How quickly the distributions must be made may be determined with respect to the life expectancies of the beneficiaries. For non-qualified contracts, the beneficiaries used in the determination of the distribution period are those in effect on the date of the contract owner’s death. For contracts other than non-qualified contracts, the beneficiaries used in the determination of the distribution period do not have to be determined until September 30 of the year following the contract owner’s death. If there is more than one beneficiary, the life expectancy of the beneficiary with the shortest life expectancy is used to determine the distribution period. Any beneficiary that is not a designated beneficiary has a life expectancy of zero.
For IRAs, SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, and Roth IRAs, the SECURE Act that was enacted on December 20, 2019 generally eliminated the option to take required minimum distributions over a designated beneficiary’s life expectancy. In the case of a contract owner who dies on or after January 1, 2020, an individual beneficiary under a qualified contract must withdraw the entire balance of the contract by December 31 of the tenth year following the contract owner’s death. There are limited exceptions to this rule and a prospective purchaser contemplating the purchase of the contract should consult a qualified tax advisor.
Required Distributions for Non-Qualified Contracts
Code Section 72(s) requires Nationwide to make certain distributions when a contract owner dies. The following distributions will be made in accordance with the following requirements:
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(1) If any contract owner dies on or after the annuitization date and before the entire interest in the contract has been distributed, then the remaining interest must be distributed at least as rapidly as the distribution method in effect on the contract owner's death.
(2) If any contract owner dies before the annuitization date, then the entire interest in the contract (consisting of either the death benefit or the contract value reduced by charges set forth elsewhere in the contract) must be distributed within five years of the contract owner’s death, provided however:
(a) any interest payable to or for the benefit of a designated beneficiary may be distributed over the life of the designated beneficiary or over a period not longer than the life expectancy of the designated beneficiary. Payments must begin within one year of the contract owner's death unless otherwise permitted by federal income tax regulations; and
(b) if the designated beneficiary is the surviving spouse of the deceased contract owner, the spouse can choose to become the contract owner instead of receiving a death benefit. Any distributions required under these distribution rules will be made upon that spouse’s death.
In the event that the contract owner is not a natural person (e.g., a trust or corporation), but is acting as an agent for a natural person, for purposes of these distribution provisions:
(a) the death of the annuitant will be treated as the death of a contract owner;
(b) any change of annuitant will be treated as the death of a contract owner; and
(c) in either case, the appropriate distribution will be made upon the death or change, as the case may be.
These distribution provisions do not apply to any contract exempt from Section 72(s) of the Code by reason of Section 72(s)(5) or any other law or rule.
Required Distributions for IRAs, SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, and Roth IRAs
Required Distributions During the Life of the Contract Owner
For contract owners who attained the age of 70½ prior to January 1, 2020, distributions from IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA must begin no later than April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the contract owner reaches age 70½. For those contract owners who attain age 70½ on or after January 1, 2020, the SECURE Act raised the age that distributions from IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA must begin to age 72. For those contract owners, distributions must begin no later than April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the contract owner reaches age 72. Distributions may be paid in a lump sum or in substantially equal payments over:
(a) the life of the contract owner or the joint lives of the contract owner and the contract owner's designated beneficiary; or
(b) a period not longer than the period determined under the table in Treasury Regulation 1.401(a)(9)-9, which is the deemed joint life expectancy of the contract owner and a person 10 years younger than the contract owner. If the designated beneficiary is the spouse of the contract owner, the period may not exceed the longer of the period determined under such table or the joint life expectancy of the contract owner and the contract owner's spouse, determined in accordance with Treasury Regulation 1.401(a)(9)-9.
For IRAs, SEP IRAs, and Simple IRAs, required distributions do not have to be withdrawn from this contract if they are being withdrawn from another IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA of the contract owner.
If the contract owner's entire interest in IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA will be distributed in equal or substantially equal payments over a period described in (a) or (b) above, the payments must begin on or before the required beginning date. The required beginning date is April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the contract owner reaches age 70½ (age 72 for those contract owners who turn age 70½ on or after January 1, 2020). The rules for Roth IRAs do not require distributions to begin during the contract owner's lifetime, therefore, the required beginning date is not applicable to Roth IRAs.
Required Distributions Upon Death of a Contract Owner Before January 1, 2020
Death Before Required Beginning Date
If the contract owner dies before January 1, 2020 and before the required beginning date (in the case of IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA) or before the entire contract value is distributed (in the case of a Roth IRA), any remaining interest in the contract must be distributed over a period not exceeding:
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(a) The life or life expectancy of the designated beneficiary, with such life expectancy determined under the tables prescribed by Treasury Regulation 1.401(a)(9)-9. Distributions must begin by the end of the calendar following the year of death.
a. In the case of a non-spouse designated beneficiary, the life expectancy is determined in the calendar year following the contract owner’s death, with such life expectancy reduced by one for each subsequent calendar year that elapsed from the year the life expectancy was determined.
b. If a designated beneficiary dies after January 1, 2020, any remaining interest must be distributed by December 31st of the tenth year following the death of the designated beneficiary.
c. If the sole designated beneficiary is the surviving spouse of the contract owner, then distributions must begin by the later of the calendar year following the year of the contract owner’s death or the end of the calendar year in which the contract owner would have turned 70 ½ (age 72 for those who turn age 70 ½ on or after January 1, 2020).
(b) if there is no designated beneficiary or if the designated beneficiary elects, the entire balance of the contract must be distributed by December 31st of the fifth year following the contract owner's death.
Death on or after Required Beginning Date
If the contract owner dies before January 1, 2020 and on or after the required beginning date, the interest in the IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA must be distributed at least as rapidly as the distribution method in effect on the contract owner's death. If the designated beneficiary receiving distributions dies after January 1, 2020, any remaining interest must be distributed by December 31st of the tenth year following the death of the designated beneficiary.
Purchasers and prospective purchasers should consult a financial professional, tax advisor or legal counsel to discuss the taxation and use of the contracts.
Required Distributions Upon Death of a Contract Owner On or After January 1, 2020
If the contract owner dies on or after January 1, 2020 and the designated beneficiary is not an eligible designated beneficiary as defined under Code Section 401(a)(9), then the entire balance of the contract must be distributed by December 31st of the tenth year following the contract owner’s death. This 10-year post-death distribution period applies regardless of whether the contract owner dies before or after the contract owner’s required beginning date.
In the case of an eligible designated beneficiary, which includes (1) the contract owner’s surviving spouse, (2) a minor child of the contract owner, (3) a disabled individual, (4) a chronically ill individual, or (5) an individual not more than 10 years younger than the contract owner, the entire balance of the contract can be distributed over a period not exceeding the life or life expectancy of the eligible designated beneficiary. The life or life expectancy period is generally determined as described in the Death Before Required Beginning Date section above, provided that distributions begin within one year of death. If an eligible designated beneficiary dies before the entire interest is distributed, the remaining interest must be distributed by December 31st of the tenth year following the eligible designated beneficiary’s death.
A distribution in the form of annuity payments (an annuitization) that began on or after January 1, 2020 while the contract owner was alive may need to be commuted or modified after the contract owner’s death in order to comply with the post-death distribution requirements. However, distributions in the form of annuity payments (an annuitization) that began prior to January 1, 2020, while the contract owner was alive, can continue under that method after the death the contract owner without modification.
In additional, a beneficiary who is not an eligible designated beneficiary or a designated beneficiary must withdraw the entire account balance by December 31st of the fifth year following the contract owner’s death.
Regardless of whether the contract owner dies before or on or after January 1, 2020, a designated beneficiary who is the surviving spouse of the deceased contract owner may choose to become the contract owner. Any distributions required under these distribution rules will be made upon that spouse’s death.
Purchasers and prospective purchasers should consult a financial professional, tax advisor or legal counsel to discuss the taxation and use of the contracts.
If distribution requirements are not met, a penalty tax of 50% is levied on the difference between the amount that should have been distributed for that year and the amount that actually was distributed for that year.
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For IRAs, SEP IRAs, and Simple IRAs, all or a portion of each distribution will be included in the recipient's gross income and taxed as ordinary income tax rates. The portion of a distribution that is taxable is based on the ratio between the amount by which non-deductible purchase payments exceed prior non-taxable distributions and total account balances at the time of the distribution. The owner of an IRA, SEP IRA, or Simple IRA must annually report the amount of non-deductible purchase payments, the amount of any distribution, the amount by which non-deductible purchase payments for all years exceed non taxable distributions for all years, and the total balance of all IRAs, SEP IRAs, or Simple IRAs.
Distributions from Roth IRAs may be either taxable or nontaxable, depending upon whether they are "qualified distributions" or "non-qualified distributions."
Tax Changes
The SECURE Act was enacted on December 20, 2019. The SECURE Act made numerous changes to the Code effective January 1, 2020, including the following:
Increasing the age a contract owner must begin RMDs under IRAs and certain qualified plans from age 70½ to age 72.
Requiring an individual beneficiary of an inherited IRA and certain qualified plans to withdraw their entire inherited interest within 10 years of the original contract owner’s death.
Repealing the 70½ age limitation that prohibited an individual from making an IRA contribution.
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Act") was enacted on December 22, 2017. The Act made numerous changes to the Code effective January 1, 2018, including the following:
Lowered the federal individual and corporate income tax rates;
Doubled the federal estate and gift tax exclusion amount to $10 million;
Eliminated the ability to recharacterize the rollover or conversion of amounts from IRAs or eligible retirement plans to a Roth IRA.
State Taxation
The tax rules across the various states and localities are not uniform and therefore are not discussed in this prospectus. Tax rules that may apply to contracts issued in U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and Guam are also not discussed. Purchasers and prospective purchasers should consult a financial professional, tax advisor or legal counsel to discuss the taxation and use of the contracts.
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Appendix D: L.inc Plus Core Rider Examples
Income Carryforward Example
The following is an example of how the Income Carryforward privilege may apply:
Assume a Contract Owner purchases a contract on April 1, 2020 for $100,000, with a Roll-up Interest Rate of 6.00%. On April 1, 2021, assume the Current Income Benefit Base is $106,000 ($100,000 x 0.06). In May of 2021, assume the Contract Owner elects to begin lifetime income, taking the first Lifetime Withdrawal on May 1, 2021. At the time of the first Lifetime Withdrawal, assume the applicable Lifetime Withdrawal Percentage is 4.00%. Assuming no change to the Current Income Benefit Base from April 1, 2020, the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount would be $4,240 ($106,000 x 0.04).
Thereafter, assume the following withdrawal activity:
  Withdrawal
Activity
  Before
Withdrawal Processing
  After
Withdrawal Processing
   
Lifetime
Withdrawals
  Income
Carryforward
Amount
  Lifetime
Withdrawal
Amount
  Income
Carryforward
Amount
  Lifetime
Withdrawal
Amount
May 1, 2021

$3,000   $ 0   $4,240   $ 0   $1,240 The portion of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount not taken in 2021 is the Income Carryforward amount for 2022.
January 1, 2022

    --   --   $1,240   $4,240  
March 1, 2022

$1,000   $1,240   $4,240   $ 240   $4,240 Lifetime Withdrawals first reduce any available Income Carryforward amount.
July 1, 2022

$4,000   $ 240   $4,240   $ 0   $ 480 The Income Carryforward amount can be taken in one or multiple withdrawals during the year.
January 1, 2023

    --   --   $ 480   $4,240  
June 1, 2023

$4,720   $ 480   $4,240   $ 0   $ 0 The entire Lifetime Withdrawal Amount is taken in 2023, so there is no Income Carryforward amount for 2024.
January 1, 2024

    --   --   $ 0   $4,240  
February 1, 2024

$3,000   $ 0   $3,000   $ 0   $1,240 The portion of the Lifetime Withdrawal Amount not taken in 2024 is the Income Carryforward amount for 2025.
January 1, 2025

    --   --   $1,240   $4,240  
December 31, 2025

$1,000   $1,240   $4,240   $ 240   $4,240 The Income Carryforward amount is forfeited if not withdrawn in the calendar year in which it is available.
January 1, 2026

    --   --   $4,240   $4,240  
September 1, 2026

$2,000   $4,240   $4,240   $2,240   $4,240  
    
Example of a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal taken before the 10th Contract Anniversary*
The purpose of this example is to show the calculations used to determine the Current Income Benefit Base if a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal is taken before the 10th Contract Anniversary. This example assumes the following:
Initial Purchase Payment on Contract Issue Date: $100,000
Original Income Benefit Base: $100,000
Subsequent Purchase Payment in the 2nd Contract Year: $ 15,000
Non-Lifetime Withdrawal Amount taken during the 5th Contract Year: $ 20,000
Contract Value on Date of Non-Lifetime Withdrawal (prior to the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal) **: $120,000
Current Income Benefit Base on Date of Non-Lifetime Withdrawal**: $136,125
Subsequent Purchase Payment in the 5th Contract Year and after the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal: $ 30,000
Contract Value on 6th Contract Anniversary**: $140,000
If a $20,000 Non-Lifetime Withdrawal is taken during the 5th Contract Year, the Current Income Benefit Base on the 6th Contract Anniversary will equal the greatest of:
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1) Proportional Reduction
to the Current Income
Benefit Base
= Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal Amount
X Current Income Benefit
Base prior to Non-
Lifetime Withdrawal
Contract Value (on date
of Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal)
= $20,000 X $136,125
$120,000
    =   $22,688  
  The Current Income Benefit Base of $138,000 is reduced by $23,000 resulting in the proportionally reduced Current Income Benefit Base of $113,438.
2) The highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary after the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal. Here, the Contract Value on the 6th Contract Anniversary is $140,000.
3.a) Proportional Reduction
to the Original Income
Benefit Base
= Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal Amount
X Original Income Benefit
Base
  Contract Value (on date
of Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal)
    = $20,000 X $100,000
    $120,000
    =   $16,667  
  The Original Income Benefit Base of $100,000 is reduced by $16,667 resulting in the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base of $83,333. The Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base is increased by the 5% simple interest roll-up for each attained Contract Anniversary resulting in the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base with roll-up of $104,166.67.
PLUS
3.b) Proportional Reduction
to Subsequent Purchase
Payment in the 2nd
Contract Year
= Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal Amount
X Subsequent Purchase
Payment in the 2nd
Contract Year
Contract Value (on date of Non-Lifetime Withdrawal)
    = $20,000 X $15,000
      $120,000    
    =   $2,500  
  The subsequent purchase payment in the 2nd Contract Year of $15,000 is reduced by $2,500 resulting in the proportionally reduced subsequent purchase payment of $12,500. This is increased by 5% simple interest roll-up from the date of the subsequent purchase payment for each attained Contract Anniversary resulting in $14,062.50.
PLUS
3.c) Subsequent purchase payment after Non-Lifetime Withdrawal of $30,000 increased by 5% simple interest roll-up from the date of the subsequent purchase payment for each attained Contract Anniversary resulting in $30,750.
The Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base with roll-up PLUS the subsequent purchase payment in the 2nd Contract Year with roll-up PLUS the subsequent purchase payment after the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal with roll-up would equal $148,979.17.
Since the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base with roll-up and subsequent purchase payments with roll-up are the greatest, the Contract Owner's Current Income Benefit Base on the 6th Contract Anniversary would be $167,921.
* All numbers are rounded to the nearest whole number
** Contract Value and Current Income Benefit Base are hypothetical and for example purposes only
   
Example of a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal taken after the 10th Contract Anniversary*
The purpose of this example is to show the calculations used to determine the Current Income Benefit Base if a Non-Lifetime Withdrawal is taken after the 10th Contract Anniversary. This example assumes the following:
Initial Purchase Payment on Contract Issue Date: $100,000
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Original Income Benefit Base: $100,000
Subsequent Payment on the 1st Contract Anniversary: $ 15,000
Subsequent Payment on the 11th Contract Anniversary: $ 30,000
Non-Lifetime Withdrawal Amount taken during the 12th Contract Year: $ 20,000
Contract Value on Date of Non-Lifetime Withdrawal (prior to the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal) **: $200,000
Current Income Benefit Base on Date of Non-Lifetime Withdrawal**: $201,750
Contract Value on 12th Contract Anniversary**: $181,000
If a $20,000 Non-Lifetime Withdrawal is taken during the 12th Contract Year, the Current Income Benefit Base on the 12th Contract Anniversary will equal the greatest of:
1) Proportional Reduction to the Current Income Benefit Base = Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal Amount
X Current Income Benefit
Base prior to Non-
Lifetime Withdrawal
Contract Value (on date
of Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal)
    = $20,000 X $201,750
$200,000
    =   $20,175  
  The Current Income Benefit Base of $201,750 is reduced by $20,175 resulting in the proportionally reduced Current Income Benefit Base of $181,575.
2) The highest Contract Value on any Contract Anniversary after the Non-Lifetime Withdrawal. Here, the Contract Value on the 12th Contract Anniversary is $181,000.
3.a) Proportional Reduction to the Original Income Benefit Base = Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal Amount
X Original Income
Benefit Base
Contract Value (on date
of Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal)
    = $20,000 X $100,000
$200,000
    =   $10,000  
  The Original Income Benefit Base of $100,000 is reduced by $10,000 resulting in the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base of $90,000. The Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base is increased by the 5% simple interest roll-up for each attained Contract Anniversary resulting in the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit base with roll-up of $135,000.
PLUS
3.b) Proportional Reduction to the Subsequent Purchase Payment on the 1st Contract Anniversary = Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal Amount
X Subsequent Purchase
Payment on the 1st
Contract Anniversary
Contract Value (on date
of Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal)
    = $20,000 X $15,000
$200,000
    =   $500  
  The subsequent purchase payment on the 1st Contract Anniversary of $15,000 is reduced by $500 resulting in $13,500. This is increased by 5% simple interest roll-up each year from the date of the subsequent purchase payment to the 10th Contract Anniversary resulting in $19,575.
PLUS
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3.c) Proportional Reduction to Subsequent Purchase Payment on the 11th Contract Anniversary = Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal Amount
X Subsequent Purchase
Payment on the 11th
Contract Anniversary
Contract Value (on date
of Non-Lifetime
Withdrawal)
    = $20,000 X $30,000
$200,000
    =   $3,000  
  The subsequent purchase payment on the 11th Contract Anniversary of $30,000 is reduced by $3,000 resulting in $27,000 (Note: there is no roll-up here since it is after the 10th Contract Anniversary).
  The Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base with roll-up PLUS the proportional reduction to the subsequent purchase payment on the 1st Contract Anniversary with roll-up PLUS the proportional reduction to the subsequent purchase payment on the 11th Contract Anniversary with no roll-up equals $181,575.
Since the proportional reduction to the Current Income Benefit Base and the Adjusted Roll-up Income Benefit Base with roll-up and subsequent purchase payments with and without roll-up are equal and the greatest, the Contract Owner's Current Income Benefit Base on the 12th Contract Anniversary would be $181,575.
* All numbers are rounded to the nearest whole number
** Contract Value and Current Income Benefit Base are hypothetical and for example purposes only
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Appendix E: Historical Rates, Periods, and Percentages
This Appendix provides historical information related to the:
Roll-up Interest Rates, Roll-up Crediting Periods, and Lifetime Withdrawal Percentages for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core and Joint Option for the Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider Plus Core
For contracts with applications signed on or after May 1, 2021, rates and percentages are disclosed in the Rate Sheet Supplement that is attached to the front of this prospectus delivered to you.
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Outside back cover page
The Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the Variable Account. To obtain a free copy of the Statement of Additional Information, request other information about the contract, or to make any other service requests, contact Nationwide at 1-800-848-6331 or by one of the other methods described in Contacting the Service Center.
Reports and other information about the Variable Account are available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of this information may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following email address: publicinfo@sec.gov.
SEC Contract Identifier: C____________
90


STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
_______________, 2021
Individual Flexible Premium Deferred Variable Annuity Contracts
Issued by Nationwide Life Insurance Company
through its Nationwide Variable Account-II
This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus. It contains information in addition to and more detailed than set forth in the prospectus and should be read in conjunction with the prospectus dated _______________, 2021. The prospectus may be obtained from Nationwide Life Insurance Company by writing P.O. Box 182021, Columbus, Ohio 43218-2021 or calling 1-800-848-6331, TDD 1-800-238-3035. Capitalized terms in this Statement of Additional Information correspond to terms defined in the prospectus.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

General Information and History
Nationwide Variable Account-II (the "Variable Account") is a separate investment account of Nationwide Life Insurance Company ("Nationwide"). Nationwide established the Variable Account on October 7, 1981 pursuant to Ohio law. The Variable Account is registered with the SEC as a unit investment trust pursuant to the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Nationwide is a stock life insurance company organized under the laws of the State of Ohio in March of 1929 with its Home Office at One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Nationwide provides life insurance, annuities and retirement products. Nationwide is admitted to do business in all states, the District of Columbia, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Nationwide is a member of the Nationwide group of companies and all of its common stock is owned by Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. ("NFS"), a holding company. Nationwide Corporation owns all of NFS's common stock and is a holding company, as well. All of Nationwide Corporation's common stock is held by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company (95.2%) and Nationwide Mutual Fire Insurance Company (4.8%), the ultimate controlling persons of the Nationwide group of companies.
Services
Nationwide, which has responsibility for administration of the contracts and the Variable Account, maintains records of the name, address, taxpayer identification number, and other pertinent information for each Contract Owner, the number and type of contract issued to each Contract Owner, and records with respect to the Contract Value.
The custodian of the assets of the Variable Account is Nationwide. Nationwide will maintain a record of all purchases and redemptions of shares of the underlying mutual funds. Nationwide or its affiliates may have entered into agreements with the underlying mutual funds and/or their affiliates. The agreements relate to services furnished by Nationwide or an affiliate of Nationwide. Some of the services provided include distribution of underlying fund prospectuses, semi-annual and annual fund reports, proxy materials, and fund communications, as well as maintaining the websites and voice response systems necessary for Contract Owners to execute trades in the funds. Nationwide also acts as a limited agent for each underlying mutual fund for purposes of accepting the trades. See Underlying Mutual Fund Service Fee Payments located in the prospectus.
Distribution, Promotional, and Sales Expenses
In addition to or partially in lieu of commission, Nationwide may pay the selling firms a marketing allowance, which is based on the firm's ability and demonstrated willingness to promote and market Nationwide's products. How any marketing allowance is spent is determined by the firm, but generally will be used to finance firm activities that may contribute to the promotion and marketing of Nationwide's products. Nationwide makes certain assumptions about the amount of marketing allowance it will pay and takes these assumptions into consideration when it determines the charges that will be assessed under the contracts. For the contracts described in the prospectus, Nationwide assumed no marketing allowance when determining the charges for the contracts. The actual amount of the marketing allowance may be higher or lower than this assumption. If the actual amount of marketing allowance paid is more than what was assumed, Nationwide will fund the difference. Nationwide generally does not profit from any excess marketing allowance if the amount assumed was higher than what is actually paid. Any excess would be spent on additional marketing for the contracts. For more information about marketing allowance or how a particular selling firm uses marketing allowances, consult with your financial professional.
When Nationwide is made aware that a Qualified Plan has been orphaned, commission payments payable with respect to that Qualified Plan will cease and commission payments that would have been due will not be sent to the Qualified Plan. An orphaned Qualified Plan is a plan without an agent or firm of record.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The financial statements of Nationwide Variable Account-II and the statutory financial statements and schedules of Nationwide Life Insurance Company have been included herein in reliance upon the reports of KPMG LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, appearing elsewhere herein, and upon the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing. KPMG LLP is located at 191 West Nationwide Blvd., Suite 500, Columbus, Ohio 43215.
The KPMG LLP report dated March 19, 2021 of Nationwide Life Insurance Company includes explanatory language that states that the financial statements are prepared by Nationwide Life Insurance Company using statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance, which is a basis of accounting other than U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Accordingly, the KPMG LLP audit report states that the financial statements are
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not presented fairly in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and further states that those statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance.
Purchase of Securities Being Offered
The contracts will be sold by licensed insurance agents in the states where the contracts may be lawfully sold. Such agents will be registered representatives of broker-dealers registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 who are members of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
Underwriters
The contracts, which are offered continuously, are distributed by Nationwide Investment Services Corporation ("NISC"), One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215, a wholly owned subsidiary of Nationwide. For contracts issued in Michigan, all references to NISC will mean Nationwide Investment Svcs. Corporation. No underwriting commissions have been paid by Nationwide to NISC for each of this Variable Account's last three fiscal years.
Annuity Payments
See Annuitizing the Contract located in the prospectus.
3

 

Financial Statements
Financial Statements to be filed by subsequent Pre-Effective Amendment.
4


PART C. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 24. Exhibits
1) Form of Highest Anniversary Death Benefit Option - To be filed by subsequent Pre-Effective Amendment.
2) Form of Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider PlusSM Core ("Nationwide L.inc Plus Core" Option) Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit ("GLWB") Option – To be filed by subsequent Pre-Effective Amendment.
e) Variable Annuity Application - To be filed by subsequent Pre-Effective Amendment.
f) Depositor’s Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws –
g) Not Applicable.
h) Form of Participation Agreements –
The following fund participation agreements were previously filed and are hereby incorporated by reference.
1) Fund Participation Agreement with AIM Variable Insurance Funds, AIM Advisors, Inc., and AIM Distributors dated January 6, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document aimfpa99h1.htm
2) Fund Participation Agreement with Fred Alger Management, Inc., Fred Alger & Company, Incorporated dated October 1, 2004 with the registration statement under 333-164118, post-effective amendment number 3 filed on April 26, 2011 as document algeramericanpfa.htm
3) Fund Participation Agreement (Amended and Restated) with Alliance Capital Management L.P. and Alliance-Bernstein Investment Research and Management, Inc. dated June 1, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document alliancebernsteinfpa.htm
4) Fund Participation Agreement with ALPS Variable Investment Trust and ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. dated October 10, 2013 with the registration statement under 333-135650, post-effective amendment number 12 filed on October 15, 2013 as document d612202dex99826.htm
5) Amended and Restated Fund Participation and Shareholder Services Agreement with American Century Investment Services, Inc., as amended, dated September 15, 2004 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document amcentfpa99h2.htm
6) Fund Participation Agreement with American Funds Insurance Series and Capital Research and Management Company dated July 20, 2005 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document americanfundsfpa.htm

 


7) Fund Participation Agreement with BlackRock (formerly FAM Distributors, Inc. and FAM Variable Series Funds, Inc.), as amended, dated April 13, 2004 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document blackrockfpa.htm
8) Fund Participation Agreement with Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC and Columbia Management Investment Distributors, Inc. dated December 7, 2015 with the registration statement under 333-103095, post-effective amendment number 39 filed on April 13, 2017 as document columbiafpa.htm
9) Fund Participation Agreement with Delaware Management Company and Delaware Distributors, L.P., as amended, dated February 5, 2008 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document delawarefpa.htm
10) Restated and Amended Fund Participation Agreement with The Dreyfus Corporation, as amended, dated January 27, 2000 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document dreyfusfpa99h3.htm
11) Fund Participation Agreement with Eaton Vance Variable Trust and Eaton Vance Distributors, Inc. dated March 24, 2011 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document eatonvancefpa.htm
12) Fund Participation Agreement with Federated Insurance Series and Federated Securities Corp., as amended, dated April 1, 2006 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document fedfpa99h4.htm
13) Fund Participation Agreement with Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund, as amended, including Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund IV and Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund V dated May 1, 1988 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document fidifpa99h5.htm
14) Fund Participation Agreement with Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund II dated, as amended, including Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund IV and Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund V dated July 15, 1989 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document fidiifpa99h6.htm
15) Fund Participation Agreement with Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund III dated, as amended, including Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund IV and Fidelity Variable Insurance Products Fund V dated November 22, 1994 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document fidiiifpa99h7.htm
16) Amended and Restated Fund Participation Agreement with Franklin Templeton Variable Insurance Products Trust and Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., as amended, dated May 1, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document frankfpa99h8.htm
17) Fund Participation Agreement with Goldman Sachs Variable Insurance Trust, and Goldman Sachs & Co. dated December 22, 1998 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document goldmansachsfpa.htm
18) Fund Participation Agreement with J.P. Morgan Series Trust II dated February 18, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-59517, post-effective amendment number 42 filed on April 30, 2008 as document jpmorganfpa.htm
19) Fund Participation Agreement, Service and Institutional Shares, with Janus Aspen Series dated December 31, 1999 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document janusfpa99h9a.htm
20) Fund Participation Agreement with Lazard Retirement Series, Inc., and Lazard Asset Management Securities LLC dated April 13, 2009 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document lazardfpa.htm
21) Fund Participation Agreement with Lord Abbett Series Fund, Inc. and Lord Abbett Distributor LLC, as amended, dated December 31, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document lordabbettfpa.htm

 


22) Fund Participation Agreement with The Merger Fund VL and Westchester Capital Management, LLC dated October 11, 2013 with the registration statement under 333-135650, post-effective amendment number 12 filed on October 15, 2013 as document d612202dex99827.htm
23) Participation Agreement Among MFS Variable Insurance Trust, MFS Variable Insurance Trust II, Nationwide Financial Services, Inc., and MFS Fund Distributors, Inc., dated May 2, 2011 with the registration statement under 333-227783, post-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 9, 2019 as document d737458dex9924b24.htm
24) Fund Participation Agreement with Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust (formerly, Gartmore Variable Insurance Trust), American Funds Insurance Series, and Capital Research and Management Company dated May 1, 2007 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document nwfpa99h12b.htm
25) Fund Participation Agreement with Neuberger Berman Management Inc. dated January 1, 2006 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document neuberfpa99h13.htm
26) Fund Participation Agreement with Northern Lights Variable Trust and Northern Lights Distributors, LLC dated February 8, 2012 with the registration statement under 333-62692, post-effective amendment number 28 filed on June 11, 2012 as document northernlightsfpa.htm
27) Fund Participation Agreement with Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds and Oppenheimer Funds, Inc. dated April 13, 2007 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document oppenfpa99h14.htm
28) Fund Participation Agreement with PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust and PIMCO Funds Distributors, LLC, as amended, dated March 28, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document pimcofpa.htm
29) Fund Participation Agreement with Putnam Variable Trust and Putnam Retail Management, L.P. dated February 1, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document putnamfpa.htm
30) Fund Participation Agreement with Royce & Associates, Inc., as amended, dated February 14, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document roycefpa.htm
31) Fund Participation Agreement with Rydex Variable Trust & Rydex Distributors, Inc. dated September 10, 2001 with the registration statement under 333-62692, post-effective amendment number 20 filed on April 18, 2008 as document rydexfundpartagreement.htm
32) Fund Participation Agreement with Schwab Annuity Portfolios, Charles Schwab Investment Management, Inc. and Charles Schwab & Co. Inc. dated September 30, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-105992, post-effective amendment number 10 filed on April 18, 2008 as document schwabfpa.htm
33) Fund Participation Agreement with T. Rowe Price Equity Series, Inc., T. Rowe Price International Series, Inc., T. Rowe Price Fixed Income Series, Inc., and T. Rowe Price Investment Services, Inc., as amended, dated October 1, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document trowefpa99h15.htm
34) Fund Participation Agreement with Van Eck Investment Trust, Van Eck Associates Corporation, and Van Eck Securities Corporation, as amended, dated September 1, 1989 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document vaneckfpa.htm
35) Fund Participation Agreement with Unified Financial Securities and Huntington Asset Advisors, Inc. dated August 13, 2010 with the registration statement under 333-164886, post effective amendment number 2 filed on October 26, 2010 as document huntingtonfpa.htm
36) Fund Participation Agreement with The Universal Institutional Funds, Inc., Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc., as amended, dated February 1, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document univfpa99h16.htm

 


37) Fund Participation Agreement with The Victory Variable Insurance Funds, Key Asset Management Inc., and BISYS Fund Services dated June 30, 1999 with the registration statement under 333-103094, post-effective amendment number 30 filed on April 20, 2011 as document victoryfpa.htm
38) Fund Participation Agreement with Waddell & Reed Services Company and Waddell & Reed, Inc, as amended, dated December 1, 2000 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document waddellreedfpa.htm
39) Fund Participation Agreement with Wells Fargo Management, LLC, and Stephens, Inc., as amended, dated November 15, 2004 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document wellsfargofpa.htm
40) Fund Participation Agreement with Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust (formerly Gartmore Variable Insurance Trust, as amended. dated May 2, 2005 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document nwfpa99h12a.htm
41) Fund Participation Agreement with MainStay VP Funds Trust and New York Life Investment Management LLC dated May 1, 2016 with the registration statement under 333-201820, post-effective amendment number 1 filed on April 14, 2016 as document mainstayfpa.htm
42) Fund Participation Agreement with Nationwide Financial Services, Inc., Mutual Fund & Variable Insurance Trust, and Northern Lights Distributors, LLC, dated January 25, 2019, filed on February 7, 2019 with post effective amendment number 20 of registration statement (333-124048) under document "d699044dex99nnn.htm"
43) Fund Participation Agreement with Virtus Variable Insurance Trust and VP Distributors, LLC, dated October 1, 2018 with the registration statement under 333-215169, post-effective amendment number 5 filed on April 18, 2019 as document d674921dex9926h32.htm
i) Form of Administrative Contracts –
The following administrative contracts were previously filed and are hereby incorporated by reference.
1) Administrative Services Agreement with Alliance Fund Distributors, Inc. dated June 3, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document alliancebersteinasa.htm
2) Amended and Restated Fund Participation and Shareholder Services Agreement with American Century Investment Services, Inc., as amended, dated September 15, 2004 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document amcentasa99i2.htm
3) Administrative Services Agreement with BlackRock (formerly FAM Distributors, Inc., and Merrill Lynch Variable Series Funds, Inc.), as amended, dated April 13, 2004 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document blackrockasa.htm
4) Administrative Service Agreement with Columbia Funds Variable Series Trust II, dated December 7, 2015 with the registration statement under 333-177439, post-effective amendment number 34 filed on April 29, 2021 as document d103290dex99i4.htm. Portions of this exhibit have been redacted.
5) Restated Administrative Services Agreement with The Dreyfus Corporation, as amended, and 12b-1 letter agreement dated, as amended, dated June 1, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document dreyfusasa99i3.htm
6) Administrative Services Agreement with Delaware Distributors, L.P., as amended, dated February 5, 2008 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document delawareasa.htm
7) Fund Participation Agreement with Eaton Vance Variable Trust dated March 24, 2011 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document eatonvanceasa.htm
8) Administrative Service Agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc., as amended dated April 1, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document fidiiiasa99i5a.htm

 


9) Service Contract, with Fidelity Distributors Corporation, as amended dated April 1, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document fidiiiasa99i5b.htm
10) Administrative Services Agreement with Franklin Templeton Services, LLC, as amended dated May 1, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document frankasa99i6.htm
11) Agreement with Goldman, Sachs & Co. dated January 6, 1999 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document goldmansachsasa.htm
12) Fund Participation Agreement with Rydex Variable Trust & Rydex Distributors, Inc. dated September 10, 2001 with the registration statement under 333-62692, post-effective amendment number 20 filed on April 18, 2008 as document rydexfundpartagreement.htm
13) Administrative Services Agreement with AIM Advisors, Inc. dated July 1, 2005 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document aimasa99i1a.htm
14) Financial Support Agreement with AIM Distributors, Inc. dated July 1, 2005 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document aimasa99i1b.htm
15) Administrative Services Agreement with Waddell & Reed, Inc., as amended dated December 1, 2000 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document waddellreedasa.htm
16) Distribution and Shareholder Services Agreement with Janus Distributors, Inc. dated December 31, 1999 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document janusasa99i7.htm
17) Administrative Services Agreement with Lazard Retirement Series, Inc. dated April 13, 2009 with the registration statement under 333-43671, post-effective amendment number 43 filed on April 12, 2011 as document lazardasa.htm
18) Administrative Services Agreement with Lord Abbett Series Fund, Inc., as amended dated December 31, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document lordabbettasa.htm
19) Fund Participation Agreement with J.P. Morgan Series Trust II dated February 18, 2003 with the registration statement under 333-59517, post-effective amendment number 42 filed on April 30, 2008 as document jpmorganfpa.htm
20) Letter Agreement between MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. ("MFD") and Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. dated January 30, 2013 with the registration statement under 333-227783, post-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 9, 2019 as document d737458dex9924b39.htm
21) Administrative Services Agreement with Morgan Stanley Distribution, Inc. (The Universal Institutional Funds, Inc.), as amended dated May 5, 2005 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document univasa99i14.htm
22) Fund Participation Agreement with Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust (formerly, Gartmore Variable Insurance Trust), as amended dated May 2, 2005 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document nwasa99i10.htm
23) Fund Participation Agreement with Nationwide Variable Insurance Trust (formerly, Gartmore Variable Insurance Trust), American Funds Insurance Series, and Capital Research and Management Company dated May 1, 2007 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document nwfpa99h12b.htm
24) Service Agreement with Northern Lights Variable Trust. dated February 8, 2012 with the registration statement under 333-155153, post-effective amendment number 6 filed on April 19, 2013 as document d470080dex99i24.htm
25) Administrative Services Agreement with Pacific Investment Management Company LLC, as amended dated March 28, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document pimcoasaa.htm

 


26) Administrative Services Agreement with PIMCO Variable Insurance Trust, as amended dated March 28, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document pimcoasab.htm
27) Administrative Services Agreement with Putnam Retail Management Limited Partnership, as amended dated August 1, 2006 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document putnamasa.htm
28) Administrative Services Letter Agreement with T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and T. Rowe Price International, Inc., as amended dated October 1, 2002 with the registration statement under 333-140608, pre-effective amendment number 1 filed on July 17, 2007 as document troweasa99i13.htm
29) Administrative Services Agreement with Van Eck Securities Corporation, as amended dated November 3, 1997 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document vaneckasa.htm
30) Administrative Services Agreement with Virtus Variable Insurance Trust and VP Distributors, LLC, dated October 1, 2018 with the registration statement under 333-215169, post-effective amendment number 5 filed on April 18, 2019 as document d674921dex9926i36.htm
31) Administrative Services Agreement with Wells Fargo Funds Management, LLC and Stephens, Inc., as amended dated November 15, 2004 with the registration statement under 333-137202, pre-effective amendment number 3 filed on September 27, 2007 as document wellsfargoasa.htm
Item 28. Directors and Officers of the Depositor
The business address of the Directors and Officers of the Depositor is:
One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215
President and Chief Operating Officer and Director Carter, John L.
Executive Vice President-Chief Human Resources Officer Clements, Vinita J.
Executive Vice President-Chief Information Officer Fowler, James R.
Executive Vice President and Director Thresher, Mark R.
Senior Vice President-NF Strategic Customer Solutions Ambrozy, Tina S.
Senior Vice President-Marketing Management - Financial Services Bair, Ann S.
Senior Vice President-Head of Taxation Biesecker, Pamela A.
Senior Vice President-Chief Investment Officer Coleman, Joel L.
Senior Vice President-Nationwide Financial Services Legal Dankovic, Rae Ann
Senior Vice President-External Affairs English, Steven M.
Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer and Director Frommeyer, Timothy G.
Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer - Nationwide Financial and Director Ginnan, Steven A.
Senior Vice President-Human Resources - P&C Hairston, Mia S.
Senior Vice President-Annuity Distribution Hawley, Craig A.
Senior Vice President-Nationwide Annuity and Director Henderson, Eric S.
Senior Vice President and Treasurer LaPaul, David
Senior Vice President-IT Chief Financial Officer, Procurement & BTO O'Brien, Kevin G.
Senior Vice President-Corporate Solutions Perez, Juan J.
Senior Vice President-Retirement Plan Sales Ramey, Scott
Senior Vice President Rich, Sandra L.
Senior Vice President-Chief Technology Officer - Nationwide Financial Richardson, Michael A.

 


Senior Vice President-Nationwide Retirement Institute Rodriguez, Kristi L.
Senior Vice President-Finance & Strategy Legal and Corporate Secretary Skingle, Denise L.
Senior Vice President-Nationwide Life Snyder, Holly R.
Senior Vice President-Investment Management Group Spangler, Michael S.
Senior Vice President-Retirement Plan Sales Stevenson, Eric
Director Walker, Kirt A.
Item 29. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with the Depositor or Registrant.
Following is a list of entities directly or indirectly controlled by or under common control with the depositor or registrant. Ownership is indicated through indentation. Unless otherwise indicated, each subsidiary is either wholly-owned or majority-owned by the parent company immediately preceding it. (For example, Nationwide Fund Distributors, LLC is either wholly-owned or majority owned by NFS Distributors, Inc.) Separate accounts that have been established pursuant to board resolution but are not, and have never been, active are omitted.
Company Jurisdiction
of Domicile
Brief Description of Business
Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. Delaware The company acts primarily as a holding company for companies within the Nationwide organization that offer or distribute life insurance, long-term savings and retirement products.
NFS Distributors, Inc. Delaware The company acts primarily as a holding company for Nationwide Financial Services, Inc. companies.
Nationwide Financial General Agency, Inc. Pennsylvania The company is a multi-state licensed insurance agency.
Nationwide Fund Distributors, LLC Delaware The company is a limited purpose broker-dealer.
Nationwide Fund Management, LLC Delaware The company provides administration, transfer and dividend disbursing agent services to various mutual fund entities.
Nationwide Retirement Solutions, Inc. Delaware The company markets and administers deferred compensation plans for public employees.
Nationwide Securities, LLC Delaware The company is a general purpose broker-dealer and investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Nationwide Trust Company, FSB Federal This is a federal savings bank chartered by the Office of Thrift Supervision in the United States Department of Treasury to exercise deposit, lending, agency, custody and fiduciary powers and to engage in activities permissible for federal savings banks under the Home Owners’ Loan Act of 1933.
Nationwide Financial Services Capital Trust Delaware The trust’s sole purpose is to issue and sell certain securities representing individual beneficial interests in the assets of the trust
Nationwide Life Insurance Company 2 Ohio The corporation provides individual life insurance, group and health insurance, fixed and variable annuity products and other life insurance products.
Jefferson National Financial Corporation3 Delaware A stock corporation. The corporation is the holding company of Jefferson National Life Insurance Company, Jefferson National Life Insurance Company of New York, Jefferson National Securities Corporation, and JNF Advisors, Inc., offering annuity products and services.
Jefferson National Life Insurance Company2,3 Texas The company provides life, health and annuity products.
Jefferson National Life Annuity Company C2,3   A separate account issuing variable annuity products.
Jefferson National Life Annuity Account E2,3   A separate account issuing variable annuity products.
Jefferson National Life Annuity Account F2,3   A separate account issuing variable annuity products.
Jefferson National Life Annuity Account G2,3   A separate account issuing variable annuity products.
Jefferson National Life Insurance Company of New York2,3 New York The company provides variable annuity products.
Jefferson National Life of New York Annuity Account 12,3   A separate account issuing variable annuity products.

 


Company Jurisdiction
of Domicile
Brief Description of Business
Jefferson National Securities Corporation3 Delaware The company is a limited purpose broker-dealer and distributor of variable annuities for Jefferson National Life Insurance Company and Jefferson National Life Insurance Company of New York.
MFS Variable Account2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Multi-Flex Variable Account2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-II2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-32,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-42,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-52,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-62,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-72,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-82,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-92,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-102,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-112,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-122,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-132,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-142,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Variable Account-152,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Provident VA Separate Account 12,3 Pennsylvania A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide VLI Separate Account2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide VLI Separate Account-22,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide VLI Separate Account-32,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide VLI Separate Account-42,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide VLI Separate Account-52,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide VLI Separate Account-62,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide VLI Separate Account-72,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide Provident VLI Separate Account 12,3 Pennsylvania A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide Investment Services Corporation3 Oklahoma This is a limited purpose broker-dealer and distributor of variable annuities and variable life products for Nationwide Life Insurance Company and Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company. The company also provides educational services to retirement plan sponsors and its participants.
Nationwide Financial Assignment Company3 Ohio The company is an administrator of structured settlements.
Nationwide Investment Advisors, LLC3 Ohio The company provides investment advisory services.
Eagle Captive Reinsurance, LLC3 Ohio The company is engaged in the business of insurance
Nationwide Life and Annuity Insurance Company2,3 Ohio The company engages in underwriting life insurance and granting, purchasing and disposing of annuities.
Nationwide VA Separate Account-A2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide VA Separate Account-B2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide VA Separate Account-C2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide VA Separate Account-D2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide Provident VA Separate Account A2,3 Delaware A separate account issuing variable annuity contracts.
Nationwide VL Separate Account-C2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.

 


Company Jurisdiction
of Domicile
Brief Description of Business
Nationwide VL Separate Account-D2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide VL Separate Account-G2,3 Ohio A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Nationwide Provident VLI Separate Account A2,3 Delaware A separate account issuing variable life insurance policies.
Olentangy Reinsurance, LLC3 Vermont The company is a captive life reinsurance company.
Nationwide SBL, LLC Ohio The company is a lender offering securities-back lines of credit.
Registered Investment Advisors Services, Inc. Texas The company is a technology company that facilitates third-party money management services for registered investment advisors
Nationwide Fund Advisors4 Delaware The trust acts as a registered investment advisor.
1 This subsidiary/entity is controlled by its immediate parent through contractual association.
2 This subsidiary/entity files separate financial statements.
3 Information for this subsidiary/entity is included in the consolidated financial statements of its immediate parent.
4 This subsidiary/entity is a business trust.
Item 30. Indemnification
Provision is made in Nationwide’s Amended and Restated Code of Regulations and expressly authorized by the General Corporation Law of the State of Ohio, for indemnification by Nationwide of any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director, officer or employee of Nationwide, against expenses, including attorneys fees, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such action, suit or proceeding, to the extent and under the circumstances permitted by the General Corporation Law of the State of Ohio.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 ("Act") may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling Nationwide pursuant to the foregoing provisions, Nationwide has been informed that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Item 31. Principal Underwriter
Nationwide Investment Services Corporation ("NISC")
a) NISC serves as principal underwriter and general distributor for the following separate investment accounts of Nationwide or its affiliates:
   
MFS Variable Account Nationwide VA Separate Account-C
Multi-Flex Variable Account Nationwide VA Separate Account-D
Nationwide Variable Account Nationwide VLI Separate Account
Nationwide Variable Account-II Nationwide VLI Separate Account-2
Nationwide Variable Account-3 Nationwide VLI Separate Account-3
Nationwide Variable Account-4 Nationwide VLI Separate Account-4
Nationwide Variable Account-5 Nationwide VLI Separate Account-5
Nationwide Variable Account-6 Nationwide VLI Separate Account-6
Nationwide Variable Account-7 Nationwide VLI Separate Account-7
Nationwide Variable Account-8 Nationwide VL Separate Account-C
Nationwide Variable Account-9 Nationwide VL Separate Account-D
Nationwide Variable Account-10 Nationwide VL Separate Account-G
Nationwide Variable Account-11 Nationwide Provident VA Separate Account 1

 


Nationwide Variable Account-12 Nationwide Provident VA Separate Account A
Nationwide Variable Account-13 Nationwide Provident VLI Separate Account 1
Nationwide Variable Account-14 Nationwide Provident VLI Separate Account A
Nationwide Variable Account-15  
Nationwide VA Separate Account-A  
Nationwide VA Separate Account-B  
b) Directors and Officers of NISC:
   
President and Director Ambrozy, Tina S.
Senior Vice President-Head of Taxation Biesecker, Pamela A.
Senior Vice President and Secretary Skingle, Denise L.
Vice President-Tax Eppley, Daniel P.
Vice President and Assistant Secretary Garman, David A.
Vice President-Chief Compliance Officer Rabenstine, James J.
Vice President-Performance Management & Accounting and Financial Operations Rothermel, Peter J.
Associate Vice President and Assistant Treasurer Conner, David A.
Associate Vice President and Assistant Treasurer Hacker, Hope C.
Associate Vice President and Assistant Secretary Hartman, Mark E.
Associate Vice President and Assistant Treasurer Reese, John A.
Associate Vice President and Treasurer Roswell, Ewan T.
Assistant Secretary Bowman, Heidi
Assistant Secretary Hinze, Keith W.
Director Henderson, Eric S.
Director Stevenson, Eric
The business address of the Directors and Officers of NISC is:
One Nationwide Plaza, Columbus, Ohio 43215.
c)
Name of Principal Underwriter   Net Underwriting
Discounts and
Commissions
  Compensation on
Redemption or
Annuitization
  Brokerage
Commissions
  Compensation
Nationwide Investment Services Corporation

  N/A   N/A   N/A   N/A
Item 32. Location of Accounts and Records
Steven A. Ginnan
Nationwide Life Insurance Company
One Nationwide Plaza
Columbus, OH 43215
Item 33. Management Services
Not Applicable
Item 34. Fee Representation
Nationwide Life Insurance Company represents that the fees and charges deducted under the contract in the aggregate are reasonable in relation to the services rendered, the expenses expected to be incurred and risks assumed by Nationwide Life Insurance Company.

 


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant certifies that it has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Columbus, and State of Ohio, on July 30, 2021.
Nationwide Variable Account-II
(Registrant)
Nationwide Life Insurance Company
(Depositor)
By: /s/ Michael Stobart
Michael Stobart
Attorney-in-Fact
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated, on July 30, 2021.
JOHN L. CARTER  
John L. Carter, President and Chief Operating Officer and Director  
MARK R. THRESHER  
Mark R. Thresher, Executive Vice President and Director  
TIMOTHY G. FROMMEYER  
Timothy G. Frommeyer, Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer and Director  
ERIC S. HENDERSON  
Eric S. Henderson, Senior Vice President-Nationwide Annuity and Director  
STEVEN A. GINNAN  
Steven A. Ginnan, Senior Vice President-Chief Financial Officer-Nationwide Financial and Director  
KIRT A. WALKER  
Director  
  By /s/ Michael Stobart
  Michael Stobart
Attorney-in-Fact