Protecting our policyholders and bringing them exceptional value are traditions that are at the very heart of what we do at SBLI. That's why we are pleased to let you know that all term and whole life SBLI policies whose applications were received on or after July 11, 2013, will include a free Accelerated Death Benefit rider upon issue.

     Our Accelerated Death Benefit rider will allow policyholders the one-time option to accelerate as much as 50% of their death benefit, up to a maximum of $250,000, with a physician's verification that terminal illness will result in the death of the insured within twelve months. This benefit can provide much-needed funds to help pay for medical expenses, for end of life care, or for anything else the policyholder deems appropriate.

     This important living benefit is available in all states where SBLI operates, with the temporary exception of California and Connecticut. We expect timely approval of the rider in both of these states, as well as Minnesota where we have just been admitted. We will notify you when all approvals are realized.

     In 2014, we plan to provide the rider free of charge to a substantial block of inforce business, including policies issued in the last several years.We will let you know when our inforce systems are ready.

     Please share this good news with your producers and trust that there is more good news to come for the benefit of our policyholders. As always, thanks for partnering with us!