As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 8, 2004 Registration No. 333-104548 ________________________________________________________________________________ SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to FORM S-2 REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 41-0991508 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Linda E. Senker, Esq. Kimberly J. Smith, Esq. ING ING 1475 Dunwoody Drive 1475 Dunwoody Drive West Chester, PA 19380-1478 West Chester, PA 19380-1478 (610) 425-4139 (610) 425-3427 (NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF AGENT FOR SERVICE) - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The annuities covered by this registration statement are to be issued from time to time after the effective date of this registration statement. If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933 check the following box............................................ [XX] If the registrant elects to deliver its latest annual report to security holders, or a complete and legible facsimile thereof, pursuant to Item 11(a)(1) of this Form, check the following box................................... [XX] If this form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. [ ] ______________ If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. [ ] ______________ If this form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. [ ] ______________ If the delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434, please check the following box. [ ] - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PART I - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ING USA ANNUITY AND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY DEFERRED MODIFIED GUARANTEED ANNUITY PROSPECTUS ING GOLDENSELECT GUARANTEE ANNUITY - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- April 30, 2004 This prospectus describes ING GoldenSelect Guarantee Annuity, a group and individual deferred modified guaranteed annuity contract (the "Contract") offered by ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company ("ING USA," the "Company," "we" or "our") (formerly, Golden American Life Insurance Company. The Contract is available in connection with certain retirement plans that qualify for special federal income tax treatment ("qualified Contracts") as well as those that do not qualify for such treatment ("non-qualified Contracts"). The Contract provides a means for you to invest your single premium payment in the fixed account with guaranteed interest periods. Your contract value will vary to reflect interest credited. We will credit your contract value with a fixed rate of interest. We set the interest rates periodically. We generally offer several guaranteed interest periods. We may offer additional guaranteed interest periods in some or all states, may not offer all guaranteed interest periods on all contracts, and the rates for a given guaranteed interest period may vary among contracts. The interest earned on your money as well as your principal is guaranteed as long as you hold them until the maturity date. If you take your money out before the applicable maturity date, we will apply a market value adjustment ("Market Value Adjustment"). A Market Value Adjustment could increase or decrease your contract value and/or the amount you take out. You bear the risk that you may receive less than your principal if we take a Market Value Adjustment. A surrender charge may also apply to withdrawals from your contract. For Contracts sold in some states, not all guaranteed interest periods are available. You have a right to return a Contract within 10 days after you receive it for a refund of the adjusted contract value (which may be more or less than the premium payment you paid), or, if required by your state, the original amount of your premium payment. Longer free look periods apply in some states and in certain situations. REPLACING AN EXISTING ANNUITY WITH THE CONTRACT MAY NOT BE BENEFICIAL TO YOU. YOUR EXISTING ANNUITY MAY BE SUBJECT TO FEES OR PENALTIES ON SURRENDER, AND THE CONTRACT MAY HAVE NEW CHARGES. This prospectus provides information that you should know before investing and should be kept for future reference. THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. AN INVESTMENT IN THIS CONTRACT IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY ANY BANK OR BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCY. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TABLE OF CONTENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PAGE Index of Special Terms.................................................... ii Fees and Expenses......................................................... 1 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company................................ 1 Financial Statements...................................................... 1 The Fixed Account......................................................... 1 The Annuity Contract...................................................... 4 Contract Date and Contract Year........................................ 4 Annuity Start Date..................................................... 4 Contract Owner......................................................... 4 Joint Owner............................................................ 4 Annuitant.............................................................. 4 Beneficiary............................................................ 5 Change of Contract Owner or Beneficiary................................ 5 Purchase and Availability of the Contract.............................. 5 Crediting of Premium Payment........................................... 6 Administrative Procedures.............................................. 6 Contract Value......................................................... 6 Cash Surrender Value................................................... 6 Surrendering to Receive the Cash Surrender Value....................... 7 The Fixed Account...................................................... 7 Other Important Provisions............................................. 7 Withdrawals............................................................... 7 Death Benefit............................................................. 9 Death Benefit During the Accumulation Phase............................ 9 Death Benefit During the Income Phase.................................. 10 Required Distributions upon Contract Owner's Death..................... 10 Charges and Fees.......................................................... 11 Charges Deducted from the Contract Value............................... 11 Surrender Charge.................................................... 11 Waiver of Surrender Charge for Extended Medical Coverage............ 11 Free Withdrawal Amount.............................................. 11 Surrender Charge for Excess Withdrawals............................. 12 Premium Taxes....................................................... 12 The Annuity Options....................................................... 12 Other Contract Provisions................................................. 14 Other Information......................................................... 16 State Regulation....................................................... 16 Legal Proceedings...................................................... 16 Experts............................................................. 16 Further Information.................................................... 16 Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference........................................................... 17 Federal Tax Considerations................................................ 17 Appendix A Market Value Adjustment Examples....................................... A1 Appendix B Surrender Charge Examples............................................... B1 Guarantee Annuity - 131798 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEX OF SPECIAL TERMS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The following special terms are used throughout this prospectus. Refer to the page(s) listed for an explanation of each term: SPECIAL TERM PAGE ------------------------------------------------------------- Annuitant 4 Annuity Start Date 4 Cash Surrender Value 6 Contract Date 4 Contract Owner 4 Contract Value 6 Contract Year 6 Free Withdrawal Amount 11 Market Value Adjustment 3 The following terms as used in this prospectus have the same or substituted meanings as the corresponding terms currently used in the Contract: TERM USED IN THIS PROSPECTUS CORRESPONDING TERM USED IN THE CONTRACT ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Annuity Start Date Annuity Commencement Date Contract Owner Owner or Certificate Owner Contract Value Accumulation Value Free Look Period Right to Examine Period Guaranteed Interest Period Guarantee Period Withdrawals Partial Withdrawals - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEES AND EXPENSES - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONTRACT OWNER TRANSACTION EXPENSES* SURRENDER CHARGE: COMPLETE YEARS ELAPSED 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8+ SINCE START OF GUARANTEE PERIOD SURRENDER CHARGE 8% 7% 6% 5% 4% 3% 2% 1% 0% * A Market Value Adjustment may apply to certain transactions. This may increase or decrease your contract value and/or your surrender amount. In addition, if you withdraw money from your Contract, or if you begin receiving annuity payments, we may deduct a premium tax charge of 0% to 3.5% to pay to your state. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ING USA ANNUITY AND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company) is an Iowa stock life insurance company, which was originally incorporated in Minnesota on January 2, 1973. ING USA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc. ("Lion Connecticut"), which in turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of ING Groep N.V. ("ING"), a global financial services holding company based in The Netherlands. ING USA is authorized to sell insurance and annuities in all states, except New York, and the District of Columbia. Lion Connecticut is the holding company for ING USA, Directed Services, Inc., the distributor of the Contracts, and other interests. Our principal office is located at 1475 Dunwoody Drive, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19380. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The audited consolidated financial statements of ING USA as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, are included in this prospectus. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THE FIXED ACCOUNT - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Assets supporting your contract value are invested in our Fixed Account. Your premium payment (less withdrawals and less applicable premium taxes, if any) will earn interest at the initial guarantee rate which is an annual effective rate of interest. You may select the duration of your initial guarantee period from among the durations offered by us. The duration you select will determine your initial guarantee rate. We generally offer several guaranteed interest, although we may not offer all these periods in the future or through all broker-dealers. We may offer additional guaranteed interest periods in some or all states, may not offer all guaranteed interest periods on all contracts, and the rates for a given guaranteed interest period may vary among contracts. We will credit your premium payment with a guaranteed interest rate for the interest period you select, so long as you do not withdraw money before the end of the guaranteed interest period. Each guaranteed interest period ends on its maturity date which is the last day of the last contract year in the guarantee period. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A1 If you surrender, withdraw, or annuitize your investment before the 30-day period prior to the end of the guaranteed interest period, we will apply a Market Value Adjustment to the amount of the transaction in excess of the free withdrawal amount. A Market Value Adjustment could increase or decrease the amount you surrender, withdraw, or annuitize, depending on current interest rates at the time of the transaction. You bear the risk that you may receive less than your principal if we apply a Market Value Adjustment. Assets supporting your contract value are available to fund the claims of all classes of our customers, contract owners and other creditors. Interests under your Contract are registered under the Securities Act of 1933, but the Fixed Account is not registered under the 1940 Act. SELECTING A GUARANTEED INTEREST PERIOD A guaranteed interest period is the period that a rate of interest is guaranteed to be credited to your contract value. We may at any time decrease or increase the number of guaranteed interest periods offered. Your contract value is the sum of your premium payment and the interest credited as adjusted for any withdrawals (including any Market Value Adjustment applied to such withdrawal) or other charges we may impose. Your contract value will be credited with the guaranteed interest rate in effect for the guaranteed interest period you selected when we receive and accept your premium. We will credit interest daily at a rate which yields the quoted guaranteed interest rate. GUARANTEED INTEREST RATES The interest rate to be credited to your contract value is guaranteed as long as you do not take your money out until the period beginning 30 days before the applicable maturity date. We do not have a specific formula for establishing the guaranteed interest rates for the different guaranteed interest periods. We determine guaranteed interest rates at our sole discretion. To find out the current guaranteed interest rate for a guaranteed interest period you are interested in, please contact our Customer Service Center or your registered representative. The determination may be influenced by the interest rates on fixed income investments in which we may invest with the amounts we receive under the Contracts. We will invest these amounts primarily in investment-grade fixed income securities (i.e., rated by Standard & Poor's rating system to be suitable for prudent investors) although we are not obligated to invest according to any particular strategy, except as may be required by applicable law. You will have no direct or indirect interest in these investments. We will also consider other factors in determining the guaranteed interest rates, including regulatory and tax requirements, sales commissions and administrative expenses borne by us, general economic trends and competitive factors. We cannot predict the level of future interest rates. We may from time to time at our discretion offer interest rate specials for new premiums that are higher than the current base interest rate. Renewal rates for such rate specials will be based on the base interest rate and not on the special rates initially declared. RENEWAL INTEREST RATES Unless you elect to surrender your contract, a subsequent guarantee period will automatically begin at the end of a guarantee period. We may not offer the same guarantee interest periods for renewal as for initial periods. If offered at the time of your renewal, each subsequent guarantee period will be of the same duration as the previous guarantee period unless you elect in writing, on any day within the 30-day period preceding the end of the current guarantee period, a guarantee period of a different duration from among those offered by us at that time. At least 30 calendar days before the maturity date of the current guarantee period, or earlier if required by state law, we will send you a notice of the guaranteed interest periods that are available. If you do not elect a different guarantee period, and your current guaranteed interest period is not available as a renewal period or would go beyond the annuity start date, we will transfer your contract value to the next shortest guaranteed interest period which does not go beyond the annuity start date. Your contract value will then earn interest at a guarantee rate that we have declared for that duration. The guarantee rate for the guarantee period automatically applied in these circumstances may be higher or lower than the guarantee rate for longer durations. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A2 The contract value at the beginning of any renewal guarantee period will be equal to the contract value at the end of the guarantee period just ending. This contract value, less withdrawals made after the beginning of the subsequent guarantee period, will earn interest compounded annually at the renewal guarantee rate. WITHDRAWALS During the accumulation phase, you may withdraw a portion of your contract value. Beginning 28 days after the contract date, you may make systematic withdrawals of only the interest earned during the prior month, quarter or year, depending on the frequency chosen, under our systematic withdrawal option. A withdrawal may be subject to a Market Value Adjustment and, in some cases, a surrender charge (see "Charges and Fees"). Be aware that withdrawals may have federal income tax consequences, including a 10% penalty tax. MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT A Market Value Adjustment may decrease, increase or have no effect on your contract value. We will apply a Market Value Adjustment to amounts in excess of the free withdrawal amount (i) whenever you withdraw money (unless made within the 30 day period before the maturity date of the applicable guaranteed interest period) and (ii) if on the annuity start date a guaranteed interest period does not end on or within 30 days of the annuity start date. The Market Value Adjustment resets at the start of each guarantee period. We determine the Market Value Adjustment by multiplying the amount you withdraw or apply to an income plan by the following factor: { (1+I)/(1+J+.0050) }^(N/365) }-1* where: "I" is the Index Rate (as defined below), determined at the beginning of the current guarantee period; "J" is the Index Rate, determined at the time of surrender or withdrawal for a security with time to maturity equal to the number of years (fractional years rounded up to the next full year) remaining in the guarantee period from the date of surrender or withdrawal; and "N" is the number of days from the date of surrender or withdrawal to the end of the current guarantee period. ---------- * For contracts issued in Florida, the factor is [(1+I)/(1+J+.0025)]^N/365 - 1. The Index Rate is the average of the Ask Yields for U.S. Treasury Strips as quoted by a national quoting service for a period equal to an applicable guaranteed interest period. The average currently is based on the period starting from the 22nd day of the calendar month two months prior to the month of the Index Rate determination and ending the 21st day of the calendar month immediately before the month of determination. We currently calculate the Index Rate once each calendar month but have the right to calculate it more frequently. The Index Rate will always be based on a period of at least 28 days. If the Ask Yields are no longer available, we will determine the Index Rate by using a suitable and approved, if required, replacement method. A Market Value Adjustment may be positive, negative or result in no change. In general, if interest rates are rising, you bear the risk that any Market Value Adjustment will likely be negative and reduce your contract value. On the other hand, if interest rates are falling, it is more likely that you will receive a positive Market Value Adjustment that increases your contract value. In the event of a full surrender or annuitization, we will add or subtract any Market Value Adjustment from the amount surrendered or annuitized. In the event of a partial withdrawal or annuitization, we will add or subtract any Market Value Adjustment from the total amount withdrawn or annuitized in order to provide the amount requested. If a negative Market Value Adjustment exceeds your contract value, we will consider your request to be a full surrender or annuitization. Several examples which illustrate how the Market Value Adjustment works are included in Appendix A. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A3 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THE ANNUITY CONTRACT - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Contract described in this prospectus is a deferred fixed annuity contract. The Contract provides a means for you to invest in the Fixed Account of the Company. CONTRACT DATE AND CONTRACT YEAR The date the Contract became effective is the contract date. Each 12-month period following the contract date is a contract year. ANNUITY START DATE The annuity start date is the date you start receiving annuity payments under your Contract. The Contract, like all deferred annuity contracts, has two phases: the accumulation phase and the income phase. The accumulation phase is the period between the contract date and the annuity start date. The income phase begins when you start receiving regular annuity payments from your Contract on the annuity start date. CONTRACT OWNER You are the contract owner. You are also the annuitant unless another annuitant is named in the application. You have the rights and options described in the Contract. One or more persons may own the Contract. The death benefit becomes payable when you die. In the case of a sole contract owner who dies before the income phase begins, we will pay the beneficiary the death benefit then due. The sole contract owner's estate will be the beneficiary if no beneficiary has been designated or the beneficiary has predeceased the contract owner. In the case of a joint owner of the Contract dying before the income phase begins, we will designate the surviving contract owner as the beneficiary. This will override any previous beneficiary designation. If the contract owner is a trust and a beneficial owner of the trust has been designated, the beneficial owner will be treated as the contract owner for determining the death benefit. If a beneficial owner is changed or added after the contract date, this will be treated as a change of contract owner for determining the death benefit. JOINT OWNER. For non-qualified Contracts only, joint owners may be named in a written request before the Contract is in effect. Joint owners may independently exercise transfers and other transactions allowed under the Contract. All other rights of ownership must be exercised by both owners. Joint owners own equal shares of any benefits accruing or payments made to them. All rights of a joint owner end at death of that owner if the other joint owner survives. The entire interest of the deceased joint owner in the Contract will pass to the surviving joint owner. ANNUITANT The annuitant is the person designated by you to be the measuring life in determining annuity payments. The annuitant's age determines when the income phase must begin and the amount of the annuity payments to be paid. You are the annuitant unless you choose to name another person. The annuitant may not be changed after the Contract is in effect. The contract owner will receive the annuity benefits of the Contract if the annuitant is living on the annuity start date. If the annuitant dies before the annuity start date, and a contingent annuitant has been named, the contingent annuitant becomes the annuitant (unless the contract owner is not an individual, in which case the death benefit becomes payable). When the annuitant dies before the annuity start date, the contract owner will become the annuitant. The contract owner may designate a new annuitant within 60 days of the death of the annuitant. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A4 If there is no contingent annuitant when the annuitant dies before the annuity start date and the contract owner is not an individual, we will pay the designated beneficiary the death benefit then due. If a beneficiary has not been designated, or if there is no designated beneficiary living, the contract owner will be the beneficiary. If the annuitant was the sole contract owner and there is no beneficiary designation, the annuitant's estate will be the beneficiary. Regardless of whether a death benefit is payable, if the annuitant dies and any contract owner is not an individual, distribution rules under federal tax law will apply. You should consult your tax advisor for more information if you are not an individual. BENEFICIARY The beneficiary is named by you in a written request. The beneficiary is the person who receives any death benefit proceeds and who may become the successor contract owner if the contract owner who is a spouse (or the annuitant if the contract owner is other than an individual) dies before the annuity start date. We pay death benefits to the primary beneficiary (unless there are joint owners, in which case death proceeds are payable to the surviving owner(s)). If the beneficiary dies before the annuitant or the contract owner, the death benefit proceeds are paid to the contingent beneficiary, if any. If there is no surviving beneficiary, we pay the death benefit proceeds to the contract owner's estate. One or more persons may be a beneficiary or contingent beneficiary. In the case of more than one beneficiary, we will assume any death benefit proceeds are to be paid in equal shares to the surviving beneficiaries, unless you indicate otherwise in writing. You have the right to change beneficiaries during the annuitant's lifetime unless you have designated an irrevocable beneficiary. When an irrevocable beneficiary has been designated, you and the irrevocable beneficiary may have to act together to exercise some of the rights and options under the Contract. CHANGE OF CONTRACT OWNER OR BENEFICIARY. During the annuitant's lifetime, you may transfer ownership of a non-qualified Contract. You may also change the beneficiary. All requests for changes must be in writing and submitted to our Customer Service Center in good order. The change will be effective as of the day we receive the request. The change will not affect any payment made or action taken by us before recording the change. A change of owner likely has tax consequences. See "Federal Tax Considerations in this prospectus. PURCHASE AND AVAILABILITY OF THE CONTRACT We will issue a Contract only if both the annuitant and the contract owner are age 90 or younger. The single premium payment must be $5,000 or more ($1,500 for qualified Contracts). Under certain circumstances, we may waive the minimum premium payment requirement. We may also change the minimum initial premium requirement for certain group or sponsored arrangements. Any premium payment that would cause the contract value of all annuities that you maintain with us to exceed $1,000,000 requires our prior approval. The Contract is designed for people seeking long-term tax-deferred accumulation of assets, generally for retirement or other long-term purposes. The tax-deferred feature is more attractive to people in high federal and state tax brackets. YOU SHOULD NOT BUY THIS CONTRACT: (1) IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT; (2) IF YOU CANNOT RISK GETTING BACK LESS MONEY THAN YOU PUT IN; OR (3) IF YOUR ASSETS ARE IN A PLAN WHICH PROVIDES FOR TAX-DEFERRAL AND YOU SEE NO OTHER REASON TO PURCHASE THIS CONTRACT. IRAs and other qualified plans already have the tax-deferral feature found in this Contract. For an additional cost, the Contract provides other features and benefits including death benefits and the ability to receive a lifetime income. You should not purchase a qualified Contract unless you want these other features and benefits, taking into account their cost. See "Fees and Expenses" in this prospectus. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A5 We and our affiliates offer other variable products that may offer some of the same investment portfolios. These products have different benefits and charges, and may or may not better match your needs. CREDITING OF PREMIUM PAYMENT We will process your premium payment within 2 business days after receipt, if the application and all information necessary for processing the Contract are complete. In certain states we also accept premium payments by wire order. Wire transmittals must be accompanied by sufficient electronically transmitted data. We may retain your premium payment for up to 5 business days while attempting to complete an incomplete application. If the application cannot be completed within this period, we will inform you of the reasons for the delay. We will also return the premium payment immediately unless you direct us to hold the premium payment until the application is completed. If you choose to have us hold the premium payment, it will be held in a non-interest bearing account. If your premium payment was transmitted by wire order from your broker-dealer, we will follow one of the following two procedures after we receive and accept the wire order and investment instructions. The procedure we follow depends on state availability and the procedures of your broker-dealer. (1) If either your state or broker-dealer do not permit us to issue a Contract without an application, we reserve the right to rescind the Contract if we do not receive and accept a properly completed application or enrollment form within 5 days of the premium payment. If we do not receive the application or form within 5 days of the premium payment, we will refund the contract value plus any charges we deducted, and the Contract will be voided. Some states require that we return the premium paid, in which case we will comply. (2) If your state and broker-dealer allow us to issue a Contract without an application, we will issue and mail the Contract to you or your representative, together with a Contract Acknowledgement and Delivery Statement for your execution. Until our Customer Service Center receives the executed Contract Acknowledgement and Delivery Statement, neither you nor the broker-dealer may execute any financial transactions on your Contract unless they are requested in writing by you. We may require additional information before complying with your request (e.g., signature guarantee). We may also refuse to accept certain forms of premium payments or loan repayments, if applicable, (traveler's checks, for example) or restrict the amount of certain forms of premium payments or loan repayments (money orders totaling more than $500, for example). In addition, we may require information as to why a particular form of payment was used (third party checks, for example) and the source of the funds of such payment in order to determine whether or not we will accept it. Use of an unacceptable form of payment may result in us returning your premium payment and not issuing the contract. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES We may accept a request for Contract service in writing, by telephone, or other approved electronic means, subject to our administrative procedures, which vary depending on the type of service requested and may include proper completion of certain forms, providing appropriate identifying information, and/or other administrative requirements. CONTRACT VALUE We determine your contract value on a daily basis beginning on the contract date. Your contract value is the sum of the premium payment plus credited interest, minus any withdrawals (including any Market Value Adjustment applied to such withdrawal), contract fees, and premium taxes. If you surrender your contract during the 30-day period preceding a maturity date, you will receive the contract value. CASH SURRENDER VALUE The cash surrender value is the amount you receive when you surrender the Contract, other than during the 30-day period prior to a maturity date. The cash surrender value will fluctuate daily based on the interest credited to the contract value and any Market Value Adjustment. We do not guarantee any minimum cash Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A6 surrender value. On any date during the accumulation phase, we calculate the cash surrender value as follows: we start with your contract value, then we adjust for any Market Value Adjustment, then we deduct any surrender charge, any charge for premium taxes, and any other charges incurred but not yet deducted. SURRENDERING TO RECEIVE THE CASH SURRENDER VALUE You may surrender the Contract at any time while the annuitant is living and before the annuity start date. A surrender will be effective on the date your written request and the Contract are received at our Customer Service Center. We will determine and pay the cash surrender value after receipt of all paperwork required in order for us to process your surrender. Once paid, all benefits under the Contract will be terminated. You may receive the cash surrender value in a single sum payment or apply it under one or more annuity options. We will usually pay the cash surrender value within 7 days. Consult your tax advisor regarding the tax consequences associated with surrendering your Contract. A surrender made before you reach age 59 1/2 may result in a 10% tax penalty. See "Federal Tax Considerations" for more details. THE FIXED ACCOUNT The Fixed Account is a segregated asset account which contains the assets that support a contract owner's contract value. See "The Fixed Account" for more information. OTHER IMPORTANT PROVISIONS See "Withdrawals," "Death Benefit," "Charges and Fees," "The Annuity Options" and "Other Contract Provisions" in this prospectus for information on other important provisions in your Contract. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- WITHDRAWALS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Any time during the accumulation phase and before the death of the owner, you may withdraw all or part of your money. Keep in mind that your contract value after the withdrawal must equal or exceed $1,000 or we will treat the withdrawal request as a request to surrender the Contract. We deduct a surrender charge if you surrender your Contract or withdraw an amount exceeding the free withdrawal amount. The free withdrawal amount is equal to the prior 12 months' interest earned and not previously withdrawn. The surrender charge varies by the length of the guarantee period selected, beginning with 8% during year 1 and reducing by 1% per year to the end of the guarantee period. No surrender charge is imposed upon a surrender made during the 30-day period immediately preceding the end of a guarantee period. The surrender charge period resets at the beginning of each guarantee period. It is charged against the contract value and is based on the amount of the withdrawal. We will apply a Market Value Adjustment to any withdrawal in excess of the free withdrawal amount taken prior to the 30-day period before the maturity date. Definitive guidance on the proper federal tax treatment of the market value adjustment has not been issued. You may want to discuss the potential tax consequences of a market value adjustment with your tax adviser. We will determine the contract value as of the close of business on the day we receive your withdrawal request at our Customer Service Center. The contract value may be more or less than the premium payment made. Upon surrender, surrender charges and a Market Value Adjustment will be applied retroactively with respect to any free withdrawal amount previously withdrawn within the same contract year as the surrender. We offer the following three withdrawal options: Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A7 REGULAR WITHDRAWALS After the free look period, you may make regular withdrawals. Each withdrawal must be a minimum of $100. We will apply a surrender charge and Market Value Adjustment to any regular withdrawal in excess of the free withdrawal amount that is taken prior to the 30-day period before the maturity date. SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWALS You may choose to receive automatic systematic withdrawal payments. Systematic withdrawals are limited to interest earnings during the prior month, quarter, or year, depending on the frequency you chose. Systematic withdrawals are not subject to a Market Value Adjustment, unless you have added the Fixed Dollar Systematic Withdrawal Feature discussed below and the payments exceed the free withdrawal amount. Systematic withdrawals under the Fixed Dollar Systematic Withdrawal Feature are available only in connection with Section 72(q) or 72(t) distributions. Systematic withdrawals may be taken monthly, quarterly or annually. You decide when you would like systematic payments to start as long as they start at least 28 days after your contract date. You also select the date on which the systematic withdrawals will be made, but this date cannot be later than the 28th day of the month. If you have elected to receive systematic withdrawals but have not chosen a date, we will make the withdrawals on the same calendar day of each month as your contract date. If your contract date is after the 28th , your systematic withdrawal will be made on the 28th day of each month. Each systematic withdrawal amount must be a minimum of $100. The amount of your systematic withdrawal can either be (1) a fixed dollar amount, or (2) an amount based on a percentage of the interest earned and not previously withdrawn, but in either case is limited to interest earnings. If your systematic withdrawal is a fixed dollar amount and the amount to be withdrawn would exceed the applicable free withdrawal amount on any withdrawal date, we will automatically reduce the amount withdrawn so that it equals such free withdrawal amount. Thus, your fixed dollar systematic withdrawals will never exceed the free withdrawal amount. If you want fixed dollar systematic withdrawals to exceed the free withdrawal amount and are willing to incur associated surrender charges, consider the Fixed Dollar Systematic Withdrawal Feature which you may add to your regular systematic withdrawal program. You may change the amount or percentage of your systematic withdrawal once each contract year or cancel this option at any time by sending satisfactory notice to our Customer Service Center at least 7 days before the next scheduled withdrawal date. The systematic withdrawal option may commence in a contract year where a regular withdrawal has been taken but you may not change the amount or percentage of your withdrawals in any contract year during which you have previously taken a regular withdrawal. You may not elect the systematic withdrawal option if you are taking IRA withdrawals. Subject to availability, a spousal or non-spousal beneficiary may elect to receive death benefits as payments over the beneficiary's lifetime ("stretch"). "Stretch" payments will be subject to the same limitations as systematic withdrawals, and non-qualified "stretch" payments will be reported on the same basis as other systematic withdrawals. FIXED DOLLAR SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL FEATURE. You may add the Fixed Dollar Systematic Withdrawal Feature to your regular fixed dollar systematic withdrawal program. This feature allows you to receive a systematic withdrawal in a fixed dollar amount regardless of any surrender charges or Market Value Adjustments. Systematic withdrawals under the Fixed Dollar Systematic Withdrawal Feature are available only in connection with Section 72(q) or 72(t) distributions. You choose the amount of the fixed systematic withdrawals. We will assess a surrender charge and Market Value Adjustment on the withdrawal date if the withdrawal exceeds the free withdrawal amount on the withdrawal date. We will apply the surrender charge and any Market Value Adjustment directly to your contract value (rather than to the systematic withdrawal) so that the amount of each systematic withdrawal remains fixed. Flat dollar systematic withdrawals which are intended to satisfy the requirements of Section 72(q) or 72(t) of the Tax Code may exceed the free withdrawal amount. Such withdrawals are subject to surrender charges and Market Value Adjustment when they exceed the applicable free withdrawal amount. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A8 IRA WITHDRAWALS If you have a non-Roth IRA Contract and will be at least age 70 1/2 during the current calendar year, you may elect to have distributions made to you to satisfy requirements imposed by Federal tax law. IRA withdrawals provide payout of amounts required to be distributed by the Internal Revenue Service rules governing mandatory distributions under qualified plans. We will send you a notice before your distributions commence. You may elect to take IRA withdrawals at that time, or at a later date. You may not elect IRA withdrawals and participate in systematic withdrawals at the same time. If you do not elect to take IRA withdrawals, and distributions are required by Federal tax law, distributions adequate to satisfy the requirements imposed by Federal tax law may be made. Thus, if you are participating in systematic withdrawals, distributions under that option must be adequate to satisfy the mandatory distribution rules imposed by federal tax law. You may choose to receive IRA withdrawals on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis. Under this option, you may elect payments to start as early as 28 days after the contract date. You select the day of the month when the withdrawals will be made, but it cannot be later than the 28th day of the month. If no date is selected, we will make the withdrawals on the same calendar day of the month as the contract date. You may request that we calculate for you the amount that is required to be withdrawn from your Contract each year based on the information you give us and various choices you make. For information regarding the calculation and choices you have to make, see the Statement of Additional Information. Or, we will accept your written instructions regarding the calculated amount required to be withdrawn from your Contract each year. The minimum dollar amount you can withdraw is $100. When we determine the required IRA withdrawal amount for a taxable year based on the frequency you select, if that amount is less than $100, we will pay $100. At any time where the IRA withdrawal amount is greater than the contract value, we will cancel the Contract and send you the amount of the cash surrender value. You may change the payment frequency of your IRA withdrawals once each contract year or cancel this option at any time by sending us satisfactory notice to our Customer Service Center at least 7 days before the next scheduled withdrawal date. An IRA withdrawal in excess of the amount allowed under systematic withdrawals will be subject to a Market Value Adjustment. CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISER REGARDING THE TAX CONSEQUENCES ASSOCIATED WITH TAKING WITHDRAWALS. You are responsible for determining that withdrawals comply with applicable law. A withdrawal made before the taxpayer reaches age 59 1/2 may result in a 10% penalty tax. See "Federal Tax Considerations" for more details. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DEATH BENEFIT - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DEATH BENEFIT DURING THE ACCUMULATION PHASE During the accumulation phase, a death benefit is payable when either, the contract owner or the first of joint owners dies, or the annuitant dies (when a contract owner is not an individual). Assuming you are the contract owner, your beneficiary will receive a death benefit unless the beneficiary is your surviving spouse and elects to continue the Contract. The death benefit is equal to the contract value. The death benefit value is calculated at the close of the business day on which we receive written notice and due proof of death, as well as any required paperwork, at our Customer Service Center ("claim date"). Amounts could be reduced by a charge for premium taxes owed and withdrawals not previously deducted. If your beneficiary elects to delay receipt of the death benefit until a date after the time of death, the amount of the benefit payable in the future may be affected. The death benefit value will not continue to accrue at the current guaranteed interest period rate, but will be credited with the rate being offered under new contracts at such time for the guarantee period elected by the beneficiary. Please note if your beneficiary elects a guarantee period of more than five years, the distribution may be subject to a Market Value Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A9 Adjustment. The proceeds may be received in a single sum, applied to any of the annuity options, or, if available, paid over the beneficiary's lifetime. (See "Systematic Withdrawals" above). A beneficiary's right to elect an income phase payment option or receive a lump-sum payment may have been restricted by the contract owner. If so, such rights or options will not be available to the beneficiary. If we do not receive a request to apply the death benefit proceeds to an annuity option, we will make a single sum distribution. Unless you elect otherwise, the distribution will be made into an interest bearing account, backed by our general account, that is accessed by the beneficiary through a checkbook feature. The beneficiary may access death benefit proceeds at any time without penalty. We will generally distribute death benefit proceeds within 7 days after the claim date. For information on required distributions under federal income tax laws, you should see "Required Distributions upon Contract Owner's Death." The death benefit applies on the first person to die of the contract owner, joint owner, or annuitant (if a contract owner is not an individual). Assuming you are the contract owner, if you die during the accumulation phase, your beneficiary will receive a death benefit unless the beneficiary is the surviving spouse and elects to continue the Contract. DEATH BENEFIT DURING THE INCOME PHASE If any contract owner or the annuitant dies after the annuity start date, we will pay the beneficiary any certain benefit remaining under the annuity in effect at the time. REQUIRED DISTRIBUTIONS UPON CONTRACT OWNER'S DEATH We will not allow any payment of benefits provided under a non-qualified Contract which do not satisfy the requirements of Section 72(s) of the Code. If any contract owner of a non-qualified contract dies before the annuity start date, the death benefit payable to the beneficiary (calculated as described under "Death Benefit Choices" in this prospectus) will be distributed as follows: (a) the death benefit must be completely distributed within 5 years of the contract owner's date of death; or (b) the beneficiary may elect, within the 1-year period after the contract owner's date of death, to receive the death benefit in the form of an annuity from us, provided that (i) such annuity is distributed in substantially equal installments over the life of such beneficiary or over a period not extending beyond the life expectancy of such beneficiary; and (ii) such distributions begin not later than 1 year after the contract owner's date of death. Notwithstanding (a) and (b) above, if the sole contract owner's beneficiary is the deceased owner's surviving spouse, then such spouse may elect to continue the Contract under the same terms as before the contract owner's death. Upon receipt of such election from the spouse at our Customer Service Center: (1) all rights of the spouse as contract owner's beneficiary under the Contract in effect prior to such election will cease; (2) the spouse will become the owner of the Contract and will also be treated as the contingent annuitant, if none has been named and only if the deceased owner was the annuitant; and (3) all rights and privileges granted by the Contract or allowed by ING USA will belong to the spouse as contract owner of the Contract. This election will be deemed to have been made by the spouse if such spouse fails to make a timely election as described in this paragraph. If the owner's beneficiary is a nonspouse, the distribution provisions described in subparagraphs (a) and (b) above, will apply even if the annuitant and/or contingent annuitant are alive at the time of the contract owner's death. Subject to availability, and our then current rules, a spousal or non-spousal beneficiary may elect to receive death benefits as payments over the life expectancy of the beneficiary ("stretch"). "Stretch" payments will be subject to the same limitations as systematic withdrawals, and non-qualified "stretch" payments will be reported on the same basis as other systematic withdrawals. If we do not receive an election from a nonspouse owner's beneficiary within the 1-year period after the contract owner's date of death, then we will pay the death benefit to the owner's beneficiary in a cash payment within five years from date of death. We will determine the death benefit as of the date we receive proof of death. We will make payment of the proceeds on or before the end of the 5-year period starting on Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A10 the owner's date of death. Such cash payment will be in full settlement of all our liability under the Contract. If the contract owner dies after the annuity start date, we will continue to distribute any benefit payable at least as rapidly as under the annuity option then in effect. All of the contract owner's rights granted under the Contract or allowed by us will pass to the contract owner's beneficiary. If the Contract has joint owners we will consider the date of death of the first joint owner as the death of the contract owner, and the surviving joint owner will become the beneficiary of the Contract. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CHARGES AND FEES - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We deduct the Contract charges described below to compensate us for our cost and expenses, services provided and risks assumed under the Contracts. We incur certain costs and expenses for distributing and administering the Contracts, including compensation and expenses paid in connection with sales of the Contracts, for paying the benefits payable under the Contracts and for bearing various risks associated with the Contracts. The amount of a Contract charge will not always correspond to the actual costs associated with the charge. For example, the surrender charge collected may not fully cover all of the distribution expenses incurred by us with the service or benefits provided. In the event there are any profits from fees and charges deducted under the Contract, including the mortality and expense risk charge and rider and benefit charges, we may use such profits to finance the distribution of Contracts. CHARGES DEDUCTED FROM THE CONTRACT VALUE We deduct the following charges from your contract value: SURRENDER CHARGE. We will deduct a contingent deferred sales charge (a "surrender charge") if you surrender your Contract or if you take a withdrawal in excess of the free withdrawal amount during the guarantee period. The free withdrawal amount is equal to the prior 12 months' interest earned and not previously withdrawn. The surrender charge is charged against the contract value and is based on the amount of the withdrawal. This charge is intended to cover sales expenses that we have incurred. We may in the future reduce or waive the surrender charge in certain situations and will never charge more than the maximum surrender charges. The percentage deducted at the time of surrender or excess withdrawal depends on the number of complete years that have elapsed since the beginning of the guarantee period. The surrender charge varies by the length of the guarantee period selected, beginning with 8% during year 1 and reducing by 1% per year to the earlier of the end of the guarantee period or the 8th policy year. No surrender charge is imposed upon a surrender made during the 30-day period immediately preceding the end of a guarantee period. The surrender charge period resets at the beginning of each guarantee period. Upon withdrawal, it is charged against the remaining contract value and is based on the amount of the withdrawal. Upon surrender, a surrender charge and a Market Value Adjustment will be applied retroactively with respect to any free withdrawal amount previously withdrawn within the same contract year as the surrender. The following table shows the schedule of the surrender charge that will apply. COMPLETE YEARS ELAPSED 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8+ SINCE START OF GUARANTEE PERIOD SURRENDER CHARGE 8% 7% 6% 5% 4% 3% 2% 1% 0% WAIVER OF SURRENDER CHARGE FOR EXTENDED MEDICAL CARE. We will waive the surrender charge in most states in the following events: (i) you begin receiving qualified extended medical care on or after the first contract anniversary for at least 45 days during a 60-day period and your request for the surrender or withdrawal, together with all required documentation is received at our Customer Service Center during the term of your care or within 90 days after the last day of your care; or (ii) you are first diagnosed by a Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A11 qualifying medical professional, on or after the first contract anniversary, as having a qualifying terminal illness. We have the right to require an examination by a physician of our choice. If we require such an examination, we will pay for it. You are required to send us satisfactory written proof of illness. See your Contract for more information. The waiver of surrender charge may not be available in all states. FREE WITHDRAWAL AMOUNT. No surrender charge or Market Value Adjustment applies to withdrawals made during the 30-day period prior to the end of a guarantee interest period. The interest earned during the prior 12 months and not previously withdrawn may be withdrawn without surrender charge or Market Value Adjustment. SURRENDER CHARGE FOR EXCESS WITHDRAWALS. We will deduct a surrender charge for excess withdrawals, which may include a withdrawal you make to satisfy required minimum distribution requirements under the code. We consider a withdrawal to be an "excess withdrawal" when the amount you withdraw in any contract year exceeds the free withdrawal amount. Where you are receiving systematic withdrawals, any combination of regular withdrawals taken and any systematic withdrawals expected to be received in a contract year will be included in determining the amount of the excess withdrawal. Such a withdrawal will be considered a partial surrender of the Contract and we will impose a surrender charge and any associated premium tax. ANY EXCESS WITHDRAWAL MORE THAN 30 DAYS BEFORE A MATURITY DATE WILL TRIGGER A MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT. PREMIUM TAXES. We may make a charge for state and local premium taxes depending on your state of residence. The tax can range from 0% to 3.5% of the premium payment. We have the right to change this amount to conform with changes in the law or if you change your state of residence. We deduct the premium tax from your contract value on the annuity start date. However, some jurisdictions impose a premium tax at the time that premiums are paid, regardless of when the annuity payments begin. In those states we may defer collection of the premium taxes from your contract value and deduct it when you surrender the Contract, when you take an excess withdrawal, or on the annuity start date. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THE ANNUITY OPTIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ANNUITIZATION OF YOUR CONTRACT If the annuitant and contract owner are living on the annuity start date, we will begin making payments to the contract owner under an income plan. We will make these payments under the annuity option chosen. You may change your annuity option by making a written request to us at least 30 days before the annuity start date. The amount of the payments will be determined by applying your contract value adjusted for any applicable market value adjustment on the annuity start date in accordance with the annuity option you chose. You may also elect an annuity option on surrender of the Contract for its cash surrender value or you may choose one or more annuity options for the payment of death benefit proceeds while it is in effect and before the annuity start date. If, at the time of the contract owner's death or the annuitant's death (if the contract owner is not an individual), no option has been chosen for paying death benefit proceeds, the beneficiary may choose an annuity option within 60 days. In all events, payments of death benefit proceeds must comply with the distribution requirements of applicable federal tax law. The minimum monthly annuity income payment that we will make is $20. We may require that a single sum payment be made if the contract value is less than $2,000 or if the calculated monthly annuity income payment is less than $20. For each annuity option we will issue a separate written agreement putting the annuity option into effect. Before we pay any annuity benefits, we require the return of your Contract. If your Contract has been lost, we will require that you complete and return the applicable lost Contract form. Various factors will affect the level of annuity benefits, such as the annuity option chosen and the applicable payment rate used. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A12 Our current annuity options provide only for fixed payments. Fixed annuity payments are regular payments, the amount of which is fixed and guaranteed by us. Some fixed annuity options provide fixed payments either for a specified period of time or for the life of the annuitant. The amount of life income payments will depend on the form and duration of payments you chose, the age of the annuitant or beneficiary (and gender, where appropriate under applicable law), the total contract value applied, and the applicable payment rate. Our approval is needed for any option where: (1) The person named to receive payment is other than the contract owner or beneficiary; (2) The person named is not a natural person, such as a corporation; or (3) Any income payment would be less than the minimum annuity income payment allowed. SELECTING THE ANNUITY START DATE You select the annuity start date, which is the date on which the annuity payments commence. The annuity start date must be at least 1 year from the contract date but before the month immediately following the annuitant's 90th birthday, or 10 years from the contract date, if later. For Contracts offered through representatives of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Incorporated, the annuity start date must be on or before the annuitant's 95th birthday. If, on the annuity start date, a surrender charge remains, the elected annuity option must include a period certain of at least 5 years. If you do not select an annuity start date, it will automatically begin in the month following the annuitant's 90th birthday, or 10 years from the contract date, if later. If the annuity start date occurs when the annuitant is at an advanced age, such as after age 85, it is possible that the Contract will not be considered an annuity for federal tax purposes. See "Federal Tax Considerations." For a Contract purchased in connection with a qualified plan, other than a Roth IRA, distributions must commence not later than April 1st of the calendar year following the calendar year in which you attain age 70 1/2 or, in some cases, retire. Distributions may be made through annuitization or withdrawals. You should consult your tax adviser for tax advice. FREQUENCY OF ANNUITY PAYMENTS You choose the frequency of the annuity payments. They may be monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually. If we do not receive written notice from you, we will make the payments monthly. There may be certain restrictions on minimum payments that we will allow. THE ANNUITY OPTIONS We offer the 3 annuity options shown below. Payments under Options 1, 2 and 3 are fixed. The contract value can be applied to any other annuitization plan that we choose to offer on the annuity start date. Annuity payments under other available options may be fixed and/or variable. OPTION 1. INCOME FOR A FIXED PERIOD. Under this option, we make monthly payments in equal installments for a fixed number of years based on the contract value on the annuity start date. We guarantee that each monthly payment will be at least the amount stated in your Contract. If you prefer, you may request that payments be made in annual, semi-annual or quarterly installments. We will provide you with illustrations if you ask for them. If the cash surrender value or contract value is applied under this option, a 10% penalty tax may apply to the taxable portion of each income payment until the contract owner reaches age 59 1/2. OPTION 2. INCOME FOR LIFE WITH A PERIOD CERTAIN. Payment is made for the life of the annuitant in equal monthly installments and guaranteed for at least a period certain such as 10 or 20 years. Other periods certain may be available to you on request. You may choose a refund period instead. Under this arrangement, income is guaranteed until payments equal the amount applied. If the person named lives beyond the guaranteed period, payments continue until his or her death. We guarantee that each payment will be at least the amount specified in the Contract corresponding to the person's age on his or her last Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A13 birthday before the annuity start date. Amounts for ages not shown in the Contract are available if you ask for them. OPTION 3. JOINT LIFE INCOME. This option is available when there are 2 persons named to determine annuity payments. At least one of the persons named must be either the contract owner or beneficiary of the Contract. We guarantee monthly payments will be made as long as at least one of the named persons is living. There is no minimum number of payments. Monthly payment amounts are available if you ask for them. The contract value can be applied to any other annuitization plan that we choose to offer on the annuity start date. Annuity payments under other available options may be fixed and/or variable. If variable and subject to the Investment Company Act of 1940 it will comply with requirements of such Act. PAYMENT WHEN NAMED PERSON DIES When the person named to receive payment dies, we will pay any amounts still due as provided in the annuity agreement between you and ING USA. The amounts we will pay are determined as follows: (1) For Option 1, or any remaining guaranteed payments under Option 2, we will continue payments. (2) For Option 3, no amounts are payable after both named persons have died. For other available options, the annuity option agreement will state the amount we will pay, if any. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OTHER CONTRACT PROVISIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REPORTS TO CONTRACT OWNERS We will send you an annual report within 31 days after the end of each contract year. The report will show the contract value, cash surrender value, and the death benefit as of the end of the contract year. The report will also show the amounts deducted from or added to the contract value since the last report. You have 30 days to notify our Customer Service Center of any errors or discrepancies contained in the report or in any confirmation notices. We will also send you any other reports, notices or documents we are required by law to furnish to you. SUSPENSION OF PAYMENTS The Company reserves the right to delay payment for up to 6 months. IN CASE OF ERRORS IN YOUR APPLICATION If an age or sex given in the application or enrollment form is misstated, the amounts payable or benefits provided by the Contract shall be those that the premium payment would have bought at the correct age or sex. ASSIGNING THE CONTRACT AS COLLATERAL You may assign a non-qualified Contract as collateral security for a loan but you should understand that your rights and any beneficiary's rights may be subject to the terms of the assignment. An assignment likely has federal tax consequences. You must give us satisfactory written notice at our Customer Service Center in order to make or release an assignment. We are not responsible for the validity of any assignment. CONTRACT CHANGES -- APPLICABLE TAX LAW We have the right to make changes in the Contract to continue to qualify the Contract as an annuity under applicable federal tax law. You will be given advance notice of such changes. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A14 FREE LOOK You may cancel your Contract within your 10-day free look period. We deem the free look period to expire 15 days after we mail the Contract to you. Some states may require a longer free look period. To cancel, you need to send your Contract to our Customer Service Center or to the agent from whom you purchased it. We will refund the contract value . For purposes of the refund during the free look period, (i) we adjust your contract value for any Market Value Adjustment, and (ii) then we include a refund of any charges deducted from your contract value. The Market Value Adjustment during the free look period is determined as described on page 4, but without adding .005 in the denominator of the formula. Because of the potential positive or negative effect of the Market Value Adjustment, the contract value returned may be greater or less than the premium payment you paid. Some states require us to return to you the amount of the paid premium (rather than the adjusted contract value) in which case you will not be subject to investment risk during the free look period. Your Contract is void as of the day we receive your Contract and cancellation request. We determine your contract value at the close of business on the day we receive your written request. SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS We may reduce or waive any Contract, rider, or benefit fees or charges for certain group or sponsored arrangements, under special programs, and for certain employees, agents, and related persons of our parent corporation and its affiliates. We reduce or waive these items based on expected economies, and the variations are based on differences in costs or services. SELLING THE CONTRACT Our affiliate Directed Services, Inc. ("DSI"), 1475 Dunwoody Dr., West Chester, PA 19380 is the principal underwriter and distributor of the Contract as well as for other ING USA contracts. DSI, a New York corporation, is registered with the SEC as a broker-dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD"). DSI does not retain any commissions or compensation paid to it by ING USA for Contract sales. DSI enters into selling agreements with affiliated and unaffiliated broker-dealers to sell the Contracts through their registered representatives who are licensed to sell securities and variable insurance products ("selling firms"). Selling firms are also registered with the SEC and NASD member firms. DSI pays selling firms compensation for the promotion and sale of the Contracts. Registered representatives of the selling firms who solicit sales of the Contracts typically receive a portion of the compensation paid by DSI to the selling firm in the form of commissions or other compensation, depending on the agreement between the selling firm and the registered representative. This compensation, as well as other incentives or payments, is not paid directly by contract owners or the Separate Account. We intend to recoup this compensation and other sales expenses paid to selling firms through fees and charges imposed under the Contracts. DSI pays selling firms for Contract sales according to one or more schedules. This compensation is generally based on a percentage of premium payments. Selling firms may receive commissions of up to 4.5% of premium payments. In addition, selling firms may receive ongoing annual compensation of up to 0.55% of all, or a portion, of values of Contracts sold through the firm. Individual representatives may receive all or a portion of compensation paid to their selling firm, depending on their firm's practices. Commissions and annual compensation, when combined, could exceed 4.5% of total premium payments. To the extent permitted by SEC and NASD rules and other applicable laws and regulations, DSI may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments in the form of cash or other compensation to selling firms. DSI may also pay selling firms additional compensation or reimbursement for their efforts in selling Contracts to you and other customers, including for, among other things, training of sales personnel, marketing or other sales-related services they provide to us or our affiliates. This compensation or reimbursement is not reflected in the fees and expenses listed in the fee table section of this prospectus. In addition, DSI may enter into special compensation arrangements with certain selling firms based on those firms' aggregate or anticipated sales of the Contracts or other criteria. These special compensation Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A15 arrangements will not be offered to all selling firms, and the terms of such arrangements may differ among selling firms based on various factors. Any such compensation payable to a selling firm will not result in any additional direct charge to you by us. Affiliated selling firms may include Baring Investment Services, Inc., Compulife Investor Services, Inc., Financial Network Investment Corporation, Granite Investment Services, Inc., Guaranty Brokerage Services, Inc., ING America Equities, Inc., ING Barings Corp., ING Direct Funds Limited, ING DIRECT Securities, Inc., ING Financial Advisers LLC, ING Financial Partners, Inc., ING Funds Distributor, LLC, ING Furman Selz Financial Services LLC, ING TT&S (U.S.) Securities, Inc., Multi-Financial Securities Corporation, PrimeVest Financial Services, Inc.and Systematized Benefits Administrators, Inc., DSI may also compensate wholesalers/distributors, and their sales management personnel, for Contract sales within the wholesale/distribution channel. This compensation may be based on a percentage of premium payments, and/or a percentage of Contract values. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OTHER INFORMATION - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STATE REGULATION We are regulated by the Insurance Department of the State of Iowa. We are also subject to the insurance laws and regulations of all jurisdictions where we do business. The Contract offered by this prospectus has been approved where required by those jurisdictions. We are required to submit annual statements of our operations, including financial statements, to the Insurance Departments of the various jurisdictions in which we do business to determine solvency and compliance with state insurance laws and regulations. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS We are, or may be in the future, a defendant in various legal proceedings in connection with the normal conduct of our insurance operations. Some of these cases may seek class action status and may include a demand for punitive damages as well as for compensatory damages. In the opinion of management, the ultimate resolution of any existing legal proceeding is not likely to have a material adverse effect on our ability to meet our obligations under the contract. Directed Services, Inc., the principal underwriter and distributor of the contract, is not involved in any legal proceeding which, in the opinion of management, is likely to have a material adverse effect on its ability to distribute the contract. EXPERTS We have included and incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement of which this prospectus is a part and / or into this prospectus the consolidated financial statements and schedules of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company), as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, as set forth in their reports thereon appearing and incorporated by reference in this prospectus and in the Registration Statement of which this prospectus is a part. These consolidated financial statements and schedules of the Company appearing in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 have been audited by Ernst & Young. Such financial statements and schedules are included and incorporated herein by reference in reliance upon such reports given authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing. FURTHER INFORMATION This prospectus does not contain all of the information contained in the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. Portions of the registration statement have been omitted from this prospectus as allowed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). You may obtain the omitted information from the offices of the SEC, as described below. We are required by the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to file Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A16 periodic reports and other information with the SEC. You may inspect or copy information concerning the Company at the Public Reference Room of the SEC at: Securities and Exchange Commission 450 Fifth Street NW Washington, DC 20549 You may also obtain copies of these materials at prescribed rates from the Public Reference Room of the above office. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at either 1-800-SEC-0330 or 1-202-942-8090. You may also find more information about the Company at www.ing.com. A copy of the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 accompanies this prospectus. We refer to Form 10-K for a description of the Company and its business, including financial statements. We intend to send contract holders annual account statements and other such legally required reports. We do not anticipate such reports will include periodic financial statements or information concerning the Company. You can find this prospectus and other information the Company files electronically with the SEC on the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov. INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE We have incorporated by reference the Company's latest Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC and in accordance with the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. The Annual Report must accompany this prospectus. Form 10-K contains additional information about the Company including financial statements for the latest fiscal year. We were not required to file any other reports pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities and Exchange Act since the end of the fiscal year covered by that Form 10-K. The registration statement for this prospectus incorporates some documents by reference. We will provide a free copy of any such documents upon the written or oral request of anyone who has received this prospectus. We will not include exhibits to those documents unless they are specifically incorporated by reference into the document. Direct requests to: ING Customer Service Center P.O. Box 9271 Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9271 1-800-366-0066 INQUIRIES You may contact us directly by writing or calling us at the address or phone number shown above. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTRODUCTION This section discusses our understanding of current federal income tax laws affecting the contract. You should keep the following in mind when reading it: o Your tax position (or the tax position of the designated beneficiary, as applicable) determines federal taxation of amounts held or paid out under the contract; o Tax laws change. It is possible that a change in the future could affect contracts issued in the past; o This section addresses federal income tax rules and does not discuss federal estate and gift tax implications, state and local taxes, foreign taxes or any other tax provisions; and o We do not make any guarantee about the tax treatment of the contract or transactions involving the contract. We do not intend this information to be tax advice. For advice about the effect of federal income taxes or any other taxes on amounts held or paid out under the contract, consult a tax adviser. For more comprehensive information, contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). TYPES OF CONTRACTS: NON-QUALIFIED OR QUALIFIED The Contract may be purchased on a non-tax-qualified basis or purchased on a tax-qualified basis. Non-qualified contracts are purchased with after tax contributions and are not related to retirement plans that receive special income tax treatment under the Code. Qualified Contracts are designed for use by individuals whose premium payments are comprised solely of proceeds from and/or contributions under retirement plans that are intended to qualify as plans entitled to special income tax treatment under Sections 401(a), 403(a), 403(b), 408, 408A or 457 of the Code. The ultimate effect of federal income taxes on the amounts held under a Contract, or annuity payments, depends on the type of retirement plan, on the tax and employment status of the individual concerned, and on your tax status. In addition, certain requirements must be satisfied in purchasing a qualified Contract with proceeds from a tax-qualified plan in order to continue receiving favorable tax treatment. Some retirement plans are subject to additional distribution and other requirements that are not incorporated into our Contract. Because the Plan is not part of the Contract, we are not bound by any Plan's terms or conditions. Contract owners, participants and beneficiaries are responsible for determining that contributions, distributions and other transactions with respect to the Contract comply with applicable law. Therefore, you should seek competent legal and tax advice regarding the suitability of a Contract for your particular situation. The following discussion assumes that qualified Contracts are purchased with proceeds from and/or contributions under retirement plans that qualify for the intended special federal income tax treatment. TAXATION OF NON-QUALIFIED CONTRACTS TAXATION PRIOR TO DISTRIBUTION We believe that if you are a natural person you will generally not be taxed on increases in the value of a non-qualified Contract until a distribution occurs or until annuity payments begin. This assumes that the Contract will qualify as an annuity contract for federal income tax purposes. For these purposes, the agreement to assign or pledge any portion of the contract value generally will be treated as a distribution. In order to receive deferral of taxation, the following requirements must be satisfied: REQUIRED DISTRIBUTIONS. In order to be treated as an annuity contract forfederal income tax purposes, the Code requires any non-qualified Contract to contain certain provisions specifying how your interest in the Contract will be distributed in the event of your death. The non-qualified Contracts contain provisions that are intended to comply with these Code requirements, although no regulations interpreting these requirements have yet been issued. We intend to review such distribution provisions and modify them if necessary to assure that they comply with the applicable requirements when such requirements are clarified by regulation or otherwise. See "Death Benefit" for additional information on required distributions from non-qualified contracts. NON-NATURAL PERSONS. The owner of any annuity contract who is not a natural person generally must include in income any increase in the excess of the contract value over the "investment in the contract" (generally, the premiums or other consideration you paid for the contract less any nontaxable withdrawals)during the taxable year. There are some exceptions to this rule and a prospective contract owner that is not a natural person may wish to discuss these with a tax adviser. DELAYED ANNUITY STARTING DATE. If the Contract's annuity starting date occurs(or is scheduled to occur) at a time when the annuitant has reached an advanced age (e.g., age 85), it is possible that the Contract would not be treated as an annuity for federal income tax purposes. In that event, the income and gains under the Contract could be currently includible in your income. TAXATION OF DISTRIBUTIONS GENERAL. When a withdrawal from a non-qualified Contract occurs, the amount received will be treated as ordinary income subject to tax up to an amount equal to the excess (if any) of the contract value (unreduced by the amount of any surrender charge) immediately before the distribution over the contract owner's investment in the contract at that time. Investment in the contract is generally equal to the amount of all contributions to the contract, less the aggregate amount of non-taxable distributions previously made. The contract value that applies for this purpose is unclear in some respects. For example, the market value adjustment could increase the contract value that applies. Thus, the income on the Contracts could be higher than the amount of income that would be determined without regard to such adjustment. As a result, you could have higher amounts of income than will be reported to you. In the case of a surrender under a non-qualified Contract, the amount received generally will be taxable only to the extent it exceeds the contract owner's investment in the contract. 10% PENALTY TAX. A distribution from a non-qualified Contract may be subject to a federal tax penalty equal to 10% of the amount treated as income. In general, however, there is no penalty on distributions: o made on or after the taxpayer reaches age 59 1/2; o made on or after the death of a contract owner; o attributable to the taxpayer's becoming disabled; or o made as part of a series of substantially equal periodic payments for the life (or life expectancy) of the taxpayer. Other exceptions may be applicable under certain circumstances and special rules may be applicable in connection with the exceptions enumerated above. A tax adviser should be consulted with regard to exceptions from the penalty tax. TAX-FREE EXCHANGES. Section 1035 of the Tax Code permits the exchange of a life insurance, endowment or annuity contract for an annuity contract on a tax-free basis. In such instance, the "investment in the contract" in the old contract will carry over to the new contract. You should consult with your tax advisor regarding procedures for making Section 1035 exchanges. If your Contract is purchased through a tax-free exchange of a life insurance, endowment or annuity contract that was purchased prior to August 14, 1982, then any distributions other than annuity payments will be treated, for tax purposes, as coming: o First, from any remaining "investment in the contract" made prior to August 14, 1982 and exchanged into the Contract; o Next, from any "income on the contract" attributable to the investment made prior to August 14, 1982; o Then, from any remaining "income on the contract"; and o Lastly, from any remaining "investment in the contract". The IRS has concluded that in certain instances, the partial exchange of a portion of one annuity contract for another contract will be tax-free. However, the IRS has reserved the right to treat transactions it considers abusive as ineligible for favorable partial 1035 tax-free exchange treatment. The IRS has not provided any additional guidance on what it considers abusive. It is not certain whether the IRS would treat an immediate withdrawal or annuitization after a partial exchange as abusive. In addition, it is unclear how the IRS will treat a partial exchange from a life insurance, endowment, or annuity contract directly into an immediate annuity. Currently, we will accept a partial 1035 exchange from a non-qualified annuity into a deferred annuity or an immediate annuity as a tax-free transaction unless we believe that we would be expected to treat the transaction as abusive. We are not responsible for the manner in which any other insurance company, for tax reporting purposes, or the IRS, with respect to the ultimate tax treatment, recognizes or reports a partial exchange. We strongly advise you to discuss any proposed 1035 exchange with your tax advisor prior to proceeding with the transaction. TAXATION OF ANNUITY PAYMENTS. Although tax consequences may vary depending on the payment option elected under an annuity contract, a portion of each annuity payment is generally not taxed and the remainder is taxed as ordinary income. The non-taxable portion of an annuity payment is generally determined in a manner that is designed to allow you to recover your investment in the contract ratably on a tax-free basis over the expected stream of annuity payments, as determined when annuity payments start. Once your investment in the contract has been fully recovered, however, the full amount of each annuity payment is subject to tax as ordinary income. The tax treatment of partial annuitizations is unclear. We currently treat any partial annuitizations, [such as those associated with the MGIB benefit,] as withdrawals rather than as annuity payments. Please consult your tax adviser before electing a partial annuitization. DEATH BENEFITS. Amounts may be distributed from a Contract because of your death or the death of the annuitant. Generally, such amounts are includible in the income of recipient as follows: (i) if distributed in a lump sum, they are taxed in the same manner as a surrender of the Contract, or (ii) if distributed under a payment option, they are taxed in the same way as annuity payments. Special rules may apply to amounts distributed after a Beneficiary has elected to maintain Contract value and receive payments. ASSIGNMENTS AND OTHER TRANSFERS. A transfer, pledge or assignment of ownership of a Contract, or the designation of an annuitant or payee other than an owner, may result in certain tax consequences to you that are not discussed herein. A contract owner contemplating any such transfer, pledge, assignment, or designation or exchange, should consult a tax adviser as to the tax consequences. IMMEDIATE ANNUITIES. Under section 72 of the Tax Code, an immediate annuity means an annuity (1) which is purchased with a single premium, (2) with annuity payments starting within one year from the date of purchase, and (3) which provides a series of substantially equal periodic payments made annually or more frequently. Treatment as an immediate annuity will have significance with respect to exceptions from the 10% early withdrawal penalty, to contracts owned by non-natural persons, and for certain policy exchanges. MULTIPLE CONTRACTS. The tax law requires that all non-qualified deferred annuity contracts that are issued by a company or its affiliates to the same contract owner during any calendar year are treated as one non-qualified deferred annuity contract for purposes of determining the amount includible in such contract owner's income when a taxable distribution occurs. WITHHOLDING. We will withhold and remit to the U.S. government a part of the taxable portion of each distribution made under a Contract unless the distributee notifies us at or before the time of the distribution that he or she elects not to have any amounts withheld. The withholding rates applicable to the taxable portion of periodic annuity payments are the same as the withholding rates generally applicable to payments of wages. In addition, a 10% withholding rate applies to the taxable portion of non-periodic payments. Regardless of whether you elect not to have federal income tax withheld, you are still liable for payment of federal income tax on the taxable portion of the payment. TAXATION OF QUALIFIED CONTRACTS GENERAL The Contracts are designed for use with several types of qualified plans. The tax rules applicable to participants in these qualified plans vary according to the type of plan and the terms and conditions of the plan itself. Special favorable tax treatment may be available for certain types of contributions and distributions. Adverse tax consequences may result from: contributions in excess of specified limits; distributions before age 59 1/2 (subject to certain exceptions); distributions that do not conform to specified commencement and minimum distribution rules; and in other specified circumstances. Therefore, no attempt is made to provide more than general information about the use of the Contracts with the various types of qualified retirement plans. Contract owners, annuitants, and beneficiaries are cautioned that the rights of any person to any benefits under these qualified retirement plans may be subject to the terms and conditions of the plans themselves, regardless of the terms and conditions of the Contract, but we shall not be bound by the terms and conditions of such plans to the extent such terms contradict the Contract, unless the Company consents. You will not generally pay taxes on earnings from the annuity contract described in this prospectus until they are withdrawn. When an annuity contract is used to fund one of these tax qualified retirement arrangements, you should know that the annuity contract does not provide any additional tax deferral of earnings beyond the tax deferral provided by the tax-qualified retirement arrangement. Tax-qualified retirement arrangements under Tax Code sections 401(a), 401(k), 403(a), 403(b) or governmental 457 plans also generally defer payment of taxes on earnings until they are withdrawn (or in the case of a non-governmental 457 plan, paid or made available to you or a designated beneficiary). However, annuities do provide other features and benefits which may be valuable to you. You should discuss your alternatives with your local representative. DISTRIBUTIONS - GENERAL For qualified plans under Section 401(a) and 403(b), the Code requires that distributions generally must commence no later than the later of April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the plan participant for whose benefit the contract is purchased (i) reaches age 70 1/2 or (ii) retires, and must be made in a specified form or manner. If the plan participant is a "5 percent owner" (as defined in the Code), distributions generally must begin no later than April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the plan participant reaches age 70 1/2. For IRAs described in Section 408, distributions generally must commence no later than by April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the individual contract owner reaches age 70 1/2. Roth IRAs under Section 408A do not require distributions at any time before the contract owner's death. Please note that required minimum distributions under qualified Contracts may be subject to surrender charge and/or market value adjustment, in accordance with the terms of the Contract. This could affect the amount that must be taken from the Contract in order to satisfy required minimum distributions. DIRECT ROLLOVERS If the Contract is used in connection with a pension, profit-sharing, or annuity plan qualified under sections 401(a) or 403(a) of the Code, or is a tax-sheltered annuity under section 403(b) of the Code, or is used with an eligible deferred compensation plan that has a government sponsor and that is qualified under section 457(b), any "eligible rollover distribution" from the Contract will be subject to direct rollover and mandatory withholding requirements. An eligible rollover distribution generally is any taxable distribution from a qualified pension plan under section 401(a) of the Code, qualified annuity plan under section 403(a) of the Code, section 403(b) annuity or custodial account, or an eligible section 457(b) deferred compensation plan that has a government sponsor, excluding certain amounts (such as minimum distributions required under section 401(a)(9) of the Code, distributions which are part of a "series of substantially equal periodic payments" made for life or a specified period of 10 years or more, or hardship distributions as defined in the tax law). Under these requirements, federal income tax equal to 20% of the eligible rollover distribution will be withheld from the amount of the distribution. Unlike withholding on certain other amounts distributed from the Contract, discussed below, you cannot elect out of withholding with respect to an eligible rollover distribution. However, this 20% withholding will not apply if, instead of receiving the eligible rollover distribution, you elect to have it directly transferred to certain qualified plans. Prior to receiving an eligible rollover distribution, you will receive a notice (from the plan administrator or us) explaining generally the direct rollover and mandatory withholding requirements and how to avoid the 20% withholding by electing a direct rollover. CORPORATE AND SELF-EMPLOYED PENSION AND PROFIT SHARING PLANS Section 401(a) of the Code permits corporate employers to establish various types of retirement plans for employees, and permits self-employed individuals to establish these plans for themselves and their employees. These retirement plans may permit the purchase of the Contracts to accumulate retirement savings under the plans. Adverse tax or other legal consequences to the plan, to the participant, or to both may result if this Contract is assigned or transferred to any individual as a means to provide benefit payments, unless the plan complies with all legal requirements applicable to such benefits before transfer of the Contract. Employers intending to use the Contract with such plans should seek competent advice. INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITIES - GENERAL Section 408 of the Code permits eligible individuals to contribute to an individual retirement program known as an "Individual Retirement Annuity" or "IRA." These IRAs are subject to limits on the amount that can be contributed, the deductible amount of the contribution, the persons who may be eligible, and the time when distributions commence. Also, distributions from certain other types of qualified retirement plans may be "rolled over" on a tax-deferred basis into an IRA. Also, amounts in another IRA or individual retirement account can be rolled over or transferred tax-free to an IRA. There are significant restrictions on rollover or transfer contributions from Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees (SIMPLE), under which certain employers may provide contributions to IRAs on behalf of their employees, subject to special restrictions. Employers may establish Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) Plans to provide IRA contributions on behalf of their employees. If you make a tax-free rollover of a distribution from any of these IRAs, you may not make another tax-free rollover from the IRA within a 1-year period. Sales of the Contract for use with IRAs may be subject to special requirements of the IRS. INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITIES - DISTRIBUTIONS All distributions from a traditional IRA are taxed as received unless either one of the following is true: o The distribution is rolled over to a plan eligible to receive rollovers or to another traditional IRA or certain qualified plans in accordance with the Tax Code; or o You made after-tax contributions to the IRA. In this case, the distribution will be taxed according to rules detailed in the Tax Code. To avoid certain tax penalties, you and any designated beneficiary must also meet the minimum distribution requirements imposed by the Tax Code. The requirements do not apply to Roth IRA contracts while the owner is living. These rules may dictate one or more of the following: o Start date for distributions; o The time period in which all amounts in your account(s) must be distributed; or o Distribution amounts. Generally, you must begin receiving distributions from a traditional IRA by April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which you attain age 70 1/2. We must pay out distributions from the contract over one of the following time periods: o Over your life or the joint lives of you and your designated beneficiary; or o Over a period not greater than your life expectancy or the joint life expectancies of you and your designated beneficiary. The amount of each periodic distribution must be calculated in accordance with IRS regulations. If you fail to receive the minimum required distribution for any tax year, a 50% excise tax is imposed on the required amount that was not distributed. The following applies to the distribution of death proceeds under 408(b) and 408A (Roth IRA - See below) plans. Different distribution requirements apply after your death. If your death occurs after you begin receiving minimum distributions under the contract, distributions must be made at least as rapidly as under the method in effect at the time of your death. Code section 401(a)(9) provides specific rules for calculating the required minimum distributions at your death. The death benefit under the contract and also certain other contract benefits, such as living benefits, may affect the amount of the required minimum distribution that must be taken. If your death occurs before you begin receiving minimum distributions under the contract, your entire balance must be distributed by December 31 of the calendar year containing the fifth anniversary of the date of your death. For example, if you die on September 1, 2004, your entire balance must be distributed to the designated beneficiary by December 31, 2009. However, if the distributions begin by December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death, and you have named a designated beneficiary, then payments may be made over either of the following time frames: o Over the life of the designated beneficiary; or o Over a period not extending beyond the life expectancy of the designated beneficiary. If the designated beneficiary is your spouse, distributions must begin on or before the later of the following: o December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death; or o December 31 of the calendar year in which you would have attained age 70 1/2. ROTH IRAS - GENERAL Section 408A of the Code permits certain eligible individuals to contribute to a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA, which are subject to limits on the amount of the contributions and the persons who may be eligible to contribute, are not deductible, and must be made in cash or as a rollover or transfer from another Roth IRA or other IRA. Certain qualifying individuals may convert an IRA, SEP, or SIMPLE IRA, to a Roth IRA. Such rollovers and conversions are subject to tax, and other special rules may apply. If you make a tax-free rollover of a distribution from a Roth IRA to another Roth IRA, you may not make another tax-free rollover from the Roth IRA from which the rollover was made within a 1-year period. A 10% penalty may apply to amounts attributable to a conversion to a Roth IRA if the amounts are distributed during the five taxable years beginning with the year in which the conversion was made. ROTH IRAS - DISTRIBUTIONS A qualified distribution from a Roth IRA is not taxed when it is received. A qualified distribution is a distribution: o Made after the five-taxable year period beginning with the first taxable year for which a contribution was made to a Roth IRA of the owner; and o Made after you attain age 59 1/2, die, become disabled as defined in the Tax Code, or for a qualified first-time home purchase. If a distribution is not qualified, it will be taxable to the extent of the accumulated earnings. Under special ordering rules, a partial distribution will first be treated generally as a return of contributions which is not taxable and then as taxable accumulated earnings. TAX SHELTERED ANNUITIES - GENERAL Section 403(b) of the Code allows employees of certain Section 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools to exclude from their gross income the premium payments made, within certain limits, on a Contract that will provide an annuity for the employee's retirement. These premium payments may be subject to FICA (Social Security) tax. Distributions of (1) salary reduction contributions made in years beginning after December 31, 1988; (2) earnings on those contributions; and (3) earnings on amounts held as of the last year beginning before January 1, 1989, are not allowed prior to age 59 1/2, severance from employment, death or disability. Distributions allocable to salary reduction contributions, but not earnings on such contributions, may also be distributed upon hardship. Certain penalties may apply. TAX SHELTERED ANNUITIES - DISTRIBUTIONS All distributions from Section 403(b) plans are taxed as received unless either of the following is true: o The distribution is rolled over to another plan eligible to receive rollovers or to a traditional individual retirement annuity/account (IRA) in accordance with the Tax Code; or o You made after-tax contributions to the plan. In this case, the amount will be taxed according to rules detailed in the Tax Code. Generally, you must begin receiving distributions by April 1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which you attain age 70 1/2 or retire, whichever occurs later, unless you had amounts under the contract as of December 31, 1986. In this case, distribution of these amounts generally must begin by the end of the calendar year in which you attain age 75 or retire, if later. The death benefit under the contract and also certain other contract benefits, such as the living benefits, may affect the amount of the required minimum distribution that must be taken. If you take any distributions in excess of the required minimum amount, then special rules require that some or all of the December 31, 1986 balance be distributed earlier. OTHER TAX CONSEQUENCES As noted above, the foregoing comments about the federal tax consequences under the Contracts are not exhaustive, and special rules are provided with respect to other tax situations not discussed in this prospectus. Further, the federal income tax consequences discussed herein reflect our understanding of current law, and the law may change. Federal estate and state and local estate, inheritance and other tax consequences of ownership or receipt of distributions under a Contract depend on the individual circumstances of each contract owner or recipient of the distribution. A competent tax adviser should be consulted for further information. POSSIBLE CHANGES IN TAXATION Although the likelihood of legislative change is uncertain, there is always the possibility that the tax treatment of the Contracts could change by legislation or other means. It is also possible that any change could be retroactive (that is, effective before the date of the change). You should consult a tax adviser with respect to legislative developments and their effect on the Contract. FEDERAL INCOME TAX WITHHOLDING We will withhold and remit to the U.S. government a part of the taxable portion of each distribution made under a Contract unless the distributee notifies us at or before the time of the distribution that he or she elects not to have any amounts withheld. In certain circumstances, we may be required to withhold tax, as explained above. The withholding rates applicable to the taxable portion of periodic annuity payments (other than eligible rollover distributions) are the same as the withholding rates generally applicable to payments of wages. In addition, a 10% withholding rate applies to the taxable portion of non-periodic payments (including withdrawals prior to the annuity starting date) and conversions of, and rollovers from, non-Roth IRAs to Roth IRAs. Regardless of whether you elect not to have federal income tax withheld, you are still liable for payment of federal income tax on the taxable portion of the payment. As discussed above, the withholding rate applicable to eligible rollover distributions is 20%. ASSIGNMENTS Adverse tax consequences to the plan and/or to you may result if your beneficial interest in the contract is assigned or transferred to persons other than: a plan participant as a means to provide benefit payments; an alternate payee under a qualified domestic relations order in accordance with code section 414(p); or to the Company as collateral for a loan. TAXATION OF COMPANY We are taxed as a life insurance company under the Tax Code. The Separate Account is not a separate entity from us. Therefore, it is not taxed separately as a "regulated investment company," but is taxed as part of the Company. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A26 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPENDIX A - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT EXAMPLES EXAMPLE #1: FULL SURRENDER -- EXAMPLE OF A NEGATIVE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT Assume $100,000 was allocated to a Fixed Interest Allocation with a guaranteed interest period of 10 years, an initial Index Rate ("I") of 5%; that a full surrender is requested 3 years into the guaranteed interest period; that the Account Value on the date of surrender is $115,000; that the then Index Rate for a 7-year guaranteed interest period ("J") is 6%; and that no prior transfers or withdrawals affecting this Fixed Interest Allocation have been made. CALCULATE THE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT 1. N = 2,555 ( 365 x 7 ) 2. Market Value Adjustment = $115,000 x [ { (1.05/1.0650) }^(2,555/365) -1 ] = $-10,870 Therefore, the amount paid to you on full surrender ignoring any surrender charge is $104,130 ($115,000 - $10,870). EXAMPLE #2: FULL SURRENDER -- EXAMPLE OF A POSITIVE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT Assume $100,000 was allocated to a Fixed Interest Allocation with a guaranteed interest period of 10 years, an initial Index Rate ("I") of 5%; that a full surrender is requested 3 years into the guaranteed interest period; that the Account Value on the date of surrender is $115,000; that the then Index Rate for a 7-year guaranteed interest period ("J") is 4%; and that no prior transfers or withdrawals affecting this Fixed Interest Allocation have been made. CALCULATE THE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT 1. N = 2,555 ( 365 x 7 ) 2. Market Value Adjustment = $115,000 x [ { (1.05/1.0450) }^(2,555/365) -1 ] = $3,907 Therefore, the amount paid to you on full surrender ignoring any surrender charge is $118,907 ($115000 + $3,907). EXAMPLE #3: WITHDRAWAL -- EXAMPLE OF A NEGATIVE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT Assume $200,000 was allocated to a Fixed Interest Allocation with a guaranteed interest period of 10 years, an initial Index Rate ("I") of 5%; that a withdrawal of $128,000 is requested 3 years into the guaranteed interest period; that the Account Value on the date of withdrawal is $250,000; that the then Index Rate ("J") for a 7-year guaranteed interest period is 6%; and that no prior transfers or withdrawals affecting this Fixed Interest Allocation have been made. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A27 First calculate the amount that must be withdrawn from the Fixed Interest Allocation to provide the amount requested. 1. N = 2,555 ( 365 x 7 ) 2. Amount that must be withdrawn = [$128,000/ { (1.05/1.0650) }^(2,555/365) ] = $141,362 Then calculate the Market Value Adjustment on that amount. 3. Market Value Adjustment = $141,362 x [ { (1.05/1.0650) }^(2,555/365) -1] = $-13,362 Therefore, the amount of the withdrawal paid to you ignoring any surrender charge is $128,000, as requested. The Fixed Interest Allocation will be reduced by the amount of the withdrawal, $128,000, and also reduced by the Market Value Adjustment of $13,362, for a total reduction in the Fixed Interest Allocation of $141,362. EXAMPLE #4: WITHDRAWAL -- EXAMPLE OF A POSITIVE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT Assume $200,000 was allocated to a Fixed Interest Allocation with a guaranteed interest period of 10 years, an initial Index Rate of 5%; that a withdrawal of $128,000 requested 3 years into the guaranteed interest period; that the Account Value on the date of withdrawal is $250,000; that the then Index Rate ("J") for a 7-year guaranteed interest period is 4%; and that no prior transfers or withdrawals affecting this Fixed Interest Allocation have been made. First calculate the amount that must be withdrawn from the Fixed Interest Allocation to provide the amount requested. 1. N = 2,555 ( 365 x 7 ) 2. Amount that must be withdrawn = [$128,000/ { (1.05/1.0450) }^(2,555/365) ] = $123,794 Then calculate the Market Value Adjustment on that amount. 3. Market Value Adjustment = $123,794 x [ { (1.05/1.0450) }^(2,555/365) -1] = $4,206 Therefore, the amount of the withdrawal paid to you ignoring any surrender charge is $128,000, as requested. The Fixed Interest Allocation will be reduced by the amount of the withdrawal, $128,000, but increased by the Market Value Adjustment of $4,206, for a total reduction in the Fixed Interest Allocation of $123,794. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 A28 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPENDIX B - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SURRENDER CHARGE EXAMPLES EXAMPLE #1: SURRENDER CHARGES -- PARTIAL WITHDRAWAL IN EXCESS OF FREE WITHDRAWAL AMOUNT The following assumes you made an initial single premium payment of $100,000 into the 10-year guarantee period with an interest rate of 7.50%. It also assumes a withdrawal at the beginning of the fifth contract year of 20% of the contract value. The accumulation value as of the beginning of the fifth contract year is $133,546.91. The interest earned in the last 12 months as of the beginning of the fifth contract year is $9,317.23. In this example, $9,317.23 (last 12 months' interest earnings) is the maximum free withdrawal amount that you may withdraw during the contract year without a surrender charge. The total amount withdrawn from the Contract would be $26,709.39 ($133,546.91 x .20). Therefore, $17,392.16 ($26,709.39 - $9,317.23) is considered an excess withdrawal and would be subject to a 4% surrender charge of $695.69 ($17,392.16 x .04). The amount of the withdrawal paid to you will be $26,013.70 ($26,709.39 - $695.69). This example does not take into account any Market Value Adjustment or deduction of any premium taxes. EXAMPLE #2: SURRENDER CHARGES -- FREE PARTIAL WITHDRAWAL FOLLOWED BY FULL SURRENDER The following assumes you made an initial single premium payment of $100,000 into the 10-year guarantee period with an interest rate of 6.00%. It also assumes a free partial withdrawal at the beginning of the fifth contract year of $7,146.10, followed by a full surrender 183 days later. The accumulation value as of the beginning of the fifth contract year is $126,247.70. The interest earned in the last 12 months as of the beginning of the fifth contract year is $7,146.10. In this example, $7,146.10 (last 12 months' interest earnings) is the maximum free withdrawal amount that you may withdraw during the contract year without a surrender charge. The accumulation value immediately after the partial withdrawal is $119,101.60. Assume that 183 days later the policy is surrendered. The accumulation value has grown to $122,632.40 ($119,101.60 x (1.06(183/365))). On full surrender, surrender charges are applied to all amounts withdrawn in that contract year. The cash surrender value is calculated as follows. 1. The surrender charge on the free partial withdrawal amount is $297.75 ($7146.10 x (1/(1-.04) -1)). 2. The adjusted accumulation value is $122,334.65 ($122,632.40 - $297.75). 3. The surrender charge upon surrender is $4,893.39 ($122,334.65 x .04). 4. The cash surrender value is $117,441.26 ($122,334.65 - $4,893.39). This example does not take into account any Market Value Adjustment or deduction of any premium taxes. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 B1 ING USA ANNUITY AND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY ING USA ANNUITY AND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY IS A STOCK COMPANY DOMICILED IN IOWA. Guarantee Annuity - 131798 04/30/2004 UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 Form 10-K Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 ----------------- Commission file number: 333-57212, 333-104539, 333-104546, 333-104547, and 333-104548 ---------------------------------- ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Iowa 41-0991508 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (State or other jurisdiction (IRS employer of incorporation or organization identification no.) 1475 Dunwoody Drive, West Chester, Pennsylvania 19380-1478 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code (610) 425-3400 -------------- Golden American Life Insurance Company - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of Act: None Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of Act: None Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [ X ] No [ ] Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. Yes [ X ] No [ ] Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [ ] No [ X ] APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS: Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 250,000 shares of Common Stock as of March 25, 2004, all of which were directly owned by Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc. NOTE: WHEREAS ING USA ANNUITY AND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY MEETS THE CONDITIONS SET FORTH IN GENERAL INSTRUCTION I(1)(a) AND (b) OF FORM 10-K, THIS FORM IS BEING FILED WITH THE REDUCED DISCLOSURE FORMAT PURSUANT TO GENERAL INSTRUCTION I(2). ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Annual Report on Form 10-K For the Year Ended December 31, 2003 TABLE OF CONTENTS Form 10-K Item No. Page PART I Item 1. Business** 3 Item 2. Properties** 5 Item 3. Legal Proceedings 6 Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders* 6 PART II Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters 6 Item 6. Selected Financial Data* 6 Item 7. Management's Narrative Analysis of the Results of Operations and Financial Condition** 6 Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 16 Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data 18 Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 56 Item 9A. Controls and Procedures 56 PART III Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant* 56 Item 11. Executive Compensation* 57 Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management* 57 Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions* 57 Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services* 57 PART IV Item 15. Exhibits, Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K 58 Index on Financial Statement Schedules 62 Signatures 66 * Item omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2) of Form 10-K, except as to Part III, Item 10 with respect to compliance with Sections 406 and 407 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 ** Item prepared in accordance with General Instruction I(2) of Form 10-K PART I Item 1. Business Organization of Business ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (formerly known as Golden American Life Insurance Company) ("ING USA" or the "Company" as appropriate), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc. ("Lion" or "Parent"), is a stock life insurance company organized under the laws of the State of Iowa. ING USA was originally incorporated under the laws of the State of Minnesota on January 2, 1973, in the name of St. Paul Life Insurance Company. On December 21, 1993, the Company redomesticated from Minnesota to Delaware. On January 1, 2004 several events occurred. First, the Company redomesticated from Delaware to Iowa. Secondly, on January 1, 2004 (the "merger date"), Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa ("Equitable Life"), USG Annuity & Life Company ("USG") and United Life & Annuity Insurance Company ("ULA") (the "Merger Companies"), merged with and into Golden American Life Insurance Company ("Golden American"). Also on January 1, 2004, immediately after the merger, Golden American changed its name to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company. As of the merger date, the Merger Companies ceased to exist and were merged into ING USA. Lion is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of ING Groep N.V. ("ING"), a global financial services holding company based in The Netherlands. ING USA is authorized to do business in the District of Columbia and all states except New York. ING USA is licensed as a life insurance company under the laws of the State of Delaware until December 31, 2003 and Iowa since January 1, 2004. Prior to the merger date, ING USA was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Equitable Life from December 30, 2001 through December 31, 2003. Formerly, from October 24, 1997, until December 30, 2001, Equitable of Iowa Companies, Inc. ("EIC" or "Former Holding Company") directly owned 100% of Golden American's stock. On December 3, 2001, the Board of Directors of EIC approved a plan to contribute its holding of stock of Golden American to another wholly-owned subsidiary, Equitable Life. The contribution of stock occurred on December 31, 2001, following approval by the Insurance Department of Delaware. As of April 1, 2002, ING USA sold First Golden American Life Insurance Company of New York ("First Golden") to its sister company, ReliaStar Life Insurance Company ("ReliaStar"). ReliaStar, the parent of Security-Connecticut Life Insurance Company ("Security-Connecticut") which in turn is the parent of ReliaStar Life Insurance Company of New York ("RLNY"), merged the First Golden business into RLNY operations and dissolved First Golden at book value for $27.7 million in cash and a receivable totaling $0.2 million from RLNY. The receivable from RLNY was assumed by Equitable Life, and ultimately by ING. The consideration was based on First Golden's statutory-basis book value. RLNY's payable to the Company was assumed by ING and subsequently forgiven. ING USA realized a loss of $3.0 million related to the sale of First Golden, which was recorded as a capital transaction. Approval for the merger was obtained from the Insurance Departments of the States of New York and Delaware. 3 As of October 1, 2003, RLNY's parent, Security-Connecticut merged with and into its parent, ReliaStar. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("FAS") No. 141, "Business Combinations" excludes transfers of net assets or exchanges of shares between entities under common control and is therefore covered by Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 16, "Business Combinations". RLNY presented combined results of operations including First Golden activity as of the beginning of the period ending December 31, 2002. The first three months of First Golden activity is not reflected in the Golden statement of financial position or other financial information for the period ended December 31, 2002, as the amounts were not material. Products and Services Management has determined that under FAS No. 131, "Disclosure about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information", the Company has one operating segment, ING U.S. Financial Services ("USFS"). The Company offers a portfolio of variable and fixed insurance products designed to meet customer needs for tax-advantaged savings for retirement and protection from death. The Company believes longer life expectancies, an aging population, and growing concern over the stability and availability of the Social Security system have made retirement planning a priority for many Americans. The target market for all products is consumers and corporations throughout the United States. Variable annuities are long-term savings vehicles in which contract owner premiums (purchase payments) are recorded and maintained in subaccounts within a separate account established and registered with the Securities Exchange Commission ("SEC") as a unit investment trust. Many of the variable annuities issued by ING USA are combination variable and fixed deferred annuity contracts under which some or all of the premiums may be allocated by the contract owner to a fixed account available under the contract. Principal Markets and Method of Distribution The Company continued to expand distribution systems during 2003. Broad-based distribution networks are key to realizing a growing share of the wealth accumulation marketplace. The principal distribution channels of the Company's variable and fixed insurance products include national wirehouses, regional securities firms, independent National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD") firms with licensed registered representatives, banks, life insurance companies with captive agency sales forces, independent insurance agents and independent marketing organizations. The Company plans to establish new relationships and increase penetration with key distributors in existing channels. In addition, growth opportunities exist through increased utilization of the ING broker/dealer network and the cross-selling of ING products. 4 Competition The current business and regulatory environment presents many challenges to the insurance industry. The variable and fixed annuity competitive environment remains intense and is dominated by a number of large highly-rated insurance companies. Increasing competition from traditional insurance carriers as well as banks and mutual fund companies offers consumers many choices. The economic environment during 2003 was characterized by record low interest rates, a modest recovery in the economy and a strong recovery in the equity market as evidenced by a 26.4% growth rate in the S&P 500 indices. There is an aging U.S. population which is increasingly concerned about retirement, estate planning, maintaining its standard of living in retirement; and potential reductions in government and employer-provided benefits at retirement, as well as lower public confidence in the adequacy of those benefits. Regulation The Company's operations are subject to comprehensive regulation throughout the United States. The laws of the various jurisdictions establish supervisory agencies, including the state insurance departments, with board authority to grant licenses to transact business and regulate many aspects of the products and services offered by the Company, as well as solvency and reserve adequacy. Many agencies also regulate investment activities on the basis of quality, diversification, and other quantitative criteria. The Company's operations and accounts are subject to examination at regular intervals by certain of these regulators. ING USA is subject to the insurance laws of the state in which organized and of the other jurisdictions in which it transacts business. Through December 31, 2003, the primary regulator of the ING USA insurance operations is the Commissioner of Insurance for the State of Delaware; beginning January 1, 2004, its primary regulator will be the Division of Insurance for the State of Iowa. The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), the National Association of Securities Dealers ("NASD") and, to a lesser extent, the states regulate sales and investment management activities and operations of the Company. Regulations of the SEC, Department of Labor ("DOL") and Internal Revenue Service also impact certain of the Company's annuity and other investment products. These products involve Separate Accounts and mutual funds registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Item 2. Properties The Company's principal executive office is located at 1475 Dunwoody Drive, West Chester, Pennsylvania, 19380-1478. All Company office space is leased or subleased by the Company or its other affiliates. The Company pays substantially all expenses associated with its leased and subleased office properties. Expenses not paid directly by the Company are paid for by an affiliate and allocated back to the Company. 5 Item 3. Legal Proceedings The Company is a party to threatened or pending lawsuits arising from the normal conduct of business. Due to the climate in insurance and business litigation, suits against the Company sometimes include claims for substantial compensatory, consequential or punitive damages and other types of relief. Moreover, certain claims are asserted as class actions, purporting to represent a group of similarly situated individuals. While it is not possible to forecast the outcome of such lawsuits, in light of existing insurance, reinsurance and established reserves, it is the opinion of management that the disposition of such lawsuits will not have a materially adverse effect on the Company's operations or financial position. Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2)(c) of Form 10-K. PART II Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters As of December 31, 2003, all of the Company's outstanding shares were owned by Equitable Life, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion, whose ultimate parent is ING. As of January 1, 2004, all of the Company's outstanding shares are owned by Lion as a result of the affiliate mergers described in Part I, Item 1. Item 6. Selected Financial Data Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2)(a) of Form 10-K. Item 7. Management's Narrative Analysis of the Results of Operations and Financial Condition Overview The following narrative analysis of the results of operations and financial condition presents a review of the Company for the twelve month periods ended December 31, 2003 versus 2002. This review should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and other data presented herein. 6 Change in Accounting Principle During 2002, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("FAS") No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Asset" ("FAS No. 142"). The adoption of this standard resulted in an impairment loss of $135.3 million. The Company, in accordance with FAS No. 142, recorded the impairment loss retroactive to the first quarter of 2002; prior quarters of 2002 were restated accordingly. This impairment loss represented the entire carrying amount of goodwill, net of accumulated amortization. This impairment charge was shown as a change in accounting principle on the December 31, 2002 Consolidated Income Statement. Results of Operations Fee income and other income for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased by $80.6 million compared to the same period in 2002, primarily due to an increase in the average variable assets under management by the Company. The increase in average variable assets under administration reflects continued business growth in the Company's variable product lines, as well as the impact of the 2003 equity market recovery on contract holder account values. Net investment income for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased by $122.6 million compared to the same period in 2002. This increase in net investment income is primarily due to higher average fixed assets under management during the year, resulting from having strong fixed product sales in mid-year 2002, which increased the average inforce for the full year in 2003. This increase was partially offset by reduced new money yields, which were negatively impacted by the low interest rate environment. Net realized capital gains (losses) for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased by $40.4 million compared to the same period in 2002. The decrease was primarily due to futures trading losses related to the Company's dynamic hedging program to mitigate the Company's product living and death benefit guarantee exposures resulting from the volatility in the equity markets. Excluding the futures losses there is an increase in net realized capital gains of $94.5 million. Net realized gains result from sale of fixed maturity investments having a fair value greater than book value primarily due to declining interest rates. Interest credited and other benefits to the policyholders for the year ended December 31, 2003 increased by $1.7 million compared to the same period in 2002. The increase is primarily due to the Company's growth in interest credited related to its higher average fixed account values in force being largely offset by reduced guaranteed living and death benefit reserves related to the strong equity market recovery. General expenses for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased by $15.9 million compared to the same period in 2002. The decrease is primarily due to a lower allocation of corporate and service charges from the Company's parent and other affiliates who provide service to the Company, as a result of increased efficiencies gained from ING's 7 company-wide cost reduction efforts. Also contributing to the decrease is a decline in fixed business sales resulting in lower general expenses. Commissions for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased by $38.4 million compared to the same period in 2002. This decrease is primarily due to lower sales in the Company's fixed product portfolio. Also contributing to the decrease is a negative ceding commission related to the recapture of an affiliate reinsurance agreement in the first quarter of the year. Policy acquisition costs deferred for the year ended December 31, 2003 decreased by $81.4 million compared to the same period in 2002. The decrease was primarily due to lower selling expenses on lower fixed product sales, as well as the deferral of a net gain attributed to the recapture of an affiliated reinsurance agreement. Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired for the year ended December 31, 2003, increased by $56.9 million compared to the same period in 2002. Amortization of long-duration products is reflected in proportion to actual and estimated future gross profits. Estimated future gross profits are computed based on underlying assumptions related to the underlying contracts, including but not limited to interest margins, surrenders, withdrawals, expenses, and asset growth. The increase in the amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of insurance acquired reflects the impact of these variables on the overall book of business. Expense and charges reimbursed under modified coinsurance ("MODCO") agreements for the year ended December 31, 2003, increased by $26.7 million compared to the same period in 2002. This balance reflects the net cash flows associated with affiliate MODCO agreements covering certain variable annuity business. The increase is primarily due to an increase in expense allowance related to new business written and covered by MODCO. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2003, decreased by $2.3 million compared to the same period in 2002. Interest expense reduced for the year of 2003, due to the repayment of two surplus notes on June 28, 2002 to Equitable Life. Principal amounts of the notes were for $50 million and $25 million. The Insurance Department of the State of Delaware approved the repayments of these notes. The cumulative effect of the change in accounting principle for the year ended December 31, 2002, was a loss of $135.3 million net of taxes, related to the adoption of FAS No. 142, which addresses the value of Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. 8 Net income, excluding change in accounting principle and net realized capital gains and losses (net of taxes), increased by $131.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2003, as compared to the year ended December 31, 2002. The increase in net earnings is primarily the result of increased fee income, reduced variable product benefit guarantees related to the equity market recovery, partially offset by lower fixed margins resulting from the depressed interest rate environment, and increased amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired. Financial Condition Investments Fixed Maturities Total fixed maturities reflected net unrealized capital gains of $176.3 million and $216.3 million at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. It is management's objective that the portfolio of fixed maturities be of high quality and be well diversified by market sector. The fixed maturities in the Company's portfolio are generally rated by external rating agencies and, if not externally rated, are rated by the Company on a basis believed to be similar to that used by the rating agencies. The average quality rating of the Company's fixed maturities portfolio was A+ and AA+ at December 31, 2003 and 2002. Fixed maturities rated BBB and below may have speculative characteristics, and changes in economic conditions or other circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the issuer to make principal and interest payments than is the case with higher rated fixed maturities. In addition, the Company invests in structured securities that meet the criteria of Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") Issue No. 99-20, "Recognition of Interest Income and Impairment on Purchased and Retained Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets". Under EITF Issue No. 99-20, a determination of the required impairment is based on credit risk and the possibility of significant prepayment risk that restricts the Company's ability to recover the investment. An impairment is recognized if the fair value of the security is less than book value and there has been an adverse change in cash flow since the last remeasurement date. When a decline in fair value is determined to be other than temporary, the individual security is written down to fair value and the loss is accounted for as a realized loss. Liquidity and Capital Resources Liquidity is the ability of the Company to generate sufficient cash flows to meet the cash requirements of operating, investing, and financing activities. The Company's principal sources of liquidity are annuity premiums and product charges, investment income, maturing investments, proceeds from debt issuance, and capital contributions. Primary uses of these funds are payments of commissions and operating expenses, interest and premium credits, investment purchases, repayment of debt, as well as withdrawals and surrenders. 9 The Company's liquidity position is managed by maintaining adequate levels of liquid assets, such as cash or cash equivalents and short-term investments. Additional sources of liquidity include borrowing facilities to meet short-term cash requirements. The Company maintains a $40.0 million revolving note facility with ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc. ("ING AIH"), a perpetual $75.0 million revolving note facility with Bank of New York and a $125.0 million revolving note facility with SunTrust Bank which expires on July 30, 2004. Management believes that these sources of liquidity are adequate to meet the Company's short-term cash obligations. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") risk-based capital requirements require insurance companies to calculate and report information under a risk-based capital formula. These requirements are intended to allow insurance regulators to monitor the capitalization of insurance companies based upon the type and mixture of risks inherent in a Company's operations. The formula includes components for asset risk, liability risk, interest rate exposure, and other factors. The Company has complied with the NAIC's risk-based capital reporting requirements. Amounts reported indicate that the Company has total adjusted capital above all required capital levels. During 2003, 2002 and 2001, ING USA received capital contributions of $230.0 million, $356.3 million and $196.8 million, respectively. Critical Accounting Policies General The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires the use of estimates and assumptions in certain circumstances that affect amounts reported in the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related footnotes. These estimates and assumptions are evaluated on an on-going basis based on historical developments, market conditions, industry trends and other information that is reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will conform to estimates and assumptions, and that reported results of operations will not be affected in a materially adverse manner by the need to make future accounting adjustments to reflect changes in these estimates and assumptions from time to time. The Company has identified the following estimates as critical in that they involve a higher degree of judgment and are subject to a significant degree of variability: investment impairment testing, amortization of deferred acquisition costs and value of business acquired and goodwill impairment testing. In developing these estimates, management makes subjective and complex judgments that are inherently uncertain and subject to material changes as facts and circumstances develop. Although variability is inherent in these estimates, management believes the amounts provided are appropriate based upon the facts available upon compilation of the consolidated financial statements. 10 Investment Impairment Testing The Company reviews the general account investments for impairments by analyzing the amount and length of time amortized cost has exceeded fair value, and by making certain estimates and assumptions regarding the issuing companies' business prospects, future economic conditions and market forecasts. Based on the facts and circumstances of each case, management uses judgment in deciding whether any calculated impairments are temporary or other than temporary. For those impairments judged to be other than temporary, the Company reduces the carrying value of those investments to the current fair value and records impairment losses for the difference (refer to Note 2). Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Deferred policy acquisition costs ("DAC") and value of business acquired ("VOBA") are amortized with interest over the life of the contracts (usually 25 years) in relation to the present value of estimated gross profits from projected interest margins, asset-based fees, policy administration and surrender charges less policy maintenance fees and non-capitalized commissions. Changes in assumptions can have a significant impact on the calculation of DAC/VOBA and its related amortization patterns. Due to the relative size of DAC/VOBA balance and the sensitivity of the calculation to minor changes in the underlying assumptions and the related volatility that could result in the reported DAC/VOBA balance, the Company performs a quarterly analysis of DAC/VOBA. At each balance sheet date, actual historical gross profits are reflected and expected future gross profits and related assumptions are evaluated for continued reasonableness. Any adjustment in estimated profit requires that the amortization rate be revised retroactively to the date of policy or contract issuance ("unlocking"), which could be significant. The cumulative difference related to prior periods is recognized as a component of current period's amortization, along with amortization associated with the actual gross profits of the period. In general, increases in estimated returns result in increased expected future profitability and may lower the rate of amortization, while increases in lapse/surrender and mortality assumptions or decreases in returns reduce the expected future profitability of the underlying business and may increase the rate of amortization. One of the most significant assumptions involved in the estimation of future gross profits for variable universal life and variable deferred annuity products is the assumed return associated with future variable account performance. To reflect the near-term and long-term volatility in the equity markets, this assumption involves a combination of near-term expectations and a long-term assumption about market performance. The overall return generated by the variable account is dependent on several factors, including the relative mix of the underlying sub-accounts among bond funds and equity funds as well as equity sector weightings. As part of the regular analysis of DAC/VOBA, at the end of third quarter of 2002, the Company unlocked its long-term rate of return assumptions. The Company reset long-term assumptions for the separate account returns to 9.0% (gross before fund management fees and mortality and expense and other policy charges), as of December 31, 2002, reflecting a blended return of equity and other sub-accounts. 11 The initial unlocking adjustment in 2002 was primarily driven by the sustained downturn in the equity markets and revised expectations for future returns. During 2002, the Company recorded an acceleration of DAC/VOBA amortization totaling $91.5 million before tax, or $59.5 million, net of $32.0 million of federal income tax benefit. The Company has remained unlocked during 2003, and reset long-term assumptions for the separate account returns from 9.0% to 8.5% (gross before fund management fees and mortality and expense and other policy charges), as of December 31, 2003, maintaining a blended return of equity and other sub-accounts. The 2003 unlocking adjustment from the previous year was primarily driven by improved market performance. For the year ended December 31, 2003, the Company recorded a deceleration of DAC/VOBA amortization totaling $41.3 million before tax, or $26.9 million, net of $14.4 million of federal income tax expense. Goodwill Impairment Testing The Company tested goodwill as of January 1, 2002 for impairment using fair value calculations based on the present value of estimated future cash flows from business currently in force and business that we estimate we will add in the future. These calculations require management to make estimates on the amount of future revenues and the appropriate discount rate. The calculated fair value of goodwill and the resulting impairment loss recorded is based on these estimates, which require a significant amount of management judgment. The adoption of FAS No. 142 resulted in the impairment of the Company's entire goodwill balance during 2002. Refer to Note 1 of the consolidated financial statements for a discussion of the results of the Company's goodwill testing procedures and to Management's Narrative Analysis of the Results of Operations for the impact these procedures had on the Company's income. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Interpretation 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities", an Interpretation of ARB No.51 (FIN 46). In December 2003, the FASB modified FIN 46 to make certain technical corrections and address certain implementation issues that had arisen. FIN 46 provides a new framework for identifying variable interest entities (VIEs) and determining when a company should include the assets, liabilities, noncontrolling interests and results of activities of a VIE in its consolidated financial statements. In general, a VIE is a corporation, partnership, limited-liability corporation, trust, or any other legal structure used to conduct activities or hold assets that either (1) has an insufficient amount of equity to carry out its principal activities without additional subordinated financial support, (2) has a group of equity owners that are unable to make significant decisions about its activities, or (3) has a group of equity owners that do not have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns generated by its operations. FIN 46 requires a VIE to be consolidated if a party with an ownership, contractual or other financial interest in the VIE (a variable 12 interest holder) is obligated to absorb a majority of the risk of loss from the VIE's activities, is entitled to receive a majority of the VIE's residual returns (if no party absorbs a majority of the VIE's losses), or both. A variable interest holder that consolidates the VIE is called the primary beneficiary. Upon consolidation, the primary beneficiary generally must initially record all of the VIE's assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests at fair value and subsequently account for the VIE as if it were consolidated based on majority voting interest. FIN 46 also requires disclosures about VIEs that the variable interest holder is not required to consolidate but in which it has a significant variable interest. At December 31, 2003, the Company held the following investments that, for purposes of FIN 46, were evaluated and determined that the investments do not require consolidation in the Company's financial statements: Asset Type Purpose Book Value (1) Market Value ---------------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------ Private Corporate Securities - synthetic leases; project financings; credit tenant leases Investment Holdings $ 1,057.2 $ 1,114.6 Foreign Securities - US VIE subsidiaries of foreign companies Investment Holdings 190.3 203.0 Commercial Mortgage Obligations (CMO) Investment Holdings 888.5 893.9 Collateralized Debt Obligations (CDO) Investment Holdings and/or Collateral Manager 4.9 4.3 Asset-Backed Securities (ABS) Investment Holdings 479.9 482.3 Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities (CMBS) Investment Holdings 325.4 342.0 (1) Represents maximum exposure to loss except for those structures for which the Company also receives asset management fees. Contractual Obligations As of December 31, 2003, the Company had certain contractual obligations due over a period of time as summarized in the following table: Payments due by Period (in millions) -------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than More than Contractual Obligations Total 1 Year 1-3 Years 3-5 Years 5 Years ----------------------- ------- --------- --------- --------- ---------- Long-Term Debt $ 502.5 $ 13.0 $ 25.9 $ 25.9 $ 437.7 Operating Lease Obligations 15.1 2.2 4.7 4.8 3.4 Purchase Obligations 25.2 25.2 - - - ------- --------- --------- --------- ---------- Total $ 542.8 $ 40.4 $ 30.6 $ 30.7 $ 441.1 ======= ========= ========= ========= ========== The Company's long-term debt consists of three surplus notes and the related interest payable. Two of the notes are with Equitable Life and have outstanding principal balances of $60.0 million and $75.0 million, respectively. The related interest rates and maturity dates for the Equitable Life notes are 7.25% and 7.75%, and December 29, 2028 and September 29, 2029, respectively. The remaining surplus note of the Company is with Security Life of Denver Insurance Company, and has an outstanding principal, interest rate and maturity date of $35.0 million, 7.98% and December 7, 2029, respectively. As a result of the 13 Company's merger with Equitable Life, USG, and ULA effective January 1, 2004, the surplus notes with Equitable Life will no longer exist effective as of the date of the merger. Operating lease obligations relate to the rental of office space under various non-cancelable operating lease agreements that expire through May 2010. Purchase obligations consist of commitments to enter into mortgage loan arrangements during 2004. Legislative Initiatives The Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003, which was enacted in the second quarter, may impact the Company. The Act's provisions, which reduce the tax rates on long-term capital gains and corporate dividends, impact the relative competitiveness of the Company's products especially variable annuities. Other legislative proposals under consideration include repealing the estate tax, changing the taxation of products, changing life insurance company taxation and making changes to nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements. Some of these proposals, if enacted, could have a material effect on life insurance, annuity and other retirement savings product sales. The impact on the Company's tax position and products cannot be predicted. Other Regulatory Matters Like many financial services companies, certain U.S. affiliates of ING Groep N.V. have received informal and formal requests for information since September 2003 from various governmental and self-regulatory agencies in connection with investigations related to mutual funds and variable insurance products. ING has cooperated fully with each request. In addition to responding to regulatory requests, ING management initiated an internal review of trading in ING insurance, retirement, and mutual fund products. The goal of this review has been to identify whether there have been any instances of inappropriate trading in those products by third parties or by ING investment professionals and other ING personnel. This internal review is being conducted by independent special counsel and auditors. Additionally, ING reviewed its controls and procedures in a continuing effort to deter improper frequent trading in ING products. ING's internal reviews related to mutual fund trading are continuing. The internal review has identified several arrangements allowing third parties to engage in frequent trading of mutual funds within our variable insurance and mutual fund products, and identified other circumstances where frequent trading occurred despite measures taken by ING intended to combat market timing. Most of the identified arrangements were initiated prior to ING's acquisition of the businesses in question. In each arrangement identified, ING has terminated the inappropriate trading, taken steps to discipline or terminate employees who were involved, and modified policies and procedures to deter inappropriate activity. While the review is not 14 completed, management believes the activity identified does not represent a systemic problem in the businesses involved. These instances included agreements (initiated in 1998) that permitted one variable life insurance customer of Reliastar Life Insurance Company ("Reliastar") to engage in frequent trading, and to submit orders until 4pm Central Time, instead of 4pm Eastern Time. Reliastar was acquired by ING in 2000. The late trading arrangement was immediately terminated when current senior management became aware of it in 2002. ING believes that no profits were realized by the customer from the late trading aspect of the arrangement. In addition, the review has identified five arrangements that allowed frequent trading of funds within variable insurance products issued by Reliastar and by ING USA; and in certain ING Funds. ING entities did not receive special benefits in return for any of these arrangements, which have all been terminated. The internal review also identified two investment professionals who engaged in improper frequent trading in ING Funds. ING will reimburse any ING Fund or its shareholders affected by inappropriate trading for any profits that accrued to any person who engaged in improper frequent trading for which ING is responsible. Management believes that the total amount of such reimbursements will not be material to ING or its U.S. business. Subsequent Event On January 1, 2004, Equitable Life, USG, and ULA, merged with and into the Company. Also on January 1, 2004, immediately after the merger, the Company changed its name to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company. As of the merger date, the Merger Companies ceased to exist and were succeeded by ING USA. The merger was accounted for based on the pooling-of-interests method. FAS 141 excludes transfers of net assets or exchanges of shares between entities under common control, and notes that certain provisions under APB 16, provide a source of guidance for such transactions. Prior to the merger date, the Merger Companies were affiliated companies of ING USA and indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries of ING. Equitable Life was domiciled in Iowa and offered various insurance products, including deferred and immediate annuities, variable annuities, and interest sensitive and traditional life insurance. ULA was also domiciled in Iowa and primarily offered annuity related insurance products, as well as life and health insurance that was ceded to other insurers. USG was domiciled in Oklahoma and offered various insurance products, including deferred fixed annuities, immediate annuities, and interest-sensitive life insurance. A Form 8-K for ING USA describing the merger, was filed on January 4, 2004 and includes unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information as of, and for the periods ended, September 30, 2003 and 2002, and December 31, 2002, 2001, and 2000. Revenues and net income for the period ended December 31, 2003, had the pooling been consummated at the date of the financial statements, is $1,509.0 million and $57.2 million, respectively (unaudited). 15 Forward-Looking Information/Risk Factors In connection with the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the Company cautions readers regarding certain forward-looking statements contained in this report and in any other statements made by, or on behalf of, the Company, whether or not in future filings with the SEC. Forward-looking statements are statements not based on historical information and which relate to future operations, strategies, financial results, or other developments. Statements using verbs such as "expect," "anticipate," "believe" or words of similar import generally involve forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, forward-looking statements include statements which represent the Company's beliefs concerning future levels of sales and redemptions of the Company's products, investment spreads and yields, or the earnings and profitability of the Company's activities. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the Company's control and many of which are subject to change. These uncertainties and contingencies could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, the Company. Whether or not actual results differ materially from forward-looking statements may depend on numerous foreseeable and unforeseeable developments. Some may be national in scope, such as general economic conditions, changes in tax law and changes in interest rates. Some may be related to the insurance industry generally, such as pricing competition, regulatory developments and industry consolidation. Others may relate to the Company specifically, such as credit, volatility and other risks associated with the Company's investment portfolio. Investors are also directed to consider other risks and uncertainties discussed in documents filed by the Company with the SEC. The Company disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking information. Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk Asset/liability management is integrated into many aspects of the Company's operations, including investment decisions, product development, and determination of crediting rates. As part of the risk management process, different economic scenarios are modeled, including cash flow testing required for insurance regulatory purposes, to determine that existing assets are adequate to meet projected liability cash flows. Key variables in the modeling process include interest rates, anticipated contractholder behavior and variable separate account performance. Contractholders bear the investment risk related to variable separate account products. The fixed account liabilities are supported by a portfolio principally composed of fixed rate investments that can generate predictable, steady rates of return. The portfolio management strategy for the fixed account considers the assets available for sale. This enables the Company to respond to changes in market interest rates, changes in prepayment risk, changes in relative values of asset sectors and individual securities and loans, changes in credit quality outlook, and other relevant factors. The objective of portfolio management is to maximize returns, taking into account interest rate and credit risk, as well as other risks. The Company's asset/liability management 16 discipline includes strategies to minimize exposure to loss as interest rates and economic and market conditions change. On the basis of these analyses, management believes there is currently no material solvency risk to the Company. 17 Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data Index to Consolidated Financial Statements Page Report of Independent Auditors 19 Consolidated Financial Statements: Consolidated Income Statements for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 20 Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 21 Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholder's Equity for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 22 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 23 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 24 Report of Independent Auditors The Board of Directors ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company) and Subsidiary as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated income statements, statements of changes in shareholder's equity, and statements of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company changed the accounting principle for goodwill and other intangible assets effective January 1, 2002. /s/ Ernst & Young LLP Atlanta, Georgia March 22, 2004 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Consolidated Income Statements (Millions) Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, 2003 2002* 2001* ------------------ ------------------- ------------------ Revenues: Fee income $ 330.2 $ 245.9 $ 219.1 Net investment income 320.3 197.7 94.4 Net realized capital gains (losses) (36.2) 4.2 (6.5) Other income (loss) (0.2) 3.5 - ------------------ ------------------- ------------------ Total revenue $ 614.1 $ 451.3 $ 307.0 ------------------ ------------------- ------------------ Benefits, losses and expenses: Benefits: Interest credited and other benefits to policyholders 320.1 318.4 239.2 Underwriting, acquisition, and insurance expenses: General expenses 123.8 139.7 119.9 Commissions 250.3 288.7 232.4 Policy acquisition costs deferred (210.8) (292.2) (128.2) Amortization: Deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired 184.7 127.8 49.6 Goodwill - - 4.2 Other: Expense and charges reimbursed under modified coinsurance agreements (131.6) (104.9) (225.6) Interest expense 13.7 16.0 19.4 ------------------ ------------------- ------------------ Total benefits, losses and expenses 550.2 493.5 310.9 ------------------ ------------------- ------------------ Income (loss) before income taxes and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 63.9 (42.2) (3.9) Income tax expense (benefit) 2.5 (12.5) 0.1 ------------------ ------------------- ------------------ Income (loss) before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle 61.4 (29.7) (4.0) Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle - (135.3) - ------------------ ------------------- ------------------ Net income (loss) $ 61.4 $ (165.0) $ (4.0) ================== =================== ================== *See Note 1. The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 20 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Consolidated Balance Sheets (Millions) As of December 31, 2003 2002 ----------------- ----------------- Assets Investments: Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $5,047.0 at 2003 and $4,720.1 at 2002) $ 5,223.3 $ 4,936.4 Equity securities at fair value: Investment in mutual funds (cost of $5.3 at 2003 and $22.9 at 2002) 5.6 19.0 Mortgage loans on real estate 847.6 482.4 Policy loans 17.5 16.0 Short-term investments 17.7 2.2 ----------------- ----------------- Total investments 6,111.7 5,456.0 Cash and cash equivalents 17.9 148.5 Accrued investment income 65.4 61.9 Reinsurance recoverable 13.0 196.9 Deferred policy acquisition costs 835.3 678.0 Value of business acquired 8.5 8.5 Receivable for securities sold 10.2 - Due from affiliates 4.2 - Other assets 14.7 5.3 Assets held in separate accounts 17,112.6 11,029.3 ----------------- ----------------- Total assets $ 24,193.5 $ 17,584.4 ================= ================= Liabilities and Shareholder's Equity Policy liabilities and accruals: Future policy benefits and claims' reserves $ 5,277.3 $ 5,159.1 ----------------- ----------------- Total policy liabilities and accruals 5,277.3 5,159.1 Surplus notes 170.0 170.0 Current income taxes 3.9 42.4 Deferred income taxes 126.0 79.8 Dollar roll obligations 120.1 40.0 Other liabilities 31.0 64.7 Liabilities related to separate accounts 17,112.6 11,029.3 ----------------- ----------------- Total liabilities 22,840.9 16,585.3 ----------------- ----------------- Shareholder's equity: Common stock (250,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding; $10.00 per share par value) 2.5 2.5 Additional paid-in capital 1,358.4 1,128.4 Accumulated other comprehensive income 64.2 2.1 Retained deficit (72.5) (133.9) ----------------- ----------------- Total shareholder's equity 1,352.6 999.1 ----------------- ----------------- Total liabilities and shareholder's equity $ 24,193.5 $ 17,584.4 ================= ================= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 21 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholder's Equity (Millions) Accumulated Additional Other Retained Total Common Paid-In Comprehensive Earnings Shareholder's Stock Capital Income (Loss) (Deficit) Equity --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Balance at December 31, 2000 $ 2.5 $ 583.6 $ (4.1) $ 35.1 $ 617.1 Contribution of capital 196.8 196.8 Comprehensive income: Net (loss) - - - (4.0) (4.0) Other comprehensive income net of tax: Unrealized gain on securities ($12.2 pretax) - - 7.9 - 7.9 ---------------- Comprehensive income 3.9 --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Balance at December 31, 2001 2.5 780.4 3.8 31.1 817.8 Contribution of capital 356.3 356.3 Other (8.3) (8.3) Comprehensive income: Net (loss) - - - (165.0) (165.0) Other comprehensive income net of tax: Unrealized (loss) on securities ($(2.6) pretax) - - (1.7) - (1.7) ---------------- Comprehensive loss (166.7) --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Balance at December 31, 2002 2.5 1,128.4 2.1 (133.9) 999.1 Contribution of capital - 230.0 - - 230.0 Comprehensive income: Net income - - - 61.4 61.4 Other comprehensive income net of tax: Unrealized gain on securities ($95.6 pretax) - - 62.1 - 62.1 ---------------- Comprehensive income 123.5 --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- ---------------- Balance at December 31, 2003 $ 2.5 $ 1,358.4 $ $ 64.2 $ (72.5) $ 1,352.6 =============== =============== ================ ================ ================ The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 22 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Millions) Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net income (loss) $ 61.4 $ (165.0) $ (4.0) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Interest credited and charges on interest sensitive products 306.3 282.2 191.0 Net realized capital (gains) losses 36.2 (4.2) 6.5 Increase in accrued investment income (3.5) (39.5) (13.2) Increase in guaranteed benefits reserve (91.6) 107.1 28.2 Other changes in insurance reserve liabilities 13.3 - - Policy acquisition cost deferred (210.8) (292.2) (128.2) Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs 180.4 121.2 45.2 Amortization of value of business acquired 4.3 6.6 4.4 Impairment of goodwill - 151.3 - Other non-cash reconciling items and other changes in assets and liabilities (87.0) 21.3 110.6 Provision for deferred income taxes 12.8 (85.7) (0.6) ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Net cash provided by operating activities 221.8 103.1 239.9 ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Proceeds from the sale, maturity, or repayment of: Fixed maturities available for sale 7,025.8 7,297.1 880.7 Equity securities 16.2 7.8 6.9 Mortgage loans 51.9 285.0 136.0 Acquisition of investments: Fixed maturities available for sale (7,267.3) (10,068.3) (2,070.8) Equity securities - (22.8) - Short-term and other investments (15.4) - (4.7) Mortgage loans (417.1) (553.7) (250.3) Increase in policy loans (1.5) (1.2) (1.5) (Increase) decrease in property and equipment (0.7) 1.1 1.2 Proceeds from sale of interest in subsidiary - 27.7 - Loss on valuation of interest in subsidiary - 3.0 - Other - 0.6 - ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Net cash used for investing activities (608.1) (3,023.7) (1,302.5) ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Deposits and interest credited for investment contracts 1,383.5 3,818.5 1,933.1 Maturities and withdrawals from insurance contracts (332.3) (171.2) (134.8) Transfers to separate accounts (1,160.0) (1,053.8) (902.9) Proceeds received on reinsurance recapture 134.5 - - Proceeds of notes payable - - 3.1 Repayment of notes payable - (1.4) (1.7) Proceeds from reciprocal loan agreement borrowings - - 69.3 Repayment of reciprocal loan agreement borrowings - (75.0) (69.3) Contributions of capital by parent 230.0 356.3 196.8 ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Net cash provided by financing activities 255.7 2,873.4 1,093.6 ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (130.6) (47.2) 31.0 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 148.5 195.7 164.7 ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 17.9 $ 148.5 $ 195.7 ================= ================== ================= Supplemental cash flow information: Income taxes (received) paid, net $ 28.2 $ (141.5) $ 0.4 ================= ================== ================= Interest paid $ 13.0 $ 20.8 $ 15.0 ================= ================== ================= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 23 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Significant Accounting Policies Principles of Consolidation ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (formerly known as Golden American Life Insurance Company) ("ING USA" or the "Company" as appropriate), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc. ("Lion" or "Parent"), is a stock life insurance company organized under the laws of the State of Iowa. ING USA was originally incorporated under the laws of the State of Minnesota on January 2, 1973, in the name of St. Paul Life Insurance Company. On December 21, 1993, the Company redomesticated from Minnesota to Delaware. On January 1, 2004 several events occurred. First, the Company redomesticated from Delaware to Iowa. Secondly, on January 1, 2004 (the "merger date"), Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa ("Equitable Life"), USG Annuity & Life Company ("USG") and United Life & Annuity Insurance Company ("ULA") (the "Merger Companies"), merged with and into Golden American Life Insurance Company ("Golden American"). Also on January 1, 2004, immediately after the merger, Golden American changed its name to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company. As of the merger date, the Merger Companies ceased to exist and were merged into ING USA. Lion is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of ING Groep N.V. ("ING"), a global financial services holding company based in The Netherlands. ING USA is authorized to do business in the District of Columbia and all states except New York. ING USA is licensed as a life insurance company under the laws of the State of Delaware until December 31, 2003 and Iowa since January 1, 2004. Prior to the merger date, ING USA was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Equitable Life from December 30, 2001 through December 31, 2003. Formerly, from October 24, 1997, until December 30, 2001, Equitable of Iowa Companies, Inc. ("EIC" or "Former Holding Company") directly owned 100% of Golden American's stock. On December 3, 2001, the Board of Directors of EIC approved a plan to contribute its holding of stock of Golden American to another wholly-owned subsidiary, Equitable Life. The contribution of stock occurred on December 31, 2001, following approval by the Insurance Department of Delaware. As of April 1, 2002, ING USA sold First Golden American Life Insurance Company of New York ("First Golden") to its sister company, ReliaStar Life Insurance Company ("ReliaStar"). ReliaStar, the parent of Security-Connecticut Life Insurance Company ("Security-Connecticut"), which in turn is the parent of ReliaStar Life Insurance Company of New York ("RLNY"), merged the First Golden business into RLNY operations and dissolved First Golden at book value for $27.7 million in cash and a receivable totaling $0.2 million from RLNY. The receivable from RLNY was assumed by Equitable Life, and ultimately by ING. The consideration was based on First Golden's statutory-basis book value. RLNY's payable to the Company was assumed by ING and subsequently forgiven. ING USA realized a loss of $3.0 million related to the sale of First Golden, which was recorded as a capital transaction. Approval for the merger was obtained from the Insurance Departments of the States of New York and Delaware. 24 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of October 1, 2003, RLNY's parent, Security-Connecticut merged with and into its parent, ReliaStar. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("FAS") No. 141, "Business Combinations" excludes transfers of net assets or exchanges of shares between entities under common control and is therefore covered by Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 16, "Business Combinations". RLNY presented combined results of operations including First Golden activity as of the beginning of the period ending December 31, 2002. The first three months of First Golden activity is not reflected in the ING USA statement of financial position or other financial information for the period ended December 31, 2002, as the amounts were not material. Description of Business The Company offers a portfolio of variable and fixed insurance products designed to meet customer needs for a tax-advantaged savings for retirement and protection from death. The Company's variable and fixed insurance products are marketed by broker/dealers, financial institutions, and insurance agents. The Company's primary customers are consumers and corporations. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Accounting for Goodwill and Intangible Assets During 2002, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") FAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets". The adoption of this standard resulted in an impairment loss of $135.3 million. The Company, in accordance with FAS No. 142, recorded the impairment loss retroactive to the first quarter of 2002; prior quarters of 2002 were restated accordingly. This impairment loss represented the entire carrying amount of goodwill, net of accumulated amortization. This impairment charge was shown as a change in accounting principle on the December 31, 2002 Consolidated Income Statement. 25 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Application of the nonamortization provision (net of tax) of the standard resulted in an increase in net income of $3.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2002. Had the Company been accounting for goodwill under FAS No. 142 for all periods presented, the Company's net income (loss) would have been as follow: Year ended December 31, (Millions) 2001 Reported net income (loss) $ (4.0) Add back goodwill amortization, net of tax 3.8 ----------------- Adjusted net income (loss) $ (0.2) ================= Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities In June 1998, the FASB issued FAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities", as amended and interpreted by FAS No. 137, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Deferral of the Effective Date of FASB Statement 133, and FAS No. 138, Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities - an Amendment of FASB 133, and certain FAS 133 implementation issues". This standard, as amended, requires companies to record all derivatives on the balance sheet as either assets or liabilities and measure those instruments at fair value. The manner in which companies are to record gains or losses resulting from changes in the fair values of those derivatives depends on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting. FAS No. 133 was effective for the Company's financial statements beginning January 1, 2001. Adoption of FAS No. 133 did not have a material effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations given the Company's limited derivative holdings and embedded derivatives. The Company occasionally purchases a financial instrument that contains a derivative that is "embedded" in the instrument. In addition, the Company's insurance products are reviewed to determine whether they contain an embedded derivative. The Company assesses whether the economic characteristics of the embedded derivative are clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the remaining component of the financial instrument or insurance product (i.e., the host contract) and whether a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded instrument would meet the definition of a derivative instrument. When it is determined that the embedded derivative possesses economic characteristics that are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract and that a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is separated from the host contract and carried at fair value. However, in cases where the host contract is measured at fair value, with changes in fair value reported in current period earnings or the Company is unable to reliably identify and measure the embedded derivative for separation from its host contracts, the entire contract is carried on the balance sheet at fair value and is not 26 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- designated as a hedging instrument. The Company did not have embedded derivatives at December 31, 2003 or 2002. The Derivative Implementation Group ("DIG") responsible for issuing guidance on behalf of the FASB for implementation of FAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" recently issued Statement Implementation Issue No. B36, "Embedded Derivatives: Modified Coinsurance Arrangements and Debt Instruments" That Incorporate Credit Risk Exposures That Are Unrelated or Only Partially Related to the Credit Worthiness of the Obligor under Those Instruments ("DIG B36"). Under this interpretation, modified coinsurance and coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance agreements as well as other types of receivables and payables where interest is determined by reference to a pool of fixed maturity assets or total return debt index may be determined to contain embedded derivatives that are required to be bifurcated. The required date of adoption of DIG B36 for the Company was October 1, 2003. The Company completed its evaluation of DIG B36 and determined that the Company had modified coinsurance treaties that required implementation of the guidance. The applicable contracts, however, were determined to generate embedded derivatives with a fair value of zero. Therefore, the guidance, while implemented, did not impact the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Guarantees In November 2002, the FASB issued Interpretation No.45 ("FIN 45"), "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others", to clarify accounting and disclosure requirements relating to a guarantor's issuance of certain types of guarantees, or groups of similar guarantees, even if the likelihood of the guarantor's having to make any payments under the guarantee is remote. The disclosure provisions are effective for financial statements for fiscal years ended after December 15, 2002. For certain guarantees, the interpretation also requires that guarantors recognize a liability equal to the fair value of the guarantee upon its issuance. This initial recognition and measurement provision is to be applied only on a prospective basis to guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. The Company has performed an assessment of its guarantees and believes that all of its guarantees are excluded from the scope of this interpretation. Variable Interest Entities In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Interpretation 46, "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of ARB No.51" (FIN 46). In December 2003, the FASB modified FIN 46 to make certain technical corrections and address certain implementation issues that had arisen. FIN 46 provides a new framework for identifying variable interest entities (VIEs) and determining when a company should include the assets, liabilities, noncontrolling interests and results of activities of a VIE in its consolidated financial statements. 27 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In general, a VIE is a corporation, partnership, limited- liability corporation, trust, or any other legal structure used to conduct activities or hold assets that either (1) has an insufficient amount of equity to carry out its principal activities without additional subordinated financial support, (2) has a group of equity owners that are unable to make significant decisions about its activities, or (3) has a group of equity owners that do not have the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive returns generated by its operations. FIN 46 requires a VIE to be consolidated if a party with an ownership, contractual or other financial interest in the VIE (a variable interest holder) is obligated to absorb a majority of the risk of loss from the VIE's activities, is entitled to receive a majority of the VIE's residual returns (if no party absorbs a majority of the VIE's losses), or both. A variable interest holder that consolidates the VIE is called the primary beneficiary. Upon consolidation, the primary beneficiary generally must initially record all of the VIE's assets, liabilities and noncontrolling interests at fair value and subsequently account for the VIE as if it were consolidated based on majority voting interest. FIN 46 also requires disclosures about VIEs that the variable interest holder is not required to consolidate but in which it has a significant variable interest. At December 31, 2003, the Company held the following investments that, for purposes of FIN 46, were evaluated and determined that the investments do not require consolidation in the Company's financial statements: Asset Type Purpose Book Value (1) Market Value ---------------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------ Private Corporate Securities - synthetic leases; project financings; credit tenant leases Investment Holdings $ 1,057.2 $ 1,114.6 Foreign Securities - US VIE subsidiaries of foreign companies Investment Holdings 190.3 203.0 Commercial Mortgage Obligations (CMO) Investment Holdings 888.5 893.9 Collateralized Debt Obligations (CDO) Investment Holdings and/or Collateral Manager 4.9 4.3 Asset-Backed Securities (ABS) Investment Holdings 479.9 482.3 Commercial Mortgage Backed Securities (CMBS) Investment Holdings 325.4 342.0 (1) Represents maximum exposure to loss except for those structures for which the Company also receives asset management fees. New Accounting Pronouncements In July 2003, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("AICPA") issued Statement of Position ("SOP") 03-1, "Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Nontraditional Long-Duration Contracts and for Separate Accounts," which the Company intends to adopt during first quarter 2004. The impact on the financial statements is not known at this time. 28 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reclassifications and Changes to Prior Year Presentation Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year financial information to conform to the current year classifications. During 2003, certain changes were made to the 2002 and 2001 Income Statements to reflect the correct balances. These changes had no impact on net income or net shareholder's equity of the Company. The following summarizes the corrections to each financial statement line item (in millions): Previously Reported Restated 2002 Adjustments 2002 ------------------- ------------------ ------------------ Fee income $ 204.0 $ 41.9 $ 245.9 ------------------- ------------------ ------------------ Total revenue $ 409.4 $ 41.9 $ 451.3 =================== ================== ================== Interest credited and other benefits to policyholders 276.5 41.9 318.4 ------------------- ------------------ ------------------ Total expense $ 451.6 $ 41.9 $ 493.5 =================== ================== ================== Previously Reported Restated 2002 Adjustments 2002 ------------------- ------------------ ------------------ Fee income $ 188.9 $ 30.2 $ 219.1 ------------------- ------------------ ------------------ Total revenue $ 276.8 $ 30.2 $ 307.0 =================== ================== ================== Interest credited and other benefits to policyholders 209.0 30.2 239.2 ------------------- ------------------ ------------------ Total expense $ 280.7 $ 30.2 $ 310.9 =================== ================== ================== Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from reported results using those estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, money market instruments and other debt issues with a maturity of 90 days or less when purchased. 29 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Investments All of the Company's fixed maturity and equity securities are currently designated as available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value and unrealized gains and losses on these securities are included directly in shareholder's equity, after adjustment for related charges in deferred policy acquisition costs, value of business acquired, and deferred income taxes. The Company analyzes the general account investments to determine whether there has been an other than temporary decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis in accordance with FAS No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities." Management considers the length of the time and the extent to which the market value has been less than cost; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; future economic conditions and market forecasts; and the Company's intent and ability to retain the investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for recovery in market value. If it is probable that all amounts due according to the contractual terms of a debt security will not be collected, an other than temporary impairment is considered to have occurred. In addition, the Company invests in structured securities that meet the criteria of Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") Issue No. 99-20, "Recognition of Interest Income and Impairment on Purchased and Retained Beneficial Interests in Securitized Financial Assets". Under Issue No. EITF 99-20, a determination of the required impairment is based on credit risk and the possibility of significant prepayment risk that restricts the Company's ability to recover the investment. An impairment is recognized if the fair value of the security is less than amortized cost and there has been an adverse change in cash flow since the remeasurement date. When a decline in fair value is determined to be other than temporary, the individual security is written down to fair value and the loss is accounted for as a realized loss. Realized capital gains and losses on all other investments are included in the consolidated income statements. Unrealized capital gains and losses on all other investments are reflected in shareholder's equity, net of related income taxes. Purchases and sales of fixed maturities and equity securities (excluding private placements) are recorded on the trade date. Purchases and sales of private placements and mortgage loans are recorded on the closing date. Fair values for fixed maturities are obtained from independent pricing services or broker/dealer quotations. Fair values for privately placed bonds are determined using a matrix-based model. The matrix-based model considers the level of risk-free interest rates, current corporate spreads, the credit quality of the issuer and cash flow characteristics of the 30 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- security. The fair values for equity securities are based on quoted market prices. For equity securities not actively traded, estimated fair values are based upon values of issues of comparable yield and quality or conversion value where applicable. The Company engages in securities lending whereby certain securities from its portfolio are loaned to other institutions for short periods of time. Initial collateral, primarily cash, is required at a rate of 102% of the market value of the loaned domestic securities. The collateral is deposited by the borrower with a lending agent, and retained and invested by the lending agent according to the Company's guidelines to generate additional income. The market value of the loaned securities is monitored on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or refunded as the market value of the loaned securities fluctuates. Reverse dollar repurchase agreement and reverse repurchase agreement transactions are accounted for as collateralized borrowings, where the amount borrowed is equal to the sales price of the underlying securities. The investment in mutual funds represents an investment in mutual funds managed by the Company, and is carried at fair value. Mortgage loans on real estate are reported at amortized cost less impairment writedowns. If the value of any mortgage loan is determined to be impaired (i.e., when it is probable the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement), the carrying value of the mortgage loan is reduced to the present value of expected cash flows from the loan, discounted at the loan's effective interest rate, or to the loan's observable market price, or the fair value of the underlying collateral. The carrying value of the impaired loans is reduced by establishing a permanent writedown charged to realized loss. Policy loans are carried at unpaid principal balances, net of impairment reserves. Short-term investments, consisting primarily of money market instruments and other fixed maturities issues purchased with an original maturity of 91 days to one year, are considered available for sale and are carried at fair value, which approximates amortized cost. The Company's use of derivatives is limited to hedging purposes. The Company enters into interest rate and currency contracts, including swaps, caps, and floors to reduce and manage risks associated with changes in value, yield, price, cash flow or exchange rates of assets or liabilities held or intended to be held. Changes in the fair value of open derivative contracts are recorded in net realized capital gains and losses. On occasion, the Company sells call options written on underlying securities that are carried at fair value. Changes in fair value of these options are recorded in net realized capital gains or losses. 31 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs and Value of Business Acquired Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs ("DAC") is an asset, which represents certain costs of acquiring certain insurance business, which are deferred and amortized. These costs, all of which vary with and are primarily related to the production of new and renewal business, consist principally of commissions, certain underwriting and contract issuance expenses, and certain agency expenses. Value of Business Acquired ("VOBA") is an asset, which represents the present value of estimated net cash flows embedded in the Company's contracts, which existed at the time the Company was acquired by ING. DAC and VOBA are evaluated for recoverability at each balance sheet date and these assets would be reduced to the extent that gross profits are inadequate to recover the asset. The amortization methodology varies by product type based upon two accounting standards: FAS No. 60, "Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises" ("FAS No. 60") and FAS No. 97, "Accounting and Reporting by Insurance Enterprises for Certain Long-Duration Contracts and Realized Gains and Losses from the Sale of Investments" ("FAS No. 97"). Under FAS No. 60, acquisition costs for traditional life insurance products, which primarily include whole life and term life insurance contracts, are amortized over the premium payment period in proportion to the premium revenue recognition. Under FAS No. 97, acquisition costs for universal life and investment-type products, which include universal life policies and fixed and variable deferred annuities, are amortized over the life of the blocks of policies (usually 25 years) in relation to the emergence of estimated gross profits from surrender charges, investment margins, mortality and expense margins, asset-based fee income, and actual realized gains (losses) on investments. Amortization is adjusted retrospectively when estimates of current or future gross profits to be realized from a group of products are revised. DAC and VOBA are written off to the extent that it is determined that future policy premiums and investment income or gross profits are not adequate to cover related expenses. 32 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Activity for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 within VOBA was as follows: (Millions) Balance at December 31, 2000 $ 25.9 Adjustment for FAS No. 115 (1.3) Interest accrued at 7% 1.6 Amortization (6.0) ----------------- Balance at December 31, 2001 20.2 Adjustment for FAS No. 115 (5.1) Additions (3.3) Interest accrued at 7% 1.3 Amortization (4.6) ----------------- Balance at December 31, 2002 8.5 Adjustment for FAS No. 115 4.3 Additions - Interest accrued at (4% - 5%) 0.4 Amortization (4.7) ----------------- Balance at December 31, 2003 $ 8.5 ================= The estimated amount of VOBA to be amortized, net of interest, over the next five years is $7.7 million, $5.7 million, $4.1 million, $3.3 million and $2.6 million for the years 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, respectively. Actual amortization incurred during these years may vary as assumptions are modified to incorporate actual results. As part of the regular analysis of DAC/VOBA, at the end of third quarter of 2002, the Company unlocked its long-term rate of return assumptions. The Company reset long-term assumptions for the separate account returns to 9.0% (gross before fund management fees and mortality and expense and other policy charges), as of December 31, 2002, reflecting a blended return of equity and other sub-accounts. The initial unlocking adjustment in 2002 was primarily driven by the sustained downturn in the equity markets and revised expectations for future returns. During 2002, the Company recorded an acceleration of DAC/VOBA amortization totaling $91.5 million before tax, or $59.5 million, net of $32.0 million of federal income tax benefit. The Company has remained unlocked during 2003, and reset long-term assumptions for the separate account returns from 9.0% to 8.5% (gross before fund management fees and mortality and expense and other policy charges), as of December 31, 2003, maintaining a blended return of equity and other sub-accounts. The 2003 unlocking adjustment from the previous year was primarily driven by improved market performance. For the year ended December 31, 2003, the Company recorded a deceleration of DAC/VOBA amortization totaling $41.3 million before tax, or $26.9 million, net of $14.4 million of federal income tax expense. 33 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Policy Liabilities and Accruals Reserves for immediate annuities with life contingent payout contracts are computed on the basis of assumed investment yield, mortality, and expenses, including a margin for adverse deviations. Such assumptions generally vary by plan, year of issue and policy duration. Reserve interest rates range from 3.0% to 3.5% for all years presented. Investment yield is based on the Company's experience. Mortality and withdrawal rate assumptions are based on relevant Company experience and are periodically reviewed against both industry standards and experience. Other policyholders' funds include reserves for deferred annuity investment contracts and immediate annuities without life contingent payouts. Reserves on such contracts are equal to cumulative deposits less charges and withdrawals plus credited interest thereon (rates range from 2.4% to 7.5% for all years presented) net of adjustments for investment experience that the Company is entitled to reflect in future credited interest. Revenue Recognition For certain annuity contracts, charges assessed against policyholders' funds for the cost of insurance, surrender, expenses, actuarial margin and other fees are recorded as revenue as charges are assessed against policyholders. Other amounts received for these contracts are reflected as deposits and are not recorded as revenue. Related policy benefits are recorded in relation to the associated premiums or gross profit so that profits are recognized over the expected lives of the contracts. When annuity payments with life contingencies begin under contracts that were initially investment contracts, the accumulated balance in the account is treated as a single premium for the purchase of an annuity and reflected as an offsetting amount in both premiums and current and future benefits in the Consolidated Income Statement. Separate Accounts Separate Account assets and liabilities generally represent funds maintained to meet specific investment objectives of contractholders who bear the investment risk, subject, in some cases, to minimum guaranteed rates. Investment income and investment gains and losses generally accrue directly to such contractholders. The assets of each account are legally segregated and are not subject to claims that arise out of any other business of the Company. Separate Account assets supporting variable options under universal life and annuity contracts are invested, as designated by the contractholder or participant under a contract (who bears the investment risk subject, in limited cases, to minimum guaranteed rates) in shares of mutual funds which are managed by the Company, or other selected mutual funds not managed by the Company. 34 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Separate Account assets are carried at fair value. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, unrealized gains of $112.8 million and of $133.4 million, respectively, after taxes, on assets supporting a guaranteed interest option are reflected in shareholder's equity. Separate Account liabilities are carried at fair value, except for those relating to the guaranteed interest option. Reserves relating to the guaranteed interest option are maintained at fund value and reflect interest credited at rates ranging from 2.4% to 7.5% in 2003 and 2.4% to 11.0% in 2002. Separate Account assets and liabilities are shown as separate captions in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Deposits, investment income and net realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of the Separate Accounts are not reflected in the Consolidated Financial Statements (with the exception of realized and unrealized capital gains and losses on the assets supporting the guaranteed interest option). The Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows do not reflect investment activity of the Separate Accounts. Reinsurance The Company utilizes indemnity reinsurance agreements to reduce its exposure to large losses in all aspects of its insurance business. Such reinsurance permits recovery of a portion of losses from reinsurers, although it does not discharge the primary liability of the Company as direct insurer of the risks reinsured. The Company evaluates the financial strength of potential reinsurers and continually monitors the financial condition of reinsurers. Only those reinsurance recoverable balances deemed probable of recovery are reflected as assets on the Company's Balance Sheets. Income Taxes The Company is taxed at regular corporate rates after adjusting income reported for financial statement purposes for certain items. Deferred income tax expenses/benefits result from changes during the year in cumulative temporary differences between the tax basis and book basis of assets and liabilities. 35 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deferred corporate tax is stated at the face value and is calculated for temporary valuation differences between carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the balance sheet and tax bases based on tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the assets are realized or the liabilities are settled. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which the deductible temporary differences can be utilized. A deferred tax asset is recognized for the carryforward of unused tax losses to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available for compensation. 2. Investments Fixed maturities available for sale as of December 31 were as follows: Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- 2003 (Millions) U.S. government and government agencies and authorities $ 23.8 $ 0.1 $ - $ 23.9 State, municipalities and political subdivisions 5.0 - 0.4 4.6 U.S. corporate securities: Public utilities 482.1 35.7 3.7 514.1 Other corporate securities 2,630.8 128.7 12.1 2,747.4 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Total U.S. corporate securities 3,112.9 164.4 15.8 3,261.5 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Foreign securities: Government 68.5 1.0 1.0 68.5 Other 559.7 30.3 5.5 584.5 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Total foreign securities 628.2 31.3 6.5 653.0 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Mortgage-backed securities 790.0 6.0 4.6 791.4 Other assets-backed securities 487.1 5.5 3.7 488.9 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Total fixed maturities $ 5,047.0 $ 207.3 $ 31.0 $ 5,223.3 ============= ============= ============== ============= 36 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fixed maturities available for sale as of December 31 were as follows: Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- 2002 (Millions) U.S. government and government agencies and authorities $ 207.3 $ 2.3 $ 0.1 $ 209.5 U.S. corporate securities: Public utilities 335.7 15.5 1.9 349.3 Other corporate securities 2,739.5 163.2 6.4 2,896.4 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Total U.S. corporate securities 3,075.2 178.7 8.3 3,245.7 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Foreign securities: Government 64.8 2.9 - 67.7 Other 436.3 27.7 2.6 461.3 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Total foreign securities 501.1 30.6 2.6 529.0 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Mortgage-backed securities 641.7 12.0 0.2 653.5 Other assets-backed securities 294.8 7.0 3.1 298.7 ------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- Total fixed maturities $ 4,720.1 $ 230.6 $ 14.3 $ 4,936.4 ============= ============= ============== ============= At December 31, 2003 and 2002, net unrealized appreciation is $176.3 million and $216.3 million, respectively, on available-for-sale fixed maturities. The aggregate unrealized losses and related fair values of investments with unrealized losses as of December 31, 2003, are shown below by duration: Unrealized Fair Loss Value ------------ ----------- (Millions) Duration category: Less than six months below cost $ 9.3 $ 675.3 More than six months and less than twelve months below cost 20.4 679.7 More than twelve months below cost 1.3 7.9 ------------ ----------- Fixed maturities $ 31.0 $ 1,362.9 ============ =========== 37 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Of the losses more than 6 months and less than 12 months in duration of $20.4 million, there were $9.1 million in unrealized losses that are primarily related to interest rate movement or spread widening for other than credit-related reasons. Business and operating fundamentals are performing as expected. The remaining losses of $11.3 million as of December 31, 2003 included the following significant items: $3.6 million of unrealized losses related to securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by EITF 99-20. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the carrying amount was $195.1 million. $6.3 million of unrealized losses relating to the energy/utility industry, for which the carrying amount was $125.7 million. During 2003, the energy sector recovered due to a gradually improving economic picture and the lack of any material accounting irregularities similar to those experienced in the prior two years. The Company's year-end analysis indicates that the Company expects the debt to be serviced in accordance with the contractual terms. The remaining unrealized losses totaling $1.4 million relate to a carrying amount of $61.9 million. Of the losses more than 12 months in duration of $1.3 million, there were $0.6 million related to securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by EITF 99-20. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the carrying amount was $4.0 million. The amortized cost and fair value of total fixed maturities for the year-ended December 31, 2003 are shown below by contractual maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because securities may be restructured, called, or prepaid. Amortized Fair Cost Value ------------ ----------- (Millions) Due to mature: One year or less $ 30.6 $ 31.0 After one year through five years 880.9 921.1 After five years through ten years 1,866.6 1,962.7 After ten years 666.4 686.2 Mortgage-backed securities 1,115.4 1,133.3 Other asset-backed securities 487.1 489.0 ------------ ----------- Fixed maturities $ 5,047.0 $ 5,223.3 ============ =========== 38 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- At December 31, 2003 and 2002, fixed maturities with fair values of $2.9 million and $7.5 million, respectively, were on deposit as required by regulatory authorities. The Company did not have any investments in a single issuer, other than obligations of the U.S. government, with a carrying value in excess of 10% of the Company's shareholder's equity at December 31, 2003. Beginning in April 2001, the Company entered into reverse dollar repurchase agreement and reverse repurchase agreement transactions to increase its return on investments and improve liquidity. These transactions involve a sale of securities and an agreement to repurchase substantially the same securities as those sold. The dollar rolls and reverse repurchase agreements are accounted for as short-term collateralized financings and the repurchase obligation is reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The repurchase obligation totaled $120.1 and $40.0 million at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The primary risk associated with short-term collateralized borrowings is that the counterparty will be unable to perform under the terms of the contract. The Company's exposure is limited to the excess of the net replacement cost of the securities over the value of the short-term investments, an amount that was not material at December 31, 2003. The Company believes the counterparties to the dollar roll and reverse repurchase agreements are financially responsible and that the counterparty risk is immaterial. During 2003, the Company determined that five fixed maturities had other than temporary impairments. As a result, at December 31, 2003, the Company recognized a pre-tax loss of $5.7 million to reduce the carrying value of the fixed maturities to their fair value of $4.2 million. During 2002, the Company determined that thirteen fixed maturities had other than temporary impairments. As a result, at December 31, 2002, the Company recognized a pre-tax loss of $8.9 million to reduce the carrying value of the fixed maturities to their combined fair value of $123.5 million. During 2001, the Company determined that ten fixed maturities had other than temporary impairments. As a result, at December 31, 2001, the Company recognized a pre-tax loss of $0.7 million to reduce the carrying value of the fixed maturities to their fair value of $0.7 million. 3. Financial Instruments Estimated Fair Value The following disclosures are made in accordance with the requirements of FAS No. 107, "Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments". FAS No. 107 requires disclosure of fair value information about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the balance sheet, for which it is practicable to estimate that value. In cases where quoted market prices are not available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other valuation techniques. 39 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Those techniques are significantly affected by the assumptions used, including the discount rate and estimates of future cash flows. In that regard, the derived fair value estimates, in many cases, could not be realized in immediate settlement of the instrument. FAS No. 107 excludes certain financial instruments and all nonfinancial instruments from its disclosure requirements. Accordingly, the aggregate fair value amounts presented do not represent the underlying value of the Company. The following valuation methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value of the above financial instruments: Fixed maturities securities: The fair values for the actively traded marketable bonds are determined based upon the quoted market prices. The fair values for marketable bonds without an active market are obtained through several commercial pricing services which provide the estimated fair values. Fair values of privately placed bonds are determined using a matrix-based pricing model. The model considers the current level of risk-free interest rates, current corporate spreads, the credit quality of the issuer and cash flow characteristics of the security. Using this data, the model generates estimated market values which the Company considers reflective of the fair value of each privately placed bond. Fair values for privately placed bonds are determined through consideration of factors such as the net worth of the borrower, the value of collateral, the capital structure of the borrower, the presence of guarantees and the Company's evaluation of the borrower's ability to compete in their relevant market. Equity securities: Fair values of these securities are based upon quoted market value. Mortgage loans on real estate: The fair values for mortgage loans on real estate are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses and rates currently being offered in the marketplace for similar loans to borrowers with similar credit ratings. Loans with similar characteristics are aggregated for purposes of the calculations. Cash, short-term investments and policy loans: The carrying amounts for these assets approximate the assets' fair values. Assets held in separate accounts: Assets held in separate accounts are reported at the quoted fair values of the individual securities in the separate accounts. Surplus notes: Estimated fair value of the Company's surplus notes were based upon discounted future cash flows using a discount rate approximating the current market value. Investment contract liabilities (included in future policy benefits and claims' reserves): With a fixed maturity: Fair value is estimated by discounting cash flows at interest rates currently being offered by, or available to, the Company for similar contracts. 40 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Without a fixed maturity: Fair value is estimated as the amount payable to the policyholder upon demand. However, the Company has the right under such contracts to delay payment of withdrawals which may ultimately result in paying an amount different than that determined to be payable on demand. Liabilities related to separate accounts: Liabilities related to separate accounts are reported at full account value in the Company's historical balance sheet. Estimated fair values of separate account liabilities are equal to their carrying amount. The carrying values and estimated fair values of certain of the Company's financial instruments at December 31, 2003 and 2002 were as follows: 2003 2002 -------------------------- -------------------------- Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Value Value Value Value ---------- --------- ---------- --------- (Millions) Assets: Fixed maturity $ 5,223.3 $ 5,223.3 $ 4,936.4 $ 4,936.4 Equity securities 5.6 5.6 19.0 19.0 Mortgage loans on real estate 847.6 878.1 482.4 522.2 Policy loans 17.5 17.5 16.0 16.0 Cash and short-term investments 35.6 35.6 150.7 150.7 Assets held in separate accounts 17,112.6 17,112.6 11,029.3 11,029.3 Liabilities: Surplus notes 170.0 267.7 170.0 260.0 Investment contract liabilities: Deferred annuities 5,180.2 4,872.0 5,128.0 4,802.9 Supplementary contracts and immediate annuities 12.9 12.9 8.0 8.0 Liabilities related to separate account 17,112.6 17,112.6 11,029.3 11,029.3 Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on available market information and judgment about various financial instruments, such as estimates of timing and amounts of future cash flows. Such estimates do not reflect any premium or discount that could result from offering for sale at one time the Company's entire holdings of a particular financial instrument, nor do they consider the tax impact of the realization of unrealized gains or losses. In many cases, the fair value estimates cannot be substantiated by comparison to independent markets, nor can the disclosed value be realized in immediate settlement of the instruments. In evaluating the Company's management of interest rate, price and liquidity risks, the fair values of all assets and liabilities should be taken into consideration, not only those presented above. 41 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Derivative Financial Instruments Interest Rate Swaps Interest rate swaps are used to manage the interest rate risk in the Company's bond portfolio as well as the Company's liabilities. Interest rate swaps represent contracts that require the exchange of cash flows at regular interim periods, typically monthly or quarterly. The notional amount, carrying value and estimated fair value of the Company's open interest rate swaps as of December 31, 2003 were $250.0 million, $22.8 million and $22.8 million, respectively. The Company did not have interest rate swaps at December 31, 2002. 4. Net Investment Income Sources of net investment income were as follows: Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, 2003 2002 2001 ------------------- -------------------- ------------------- (Millions) Fixed maturities $ 287.7 $ 185.6 $ 83.7 Mortgage loans 36.2 19.6 11.2 Policy loans 0.8 0.6 0.8 Short-term investments and cash equivalents 0.7 2.6 2.6 Other 16.1 0.4 0.6 ------------------- -------------------- ------------------- Gross investment income 341.5 208.8 98.9 Less: investment expenses 21.2 11.1 4.5 ------------------- -------------------- ------------------- Net investment $ 320.3 $ 197.7 $ 94.4 =================== ==================== =================== 5. Dividend Restrictions and Shareholder's Equity The Company's ability to pay dividends to its Parent is subject to the prior approval of insurance regulatory authorities for payment of dividends, which exceed an annual limit. The Company did not pay common stock dividends during 2003, 2002 and 2001. The Insurance Departments of the State of Delaware and the State of Iowa (the "Department") recognize as net income and capital and surplus those amounts determined in conformity with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Department, which differ in certain respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Statutory net income (loss) was $7.6 million, $(303.0) million, and $(156.4) million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. Statutory capital and surplus was $733.9 million and $424.9 million as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. 42 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of December 31, 2003, the Company does not utilize any statutory accounting practices, which are not prescribed by state regulatory authorities that, individually or in the aggregate, materially affect statutory capital and surplus. The Company maintains a $40.0 million revolving note facility with ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc. ("ING AIH"), a perpetual $75.0 million revolving note facility with Bank of New York and a $125.0 million revolving note facility with SunTrust Bank, which expires on July 30, 2004. 6. Capital Gains and Losses Realized capital gains or losses are the difference between the carrying value and sale proceeds of specific investments sold. Net realized capital (losses) gains on investments were as follows: Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, (Millions) 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Fixed maturities $ 99.7 $ 4.2 $ (4.9) Equity securities (1.0) - (1.6) Derivatives (134.9) - - ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Pretax realized capital gains (losses) $ (36.2) $ 4.2 $ (6.5) ================= ================= ================== After-tax realized capital gains (losses) $ (23.5) $ 2.7 $ (4.2) ================= ================= ================== Proceeds from the sale of total fixed maturities and the related gross gains and losses were as follows: Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, (Millions) 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Proceeds on sales $ 5,806.4 $ 6,281.7 $ 880.7 Gross gains 136.3 76.8 6.9 Gross losses 36.6 72.6 11.8 43 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Changes in shareholder's equity related to changes in accumulated other comprehensive income were as follows: Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, (Millions) 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Fixed maturities $ (40.0) $ 204.0 $ 18.4 Equity securities 4.2 (3.9) - DAC/VOBA 131.4 (202.8) (8.4) ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Subtotal 95.6 (2.7) 10.0 Increase in deferred income taxes 33.5 1.0 2.1 ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Net changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) $ 62.1 $ (1.7) $ 7.9 ================= ================= ================== Shareholder's equity included the following accumulated other comprehensive income (loss): As of As of As of December 31, December 31, December 31, (Millions) 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Net unrealized capital gains (losses): Fixed maturities $ 176.3 $ 216.3 $ 12.3 Equity securities 0.3 (3.9) - DAC/VOBA (77.8) (209.2) (6.4) ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Subtotal 98.8 3.2 5.9 Less: deferred income taxes 34.6 1.1 2.1 ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Net accumulated other comprehensive income $ 64.2 $ 2.1 $ 3.8 ================= ================= ================== Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income related to changes in unrealized gains (losses) on securities, were as follows: Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, (Millions) 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising the year(1) $ (2.1) $ (8.7) $ 11.1 Less: reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) and other items included in net income(2) 64.2 7.0 (3.2) ----------------- ----------------- ------------------ Net unrealized gains (losses) on securities $ 62.1 $ (1.7) $ 7.9 ================= ================= ================== 44 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1) Pretax unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the year were $(3.3) million, $(13.4) million and $17.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. (2) Pretax reclassification adjustments for gains (losses) and other items included in net income were $98.8 million, $10.8 million and $(4.9) million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. 7. Severance In December 2001, ING announced its intentions to further integrate and streamline the U.S. based operations of ING Americas, (which includes the Company), in order to build a more customer-focused organization. During the first quarter 2003, the Company performed a detail analysis of its severance accrual. As part of this analysis, the Company corrected the initial planned number of people to eliminate from 252 to 228 (corrected from the 2002 Annual Report on Form 10K) and extended the date of expected completion for severance actions to June 30, 2003. Activity for the year ended December 31, 2003 within the severance liability and positions elimination related to such actions were as follows: Severance (Millions) Liability Positions --------------- --------------- Balance at December 31, 2002 $ 0.8 34 Payments (0.8) - Positions eliminated due to internal replacement jobs - (34) --------------- --------------- Balance at December 31, 2003 $ - - =============== =============== 8. Income Taxes In 2003 and 2002, ING USA joined in the filing of a consolidated federal income tax return with its former parent, Equitable Life and other affiliates. The Company had a tax allocation agreement with Equitable Life whereby the Company was charged for taxes it would have incurred were it not a member of the consolidated group and was credited for losses at the statutory tax rate. Prior to joining the Equitable Life consolidated group, the Company was the parent of a different consolidated group. At December 31, 2003, the Company has net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $206.5 million for federal income tax purposes which are available to offset future taxable income. If not used, these carryforwards will expire between 2014 and 2016. 45 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations included in the consolidated financial statements are as follows: Year ended Year ended Year ended December 31, December 31, December 31, (Millions) 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Current taxes (benefits): Federal $ (10.3) $ (98.2) $ 0.6 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Total current taxes (benefits) (10.3) (98.2) 0.6 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Deferred taxes (benefits): Operations and capital loss carryforwards 53.3 (3.9) (55.3) Other federal deferred taxes (40.5) 89.6 54.8 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Total deferred taxes (benefits) 12.8 85.7 (0.5) ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Total income tax expense $ 2.5 $ (12.5) $ 0.1 ================= ================= ================= Income taxes were different from the amount computed by applying the federal income tax rate to income from continuing operations before income taxes for the following reasons: Year ended Year ended, Year ended, December 31, December 31, December 31, (Millions) 2003 2002 2001 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Income before income taxes $ 63.9 $ (42.2) $ (3.9) Tax rate 35% 35% 35% ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Income tax at federal statutory rate 22.4 (14.8) (1.4) Tax effect of: Goodwill amortization - - 1.0 Meals and entertainment 0.3 0.6 0.5 Dividend received deduction (10.8) - - Refinement of deferred tax balances (9.5) - - Other 0.1 1.7 - ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- Income taxes $ 2.5 $ (12.5) $ 0.1 ================= ================= ================= 46 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at December 31 are presented below: (Millions) 2003 2002 ----------------- ----------------- Deferred tax assets: Operations and capital loss carryforwards $ 72.3 $ 125.6 Future policy benefits 86.9 134.5 Goodwill 9.8 11.1 Investments 0.2 0.2 Other 12.2 - ----------------- ----------------- Total gross assets 181.4 271.4 ----------------- ----------------- Deferred tax liabilities: Unrealized gains on investments (61.9) (74.3) Deferred policy acquisition cost (232.6) (254.8) Value of purchased insurance in force (3.0) (5.0) Other (9.9) (17.1) ----------------- ----------------- Deferred tax liability before allowance (307.4) (351.2) ----------------- ----------------- Valuation allowance - - ----------------- ----------------- Net deferred income tax liability $ (126.0) $ (79.8) ================= ================= The Company establishes reserves for possible proposed adjustments by various taxing authorities. Management believes there are sufficient reserves provided for, or adequate defenses against any such adjustments. 9. Benefit Plans Defined Benefit Plan ING North America Insurance Corporation ("ING North America") sponsors the ING Americas Retirement Plan (the "Retirement Plan"), effective as of December 31, 2001. Substantially all employees of ING North America and its subsidiaries and affiliates (excluding certain employees) are eligible to participate, including the Company's employees. The Retirement Plan is a tax-qualified defined benefit plan, the benefits of which are guaranteed (within certain specified legal limits) by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC"). As of January 1, 2002, each participant in the Retirement Plan (except for certain specified employees) earn a benefit under a final average compensation formula. Subsequent to December 31, 2001, ING North America is responsible for all Retirement Plan liabilities. The costs allocated to the Company for its employees' participation in the Retirement Plan were $7.3 million for 2003, $3.4 million for 2002, and $1.2 million for 2001, respectively. 47 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Defined Contribution Plan ING North America sponsors the ING Savings Plan and ESOP (the "Savings Plan"). Substantially all employees of ING North America and its subsidiaries and affiliates (excluding certain employees) are eligible to participate, including the Company's employees. The Savings Plan is a tax-qualified profit sharing and stock bonus plan, which includes an employee stock ownership plan ("ESOP") component. Savings Plan benefits are not guaranteed by the PBGC. The Savings Plan allows eligible participants to defer into the Savings Plan a specified percentage of eligible compensation on a pre-tax basis. ING North America matches such pre-tax contributions, up to a maximum of 6% of eligible compensation. All matching contributions are subject to a 4-year graded vesting schedule (although certain specified participants are subject to a 5-year graded vesting schedule). All contributions made to the Savings Plan are subject to certain limits imposed by applicable law. Pre-tax charges of operations of the Company for the Savings Plan were $2.3 million in 2003, $2.3 million in 2002, and $0.9 million in 2001, respectively. Other Benefit Plans During 2003 and 2002, benefit charges to the Company related to the ING Americas Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan that covers certain employees of the Company were not significant. 10. Related Party Transactions Operating Agreements The Company has certain agreements whereby it generates revenues and incurs expenses with affiliated entities. The agreements are as follows: Resources and services are provided to Security Life of Denver Insurance Company ("SLDIC) and Southland Life Insurance Company ("SLIC"). For the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 revenues for these services, which reduced general expenses incurred, were $4.8 million, $4.2 million and $0.3 million, respectively for SLDIC and $1.6 million, $1.0 million and $0.1 million, respectively for SLIC. Underwriting and distribution agreement with Directed Services, Inc. ("DSI"), for the variable insurance products issued by the Company. DSI is authorized to enter into agreements with broker/dealers to distribute the Company's' variable products and appoint representatives of the broker/dealers as agents. For the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 commission expenses were incurred in the amounts of $253.8 million, $282.9 million and $229.7 million, respectively. Asset management agreement with ING Investment Management LLC ("IIM"), in which IIM provides asset management and accounting services. The Company records a fee, which is paid quarterly, based on the value of 48 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- the assets under management. For the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 expenses were incurred in the amounts of $20.8 million, $11.0 million and $4.4 million, respectively. Service agreement with Equitable Life in which administrative and financial related services are provided. For the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 expenses were incurred in the amounts of $2.4 million, $0.6 million and $0.3 million, respectively. Managerial and supervisory services to DSI. The fee paid by DSI for these services is calculated as a percentage of average assets in the variable separate accounts. For the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 revenue for these services was $26.0 million, $23.7 million and $23.1 million, respectively. Advisory, computer, and other resources and services are provided to Equitable Life and United Life & Annuity Insurance Company ("ULAIC"). For the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 revenues for these services, which reduced general expenses incurred, totaled $10.8 million, $9.8 million and $8.2 million, respectively for Equitable Life and $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $0.4 million, respectively for ULAIC. Expense sharing agreements with ING AIH for administrative, management, financial, and information technology services, which were approved in 2001. For the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, ING USA incurred expenses of $30.2 million and $41.0 million, respectively. Guaranty agreement with Equitable Life. In consideration of an annual fee, payable June 30, Equitable Life guarantees that it will make funds available, if needed, to pay the contractual claims made under the provisions of ING USA's life insurance and annuity contracts. The agreement is not, and nothing contained therein or done pursuant thereto by Equitable Life shall be deemed to constitute, a direct or indirect guaranty by Equitable Life of the payment of any debt or other obligation, indebtedness, or liability, of any kind or character whatsoever, of ING USA. The agreement does not guarantee the value of the underlying assets held in separate accounts in which funds of variable life insurance and variable annuity policies have been invested. The calculation of the annual fee is based on risk based capital. No amounts were payable under this agreement as of December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001. Reinsurance Agreements ING USA participates in a modified coinsurance agreement with Equitable Life, covering a considerable portion of ING USA's variable annuities issued on or after January 1, 2000, excluding those with an interest rate guarantee. The financial statements are presented net of the effects of the agreement. Under this agreement, ING USA received a net reimbursement of expenses and charges of $132.5 million, $100.9 million and $224.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. This was offset by a decrease in policy acquisition costs deferred of $182.1 million, $143.5 million and $257.5 million, respectively, for the same periods. At December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, ING USA also had a payable to Equitable Life of $34.5 million, $7.1 million, and $22.6 million, respectively, due to the 49 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- overpayment by Equitable Life of the cash settlement for the modified coinsurance agreement. ING USA entered into a reinsurance agreement with Security Life of Denver International, Ltd. ("SLDI"), an affiliate, covering variable annuity minimum guaranteed death benefits and minimum guaranteed living benefits of variable annuities issued after January 1, 2000. In March 2003, the Company amended its reinsurance agreement with SLDI. Under this amendment, the Company terminated the reinsurance agreement for all inforce and new business and recaptured all inforce business reinsured under the reinsurance agreement between the Company and SLDI retroactive to January 1, 2003 and the Company reduced its reinsurance recoverable related to these liabilities by $150.1 million. On March 28, 2003, SLDI transferred assets to the Company in the amount of $185.6 million. The difference in amounts transferred on March 28, 2003 and the reduction of the reinsurance recoverables as of January 1, 2003 reflects adjustments on the investment of the reinsurance recoverable as of January 1, 2003 reflects adjustments on the investment income on the assets and letter of credit costs between January 1, 2003 and the date of the asset transfer. It also encompasses the net effect of a recapture fee paid in the amount of $5.0 million offset by the receipt of a $24.1 million negative ceding commission. The net impact of which was deferred in policy acquisition costs and is being amortized over the period of estimated future profits. Reciprocal Loan Agreement ING USA maintains a reciprocal loan agreement with ING AIH, a Delaware corporation and affiliate, to facilitate the handling of unusual and/or unanticipated short-term cash requirements. Under this agreement, which expires December 31, 2007, ING USA and ING AIH can borrow up to $40.0 million from one another. Prior to lending funds to ING AIH, ING USA must obtain the approval from the Department of Insurance of the State of Delaware. Interest on any ING USA borrowings is charged at the rate of ING AIH's cost of funds for the interest period plus 0.15%. Interest on any ING AIH borrowings is charged at a rate based on the prevailing interest rate of U.S. commercial paper available for purchase with a similar duration. Under this agreement, ING USA incurred interest expense of $66,087, $33,000, and $26,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. At December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, ING USA did not have any borrowings or receivables from ING AIH under this agreement. Surplus Notes ING USA issued multiple 30-year surplus notes (see below table). Payment of the notes and related accrued interest is subordinate to payments due to policyholders, claimant and beneficiary claims, as well as debts owed to all other classes of debtors, other than surplus note holders, of ING USA. Any payment of principal and/or interest made is subject to the prior 50 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- approval of the Delaware Insurance Commissioner. Interest expense for the years ended December 31: (Millions) Surplus Maturity Note Amount Affiliate Date 2003 2002 2001 8.2% 50.0 *Equitable Life 12/29/2029 - 2.0 4.1 8.0% 35.0 Security Life of Denver 12/7/2029 2.8 2.8 2.8 7.8% 75.0 Equitable Life 9/29/2029 5.8 5.8 5.8 7.3% 60.0 Equitable Life 12/29/2028 4.4 4.4 4.4 8.3% 25.0 *Equitable Life 12/17/2026 - 1.0 2.1 *Surplus notes redeemed June 28, 2002. Capital Transactions During 2003, 2002 and 2001, ING USA received capital contributions of $230.0 million, $356.3 million and $196.8 million respectively. 11. Reinsurance At December 31, 2003, ING USA had reinsurance treaties with four unaffiliated reinsurers and two affiliated reinsurers covering a significant portion of the mortality risks and guaranteed death and living benefits under its variable contracts. ING USA remains liable to the extent its reinsurers do not meet their obligations under the reinsurance agreements. Reinsurance ceded in force for life mortality risks were $79.3 million and $90.7 million at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had net receivables of $13.0 million and $196.9 million, respectively for reinsurance claims, reserve credits, or other receivables from these reinsurers. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, these net receivables were comprised of the following: $15.0 million and $36.7 million for claims recoverable from reinsurers; $5.8 million and $6.3 million payable for reinsurance premiums; $(20.2) million and $137.2 million for reserve credits; and $21.1 million and $24.0 million for reinsured surrenders and allowances due from an unaffiliated reinsurer. Included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements, excluding the modified coinsurance agreements, are net considerations to reinsurers of $8.9 million, $50.8 million and $30.3 million and net policy benefits recoveries of $34.1 million, $49.5 million and $21.8 million for the years ended December 21, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. ING USA participates in a modified coinsurance agreement with an unaffiliated reinsurer. The accompanying consolidated financial statements are presented net of the effects of the treaty which increased (decreased) income by $(1.9) million, $(2.9) million and $(0.5) million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. 51 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities Leases For the year ended December 31, 2003 and 2002 rent expense for leases was $2.6 million and $2.4 million, respectively. The future net minimum payments under noncancelable leases for the years ended December 31, 2004 through 2008 are estimated to be $2.2 million, $2.3 million, $2.4 million, $2.4 million and $2.4 million, respectively, and $3.4 million, thereafter. The Company pays substantially all expenses associated with its leased and subleased office properties. Expenses not paid directly by the Company are paid for by an affiliate and allocated back to the Company. Commitments Through the normal course of investment operations, the Company commits to either purchase or sell securities, commercial mortgage loans or money market instruments at a specified future date and at a specified price or yield. The inability of counterparties to honor these commitments may result in either higher or lower replacement cost. Also, there is likely to be a change in the value of the securities underlying the commitments. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had off-balance sheet commitments to purchase investments equal to their fair value of $25.2 million and $77.0 million, respectively. Litigation The Company is a party to threatened or pending lawsuits arising from the normal conduct of business. Due to the climate in insurance and business litigation, suits against the Company sometimes include claims for substantial compensatory, consequential or punitive damages and other types of relief. Moreover, certain claims are asserted as class actions, purporting to represent a group of similarly situated individuals. While it is not possible to forecast the outcome of such lawsuits, in light of existing insurance, reinsurance and established reserves, it is the opinion of management that the disposition of such lawsuits will not have a materially adverse effect on the Company's operations or financial position. Other Regulatory Matters Like many financial services companies, certain U.S. affiliates of ING Groep N.V. have received informal and formal requests for information since September 2003 from various governmental and self-regulatory agencies in connection with investigations related to mutual funds and variable insurance products. ING has cooperated fully with each request. In addition to responding to regulatory requests, ING management initiated an internal review of trading in ING insurance, retirement, and mutual fund products. The goal of this review has been to identify whether there have 52 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- been any instances of inappropriate trading in those products by third parties or by ING investment professionals and other ING personnel. This internal review is being conducted by independent special counsel and auditors. Additionally, ING reviewed its controls and procedures in a continuing effort to deter improper frequent trading in ING products. ING's internal reviews related to mutual fund trading are continuing. The internal review has identified several arrangements allowing third parties to engage in frequent trading of mutual funds within our variable insurance and mutual fund products, and identified other circumstances where frequent trading occurred despite measures taken by ING intended to combat market timing. Most of the identified arrangements were initiated prior to ING's acquisition of the businesses in question. In each arrangement identified, ING has terminated the inappropriate trading, taken steps to discipline or terminate employees who were involved, and modified policies and procedures to deter inappropriate activity. While the review is not completed, management believes the activity identified does not represent a systemic problem in the businesses involved. These instances included agreements (initiated in 1998) that permitted one variable life insurance customer of Reliastar Life Insurance Company ("Reliastar") to engage in frequent trading, and to submit orders until 4pm Central Time, instead of 4pm Eastern Time. Reliastar was acquired by ING in 2000. The late trading arrangement was immediately terminated when current senior management became aware of it in 2002. ING believes that no profits were realized by the customer from the late trading aspect of the arrangement. In addition, the review has identified five arrangements that allowed frequent trading of funds within variable insurance products issued by Reliastar and by ING USA; and in certain ING Funds. ING entities did not receive special benefits in return for any of these arrangements, which have all been terminated. The internal review also identified two investment professionals who engaged in improper frequent trading in ING Funds. ING will reimburse any ING Fund or its shareholders affected by inappropriate trading for any profits that accrued to any person who engaged in improper frequent trading for which ING is responsible. Management believes that the total amount of such reimbursements will not be material to ING or its U.S. business. 13. Subsequent Event On January 1, 2004, Equitable Life, USG, and ULA, merged with and into the Company. Also on January 1, 2004, immediately after the merger, the Company changed its name to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company. As of the merger date, the Merger Companies ceased to exist and were succeeded by ING USA. The merger was accounted for based on the pooling-of-interests method. FAS 141, excludes transfers of net assets or exchanges of shares between entities under common control, and notes that certain provisions under APB 16, provide a source of guidance for such transactions. 53 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Prior to the merger date, the Merger Companies were affiliated companies of ING USA and indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries of ING. Equitable Life was domiciled in Iowa and offered various insurance products, including deferred and immediate annuities, variable annuities, and interest sensitive and traditional life insurance. ULA was also domiciled in Iowa and primarily offered annuity related insurance products, as well as life and health insurance that was ceded to other insurers. USG was domiciled in Oklahoma and offered various insurance products, including deferred fixed annuities, immediate annuities, and interest-sensitive life insurance. A Form 8-K for ING USA describing the merger, was filed on January 4, 2004 and includes unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information as of, and for the periods ended, September 30, 2003 and 2002, and December 31, 2002, 2001, and 2000. Revenue and net income for the period ended December 31, 2003, had the pooling been consummated at the date of the financial statements, is $1,509.5 million and $57.3 million, respectively (unaudited). 54 QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED) (Millions) 2003 First Second Third Fourth - ---- --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Total revenue $ 173.1 $ 150.3 $ 159.8 $ 130.9 --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Income (loss) before income taxes (12.4) 60.3* (1.0) 17.0 Income tax expense (benefit) (4.3) 19.4 (7.8) (4.8) --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Net income (loss) $ (8.1) 40.9 $ 6.8 $ 21.8 =============== =============== ================ ================ (Millions) 2002 First Second Third Fourth - ---- --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Total revenue previously reported $ 69.4 $ 89.2 $ 141.4 $ 109.4 Adjustment (see Note 1) 12.6 12.6 11.1 5.6 --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Total revenue restated 82.0 101.8 152.5 115.0 --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Income (loss) before income taxes (3.2) (16.0) (60.2) 37.2 Income tax expense (benefit) (1.0) (5.5) (19.2) 13.2 --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Income (loss) before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (2.2) (10.5) (41.0) 24.0 --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Cumulative effect of change in accounting principle (135.3) - - - --------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------- Net income (loss) $ (137.5) $ (10.5) $ (41.0) $ 24.0 =============== =============== ================ ================ * The Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-Q/A was filed with respect to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2003, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 12, 2003. The amendment No. 1 reflected an adjustment to the Company's net income for the six months ended June 30, 2003 and did not impact results for the three months ended June 30, 2003. The adjustment for the six months ended June 30, 2003 related to a transposition error in the line item "Policy acquisition costs deferred," with a corresponding tax effect in the line item "Income tax expense (Benefit)" in Part 1, Item I, Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income. Consequently, Part I, Item 2, Management's Narrative Analysis of the Results of Operations and Financial Condition, was updated to reflect these adjustments. Additionally, in accordance with Regulation S-X, the Certifications required by Section 302 and Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 were attached as exhibits to the 10-Q/A in Part II, Item 6, Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K. The Amendment No. 1 did not contain updates to reflect any events occurring after the original August 12, 2003 filing of the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2003. All information contained in the Amendment No. 1 was subject to updating and supplementing as provided in the Company's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as may be amended, for periods subsequent to the date of the original filing of the Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2003. 55 GE> Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure None. Item 9A. Controls and Procedures a) Within the 90-day period prior to the filing of this report, the Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of its management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-14 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934). Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company's current disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that material information relating to the Company required to be disclosed in the Company's periodic SEC filings is made known to them in a timely manner. b) There have not been any significant changes in the internal controls of the Company or other factors that could significantly affect these internal controls subsequent to the date the Company carried out its evaluation. PART III Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2) of Form 10-K, except with respect to compliance with Sections 406 and 407 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002: a) Code of Ethics for Financial Professionals ------------------------------------------ The Company has approved and adopted a Code of Ethics for Financial Professionals (attached as Exhibit 14), pursuant to the requirements of Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Any waiver of the Code of Ethics will be disclosed by the Company by way of a Form 8-K filing. b) Designation of Board Financial ------------------------------ Expert The Company has designated David A. Wheat, Director and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, as its Board Financial Expert, pursuant to the requirements of Section 407 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Because the Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion, it does not have any outside directors. 56 Item 11. Executive Compensation Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2) of Form 10-K. Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2) of Form 10-K. Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2) of Form 10-K. Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services Omitted pursuant to General Instruction I(2) of Form 10-K. 57 PART IV Item 15. Exhibits, Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K (a) The following documents are filed as part of this report: 1. Financial statements. See Item 8 on Page 18. 2. Financial statement schedules. See Index to Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules on Page 62. Exhibits 1.(a) Underwriting Agreement between Golden American Life Insurance Company ("Golden American" or "Registrant") and Directed Services, Inc., incorporated by reference from Exhibit 1 to Amendment No. 9 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on or about February 17, 1998 (File No. 333-87272). 2.(a) Agreement and Plan of Merger dated June 25, 2003, by and between USG Annuity & Life Company, United Life & Annuity Insurance Company, Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa and Golden American, incorporated by reference in Exhibit 99-8 in the Company's Form 8K filed with the SEC on January 2, 2004 (File No. 333-87270). 3.(a)(i) Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws Articles of Incorporation of Golden American, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(a) to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on June 30, 2000 (File No. 333-40596). (ii) Restated Articles of Incorporation of Golden American dated June 25, 2003, providing for the redomestication of the Company to Iowa, effective January 1, 2004. (iii) Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Golden American to change the Company's name to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company dated November 11, 2003, effective January 1, 2004. (b)(i) By-laws of Golden American, as amended, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(b)(ii) to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on June 30, 2000 (File No. 333-40596). (ii) Certificate of Amendment of the By-laws of MB Variable Life Insurance Company, as amended, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3(b)(iii) to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on June 30, 2000 (File No. 333-40596). 58 (iii) Restated By-laws of Golden American dated June 25, 2003, providing for redomestication to Iowa, effective January 1, 2004. (iv) Amendment to By-laws of Golden American dated June 25, 2003 to change the Company's name to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, effective January 1, 2004. 4.(a) Single Premium Deferred Modified Guaranteed Annuity Contract, incorporated herein by reference to the initial Registration Statement for Golden American filed with the SEC on April 15, 2003 on Form S-2 (File No. 333-104547). (b) Single Premium Deferred Modified Guaranteed Annuity Contract, incorporated herein by reference to the initial Registration Statement for Golden American filed with the SEC on April 15, 2003 on Form S-2 (File No. 333-104548). (c) Interest in Fixed Account I under Variable Annuity Contracts, incorporated herein by reference to the initial Registration Statement for Golden American filed with the SEC on April 15, 2003 on Form S-2 (File No. 333-104539). (d) Interests in Fixed Account II under Variable Annuity Contracts, incorporated herein by reference to the initial Registration Statement for Golden American filed with the SEC on April 15, 2003 on Form S-2 (File No. 333-104546). (e) Interest in the Guaranteed Account under Variable Annuity Contracts, incorporated herein by reference to the initial Registration Statement for Golden American filed with the SEC on April 15, 2003 on Form S-2 (File No. 333-57212). 10.A Material Contracts (a) Service Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1994, between Golden American and Directed Services, Inc., incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(b) to a Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on April 29, 1998 (File No. 333-51353). (b) Asset Management Agreement, dated January 20, 1998, between Golden American and ING Investment Management LLC, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(f) to Golden American's Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 14, 1998 (File No. 33-87272). 59 (c) Reciprocal Loan Agreement, dated January 1, 1998, as amended March 20, 1998, between Golden American and ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc., incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(g) to Golden American's Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 14, 1998 (File No. 33-87272). (d) Surplus Note, dated December 8, 1999, between Golden American and First Columbine Life Insurance Company, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(g) to Amendment No. 7 to a Registration Statement for Golden American on Form S-1 filed with the SEC on or about January 27, 2000 (File No. 333-28765). (e) Reinsurance Agreement, dated June 30, 2000, between Golden American and Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(s) to Golden American's Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on August 11, 2000 (File No. 33-87272). (f) Services Agreement between Golden American and the affiliated companies listed on Exhibit B to that Agreement, effective January 1, 2001. (g) Services Agreement between Golden American and ING North American Insurance Corporation, Inc., effective January 1, 2001. (h) Form of Shared Services Center Services Agreement by and among ING North America Insurance Corporation ("Service Provider") and Ameribest Life Insurance Company, a Georgia corporation; Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa, an Iowa corporation; USG Annuity & Life Company, an Oklahoma corporation; Golden American, a Delaware corporation; First Columbine Life Insurance Company, a Colorado corporation; Life Insurance Company of Georgia, a Georgia corporation; Southland Life Insurance Company, a Texas corporation; Security Life of Denver Insurance Company, a Colorado corporation; Midwestern United Life Insurance Company, an Indiana corporation; and United Life & Annuity Insurance Company, a Texas corporation, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10(r) to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to a Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed by Registrant with the SEC on or about December 11, 2001 (File No. 333-70602) (i) Tax Sharing Agreement between Golden American, Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa and USG Annuity and Life Company, effective January 1, 2001. (j) Tax Sharing Agreement between Golden American, ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc. and affiliated companies, effective January 1, 2001. (k) Amendment to Services Agreement between Golden American and affiliated companies listed in Exhibit B to that Agreement, effective January 1, 2002. 60 (l) Amendment to Asset Management Agreement between Golden American and ING Investment Management LLC, effective January 1, 2003. (m) Administrative Services Agreement between Golden American, ReliaStar Life Insurance Company of New York and affiliated companies listed on Exhibit A to the Agreement, effective March 1, 2003. (n) Third Amendment to the Asset Management Agreement, between Golden American and ING Investment Management LLC, effective August 18, 2003. (o) Lease Agreement, dated as of April 16, 1998, by and between Golden American and Dunwoody Associates. (p) First Amendment to Lease Agreement, dated November 4, 1998, between Golden American and Dunwoody Associates. (q) Second Amendment to Lease Agreement, dated June 1, 2000, between Golden American and Dunwoody Associates. 10.B. Reports on Form 8K Form 8K Report filed January 2, 2004, to disclose the redomestication, merger and name change of Golden American, effective January 1, 2004, incorporated by reference (File No. 033-87270). 14. ING Code of Ethics for Financial Professionals. 31.1 Certificate of David A. Wheat pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 31.2 Certificate of Keith Gubbay pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 32.1 Certificate of David A. Wheat pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 32.2 Certificate of Keith Gubbay pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. 61 Index to Consolidated Financial Statement Schedules Page Report of Independent Auditors 63 I. Summary of Investments - Other than Investments in Affiliates as of December 31, 2003 64 IV. Reinsurance as of and for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 65 Schedules other than those listed above are omitted because they are not required or not applicable. Report of Independent Auditors The Board of Directors ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company We have audited the consolidated financial statements of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company) and Subsidiary as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, and have issued our report thereon dated March 22, 2004. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules listed in Item 15. These schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion based on our audits. In our opinion, the financial statement schedules referred to above, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein. /s/ Ernst & Young LLP Atlanta, Georgia March 22, 2004 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Schedule I Summary of Investments - Other than Investments in Affiliates As of December 31, 2003 (Millions) Amount Shown on Type of Investments Cost Value* Balance Sheet --------------- --------------- ---------------- Fixed maturities: U.S. government and government agencies and authorities $ 23.8 $ 23.9 $ 23.9 State, municipalities and political subdivisions 5.0 4.6 4.6 Public utilities securities 482.1 514.1 514.1 Other U.S. corporate securities 2,630.8 2,747.4 2,747.4 Foreign securities (1) 628.2 653.0 653.0 Mortgage-backed securities 790.0 791.4 791.4 Other asset-backed securities 487.1 488.9 488.9 --------------- --------------- ---------------- Total fixed maturities 5,047.0 5,223.3 5,223.3 --------------- --------------- ---------------- Total equity securities 5.3 5.6 5.6 --------------- --------------- ---------------- Short term investments 17.7 17.7 17.7 Mortgage loans 847.6 878.1 847.6 Policy loans 17.5 17.5 17.5 --------------- --------------- ---------------- Total other investments $ 882.8 $ 913.3 $ 882.8 =============== =============== ================ * See Notes 2 and 3 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. (1) The term "foreign" includes foreign governments, foreign political subdivisions, foreign public utilities and all other bonds of foreign issuers. Substantially all of the Company's foreign securities are denominated in U.S. dollars. 64 ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, formerly Golden American Life Insurance Company (A wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings Inc.) Schedule IV Reinsurance Inforamtion As of and for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 (Millions) Percentage of (Millions) Gross Ceded Assumed Net assumed to net ------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- --------------- Year ended December 31, 2003 Life insurance in force $ 154.0 $ 79.3 $ - $ 74.7 0.0% Year ended December 31, 2002 Life insurance in force $ 158.7 $ 90.7 $ - $ 68.0 0.0% Year ended December 31, 2001 Life insurance in force $ 169.3 $ 94.8 $ - $ 74.5 0.0% 65 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (Registrant) March 25, 2004 By /s/ David A. Wheat - --------------- ----------------------------------------- (Date) David A. Wheat Director, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Financial Officer) Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on or before March 25, 2004. Signatures Title /s/ David A. Wheat Director, Senior Vice President and -------------------------------------- Chief Financial Officer David A. Wheat /s/ Keith Gubbay Director and President - --------------------------------------- Keith Gubbay /s/ Thomas J. McInerney Director and Chairman - --------------------------------------- Thomas J. McInerney /s/ Jacques de Vaucleroy Director - --------------------------------------- Jacques de Vaucleroy /s/ Kathleen A. Murphy Director - --------------------------------------- Kathleen A. Murphy EXHIBIT 31.1 CERTIFICATION I, David A. Wheat, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company and Subsidiary; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have: a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and c) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting. Date: March 25, 2004 By /s/ David A. Wheat ---------------------------------------------------- David A. Wheat Director, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Financial Officer) EXHIBIT 31.2 CERTIFICATION I, Keith Gubbay, certify that: 1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company and Subsidiary; 2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; 3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; 4. The registrant's other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the registrant and have: a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; b) evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant's disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and c) disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant's fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and 5. The registrant's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting. Date: March 25, 2004 By /s/ Keith Gubbay ---------------------------------------- Keith Gubbay Director and President (Duly Authorized Officer and Principal Officer) EXHIBIT 32.1 CERTIFICATION Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss.1350, the undersigned officer of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (the "Company") hereby certifies that, to the officer's knowledge, the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 (the "Report") fully complies with the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company. March 25, 2004 By /s/ David A. Wheat - --------------- ------------------------------------------ (Date) David A. Wheat Director, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer EXHIBIT 32.2 CERTIFICATION Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss.1350, the undersigned officer of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (the "Company") hereby certifies that, to the officer's knowledge, the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 (the "Report") fully complies with the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company. March 25, 2004 By /s/ Keith Gubbay - --------------- ------------------------------------------- (Date) Keith Gubbay Director and President Financial Statements and Exhibits (a) Financial Statements of Businesses Acquired Included are the financial statements of ELIC (the survivor to the merger with Ameribest Life Insurance Company, an affiliate, on January 1, 2003), USG, and ULA, prepared in conformity with statutory accounting principles ("SAP") (financial statements for these entities were not historically prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP")). These statements include audited statutory basis financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002. See (c) Exhibits for financial statements. (b) Pro Forma Financial Information in Accordance with Accounting Principles Generally Accepted in the United States of America Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2003 Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001. Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2003, and for the periods ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001. The following unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information is based on the historical financial statements of ING USA, ELIC, USG, and ULA, and has been prepared to illustrate the effects of the merger of ELIC, USG, and ULA, with and into Golden. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial information is presented for illustration purposes only, and is not necessarily indicative of the operating results or financial position that would have occurred if the merger had been consummated, nor is it necessarily indicative of future operating results or financial position of the consolidated company. 1 Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2003 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pro Forma Pro Forma (Millions) ING USA ELIC USG ULA Adjustments Consolidated ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Assets Investments: Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair value $ 5,223.3 $ 3,873.7 $ 6,406.5 $ 594.4 $ - $16,097.9 Equity securities, at fair value: Common stock 5.6 18.1 - - - 23.7 Preferred stock - 0.4 1.3 - - 1.7 Investment in mutual funds - 94.9 - - - 94.9 Investment in subsidiaries - 1,799.0 - - (1,799.0)(1) - Mortgage loans on real estate 847.6 1,027.2 1,477.0 36.8 - 3,388.6 Real estate - 1.8 2.7 - - 4.5 Policy loans 17.5 126.5 32.2 0.9 - 177.1 Short-term investments 17.7 - 0.3 - - 18.0 Other investments - 237.9 (72.3) 7.7 (135.0)(2) 38.3 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total investments 6,111.7 7,179.5 7,847.7 639.8 (1,934.0) 19,844.7 Cash and cash equivalents 17.9 32.3 34.0 3.7 - 87.9 Accrued investment income 65.4 44.1 68.6 7.6 - 185.7 Reinsurance recoverable 13.0 2.1 0.3 - - 15.4 Receivable for securities sold 10.2 0.1 0.3 - - 10.6 Deferred policy acquisition costs 835.3 825.1 162.9 3.4 - 1,826.7 Value of business acquired 8.5 64.3 34.4 4.3 - 111.5 Due from affiliates 4.2 - - - - 4.2 Other assets 14.7 8.0 (2.4) 0.9 - 21.2 Assets held in separate accounts 17,112.6 1,044.4 - 63.2 - 18,220.2 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total assets $ 24,193.5 $ 9,199.9 $ 8,145.8 $ 722.9 $(1,934.0) $ 40,328.1 =============================================================================== Liabilities and Shareholder's Equity Policy liabilities and accruals: Future policy benefits and claims reserves $ 5,277.3 $ 5,644.7 $ 7,298.2 $ 560.8 $ - $ 18,781.0 Notes to affiliates 170.0 - - - (135.0)(2) 35.0 Due to affiliates - (54.4) 0.2 1.4 - (52.8) Payables for securities purchased - - - - - - Borrowed money 120.1 177.0 309.8 - - 606.9 Current income taxes 3.9 18.4 (2.3) (0.6) - 19.4 Deferred income taxes 126.0 (54.8) 10.6 (2.8) - 79.0 Other liabilities 31.0 94.4 82.9 1.8 - 210.1 Liabilities related to separate accounts 17,112.6 1,044.4 - 63.2 - 18,220.2 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total liabilities 22,840.9 6,869.7 7,699.4 623.8 (135.0) 37,898.8 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shareholder's equity Common stock 2.5 5.0 2.5 8.4 (15.9)(1)(3) 2.5 Additional paid-in capital 1,358.4 3,600.3 1,468.2 188.7 (2,815.7)(1)(3) 3,799.9 Accumulated other comprehensive income 64.2 138.6 48.2 5.4 (112.4)(1) 144.0 Retained deficit (72.5) (1,413.7) (1,072.5) (103.4) 1,145.0 (1) (1,517.1) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total shareholder's equity 1,352.6 2,330.2 446.4 99.1 (1,799.0) 2,429.3 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total liabilities and shareholder's equity $ 24,193.5 $ 9,199.9 $ 8,145.8 $ 722.9 $(1,934.0) $ 40,328.1 =============================================================================== 2 Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income for the Year Ended December 31, 2003 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pro Forma Pro Forma (Millions) ING USA ELIC USG ULA Adjustments Consolidated -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Revenue: Premiums $ - $ 26.7 $ 0.8 $ - $ - $ 27.5 Fee income 330.2 47.8 16.0 2.2 - 396.2 Net investment income 320.3 314.3 452.5 34.0 (10.2)(2) 1,110.9 Net realized capital gains (losses) (36.2) (0.5) (3.7) 11.0 - (29.4) Other income (loss) (0.2) 4.5 (1.1) 0.6 - 3.8 -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Total revenue 614.1 392.8 464.5 47.8 (10.2) 1,509.0 -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Benefits, losses and expenses: Benefits: Interest credited and other benefits to policyholders 320.1 306.6 370.7 23.7 - 1,021.1 Underwriting, acquisition, and insurance expenses: General expenses 123.8 58.2 37.6 3.3 - 222.9 Commissions 250.3 37.2 48.1 0.5 - 336.1 Policy acquisition costs deferred (210.8) (219.5) (61.4) (0.4) - (492.1) Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired 184.7 99.4 57.8 6.1 - 348.0 Other: Expense and charges reimbursed under modified coinsurance agreements (131.6) 132.5 - - - 0.9 Interest expense 13.7 6.5 5.7 - (10.2)(2) 15.7 -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Total benefits, losses and expenses 550.2 420.9 458.5 33.2 (10.2) 1,452.6 -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Income (loss) before income taxes 63.9 (28.1) 6.0 14.6 - 56.4 Income tax expense (benefit) 2.5 (10.5) 2.1 5.1 - (0.8) Equity in subsidiaries - 65.3 - - (65.3)(4) - -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Net income (loss) $ 61.4 $ 47.7 $ 3.9 $ 9.5 $ (65.3) $ 57.2 ============== ============= ============== ============== ============== ============== 3 Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income for the Year Ended December 31, 2002 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pro Forma Pro Forma (Millions) ING USA ELIC USG ULA Adjustments Consolidated ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------- Revenue: Premiums $ - $ 30.2 $ 1.1 $ - $ - $ 31.3 Fee income 204.0 54.0 20.0 3.7 - 281.7 Net investment income 197.7 249.7 416.6 44.1 (12.2)(2) 895.9 Net realized capital gains (losses) 4.2 (43.7) (65.7) 2.1 - (103.1) Other income (loss) 3.5 10.3 2.4 0.1 - 16.3 ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------- Total revenue 409.4 300.5 374.4 50.0 (12.2) 1,122.1 ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------- Benefits, losses and expenses: Benefits: Interest credited and other benefits to policyholders 276.5 246.0 370.5 26.8 - 919.8 Underwriting, acquisition, and insurance expenses: General expenses 139.7 46.5 33.0 1.0 - 220.2 Commissions 288.7 41.5 71.7 0.6 - 402.5 Policy acquisition costs deferred (292.2) (186.6) (80.2) - - (559.0) Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired 127.8 126.0 44.5 3.8 - 302.1 Other: Expense and charges reimbursed under modified coinsurance agreements (104.9) 100.9 - - - (4.0) Interest expense 16.0 6.9 6.1 - (12.2)(2) 16.8 ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------- Total benefits, losses and expenses 451.6 381.2 445.6 32.2 (12.2) 1,298.4 ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------- Income (loss) before income taxes (42.2) (80.7) (71.2) 17.8 - (176.3) Income tax expense (benefit) (12.5) (29.0) (24.9) 6.2 - (60.2) Equity in subsidiaries - (76.0) - - 76.0(4) - ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------ -------------- -------------- Income (loss) before cumulative effect of change in accounting principle $ (29.7) $ (127.7) $ (46.3) $ 11.6 $ 76.0 $ (116.1) ============ ============= ============ ============ ============== ============== 4 Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Income for the Year Ended December 31, 2001 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pro Forma Pro Forma (Millions) ING USA ELIC USG ULA Adjustments Consolidated -------------- -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Revenue: Premiums $ - $ 33.2 $ 1.1 $ - $ - $ 34.3 Fee income 188.9 56.7 23.9 4.8 - 274.3 Net investment income 94.4 234.7 481.0 54.1 (14.3)(2) 849.9 Net realized capital gains (losses) (6.5) (32.7) (55.5) 1.3 - (93.4) Other income (loss) - 9.4 1.4 - - 10.8 -------------- -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Total revenue 276.8 301.3 451.9 60.2 (14.3) 1,075.9 -------------- -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Benefits, losses and expenses: Benefits: Interest credited and other benefits to policyholders 209.0 179.2 356.1 38.9 - 783.2 Underwriting, acquisition, and insurance expenses: General expenses 119.9 94.7 23.3 3.3 - 241.2 Commissions 232.4 51.0 35.4 0.7 - 319.5 Policy acquisition costs deferred (128.2) (312.6) (47.1) (0.6) - (488.5) Amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs and value of business acquired 49.6 55.6 65.3 4.4 - 174.9 Goodwill 4.2 13.0 19.1 1.1 - 37.4 Other: Expense and charges reimbursed under modified coinsurance agreements (225.6) 224.6 - - - (1.0) Interest expense 19.4 7.3 10.8 0.3 (14.3)(2) 23.5 -------------- -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Total benefits, losses and expenses 280.7 312.8 462.9 48.1 (14.3) 1,090.2 -------------- -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Income (loss) before income taxes (3.9) (11.5) (11.0) 12.1 - (14.3) Income tax expense (benefit) 0.1 0.5 2.8 4.6 - 8.0 Equity in subsidiaries - (17.8) - - 17.8(4) - -------------- -------------- ------------- -------------- -------------- -------------- Net income (loss) $ (4.0) $ (29.8) $ (13.8) $ 7.5 $ 17.8 $ (22.3) ============== ============== ============= ============== ============== ============== 5 1. Pro Forma Consolidation Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141, Business Combinations ("FAS 141"), excludes transfers of net assets or exchanges of shares between entities under common control, and notes that certain provisions under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 16, Business Combinations ("APB 16"), provide a source of guidance for such transactions. In accordance with APB 16, financial information of the combined entity is presented as if the entities had been combined for the full year, and all comparative financial statements are restated and presented as if the entities had previously been combined, in a manner similar to a pooling-of-interests. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in a manner similar to a pooling-of-interests, in accordance with the provisions of APB 16 in order to present the condensed financial position and results of operations of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company ("ING USA"), Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa ("ELIC"), United Life & Annuity Insurance Company ("ULA"), and USG Annuity & Life Company ("USG"), as if the entities had previously been combined. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated balance sheet and income statements give effect to the consolidation transaction as if it had occurred on December 31, 2003 and January 1, 2000, respectively. Following is a description of the pro forma adjustments that have been made to the financial statements. All pro forma adjustments are elimination entries related to intercompany transactions between the entities, as required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. There were no other pro forma adjustments. (1) Prior to the merger, ING USA and USG were wholly owned subsidiaries of ELIC. The pro forma adjustment eliminates the ELIC investment in ING USA and USG subsidiaries. (2) Prior to the merger, ING USA had an outstanding surplus note payable to ELIC. The pro forma adjustment eliminates the surplus note and related interest between ING USA and ELIC. (3) All of the shares of capital stock of ELIC, USG, and ULA, will be canceled and retired, and ceased to exist, as of the merger with ING USA. (4) Prior to the merger, ING USA and USG were wholly owned subsidiaries of ELIC. The pro forma adjustment eliminates the ELIC equity in ING USA and USG income. 6 2. Accounting for Goodwill and Intangible Assets The cumulative effect of change in accounting principle for the unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated income statements for the year ended December 31, 2002, reflects the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, ("FAS 142"). During 2002, ING USA and the Merger Companies adopted FAS 142. The adoption of this standard resulted in an impairment loss of $1,298.5 million in 2002. This impairment loss represented the entire carrying amount of goodwill, net of accumulated amortization, and is recorded as a change in accounting principle for year ended December 31, 2002. Effective January 1, 2002, ING USA and the Merger Companies applied the non-amortization provision (net of tax) of the new standard, which resulted in an increase in net income of $37.0 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2002. Had ING USA and the Merger Companies been accounting for goodwill under FAS 142 for all periods presented, the Company's net income (loss) would have been as follows: Year ended December 31, (Millions) 2001 -------------- Pro forma consolidated net income (loss) $ (22.3) Add back goodwill amortization, net of tax 37.0 -------------- Adjusted pro forma consolidated net income $ 14.7 ============== 3. Statutory Merger On January 1, 2003, Ameribest Life Insurance Company ("AMB"), an affiliated life insurance company domiciled in Georgia, was merged with ELIC. As FAS 141 excludes transfers of net assets or exchanges of shares between entities under common control, the merger was based on certain provisions under APB 16, which provide a source of guidance for such transactions. The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in a manner similar to a pooling-of-interests, in accordance with the provisions of APB 16, in order to present the condensed results of operations of ELIC and AMB as if the entities had previously been combined. The pro forma condensed consolidated income statements give effect to the consolidation transaction as if it had occurred on January 1, 2001. (c) Exhibits Reference Number Page Exhibit Description 99.1 1-40 Audited statutory basis financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, for Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa, including Report of Independent Auditors. 99.2 1-33 Audited statutory basis financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, for USG Annuity & Life Company, including Report of Independent Auditors. 99.3 1-32 Audited statutory basis financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, for United Life & Annuity Insurance Company, including Report of Independent Auditors. Exhibit 99.1 Report of Independent Auditors Board of Directors and Stockholder ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company We have audited the accompanying statutory basis balance sheets of Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa ("the Company" which, effective January 1, 2004, merged with an affiliate ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc.) as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related statutory basis statements of operations, changes in capital and surplus, and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. As described in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company presents its financial statements in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Iowa Division of Regulatory Agencies of the State of Iowa, Iowa Insurance Division, which practices differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The variances between such practices and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States are described in Note 1. The effects on the financial statements of these variances are not reasonably determinable but are presumed to be material. In our opinion, because of the effects of the matter described in the preceding paragraph, the financial statements referred to above do not present fairly, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, the financial position of Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa at December 31, 2003 and 2002 or the results of its operations or its cash flows for the years then ended. 1 However, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Iowa Insurance Division. /s/ Ernst & Young March 22, 2004 2 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Balance Sheets - Statutory Basis December 31 2003 2002 ----------------------------------- (In Thousands) Admitted assets Cash and invested assets: Bonds $ 3,758,375 $ 3,207,349 Preferred stocks 441 441 Common stocks 112,959 120,285 Subsidiaries 1,073,826 811,079 Mortgage loans 1,024,031 864,597 Real estate, less accumulated depreciation (2003-$0; 2002-$339) 1,800 3,651 Contract loans 126,488 130,790 Other invested assets 247,753 180,120 Cash and short-term investments 136,325 28,002 ----------------------------------- Total cash and invested assets 6,481,998 5,346,314 Deferred and uncollected premiums, less loading (2003- $801, 2002- $785) 63,386 64,607 Accrued investment income 44,056 47,007 Reinsurance balances recoverable 1,805 785 Data processing equipment, less accumulated depreciation (2003-$6,791; 2002-$5,459) 58 186 Indebtedness from related parties 5,015 108,320 Federal income tax recoverable (including $20,472 and $571 net deferred tax assets at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively) 20,472 53,912 Separate account assets 1,044,925 959,377 Other assets 442,871 303,168 ----------------------------------- Total admitted assets $ 8,104,586 $ 6,883,676 =================================== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 3 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Balance Sheets - Statutory Basis December 31 2003 2002 ---------------------------------- (In Thousands, except share amounts) Liabilities and capital surplus Liabilities: Policy and contract liabilities: Life and annuity reserves $ 4,818,747 $ 4,294,323 Deposit type contracts 620,717 190,201 Policyholders' funds 252 310 Dividends payable 16,905 23,795 Unpaid claims 1,195 2,227 ---------------------------------- Total policy and contract liabilities 5,457,816 4,510,856 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 36,740 31,714 Indebtedness to related parties 133,258 66,265 Asset valuation reserve 38,410 26,123 Interest maintenance reserve 29,987 15,472 Federal income taxes payable 18,417 - Borrowed money, net 176,983 148,996 Other liabilities (13,244) (19,337) Separate account liabilities 1,044,925 959,377 ---------------------------------- Total liabilities 6,923,292 5,739,466 Capital and surplus: Common stock: $1.00 par value; authorized 7,500,000 shares, issued and outstanding 5,000,300 shares 5,000 5,000 Paid in and contributed surplus 1,236,632 1,236,632 Unassigned deficit (60,338) (97,422) ---------------------------------- Total capital and surplus 1,181,294 1,144,210 ---------------------------------- Total liabilities and capital and surplus $ 8,104,586 $ 6,883,676 ================================== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 4 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Statements of Operations - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------------------------- (In Thousands) Premiums and other revenues: Life, annuity, and accident and health premiums $ 2,133,311 $ 1,839,818 Policy proceeds and dividends left on deposit 2,026 1,840 Net investment income 307,296 247,193 Amortization of interest maintenance reserve (2,855) (1,930) Commissions, expenses paid and other miscellaneous expenses 86 179 Other income 17,534 23,058 ---------------------------------- Total premiums and other revenues 2,457,398 2,110,158 Benefits paid or provided: Death benefits 41,587 44,630 Annuity benefits 114,717 124,590 Surrender benefits 683,949 692,942 Interest on policy or contract funds 10,524 5,440 Other benefits 6,398 7,943 Increase in life, annuity, and accident and health reserves 1,433,202 1,201,144 Net transfers from separate accounts (121,443) (135,686) ---------------------------------- Total benefits paid or provided 2,168,934 1,941,003 Insurance expenses: Commissions 206,214 158,533 General expenses 54,442 44,751 Insurance taxes, licenses and fees, excluding federal income taxes 2,581 3,824 Other deductions 2,281 756 ---------------------------------- Total insurance expenses 265,518 207,864 ---------------------------------- Gain (loss) from operations before policyholder dividends, federal income taxes and net realized capital gains (losses) 22,946 (38,709) Dividends to policyholders 13,683 23,406 ---------------------------------- Gain (loss) from operations before federal income taxes and net realized capital gains (losses) 9,263 (62,115) Federal income taxes 26,865 37,810 ---------------------------------- Loss from operations before net realized capital gains (losses) (17,602) (99,925) Net realized capital gains (losses) net of income tax expense (benefit) 2003 - $(9,263) and 2002 - $(10,546); and excluding net transfers to the interest maintenance reserve 2003 - $11,660 and 2002 - $3,157 2,597 (22,521) ---------------------------------- Net loss $ (15,005) $ (122,446) ================================== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 5 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Statements of Changes in Capital and Surplus - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Common stock: Balance at beginning and end of year $ 5,000 $ 5,000 ------------- ------------- Paid-in and contributed surplus: Balance at beginning of year 1,236,632 721,632 Capital contributions - 515,000 ------------- ------------- Balance at end of year 1,236,632 1,236,632 ------------- ------------- Unassigned deficit: Balance at beginning of year (97,422) 329,096 Net loss (15,005) (122,446) Change in net unrealized capital gains or losses 40,085 (307,450) Change in nonadmitted assets 7,194 (58,896) Change in asset valuation reserve (12,287) 670 Change in net deferred income tax 17,097 61,604 ------------- ------------- Balance at end of year (60,338) (97,422) ------------- ------------- Total capital and surplus $ 1,181,294 $ 1,144,210 ============= ============= The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 6 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Statements of Cash Flows - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Operations Premiums, policy proceeds, and other considerations received, net of reinsurance paid $ 2,134,739 $ 1,780,915 Net investment income received 375,667 293,438 Commissions, expenses paid and miscellaneous expenses (1,130,672) (920,278) Benefits paid (990,503) (875,116) Net transfers from separate accounts 125,168 148,848 Dividends paid to policyholders (20,097) (23,568) Federal income taxes received (paid) 54,155 (47,836) Other revenues 19,771 24,690 ------------- --------------- Net cash provided by operations 568,228 381,093 Investment activities Proceeds from sales, maturities, or repayments of investments: Bonds 4,136,759 3,714,591 Preferred and common stocks 28,835 357 Mortgage loans 164,802 103,567 Real estate 1,550 2,241 Other invested assets 970 51,647 Net (losses) gains on cash and short term investments (312) 3 Miscellaneous proceeds 139 84,645 ------------- -------------- Net proceeds from sales, maturities, or repayments of investments 4,332,743 3,957,051 Cost of investments acquired: Bonds 4,739,924 4,117,843 Preferred and common stocks 246,024 556,492 Mortgage loans 324,206 121,122 Other invested assets 509 844 Miscellaneous applications 71,432 106,949 ------------- -------------- Total cost of investments acquired 5,382,095 4,903,250 Net change in contract loans 4,302 9,638 ------------- -------------- Net cash used in investment activities (1,045,050) (936,561) Financing and miscellaneous activities Cash provided: Capital and surplus paid-in - 506,300 Borrowed money 27,987 13,008 Net deposits on deposit-type contract funds 412,265 21,616 Other uses 144,893 (42,858) ------------- -------------- Net cash provided by financing and miscellaneous activities 585,145 498,066 ------------- -------------- Net change in cash and short-term investments 108,323 (57,402) Cash and short-term investments: Beginning of year 28,002 85,404 ------------- -------------- End of year $ 136,325 $ 28,002 ============= ============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 7 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Nature of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa (the Company) is domiciled in Iowa and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc. ("ING AIH"). Effective January 1, 2004, the Company merged into an affiliate, ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings, Inc. The Company offers various insurance products including deferred and immediate annuities, variable annuities, and interest sensitive and traditional life insurance. These products are marketed by the Company's career agency force, independent insurance agents, broker/dealers, and financial institutions. The Company's primary customers are individuals. The Company is presently licensed in 49 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The preparation of financial statements of insurance companies requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Such estimates and assumptions could change in the future as more information becomes known, which could impact the amounts reported and disclosed herein. On December 12, 2002, the Board of Directors of the Company approved a plan of merger with an affiliate of the Company, Ameribest Life Insurance Company, a Georgia domiciled company, effective January 1, 2003. The Company was the surviving corporation of the transaction. The 1,666,666.67 issued and outstanding shares of Ameribest Life Insurance Company were retired and canceled upon the effective time and date of the merger. The Georgia Department of Insurance approved the merger on December 18, 2002 and the Iowa Department of Insurance approved the merger on December 27, 2002, with the effective date of the merger being January 1, 2003. The accompanying financial statements have been restated as though the merger took place prior to all periods presented. Pre-merger separate company revenue, net loss and other capital and surplus adjustments for the twelve months ended December 31, 2002, were $2,082,573,000, $(119,795,000) and $210,415,000 respectively for the Company and $27,585,000, $(2,651,000) and $513,000 respectively for Ameribest. Basis of Presentation The accompanying financial statements of the Company have been prepared in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the State of Iowa (Iowa Insurance Division), which practices differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP"). The most significant variances from GAAP are as follows: 8 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Investments: Investments in bonds and mandatorily redeemable preferred stocks are reported at amortized cost or market value based on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") rating; for GAAP, such fixed maturity investments are designated at purchase as held-to-maturity, trading or available-for-sale. Held-to-maturity investments are reported at amortized cost, and the remaining fixed maturity investments are reported at fair value with unrealized capital gains and losses reported in operations for those designated as trading and as a separate component of other comprehensive income in stockholder's equity for those designated as available-for-sale. For structured securities, when a negative yield results from a revaluation based on new prepayment assumptions (i.e., undiscounted cash flows are less than current book value), an other than temporary impairment is considered to have occurred and the asset is written down to the value of the undiscounted cash flows. For GAAP, assets are re-evaluated based on the discounted cash flows using a current market rate. Impairments are recognized when there has been an adverse change in cash flows and the fair value is less than book. The asset is then written down to fair value. Investments in real estate are reported net of related obligations rather than on a gross basis. Real estate owned and occupied by the Company is included in investments rather than reported as an operating asset as under GAAP, and investment income and operating expenses include rent for the Company's occupancy of those properties. Changes between depreciated cost and admitted asset investment amounts are credited or charged directly to unassigned surplus rather than income as would be required under GAAP. SSAP 31 applies to derivative transactions prior to January 1, 2003. The Company also follows the newly adopted hedge accounting guidance in SSAP 86 for derivative transactions entered into or modified on or after January 1, 2003. Under this guidance, derivatives that are deemed effective hedges are accounted for in a manner which is consistent with the underlying hedged item. Derivatives used in hedging transactions that do not meet the requirements of SSAP 86 as an effective hedge are carried at fair value with the change in value recorded in surplus as unrealized gains or losses. Embedded derivatives are not accounted for separately from the host contract. Under GAAP, the effective and ineffective portions of a single hedge are accounted for separately. An embedded derivative within a contract that is not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risk of the host contract is accounted for separately from the host contract and valued and reported at fair value, and the change in fair value for cash flow hedges is credited or charged directly to a separate component of shareholders' equity rather than to income as required for fair value hedges. Valuation Reserves: The asset valuation reserve ("AVR") is determined by an NAIC-prescribed formula and is reported as a liability rather than as a valuation allowance or an appropriation of surplus. The change in AVR is reported directly to unassigned surplus. Under a formula prescribed by the NAIC, the Company defers the portion of realized gains and losses on sales of fixed-income investments, principally bonds and mortgage loans, attributable to changes in the general level of interest rates and amortizes those deferrals over the remaining period to maturity based on groupings of individual securities sold in five-year bands. The net deferral is reported as the interest maintenance reserve (IMR) in the accompanying balance sheets. 9 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Realized gains and losses on investments are reported in operations net of federal income tax and transfers to the IMR. Under GAAP, realized capital gains and losses are reported in the statements of operations on a pretax basis in the period that the asset giving rise to the gain or loss is sold and valuation allowances are provided when there has been a decline in value deemed other than temporary, in which case the provision for such declines is charged to income. Valuation allowances, if necessary, are established for mortgage loans based on the difference between the net value of the collateral, determined as the fair value of the collateral less estimated costs to obtain and sell, and the recorded investment in the mortgage loan. Under GAAP, such allowances are based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or, if foreclosure is probable, on the estimated fair value of the collateral. The initial valuation allowance and subsequent changes in the allowance for mortgage loans as a result of a temporary impairment are charged or credited directly to unassigned surplus, rather than being included as a component of earnings as would be required under GAAP. Policy Acquisition Costs: The costs of acquiring and renewing business are expensed when incurred. Under GAAP, acquisition costs related to traditional life insurance, to the extent recoverable from future policy revenues, are deferred and amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies using assumptions consistent with those used in computing policy benefit reserves. For universal life insurance and investment products, to the extent recoverable from future gross profits, acquisition costs are amortized generally in proportion to the present value of expected gross margins from surrender charges and investment, mortality, and expense margins. Premiums: Life premiums are recognized as revenue when due. Premiums for annuity policies with mortality and morbidity risk, except for guaranteed interest and group annuity contracts, are also recognized as revenue when due. Premiums received for annuity policies without mortality or morbidity risk and for guaranteed interest and group annuity contracts are recorded using deposit accounting. 10 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Under GAAP, premiums for traditional life insurance products, which include those products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits and consist primarily of whole life insurance policies, are recognized as revenue when due. Group insurance premiums are recognized as premium revenue over the time period to which the premiums relate. Revenues for universal life, annuities and guaranteed interest contracts consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, policy administration charges, amortization of policy initiation fees and surrender charges assessed during the period. Benefit and Contract Reserves: Life policy and contract reserves under statutory accounting practices are calculated based upon both the net level premium and Commissioners' Reserve Valuation methods using statutory rates for mortality and interest. GAAP requires that policy reserves for traditional products be based upon the net level premium method utilizing reasonably conservative estimates of mortality, interest, and withdrawals prevailing when the policies were sold. For interest-sensitive products, the GAAP policy reserve is equal to the policy fund balance plus an unearned revenue reserve which reflects the unamortized balance of early year policy loads over renewal year policy loads. Reinsurance: For business ceded to unauthorized reinsurers, statutory accounting practices require that reinsurance credits permitted by the treaty be recorded as an offsetting liability and charged against unassigned surplus. Under GAAP, an allowance for amounts deemed uncollectible would be established through a charge to earnings. Statutory income recognized on certain reinsurance treaties representing financing arrangements is not recognized on a GAAP basis. Policy and contract liabilities ceded to reinsurers have been reported as reductions of the related reserves rather than as assets as required under GAAP. Commissions allowed by reinsurers on business ceded are reported as income when received rather than being deferred and amortized with deferred policy acquisition costs as required under GAAP. Subsidiaries: The accounts and operations of the Company's subsidiaries are not consolidated with the accounts and operations of the Company as would be required under GAAP. Nonadmitted Assets: Certain assets designated as "nonadmitted," principally deferred federal income tax assets, disallowed interest maintenance reserves, non-operating software, past-due agents' balances, furniture and equipment, intangible assets, and other assets not specifically identified as an admitted asset within the NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual are excluded from the accompanying balance sheets and are charged directly to unassigned surplus. Under GAAP, such assets are included in the balance sheet. Employee Benefits: For purposes of calculating the Company's postretirement benefit obligation, only vested participants and current retirees are included in the valuation. Under GAAP, active participants not currently vested are also included. 11 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Universal Life and Annuity Policies: Revenues for universal life and annuity policies consist of the entire premium received and benefits incurred represent the total of death benefits paid and the change in policy reserves. Under GAAP, premiums received in excess of policy charges would not be recognized as premium revenue and benefits would represent the excess of benefits paid over the policy account value and interest credited to the account values. Policyholder Dividends: Policyholder dividends are recognized when declared rather than over the term of the related policies. Deferred Income Taxes: Deferred tax assets are provided for and admitted to an amount determined under a standard formula. This formula considers the amount of differences that will reverse in the subsequent year, taxes paid in prior years that could be recovered through carrybacks, surplus limits and the amount of deferred tax liabilities available for offset. Any deferred tax assets not covered under the formula are non-admitted. Deferred taxes do not include any amounts for state taxes. Under GAAP, a deferred tax asset is recorded for the amount of gross deferred tax assets that are expected to be realized in future years and a valuation allowance is established for the portion that is not realizable. Surplus Notes: Surplus notes are reported as a component of surplus. Under statutory accounting practices, no interest is recorded on the surplus notes until payment has been approved by the Iowa Division of Insurance. Under GAAP, surplus notes are reported as liabilities and the related interest is reported as a charge to earnings over the term of the note. Statements of Cash Flows: Cash and short-term investments in the statements of cash flows represent cash balances and investments with initial maturities of one year or less. Under GAAP, the corresponding caption of cash and cash equivalents include cash balances and investments with initial maturities of three months or less. The effects of the preceding variances from GAAP on the accompanying statutory basis financial statements have not been determined, but are presumed to be material. Other significant accounting practices are as follows: Investments Investments are stated at values prescribed by the NAIC, as follows: Bonds not backed by other loans are principally stated at amortized cost using the interest method. 12 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Single class and multi-class mortgage-backed/asset-backed securities are valued at amortized cost using the interest method including anticipated prepayments. Prepayment assumptions are obtained from dealer surveys or internal estimates and are based on the current interest rate and economic environment. The retrospective adjustment method is used to value all such securities except for higher-risk asset backed securities, which are valued using the prospective method. Redeemable preferred stocks rated as high quality or better are reported at cost or amortized cost. All other redeemable preferred stocks are reported at the lower of cost, amortized cost, or market value. Nonredeemable preferred stocks are reported at market value or the lower of cost or market value as determined by the Securities Valuation Office of the NAIC ("SVO"). Common stocks are reported at market value as determined by the SVO and the related unrealized capital gains/(losses) are reported in unassigned surplus along with adjustment for federal income taxes. The Company analyzes the general account investments to determine whether there has been an other than temporary decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis. Management considers the length of the time and the extent to which the market value has been less than cost; the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; future economic conditions and market forecasts; and the Company's intent and ability to retain the investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for recovery in market value. If it is probable that all amounts due according to the contractual terms of a debt security will not be collected, an other than temporary impairment is considered to have occurred. The Company uses derivatives such as interest rate swaps, caps and floors and options as part of its overall interest rate risk management strategy for certain life insurance and annuity products. As the Company only uses derivatives for hedging purposes, the Company values all derivative instruments on a consistent basis with the hedged item. Upon termination, gains and losses on those instruments are included in the carrying values of the underlying hedged items and are amortized over the remaining lives of the hedged items as adjustments to investment income or benefits from the hedged items. Any unamortized gains or losses are recognized when the underlying hedged items are sold. Interest rate swap contracts are used to convert the interest rate characteristics (fixed or variable) of certain investments to match those of the related insurance liabilities that the investments are supporting. The net interest effect of such swap transactions is reported as an adjustment of interest income from the hedged items as incurred. Interest rate caps and floors are used to limit the effects of changing interest rates on yields of variable rate or short-term assets or liabilities. The initial cost of any such agreement is amortized to net investment income over the life of the agreement. Periodic payments that are receivable as a result of the agreements are accrued as an adjustment of interest income or benefits from the hedged items. 13 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The derivatives are reported in a manner that is consistent with the hedged asset or liability. All derivatives are reported at amortized cost with the exception of the S&P Options. The S&P Options are reported at fair value since the liabilities that are being hedged are reported at fair value. The unrealized gains or losses from the S&P Options are reported in investment income. Upon termination of a derivative that qualified for hedge accounting, the gain or loss is deferred in IMR or adjusts the basis of the hedged item. The Company's insurance subsidiaries are reported at their underlying statutory basis net assets plus the admitted portion of goodwill. Dividends from subsidiaries are included in net investment income. The remaining net change in the subsidiaries' equity is included in the change in net unrealized capital gains or losses. Mortgage loans are reported at amortized cost, less allowance for impairments. Contract loans are reported at unpaid principal balances. Land is reported at cost. Real estate occupied by the company is reported at depreciated cost; other real estate is reported at the lower of depreciated cost or fair value. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the properties. For reverse repurchase agreements, Company policies require a minimum of 95% of the fair value of securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements to be maintained as collateral. Cash collateral received is invested in short-term investments and the offsetting collateral liability is included in miscellaneous liabilities. Reverse dollar repurchase agreements are accounted for as collateral borrowings, where the amount borrowed is equal to the sales price of the underlying securities. Short-term investments are reported at amortized cost. Short-term investments include investments with maturities of less than one year at the date of acquisition. Partnership agreements, which are included in other invested assets, are reported at the underlying audited GAAP equity of the investee. Residual collateralized mortgage obligations, which are included in other invested assets, are reported at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Realized capital gains and losses are determined using the specific identification method. Cash on hand includes cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are short-term investments that are both readily convertible to cash and have an original maturity date of three months or less. Short-term investments are carried at amortized cost, which approximates market value. 14 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Aggregate Reserve for Life Policies and Contracts Life, annuity, and accident and health reserves are developed by actuarial methods and are determined based on published tables using statutorily specified interest rates and valuation methods that will provide, in the aggregate, reserves that are greater than or equal to the minimum or guaranteed policy cash value or the amounts required by law. Interest rates range from 2.25% to 10%. The Company waives the deduction of deferred fractional premiums upon the death of the insured. It is the Company's practice to return a pro rata portion of any premium paid beyond the policy month of death, although it is not contractually required to do so for certain issues. The methods used in valuation of substandard policies are as follows: For life, endowment and term policies issued substandard, the standard reserve during the premium-paying period is increased by 50% of the gross annual extra premium. Standard reserves are held on Paid-Up Limited Pay contracts. For reinsurance accepted with table rating, the reserve established is a multiple of the standard reserve corresponding to the table rating. For reinsurance with flat extra premiums, the standard reserve is increased by 50% of the flat extra. The amount of insurance in force for which the gross premiums are less than the net premiums, according to the standard of valuation required by the State of Iowa is $239,161,000 at December 31, 2003. The amount of reserves for policies on which gross premiums are less than the net premiums deficiency reserves is $1,514,000 at December 31, 2003. The tabular interest has been determined from the basic data for the calculation of policy reserves for all direct ordinary life insurance and for the portion of group life insurance classified as group Section 79. The tabular interest of funds not involving life contingencies is calculated as the current year reserves, plus payments, less prior year reserves, less funds added. Reinsurance Reinsurance premiums, commissions, expense reimbursements, and reserves related to reinsured business are accounted for on bases consistent with those used in accounting for the original policies issued and the terms of the reinsurance contracts. Reserves are based on the terms of the reinsurance contract and are consistent with the risks assumed. Premiums and benefits ceded to other companies have been reported as a reduction of premium revenue and benefits expense. Amounts applicable to reinsurance ceded for reserves and unpaid claim liabilities have been reported as reductions of these items, and expense allowances received in connection with reinsurance ceded have been reflected in operations. 15 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Data Processing Equipment Electronic data processing equipment is carried at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation for major classes of assets is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Participating Insurance Participating business approximates less than 12% of the Company's ordinary life insurance in force and less than 1% of premium income. The amount of dividends to be paid is determined annually by the Board of Directors. Amounts allocable to participating policyholders are based on published dividend projections or expected dividend scales. Dividends of $13,683,000 and $23,406,000 were incurred 2003 and 2002, respectively. Pension Plans The Company provides noncontributory retirement plans for substantially all employees and certain agents. Pension costs are charged to operations as contributions are made to the plan. The Company also provides a contributory retirement plan for substantially all employees. Nonadmitted Assets Nonadmitted assets are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Deferred federal income taxes $ 154,178 $ 160,490 Agents' debt balances 376 267 Furniture and equipment 2,668 4,337 Leasehold improvements 902 1,033 Deferred and uncollected premium 145 426 Commuted commission 829 1,108 Suspense debts 4,264 3,586 Other 922 231 ---------------- --------------- Total nonadmitted assets $ 164,284 $ 171,478 ================ =============== Changes in nonadmitted assets are generally reported directly in surplus as an increase or decrease in nonadmitted assets. Certain changes are reported directly in surplus as a change in unrealized capital gains or losses. 16 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash Flow Information Cash and short-term investments include cash on hand, demand deposits and short-term fixed maturity instruments (with a maturity of less than one year at date of acquisition). The Company borrowed $665,500,000 and repaid $698,900,000 in 2003, and borrowed $1,267,535,000 and repaid $1,267,535,000 in 2002. These borrowings were on a short-term basis at an interest rate that approximated current money market rates and exclude borrowings from reverse dollar repurchase transactions. Interest paid on borrowed money was $61,876 and $206,000 during 2003 and 2002, respectively. Separate Accounts Separate account assets and liabilities held by the Company represent funds held for the benefit of the Company's variable annuity policy and contract holders who bear all of the investment risk associated with the policies. Such policies are of a non-guaranteed nature. All net investment experience, positive or negative, is attributed to the policy and contract holders' account values. The assets and liabilities of these accounts are carried at fair value. Reserves related to the Company's mortality risk associated with these policies are included in life and annuity reserves. The operations of the separate accounts are not included in the accompanying statements of operations. Reclassifications Certain prior year amounts in the Company's statutory basis financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2003 financial statement presentation. 2. Permitted Statutory Basis Accounting Practices The financial statements of the Company are presented on the basis of accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the State of Iowa. The Iowa State Insurance Division recognizes only statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the State of Iowa for determining and reporting the financial condition and results of operations of an insurance company, for determining its solvency in under the Iowa Insurance Laws. NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual has been adopted as a component of prescribed or permitted practices by the State of Iowa. The Commissioner of Insurance has the right to permit other specific practices that deviate from prescribed practices. The Company is required to identify those significant accounting practices that are permitted, and obtain written approval of the practices from the Iowa Division of Insurance. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had no such permitted accounting practices. 17 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Investments The amortized cost and fair value of bonds and equity securities are as follows: Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- (In Thousands) At December 31, 2003: U.S. Treasury securities $ 63,442 $ 746 $ 41 $ 64,147 obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies States, municipalities, and political subdivisions 15,248 12 1,208 14,052 Foreign government 95,347 9,942 525 104,764 Public utilities securities 358,013 18,034 2,097 373,950 Corporate securities 1,767,783 96,572 12,490 1,851,865 Mortgage-backed securities 947,342 17,669 16,982 948,029 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 172,654 11,602 584 183,672 Other structured securities 339,186 5,674 11,660 333,200 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total fixed maturities 3,759,015 160,251 45,587 3,873,679 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Preferred stocks 441 - - 441 Common stocks 108,680 4,304 25 112,959 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total equity securities 109,121 4,304 25 113,400 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total $3,868,136 $ 164,555 $ 45,612 $3,987,079 =========== ========== =========== ========== December 31, 2002: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies $ 23,522 $ 1,617 $ - $ 25,139 States, municipalities, and political subdivisions 248 11 - 259 Foreign government 172,130 12,466 4,538 180,058 Public utilities securities 213,753 10,027 3,722 220,058 Corporate securities 1,508,444 97,591 12,406 1,593,629 Mortgage-backed securities 911,369 41,639 20,820 932,188 Other structured securities 378,523 23,113 19,667 381,969 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total fixed maturities 3,207,989 186,464 61,153 3,333,300 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Preferred stocks 441 - - 441 Common stocks 120,051 234 - 120,285 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total equity securities 120,492 234 - 120,726 ----------- ---------- ----------- ---------- Total $3,328,481 $ 186,698 $ 61,153 $3,454,026 =========== ========== =========== ========== 18 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of December 31, 2003, the aggregate fair value of debt securities with unrealized losses and the time period that cost exceeded fair value are as follows: More than 6 months and less Less than 6 than 12 months More than 12 months below cost below cost months below cost Total ------------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------ (In Thousands) Fair value $ 521,371 $ 315,592 $ 53,556 $ 890,519 Unrealized loss 4,839 21,102 19,646 45,587 Of the unrealized losses more than 6 months and less than 12 months in duration of $21,102,000, there were $4,481,000 in unrealized losses that are primarily related to interest rate movement or spread widening for other than credit-related reasons. Business and operating fundamentals are performing as expected. The remaining unrealized losses of $16,621,000 as of December 31, 2003 included the following significant items: $9,004,000 of unrealized losses related to mortgage-backed and structure securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by SSAP No. 43 Loan-backed and Structured Securities. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the fair value was $118,777,000. $4,324,000 of unrealized losses related to the energy/utility industry, for which the fair value was $75,347,000. During 2003, the energy sector recovered due to a gradually improving economic picture. Current analysis indicates the debt will be serviced in accordance with the contractual terms. $1,895,000 of unrealized losses relating to non-domestic issues, with no unrealized loss exposure per country in excess of $1,858,000 for which the fair value was $11,796,000. Credit exposures are in the beverage industry in Italy and Great Britain. $1,398,000 of unrealized losses related to the telecommunications/cable/media industry, for which the fair value was $26,033,000. During 2003, the sector recovered somewhat due to a gradually improving economy. Credit exposure is primarily focused in what management believes to be the largest and most financially secure companies in the sector. 19 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Of the unrealized losses more than 12 months in duration of $19,645,000, there were $197,000 in unrealized losses that are primarily related to interest rate movement or spread widening for other than credit-related reasons. Business and operating fundamentals are performing as expected. The remaining losses of $19,448,000 as of December 31, 2003 included the following significant items: $17,930,000 of unrealized losses related to mortgage-backed and structured securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by SSAP No. 43 Loan-backed and Structured Securities. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the fair value was $31,213,000. $654,000 of unrealized losses related to the airline industry, for which the fair value was $10,725,000. During 2003, the airline industry continued to suffer from decreased passenger volumes partially offset by a gradually improving economy. The majority of the airline investments are comprised of Enhanced Equipment Trust Certificates for which the specific collateral is represented by newer models that are expected to be retained as individual airlines reduce their fleets. The remaining unrealized losses totaling $864,000 relate to a fair value of $9,161,000. The amortized cost and fair value of investments in bonds at December 31, 2003, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Amortized Fair Cost Value ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Maturity: Due in 1 year or less $ 23,004 $ 23,270 Due after 1 year through 5 years 948,836 997,266 Due after 5 years through 10 years 950,055 997,168 Due after 10 years 377,938 391,074 ---------------- ---------------- 2,299,833 2,408,778 Mortgage-backed securities 947,342 948,029 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 172,654 183,672 Other structured securities 339,186 333,200 ---------------- ---------------- Total $ 3,759,015 $ 3,873,679 ================ ================ At December 31, 2003, investments in certificates of deposit and bonds, with an admitted asset value of $2,434,000, were on deposit with state insurance departments to satisfy regulatory requirements. 20 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reconciliation of bonds from amortized cost to carrying value as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 is as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Amortized cost $ 3,759,015 $ 3,207,989 Less nonadmitted bonds (640) (640) ---------------- ---------------- Carrying value $ 3,758,375 $ 3,207,349 ================ ================ Proceeds from the sales of investments in bonds and other fixed maturity interest securities were $2,329,158,000 and $2,334,028,000 in 2003 and 2002, respectively. Gross gains of $48,928,000 and $43,441,000 and gross losses of $11,521,000 and $37,946,000 during 2003 and 2002, respectively, were realized on those sales. A portion of the gains realized in 2003 and 2002 has been deferred to future periods in the interest maintenance reserve. Major categories of net investment income are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Equity securities - affiliated $ 5,349 $ 35 Equity securities - unaffiliated 215 - Bonds 222,611 249,688 Mortgage loans 67,158 66,004 Contract loans 6,464 7,840 Real estate 367 757 Other 26,435 (58,291) ---------------- ---------------- Total investment income 328,599 266,033 Investment expenses (21,303) (18,840) ---------------- ---------------- Net investment income $ 307,296 $ 247,193 ================ ================ As part of its overall investment strategy, the Company has entered into agreements to purchase securities as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Investment purchase commitments $ 37,678 $ 47,317 21 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Company entered into reverse dollar repurchase transactions to increase its return on investments and improve liquidity. Reverse dollar repurchases involve a sale of securities and an agreement to repurchase substantially the same securities as those sold. The reverse dollar repurchases are accounted for as short term collateralized financing and the repurchase obligation is reported in borrowed money. The repurchase obligation totaled $126,983,000 and $95,972,777 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The securities underlying these agreements are mortgage-backed securities with a book value of $126,317,000 and $95,936,000 and a fair value of $127,423,000 and $97,433,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The securities have a weighted average coupon of 5.4% and have maturities ranging from December 2018 through December 2033. The primary risk associated with short-term collateralized borrowings is that the counterparty may be unable to perform under the terms of the contract. The Company's exposure is limited to the excess of the net replacement cost of the securities over the value of the short-term investments, which was not material at December 31, 2003. The Company believes the counterparties to the reverse dollar repurchase agreements are financially responsible and that the counterparty risk is minimal. The Company participates in reverse repurchase transactions. Such transactions include the sale of corporate securities to a major securities dealer and a simultaneous agreement to repurchase the same security in the near term. The proceeds are invested in new securities of intermediate durations. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, the amounts outstanding on these agreements were $0 and $3,000,000, respectively. The securities underlying these agreements are mortgage-backed securities with a book value of $0 and $3,135,000 and a fair value of $0 and $3,163,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The maximum and minimum lending rates for new long-term commercial mortgage loans during 2003 were 6.20% and 2.78%. Fire insurance is required on all properties covered by mortgage loans and must at least equal the excess of the loan over the maximum loan which would be permitted by law on the land without the buildings. The maximum percentage of any loan to the value of collateral at the time of the loan, exclusive of insured or guaranteed or purchase money mortgages, was 89.7% on commercial properties. As of December 31, 2003, the Company held no mortgages with interest more than 180 days overdue. Total interest due on mortgages as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 was $54,000 and $23,000, respectively. 4. Derivative Financial Instruments Held for Purposes Other than Trading The Company enters into interest rate and currency contracts, including swaps, caps, floors, and options, to reduce and manage risks, which include the risk of a change in the value, yield, price, cash flows, exchange rates or quantity of, or a degree of exposure with respect to, assets, liabilities, or future cash flows, which the Company has acquired or incurred. Hedge accounting practices are supported by cash flow matching, scenario testing and duration matching. 22 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Company uses interest rate swaps to reduce market risks from changes in interest rates and to alter interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities. Interest rate swap agreements generally involve the exchange of fixed and floating interest payments over the life of the agreement without an exchange of the underlying principal amount. Currency swap agreements generally involve the exchange of local and foreign currency payments over the life of the agreements without an exchange of the underlying principal amount. Interest rate cap and interest rate floor agreements owned entitle the Company to receive payments to the extent reference interest rates exceed or fall below strike levels in the contracts based on the notional amounts. The Company uses S&P Options to hedge against an increase in the S&P Index. Such increase results in increased reserve liabilities, and the options offset this increased expense. The options are accounted for in a consistent manner with the underlying reserve liabilities, both of which are carried at far value with the change in value running through the income statement. If the options mature in the money, the amount received is recorded in income to offset the increased expense for the reserve liabilities. Premiums paid for the purchase of interest rate contracts are included in other invested assets and are being amortized to interest expense over the remaining terms of the contracts or in a manner consistent with the financial instruments being hedged. Amounts paid or received, if any, from such contracts are included in interest expense or income. Accrued amounts payable to or receivable from counterparties are included in other liabilities or other invested assets. Gains or losses realized as a result of early terminations of interest rate contracts are amortized to investment income over the remaining term of the items being hedged to the extent the hedge is considered to be effective; otherwise, they are recognized upon termination. Interest rate contracts that are matched or otherwise designated to be associated with other financial instruments are recorded at fair value if the related financial instruments mature, are sold, or are otherwise terminated or if the interest rate contracts cease to be effective hedges. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded as investment income. The Company manages the potential credit exposure from interest rate contracts through careful evaluation of the counterparties' credit standing, collateral agreements, and master netting agreements. The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties on derivative contracts; however, the Company does not anticipate nonperformance by any of these counterparties. The amount of such exposure is generally the unrealized gains in such contracts. 23 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The table below summarizes the Company's interest rate contracts included in other invested assets at December 31, 2003 and 2002: Notional Carrying Fair Amount Value Value ---------- ---------- --------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Interest rate contracts: Swaps $ 316,584 $ - $ (9,103) Caps owned 595,000 1,231 10 Options owned 1,287,802 100,942 100,942 ---------- ---------- --------- Total derivatives $2,199,386 $ 102,173 $ 91,849 ========== ========== ========= December 31, 2002 Interest rate contracts: Swaps $ 266,098 $ - $ (4,428) Caps owned 743,000 2,508 908 Options owned 856,438 30,325 30,325 ---------- ---------- --------- Total derivatives $1,865,536 $ 32,833 $ 26,805 ========== ========== ========= 5. Concentrations of Credit Risk The Company held less-than-investment-grade corporate bonds with an aggregate book value of $244,590,000 and $215,967,000 and with an aggregate market value of $256,968,000 and $201,208,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Those holdings amounted to 6.5% of the Company's investments in bonds and 3.5% of total admitted assets at December 31, 2003. The holdings of less-than-investment-grade bonds are widely diversified and of satisfactory quality based on the Company's investment policies and credit standards. The Company held unrated bonds of $96,917,000 and $73,548,000 with an aggregate NAIC market value of $99,937,000 and $79,056,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The carrying value of these holdings amounted to 2.5% of the Company's investment in bonds and 1.4% of the Company's total admitted assets at December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2003, the Company's commercial mortgages involved a concentration of properties located in California (18.74%) and Texas (9.18%). The remaining commercial mortgages relate to properties located in 38 other states. The portfolio is well diversified; covering many different types of income-producing properties on which the Company has first mortgage liens. The maximum mortgage outstanding on any individual property is $29,000,000. 24 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6. Annuity Reserves At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company's annuity reserves, including those held in separate accounts and deposit fund liabilities that are subject to discretionary withdrawal with adjustment, subject to discretionary withdrawal without adjustment, and not subject to discretionary withdrawal provisions are summarized as follows: Amount Percent ------------- ---------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment): With market value adjustment $ 2,005,225 34.0% At book value less surrender charge 1,270,988 21.5 At fair value 1,020,807 17.3 ------------- ---------- Subtotal 4,297,020 72.8 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without adjustment): At book value with minimal or no charge or adjustment 716,305 12.1 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal 885,463 15.1 ------------- ---------- Total annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities before reinsurance 5,898,788 100.0% ========== Less reinsurance ceded 556,052 ------------- Net annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities $ 5,342,736 ============= December 31, 2002 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment): With market value adjustment $ 1,813,570 37.2% At book value less surrender charge 864,057 17.7 At fair value 1,079,649 22.2 ------------- ---------- Subtotal 3,757,276 77.1 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without adjustment): At book value with minimal or no charge or adjustment 447,961 9.2 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal 669,775 13.7 ------------- ---------- Total annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities before reinsurance 4,875,012 100.0% ========== Less reinsurance ceded 576,980 ------------- Net annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities $ 4,298,032 ============= 25 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7. Employee Benefit Plans Pension Plan and Postretirement Benefits Effective December 31, 2001, the qualified noncontributory defined benefit retirement plans of the Company, along with certain other US subsidiaries of ING AIH, were merged into one plan, which is recognized in ING AIH's financial statements. As a result of this plan merger, the Company transferred its qualified pension asset to ING North America Insurance Corporation, an affiliate. In addition, the Company maintains a nonqualified unfunded Supplemental Employees Retirement Plan ("SERP"). The Company also provides certain health care and life insurance benefits for retired employees. A summary of assets, obligations and assumptions of the Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Plans are as follows: Pension Benefits Other Benefits ----------------------- ---------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- (In Thousands) Change in benefit obligation Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 8,115 $ 13,015 $ 6,694 $ 5,383 Service cost - 546 676 210 Interest cost 540 1,008 410 400 Contribution by plan participants - - 2,048 376 Actuarial gain (loss) 2,103 (6,153) (1,471) 373 Benefits paid (415) (301) (2,667) (847) Plan amendments - - - 799 ---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- Benefit obligation at end of year $ 10,343 $ 8,115 $ 5,690 $ 6,694 ========== =========== ========== ========== Change in plan assets Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ - $ - $ - $ - Actual return on plan assets - - - - Employer contribution 415 301 619 471 Plan participants' contributions - - 2,048 376 Benefits paid (415) (301) (2,667) (847) ---------- ----------- ---------- ---------- Fair value of plan assets at end of year $ - $ - $ - $ - ========== =========== ========== ========== 26 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Pension Benefits Other Benefits ------------------------- ------------------------ 2003 2002 2003 2002 ----------- ------------ ------------ ----------- (In Thousands) Funded status $ (10,343) $ (8,115) $ (5,690) $ (6,694) Unamortized prior service credit (290) (318) (648) (746) Unrecognized net (gain) or loss (1,276) (3,715) (1,917) 2,566 Remaining net obligation 28 31 2,733 - ----------- ------------ ------------ ----------- Net amount recognized $ (11,881) $(12,117) $ (5,522) $ (4,874) =========== ============ ============ =========== Components of net periodic benefit cost Service cost $ - $ 546 $ 676 $ 210 Interest cost 540 1,008 410 400 Expected return on plan assets - - - - Amortization of unrecognized transition obligation or transition assets 2 2 304 304 Amount of recognized gains and losses (336) 100 (25) (42) Amount of prior service cost recognized (28) (28) (98) 701 Amount of gain or loss recognized due to a settlement or curtailment - - - - ------------ ------------ ------------ ----------- Total net periodic benefit cost $ 178 $ 1,628 $ 1,267 $ 1,573 ============ ============ ============ =========== In addition, the Company has a pension benefit obligation and an other benefit obligation for non-vested employees as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 in the amount of $623,000 and $682,000, and $3,665,000 and $2,633,000 (OPEB obligation), respectively. Assumptions used in determining the accounting for the defined benefit plans and other post-retirement benefit plans as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 were as follows: 2003 2002 ---------------- ----------------- Weighted-average discount rate 6.25 % 6.75 % Rate of increase in compensation level 3.75 % 3.75 % Expected long-term rate of return on assets 8.75 % 9.00 % The annual assumed rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered benefits (i.e., health care cost trend rate) for the medical plan is 10.0% graded to 5.0% thereafter. The health care cost trend rate assumption has a significant effect on the amounts reported. For example, increasing the assumed health care cost trend rates by one percentage point in each year would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for the medical plan as of December 31, 2003 by $48,000. Decreasing the assumed health care cost trend rates by one percentage point in each year would decrease the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation for the medical plan as of December 31, 2003 by $46,000. 27 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 401(k) Plan The ING Savings Plan is a defined contribution plan, which is available to substantially all employees. Participants may make contributions to the plan through salary reductions up to a maximum of $12,000 for 2003 and $11,000 for 2002. Such contributions are not currently taxable to the participants. The Company matches up to 6% of pre-tax eligible pay at 100%. Company matching contributions were $569,000 and $681,000 for 2003 and 2002, respectively. 8. Separate Accounts Separate account assets and liabilities represent funds segregated by the Company for the benefit of certain policy and contract holders who bear the investment risk. All such policies are of a nonguaranteed return nature. Revenues and expenses on the separate account assets and related liabilities equal the benefits paid to the separate account policy and contract holders. 28 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The general nature and characteristics of the separate accounts business follows: Nonguaranteed Separate Accounts -------------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Premium, consideration or deposits for year ended December 31, 2003 $ 23,144 ============== Reserves for accounts with assets at: Market value $ 1,020,807 Amortized cost - -------------- Total reserves $ 1,020,807 ============== Reserves for separate accounts by withdrawal characteristics: Subject to discretionary withdrawal: With market value adjustment $ - At book value without market value adjustment less current surrender charge of 5% or more - At market value 1,020,807 At book value without market value adjustment less current surrender charge of less than 5% - -------------- Subtotal 1,020,807 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal - -------------- Total separate account reserves $ 1,020,807 ============== December 31, 2002 Premium, consideration or deposits for year ended December 31, 2002 $ 33,970 ============== Reserves for accounts with assets at: Market value $ 931,533 Amortized cost - -------------- Total reserves $ 931,533 ============== Reserves for separate accounts by withdrawal characteristics: Subject to descretionary withdrawal: With market value adjustment $ - At book value without market value adjustment less current surrender charge of 5% or more - At market value 931,533 At book value without market value adjustment less current surrender charge of less than 5% - -------------- Subtotal 931,533 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal - -------------- Total separate account reserves $ 931,533 ============== 29 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A reconciliation of the amounts transferred to and from the separate accounts is presented below: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Transfers as reported in the Summary of Operations of the Separate Accounts Statement: Transfers to separate accounts $ 23,144 $ 33,970 Transfers from separate accounts 144,588 169,689 ---------------- ---------------- Net transfers from separate accounts (121,444) (135,719) Reconciling adjustments: Other transfers 1 33 ---------------- ---------------- Transfers as reported in the Statement of Operations $ (121,443) $ (135,686) ================ ================ 9. Reinsurance The Company is involved in both ceded and assumed reinsurance with other companies for the purpose of diversifying risk and limiting exposure on larger risks. To the extent that the assuming companies become unable to meet their obligations under these treaties, the Company remains contingently liable to its policyholders for the portion reinsured. To minimize its exposure to significant losses from retrocessionaire insolvencies, the Company evaluates the financial condition of the retrocessionaire and monitors concentrations of credit risk. Assumed premiums amounted to $1,912,796,000 and $1,299,151,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The Company's ceded reinsurance arrangements reduced certain items in the accompanying financial statements by the following amounts: December 31 2003 2002 ------------- ------------- (In Thousands) Premiums $ 5,107 $ 5,223 Benefits paid or provided 7,356 8,481 Policy and contract liabilities at year end 585,318 604,861 During 2003 and 2002, the Company had ceded blocks of insurance under reinsurance treaties to provide funds for financing and other purposes. These reinsurance transactions, generally known as "financial reinsurance," represent financing arrangements. Financial reinsurance has the effect of increasing current statutory surplus while reducing future statutory surplus as the reinsurers recapture amounts. 30 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10. Federal Income Taxes The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return with its subsidiaries. The method of tax allocation is governed by a written tax sharing agreement. The tax sharing agreement provides that each member of the consolidated return shall reimburse the Company for its respective share of the consolidated federal income tax liability and shall receive a benefit for its losses at the statutory rate. The components of the net deferred tax asset (liability) at December 31 are as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ------------- ------------ (In Thousands) Total gross deferred tax assets $ 180,746 $ 166,200 Total deferred tax liabilities (6,096) (5,139) ------------- ------------ Net deferred tax asset 174,650 161,061 Deferred tax asset nonadmitted (154,178) (160,490) ------------- ------------ Net admitted deferred tax asset $ 20,472 $ 571 ============= ============ Decrease (increase) in nonadmitted asset $ 6,312 $ (63,007) ============= ============ Significant components of income taxes incurred as of December 31 are: Current income taxes incurred consisted of the following major components: December 31 2003 2002 ------------- ------------ (In Thousands) Federal taxes on stand alone operations $ 26,865 $ (18,201) Federal taxes paid to affiliates under tax sharing agreement - 67,278 Consolidated operations loss carryback utilized - (11,267) ------------- ------------ Total taxes on operations 26,865 37,810 ------------- ------------ Federal taxes on capital gains (9,263) (1,301) Federal taxes paid to affiliates under tax sharing agreement - 3,896 Consolidated operations loss carryback utilized - (12,625) ------------- ------------ Total taxes on capital gains (9,263) (10,030) ------------- ------------ Total taxes incurred $ 17,602 $ 27,780 ============= ============ 31 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The main components of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows: December 31 2003 2002 -------------- -------------- (In Thousands) Deferred tax assets resulting from book/tax differences in: Deferred acquisition costs $ 25,293 $ 31,238 Insurance reserves 21,429 21,250 Investments 18,791 19,753 Policyholder dividends 5,917 8,328 Nonadmitted assets 3,484 3,700 Unrealized loss on investments - 704 Goodwill 799 880 Operations loss carryforwards 92,808 72,890 AMT carryforward 4,000 - Other 8,225 7,457 -------------- -------------- Total deferred tax assets 180,746 166,200 Deferred tax assets nonadmitted (154,178) (160,490) -------------- -------------- Admitted deferred tax assets 26,568 5,710 -------------- -------------- Deferred tax liabilities resulting from book/tax differences in: Fixed assets 62 2,164 Investments 746 132 Due & deferred premiums 2,196 2,488 Unrealized gains on investments 3,092 - Other - 355 -------------- -------------- Total deferred tax liabilities 6,096 5,139 -------------- -------------- Net admitted deferred tax asset $ 20,472 $ 571 ============== ============== The change in net deferred income taxes is comprised of the following: December 31 2003 2002 Change ---------- ---------- ---------- (In Thousands) Total deferred tax asset $ 180,746 $ 166,199 $ 14,547 Total deferred tax liabilities 6,096 5,139 957 ---------- ---------- ---------- Net deferred tax asset $ 174,650 $ 161,060 $ 13,590 ========== ========== Remove current year change in unrealized gains 3,507 ---------- Change in net deferred income tax 17,097 Remove other items in surplus: Current year change in non-admitted assets 216 Other 289 --------- $ 17,602 ========= 32 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The provision for federal income taxes incurred and change in deferred taxes is different from that which would be obtained by applying the statutory Federal income tax rate to income, (including capital items) before income taxes. The significant items causing this difference are: Year Ended December 31, 2003 ----------------- (In Thousands) Ordinary income $ 9,263 Capital gains (losses) 4,994 ----------------- Total pre-tax income $ 14,257 ================= Provision computed at statutory rate $ 4,990 Refinement of deferred tax balances (4,529) Interest maintenance reserve 999 Dividends received deduction (1,483) Other 23 ----------------- Total $ - ================= Federal income taxes incurred $ 17,602 Change in net deferred income taxes (17,602) ----------------- Total statutory income taxes $ - ================= The Company has operations loss carryforwards of $265,165,000, which expire in 2017. The Company had a payable to the United States Treasury of $15,723,000 and a receivable from the United States Treasury of $55,341,000 for federal income taxes as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. In addition, under the inter-company tax sharing agreement, the Company has a net payable of $11,526,000 and a net receivable of $28,301,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, for federal income taxes with its subsidiaries. Prior to 1984, the Company was allowed certain special deductions for federal income tax reporting purposes that were required to be accumulated in a "policyholders' surplus account" (PSA). In the event those amounts are distributed to shareholders, or the balance of the account exceeds certain limitations prescribed by the Internal Revenue Code, the excess amounts would be subject to income tax at current rates. Income taxes also would be payable at current rates if the Company ceases to qualify as a life insurance company for tax reporting purposes, or if the income tax deferral status of the PSA is modified by future tax legislation. Management does not intend to take any actions nor does management expect any events to occur that would cause income taxes to become payable on the PSA balance. Accordingly, the Company has not accrued income taxes on the PSA balance of $14,388,000 at December 31, 2003. However, if such taxes were assessed, the amount of the taxes payable would be $5,036,000. No deferred tax liabilities are recognized related to the PSA. 33 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11. Investment in and Advances to Subsidiaries Amounts invested in and advanced to the Company's subsidiaries are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Common stock $ 1,073,826 $ 811,079 (Payable to) receivable from subsidiaries (94,524) 2,102 Summarized financial information for these subsidiaries is as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Revenues $ 5,835,610 $ 7,929,991 Income (loss) before net realized gains on investments 113,648 (235,729) Net loss 39,172 (277,136) Admitted assets 31,161,112 24,301,380 Liabilities 30,087,287 23,490,301 12. Capital and Surplus Under Iowa insurance regulations, the Company is required to maintain a minimum total capital and surplus which is the lower of $5,000,000 or risk based capital. Additionally, the amount of dividends which can be paid by the Company to its stockholder without prior approval of the Iowa Division of Insurance is limited to the greater of the statutory net gain from operations or ten percent of surplus at December 31 of the preceding year. In 2004, the Company can pay dividends of $118,000,000 without prior approved from the Iowa Division of Insurance. Life and health insurance companies are subject to certain Risk-Based Capital ("RBC") requirements as specified by the NAIC. Under those requirements, the amount of capital and surplus maintained by a life and health insurance company is to be determined based on the various risk factors related to it. At December 31, 2003, the Company met the RBC requirements. 34 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13. Fair Values of Financial Instruments Life insurance liabilities that contain mortality risk and all nonfinancial instruments have been excluded from the disclosure requirements. However, the fair values of liabilities under all insurance contracts are taken into consideration in the Company's overall management of interest rate risk, such that the Company's exposure to changing interest rates is minimized through the matching of investment maturities with amounts due under insurance contracts. The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company's financial instruments are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ------------------------ ------------------------ Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Value Value Value Value ------------ ------------ ------------ ----------- (In Thousands) Assets: Bonds $ 3,758,375 $ 3,873,679 $ 3,207,349 $ 3,333,300 Preferred stocks 441 441 441 441 Unaffiliated common stocks 108,680 112,959 285 285 Mortgage loans 1,024,031 1,086,163 864,597 948,750 Contract loans 126,488 126,488 130,790 130,790 Derivative securities 102,173 91,849 32,833 26,805 Short-term investments 104,000 104,000 22,821 22,821 Cash 32,325 32,325 5,181 5,181 Investment in surplus notes 135,000 167,805 135,000 191,228 Indebtedness from related parties 5,015 5,015 108,320 108,319 Separate account assets 1,044,925 1,044,925 959,377 959,377 Receivable for securities 176 176 210 210 Liabilities: Individual and group annuities 3,701,212 3,591,686 3,131,561 3,052,911 Guaranteed investment contracts 425,401 425,449 - - Deposit type contract 195,316 195,316 190,201 191,677 Policyholder funds 18,351 18,351 26,333 26,333 Indebtedness to related parties 133,258 133,258 66,265 66,265 Separate account liabilities 1,044,925 1,044,925 959,377 959,377 The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value disclosures for financial instruments in the accompanying financial statements and notes thereto: Cash and short-term investments: The carrying amounts reported in the accompanying balance sheets for these financial instruments approximate their fair values. 35 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fixed maturities and equity securities: The fair values for bonds, preferred stocks and common stocks, reported herein, are based on quoted market prices, where available. For securities not actively traded, fair values are estimated using values obtained from independent pricing services or, in the case of private placements, collateralized mortgage obligations and other mortgage derivative investments, are estimated by discounting the expected future cash flows. The discount rates used vary as a function of factors such as yield, credit quality, and maturity, which fall within a range between 2% and 11% over the total portfolio. Fair values determined on this basis can differ from values published by the NAIC Securities Valuation Office. Fair value as determined by the NAIC as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 is $4,968,378,000 and $4,232,177,000, respectively. Mortgage loans: Estimated fair values for commercial real estate loans were generated using a discounted cash flow approach. Loans in good standing are discounted using interest rates determined by U.S. Treasury yields on December 31 and spreads applied on new loans with similar characteristics. The amortizing features of all loans are incorporated in the valuation. Where data on option features is available, option values are determined using a binomial valuation method, and are incorporated into the mortgage valuation. Restructured loans are valued in the same manner; however, these loans were discounted at a greater spread to reflect increased risk. All residential loans are valued at their outstanding principal balances, which approximate their fair values. Derivative financial instruments: Fair values for on-balance-sheet derivative financial instruments (caps, options and floors) and off-balance-sheet derivative financial instruments (swaps) are based on broker/dealer valuations or on internal discounted cash flow pricing models taking into account current cash flow assumptions and the counterparties' credit standing. Investment in surplus notes: Estimated fair values for investment in surplus notes are generated using a discounted cash flow approach. Cash flows were discounted using interest rates determined by U.S. Treasury yields on December 31 and spreads applied on surplus notes with similar characteristics. Guaranteed investment contracts: The fair values of the Company's guaranteed investment contracts are estimated using discounted cash flow calculations, based on interest rates currently being offered for similar contracts with maturities consistent with those remaining for the contracts being valued. Other investment-type insurance contracts: The fair values of the Company's deferred annuity contracts are estimated based on the cash surrender values. The carrying values of other policyholder liabilities, including immediate annuities, dividend accumulations, supplementary contracts without life contingencies, and premium deposits, approximate their fair values. The carrying value of all other financial instruments approximates their fair value. 36 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 14. Commitments and Contingencies Subsidiary Guarantees The Company guarantees contractual policy claims of its subsidiaries, Golden American Life Insurance Company and USG Annuity & Life Company. In the unlikely event that Golden American Life Insurance Company and USG Annuity & Life Company were unable to fulfill their obligations to policyholders, the Company would be obligated to assume the guaranteed policy obligations, but any ultimate contingent losses in connection with such guarantees will not have a material adverse impact on the Company's future operations or financial position. The Company leases its home office space and certain other equipment under operating leases that expire through 2017. During the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, rent expense totaled $5,528,000 and $4,951,000, respectively. At December 31, 2003, minimum rental payments due under all non-cancelable operating leases are: 2004 - $5,326,000, 2005 - $5,324,000, 2006 - $5,324,000, 2007 - $5,135,000 and 2008 - $4,948,000 and $42,466,000 thereafter. Litigation The Company is a party to threatened or pending lawsuits arising from the normal conduct of business. Due to the climate in insurance and business litigation, suits against the Company sometimes include claims for substantial compensatory, consequential or punitive damages and other types of relief. Moreover, certain claims are asserted as class actions, purporting to represent a group of similarly situated individuals. While it is not possible to forecast the outcome of pending lawsuits, in light of existing insurance, reinsurance and established reserves, it is the opinion of management that the disposition of such lawsuits will not have a materially adverse effect on the Company's operations or financial position. Other Matters Like many financial services companies, certain U.S. affiliates of ING Groep N.V. ("ING"), the Company's ultimate parent, ave received informal and formal requests for information since September 2003 from various governmental and self-regulatory agencies in connection with investigations related to mutual funds and variable insurance products. ING has cooperated fully with each request. In addition to reporting to regulatory requests, ING management initiated an internal review of trading in ING insurance, retirement, and mutual fund products. The goal of this review has been to identify whether there have been any instances of inappropriate trading in those products by third parties or by ING investment professionals and other ING personnel. This internal review is being conducted by independent special counsel and auditors. Additionally, ING reviewed its controls and procedures in a continuing effort to deter improper frequent trading in ING products. ING's internal reviews related to mutual fund trading are continuing. 37 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The internal review has identified several arrangements allowing third parties to engage in frequent trading of mutual funds within our variable insurance and mutual fund products, and identified other circumstances where frequent trading occurred despite measures taken by ING intended to combat market timing. Most of the identified arrangements were initiated prior to ING's acquisition of the businesses in question. In each arrangement identified, ING has terminated the inappropriate trading, taken steps to discipline or terminate employees who were involved, and modified policies and procedures to deter inappropriate activity. While the review is not completed, management believes the activity identified does not represent a systemic problem in the businesses involved. These instances included agreements (initiated in 1998) that permitted on variable life insurance customer or ReliaStar Life Insurance Company ("ReliaStar"), an affiliate of the Company, to engage in frequent trading, and to submit orders until 4pm Central Time, instead of 4pm Eastern Time. ReliaStar was acquired by ING in 2000. The late trading arrangement was immediately terminated when current senior management became aware of it in 2002. ING believes that no profits were realized by the customer from the late trading aspect of the arrangement. ING will reimburse any ING Fund or its shareholders affected by inappropriate trading for any profits that accrued to any person who engaged in improper frequent trading for which ING is responsible. Management believes that the total amount of such reimbursements will not be material to ING or its U.S. business. 15. Financing Agreements The Company maintains a revolving loan agreement with SunTrust Bank, Atlanta (the "Bank"). Under this agreement, which expires July 30, 2004, the Company can borrow up to $100,000,000 from the Bank. Interest on any borrowing accrues at an annual rate equal to: (1) the cost of funds for the Bank for the period applicable for the advance plus 0.225% or (2) a rate quoted by the Bank to the Company for the borrowing. Under the agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $0 and $171,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had $0 payable to the Bank. The Company also maintains a revolving loan agreement with Bank of New York, New York (the "BONY"). Under this agreement, the Company can borrow up to $100,000,000 from BONY. Interest on any of the Company borrowing accrues at an annual rate equal to: (1) the cost of funds for BONY for the period applicable for the advance plus 0.35% or (2) a rate quoted by BONY to the Company for the borrowing. Under this agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $0 and $16,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had $0 payable to BONY. 38 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16. Related Party Transactions Affiliates Management and service contracts and all cost sharing arrangements with other affiliated ING United States Life Insurance Companies are allocated among companies in accordance with normal, generally accepted expense and cost allocation methods. Investment Management: The Company has entered into an investment advisory agreement and an administrative services agreement with ING Investment Management, LLC ("IIM") under which IIM provides the Company with investment management and asset liability management services. Total fees under the agreement were approximately $14,461,000 and $11,118,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Inter-insurer Services Agreement: The Company has entered into a services agreement with certain of its affiliated insurance companies in the United States ("affiliated insurers") whereby the affiliated insurers provide certain administrative, management, professional, advisory, consulting and other services to each other. Net amounts received under these agreements were $15,551,000 and $3,029,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Reciprocal Loan Agreement: The Company maintains a reciprocal loan agreement with ING AIH, to facilitate the handling of unusual and/or unanticipated short-term cash requirements. Under this agreement, which expires December 31, 2007, the Company and ING AIH can borrow up to $104,000,000 from one another. Interest on any Company borrowing is charged at the rate of ING AIH's cost of funds for the interest period plus 0.15%. Interest on any ING AIH borrowings is charged at a rate based on the prevailing interest rate of U.S. commercial paper available for purchase with a similar duration. Under this agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $61,000 and interest income of $730,000 for the year ended December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2003, the Company had $0 payable to ING AIH and $104,000,000 receivable from ING AIH, which is reported on the balance sheets in cash and short-term investments. Promissory note: The Company has a promissory note in the amount of $50,000,000 payable to Lion Connecticut Holdings, Inc. The note was issued on April 15, 1997. Interest is charged at an annual rate of 8.75%, and the face amount is due on April 1, 2007. The Company incurred interest expense of $4,375,000 on this note for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. There are no collateral requirements on this promissory note. This note is reported on the balance sheets in borrowed money. Tax Sharing Agreements: The Company has entered into federal tax sharing agreements with a member of an affiliated group as defined in Section 1504 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The agreement provides for the manner of calculation and the amounts/timing of the payments between the parties as well as other related matters in connection with the filing of consolidated federal income tax returns. The Company has also entered into a state tax sharing agreement with ING AIH and each of the specific subsidiaries that are parties to the agreement. The state tax agreement applies to situations in which ING AIH and all or some of the subsidiaries join in the filing of a state or local franchise, income tax or other tax return on a consolidated, combined or unitary basis. 39 Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Services Agreement with ING Financial Adviser, LLC: The Company has entered into a services agreement with ING Financial Advisors, LLC ("ING FA") to provide certain administrative, management, professional advisory, consulting and other services to the Company for the benefit of its customers. Charges for these services are to be determined in accordance with fair and reasonable standards with neither party realizing a profit nor incurring a loss as a result of the services provided to the Company. The Company will reimburse ING FA for direct and indirect costs incurred on behalf of the Company. Subsidiaries The Company owned, as of December 31, 2003, 100% of the capital stock, valued on the equity basis of, USG Annuity and Life Insurance Company (an Oklahoma domestic insurer) and Golden American Life Insurance Company (a Delaware domestic insurer). Assets and liabilities along with related revenues and expenses recorded as a result of transactions and agreements with affiliates may not be the same as those recorded if the Company was not a wholly-owned subsidiary of its parent. 17. Guaranty Fund Assessments Insurance companies are assessed the costs of funding the insolvencies of other insurance companies by the various state guaranty associations, generally based on the amount of premiums companies collect in that state. The Company accrues the cost of future guaranty fund assessments based on estimates of insurance company insolvencies provided by the National Organization of Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Associations and the amount of premiums written in each state. The Company has estimated this liability to be $3,492,000 and $3,494,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and has recorded a liability. The Company has also recorded an asset of $81,000 and $473,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, for future credits to premium taxes for assessments already paid. 18. Subsequent Events Golden American Life Insurance Company ("Golden"), requested that the Delaware Insurance Department approve the redomestication of Golden from Delaware to Iowa effective January 1, 2004. The Company, United Life & Annuity Insurance Company ("ULA"), and USG Annuity and Life Company ("USG") requested the Iowa Division of Insurance (for the Company and ULA) and the Oklahoma Department of Insurance (for USG) approve the merger of the affiliated life insurance company operations of the Company, ULA, Golden, and USG with Golden being the survivor. The sequence of events, effective January 1, 2004, is as follows: redomestication of Golden to Iowa, merger of the four affiliated insurers with Golden being the survivor, and the renaming of Golden to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company ("ING USA"). The Delaware Insurance Department provided a "no objection letter" for the redomestication of Golden to Iowa on August 25, 2003. The Iowa Division of Insurance approved the merger on July 21, 2003 and the Oklahoma Department of Insurance on August 11, 2003. 40 Exhibit 99.2 Report of Independent Auditors Board of Directors and Stockholder ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company We have audited the accompanying statutory basis balance sheets of United Life & Annuity Insurance Company ("the Company" which, effective January 1, 2004, merged into an affiliate, ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc.) as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related statutory basis statements of operations, changes in capital and surplus, and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. As described in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company presents its financial statements in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Insurance Department of the State of Iowa ("Iowa Insurance Department"), which practices differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The variances between such practices and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States are described in Note 1. The effects on the financial statements of these variances are not reasonably determinable but are presumed to be material. In our opinion, because of the effects of the matter described in the preceding paragraph, the financial statements referred to above do not present fairly, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, the financial position of United Life & Annuity Insurance Company at December 31, 2003 and 2002 or the results of its operations or its cash flows for the years then ended. 1 However, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of United Life & Annuity Insurance Company at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Iowa Insurance Department. /s/ Ernst and Young March 22, 2004 2 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Balance Sheets - Statutory Basis December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Admitted assets Cash and invested assets: Bonds $ 580,896 $ 608,870 Common stocks 2 10 Subsidiary 25 25 Mortgage loans 36,853 34,829 Policy loans 880 933 Other invested assets 6,739 13,908 Cash and short-term investments 3,700 14,741 --------------- --------------- Total cash and invested assets 629,095 673,316 Deferred and uncollected premiums, less loading (2003 - $0; 2002 - $0) (30) (30) Accrued investment income 7,614 8,523 Reinsurance balances recoverable 45 112 Federal income tax recoverable (including $2,639 and $5,385 net deferred tax assets at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively) 3,246 6,791 Separate account assets 63,193 64,410 Other assets 784 375 --------------- --------------- Total admitted assets $ 703,947 $ 753,497 =============== =============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 3 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Balance Sheets - Statutory Basis December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) except share amounts) Liabilities and capital and surplus Liabilities: Policy and contract liabilities: Life and annuity reserves $ 540,198 $ 586,755 Deposit type contracts 13,869 14,926 Unpaid claims - 25 ---------------- --------------- Total policy and contract liabilities 554,067 601,706 Interest maintenance reserve 4,800 188 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 2,657 1,243 Indebtedness to related parties 1,293 1,634 Asset valuation reserve 5,966 5,743 Other liabilities (2,878) (2,633) Separate account liabilities 63,193 64,410 ---------------- --------------- Total liabilities 629,098 672,291 Capital and surplus: Common stock, authorized 4,200,528 shares of $2.00 par value, 4,200,528 issued and outstanding 8,401 8,401 Paid-in and contributed surplus 41,241 41,241 Unassigned surplus 25,207 31,564 ---------------- --------------- Total capital and surplus 74,849 81,206 ---------------- --------------- Total liabilities and capital and surplus $ 703,947 $ 753,497 ================ =============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 4 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Statements of Operations - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Premiums and other revenues: Life, annuity, and accident and health premiums $ 1,629 $ 1,228 Policy proceeds and dividends left on deposit 491 205 Net investment income 34,743 44,256 Amortization of interest maintenance reserve 1,075 1,656 Commissions, expense allowances and reserve adjustments on reinsurance ceded 383 502 Other income 1,599 1,598 ---------------- ---------------- Total premiums and other revenues 39,920 49,445 Benefits paid or provided: Annuity benefits 19,306 20,309 Surrender benefits 67,727 100,443 Interest on policy or contract funds 231 598 Other benefits (25) 25 Life contract withdrawals 1,712 1,170 Decrease in life, annuity, and accident and health reserves (46,557) (69,041) Net transfers from separate accounts (12,060) (17,382) ---------------- ---------------- Total benefits paid or provided 30,334 36,122 Insurance expenses: Commissions 529 611 General expenses 3,478 1,877 Insurance taxes, licenses and fees, excluding federal income taxes 464 (536) Other - 4 ---------------- ---------------- Total insurance expenses 4,471 1,956 ---------------- ---------------- Gain from operations before federal income taxes and net realized capital gains (losses) 5,115 11,367 Federal income tax benefit (1,413) (5,786) ---------------- ---------------- Gain from operations before net realized capital gains (losses) 6,528 17,153 Net realized capital gains (losses) net of income tax expense (benefit): 2003 - $0; 2002 - $(3,926) and excluding net transfers to the interest maintenance reserve 2003- $5,687; 2002- $(2,310) 2,501 (5,602) ---------------- ---------------- Net income $ 9,029 $ 11,551 ================ ================ The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 5 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Statements of Operations - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Common stock: Balance at beginning and end of year $ 8,401 $ 8,401 ---------------- ---------------- Paid-in and contributed surplus Balance at beginning and end of year 41,241 41,241 ---------------- ---------------- Unassigned surplus: Balance at beginning of year 31,564 16,997 Net income 9,029 11,551 Change in net unrealized capital gains or losses 86 (1,396) Change in nonadmitted assets 2,016 (5,406) Change in asset valuation reserve (223) 2,909 Change in surplus as a result of reinsurance (359) (475) Change in net deferred income tax (4,506) 7,388 Dividends to stockholder (12,400) - Other adjustments - (4) ---------------- ---------------- Balance at end of year 25,207 31,564 ---------------- ---------------- Total capital and surplus $ 74,849 $ 81,206 ================ ================ The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 6 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Statements of Cash Flows - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Operations Premiums, policy proceeds, and other considerations received, net of reinsurance paid $ 1,627 $ 1,219 Net investment income received 36,628 47,009 Commissions, expenses paid and miscellaneous expenses (2,790) (2,766) Benefits paid (89,793) (125,136) Net transfers to separate accounts 12,010 19,650 Federal income taxes received 2,210 1,697 Other revenues 1,989 1,637 ---------------- -------------- Net cash used in operations (38,119) (56,690) Investment activities Proceeds from sales, maturities, or repayments of investments: Bonds 997,840 697,696 Mortgage loans 2,456 3,117 Other invested assets 308 82 Net losses on cash and short-term investments - (262) Miscellaneous proceeds 7,923 660 ---------------- -------------- Net proceeds from sales, maturities, or repayments of investments 1,008,527 701,293 Cost of investments acquired: Bonds 962,486 632,726 Mortgage loans 4,480 7,078 Other invested assets 396 229 Miscellaneous applications 690 9,273 ---------------- -------------- Total cost of investments acquired 968,052 649,306 Net change in contract loans (53) (95) ---------------- -------------- Net cash provided by investment activities 40,528 52,082 Financing and miscellaneous activities Cash provided: Borrowed money, net (4) - Net deposits on deposit-type contract funds 117 (2,938) Dividends to stockholder (12,400) - Other sources (1,163) 3,988 ---------------- -------------- Net cash (used) provided by financing and miscellaneous activities (13,450) 1,050 ---------------- -------------- Net decrease in cash and short-term investments (11,041) (3,558) Cash and short-term investments: Beginning of year 14,741 18,299 ---------------- -------------- End of year $ 3,700 $ 14,741 ================ ============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 7 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Nature of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies United Life & Annuity Insurance Company (the "Company") is domiciled in Iowa and is a direct, wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings, Inc., which in turn is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc. ("ING AIH"). Effective January 1, 2004, the Company merged into an affiliate, ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings, Inc. The primary insurance products offered by the Company are annuity related. The Company also offers life and health insurance products, however all life and health business is ceded to other insurers. The Company is presently licensed in 47 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The preparation of financial statements of insurance companies requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Such estimates and assumptions could change in the future as more information becomes known, which could impact the amounts reported and disclosed herein. Basis of Presentation The accompanying financial statements of the Company have been prepared in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Insurance Department of the State of Iowa ("Iowa Insurance Department"), which practices differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP"). The most significant variances from GAAP are as follows: Investments: Investments in bonds and mandatorily redeemable preferred stocks are reported at amortized cost or market value based on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") rating; for GAAP, such fixed maturity investments are designated at purchase as held-to-maturity, trading or available-for-sale. Held-to-maturity investments are reported at amortized cost, and the remaining fixed maturity investments are reported at fair value with unrealized capital gains and losses reported in operations for those designated as trading and as a separate component of other comprehensive income in stockholder's equity for those designated as available-for-sale. For structured securities, when a negative yield results from a revaluation based on new prepayment assumptions (i.e., undiscounted cash flows are less than current book value), an other than temporary impairment is considered to have occurred and the asset is written down to the value of the undiscounted cash flows. For GAAP, assets are re-evaluated based on the discounted cash flows using a current market rate. Impairments are recognized when there has been an adverse change in cash flows and the fair value is less than book value. The asset is then written down to fair value. 8 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Common stocks are reported at market value as determined by the Securities Valuation Office of the NAIC ("SVO") and the related unrealized capital gains/losses are reported in unassigned surplus along with adjustment for federal income taxes. Valuation Reserves: The asset valuation reserve ("AVR") is determined by an NAIC-prescribed formula and is reported as a liability rather than as a valuation allowance or an appropriation of surplus. The change in AVR is reported directly to unassigned surplus. Under a formula prescribed by the NAIC, the Company defers the portion of realized gains and losses on sales of fixed-income investments, principally bonds and mortgage loans, attributable to changes in the general level of interest rates, and amortizes those deferrals over the remaining period to maturity based on groupings of individual securities sold in five-year bands. The net deferral or interest maintenance reserve ("IMR") is reported as a component of other liabilities in the accompanying balance sheets. Realized gains and losses on investments are reported in operations net of federal income tax and transfers to the IMR. Under GAAP, realized capital gains and losses are reported in the statements of operations on a pretax basis in the period that the asset giving rise to the gain or loss is sold and valuation allowances are provided when there has been a decline in value deemed other than temporary, in which case the provision for such declines is charged to income. Valuation allowances, if necessary, are established for mortgage loans based on the difference between the net value of the collateral, determined as the fair value of the collateral less estimated costs to obtain and sell, and the recorded investment in the mortgage loan. Under GAAP, such allowances are based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan's effective interest rate or, if foreclosure is probable, on the estimated fair value of the collateral. The initial valuation allowance and subsequent changes in the allowance for mortgage loans as a result of a temporary impairment are charged or credited directly to unassigned surplus, rather than being included as a component of earnings as would be required under GAAP. Policy Acquisition Costs: The costs of acquiring and renewing business are expensed when incurred. Under GAAP, acquisition costs related to traditional life insurance, to the extent recoverable from future policy revenues, are deferred and amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies using assumptions consistent with those used in computing policy benefit reserves. For universal life insurance and investment products, to the extent recoverable from future gross profits, acquisition costs are amortized generally in proportion to the present value of expected gross margins from surrender charges and investment, mortality, and expense margins. 9 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Premiums: Life premiums are recognized as revenue when due. Premiums for annuity policies with mortality and morbidity risk, except for guaranteed interest and group annuity contracts, are also recognized as revenue when due. Premiums received for annuity policies without mortality or morbidity risk and for guaranteed interest and group annuity contracts are recorded using deposit accounting. Under GAAP, premiums for traditional life insurance products, which include those products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits and consist primarily of whole life insurance policies, are recognized as revenue when due. Group insurance premiums are recognized as premium revenue over the time period to which the premiums relate. Revenues for universal life, annuities and guaranteed interest contracts consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, policy administration charges, amortization of policy initiation fees and surrender charges assessed during the period. Benefit and Contract Reserves: Life policy and contract reserves under statutory accounting practices are calculated based upon both the net level premium and Commissioners' Reserve Valuation methods using statutory rates for mortality and interest. GAAP requires that policy reserves for traditional products be based upon the net level premium method utilizing reasonably conservative estimates of mortality, interest, and withdrawals prevailing when the policies were sold. For interest-sensitive products, the GAAP policy reserve is equal to the policy fund balance plus an unearned revenue reserve which reflects the unamortized balance of early year policy loads over renewal year policy loads. Reinsurance: For business ceded to unauthorized reinsurers, statutory accounting practices require that reinsurance credits permitted by the treaty be recorded as an offsetting liability and charged against unassigned surplus. Under GAAP, an allowance for amounts deemed uncollectible would be established through a charge to earnings. Statutory income recognized on certain reinsurance treaties representing financing arrangements is not recognized on a GAAP basis. Policy and contract liabilities ceded to reinsurers have been reported as reductions of the related reserves rather than as assets as required under GAAP. Commissions allowed by reinsurers on business ceded are reported as income when received rather than being deferred and amortized with deferred policy acquisition costs as required under GAAP. Subsidiary: The accounts and operations of the Company's subsidiary are not consolidated with the accounts and operations of the Company as would be required under GAAP. 10 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nonadmitted Assets: Certain assets designated as "nonadmitted," principally deferred federal income tax assets, disallowed interest maintenance reserves, non-operating software, past-due agents' balances, furniture and equipment, intangible assets, and other assets not specifically identified as an admitted asset within the Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual are excluded from the accompanying balance sheets and are charged directly to unassigned surplus. Under GAAP, such assets are included in the balance sheets. Universal Life and Annuity Policies: Revenues for universal life and annuity policies consist of the entire premium received and benefits incurred represent the total of death benefits paid and the change in policy reserves. Under GAAP, premiums received in excess of policy charges would not be recognized as premium revenue and benefits would represent the excess of benefits paid over the policy account value and interest credited to the account values. Deferred Income Taxes: Deferred tax assets are provided for and admitted to an amount determined under a standard formula. This formula considers the amount of differences that will reverse in the subsequent year, taxes paid in prior years that could be recovered through carrybacks, surplus limits, and the amount of deferred tax liabilities available for offset. Any deferred tax assets not covered under the formula are non-admitted. Deferred taxes do not include any amounts for state taxes. Under GAAP, a deferred tax asset is recorded for the amount of gross deferred tax assets that are expected to be realized in future years and a valuation allowance is established for the portion that is not realizable. Statements of Cash Flows: Cash and short-term investments in the statements of cash flows represent cash balances and investments with initial maturities of one year or less. Under GAAP, the corresponding caption of cash and cash equivalents include cash balances and investments with initial maturities of three months or less. Reconciliation to GAAP The effects of the preceding variances from GAAP on the accompanying statutory basis financial statements have not been determined, but are presumed to be material. Other significant accounting practices are as follows: Investments Investments are stated at values prescribed by the NAIC, as follows: Bonds not backed by other loans are principally stated at amortized cost using the interest method. 11 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Single class and multi-class mortgage-backed/asset-backed securities are valued at amortized cost using the interest method including anticipated prepayments. Prepayment assumptions are obtained from dealer surveys or internal estimates and are based on the current interest rate and economic environment. The retrospective adjustment method is used to value all such securities except for higher-risk asset backed securities, which are valued using the prospective method. Common stocks are reported at market value as determined by the SVO and the related unrealized capital gains/losses are reported in unassigned surplus with adjustment for federal income taxes. The Company analyzes the general account investments to determine whether there has been an other than temporary decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis. Management considers the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, future economic conditions and market forecasts, and the Company's intent and ability to retain the investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for recovery in market value. If it is probable that all amounts due according to the contractual terms of a debt security will not be collected, an other than temporary impairment is considered to have occurred. The Company's noninsurance subsidiary is carried at cost. Mortgage loans are reported at amortized cost, less allowance for impairments. Contract loans are reported at unpaid principal balances. Short-term investments are reported at amortized cost. Short-term investments include investments with maturities of less than one year at the date of acquisition. Partnership interests, which are included in other invested assets, are reported at the underlying GAAP equity of the investee. Realized capital gains and losses are determined using the specific identification method. Cash on hand includes cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are short-term investments that are both readily convertible to cash and have an original maturity date of three months or less. Short-term investments are carried at amortized cost, which approximates market value. 12 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Aggregate Reserve for Life Policies and Contracts Life, annuity, and accident and health reserves are developed by actuarial methods and are determined based on published tables using statutorily specified interest rates and valuation methods that will provide, in the aggregate, reserves that are greater than or equal to the minimum or guaranteed policy cash value or the amounts required by law. Interest rates range from 3% to 10%. The Company waives the deduction of deferred fractional premiums upon the death of the insured. It is the Company's practice to return a pro rata portion of any premium paid beyond the policy month of death, although it is not contractually required to do so for certain issues. The methods used in valuation of substandard policies are as follows: For life, endowment and term policies issued substandard, the standard reserve during the premium-paying period is increased by 50% of the gross annual extra premium. Standard reserves are held on Paid-Up Limited Pay contracts. For reinsurance accepted with table rating, the reserve established is a multiple of the standard reserve corresponding to the table rating. For reinsurance with flat extra premiums, the standard reserve is increased by 50% of the flat extra. The tabular interest has been determined from the basic data for the calculation of policy reserves for all direct ordinary life insurance and for the portion of group life insurance classified as group Section 79. The tabular interest of funds not involving life contingencies is calculated as the current year reserves, plus payments, less prior year reserves, less funds added. Reinsurance Reinsurance premiums, commissions, expense reimbursements, and reserves related to reinsured business are accounted for on bases consistent with those used in accounting for the original policies issued and the terms of the reinsurance contracts. Reserves are based on the terms of the reinsurance contract and are consistent with the risks assumed. Premiums and benefits ceded to other companies have been reported as a reduction of premium revenue and benefits expense. Amounts applicable to reinsurance ceded for reserves and unpaid claim liabilities have been reported as reductions of these items, and expense allowances received in connection with reinsurance ceded have been reflected in operations. 13 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nonadmitted Assets Nonadmitted assets are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Deferred federal income taxes $ 10,369 $ 12,175 Agents' debit balances (7) 22 Other - 181 ---------------- --------------- Total nonadmitted assets $ 10,362 $ 12,378 ================ =============== Changes in nonadmitted assets are generally reported directly in unassigned surplus as an increase or decrease in nonadmitted assets. Certain changes are reported directly in unassigned surplus as a change in unrealized capital gains or losses. Claims and Claims Adjustment Expenses Claims expenses represent the estimated ultimate net cost of all reported and unreported claims incurred through December 31, 2003. The Company does not discount claims and claims adjustment expense reserves. Such estimates are based on actuarial projections applied to historical claims payment data. Such liabilities are considered to be reasonable and adequate to discharge the Company's obligations for claims incurred but unpaid as of December 31, 2003. Cash Flow Information Cash and short-term investments include cash on hand, demand deposits and short-term fixed maturity instruments with a maturity of less than one year at date of acquisition. The Company borrowed $123,000,000 and repaid $123,000,000 in 2003 and borrowed $91,220,000 and repaid $91,220,000 in 2002. These borrowings were on a short-term basis, at an interest rate that approximated current money market rates and exclude borrowings from reverse dollar repurchase transactions. Interest paid on borrowed money was $17,000 and $13,000 during 2003 and 2002, respectively. Separate Accounts Separate account assets and liabilities held by the Company represent funds held for the benefit of the Company's variable annuity policy and contract holders who bear all of the investment risk associated with the policies. Such policies are of a non-guaranteed nature. All net investment experience, positive or negative, is attributed to the policy and contract holders' account values. The assets and liabilities of these accounts are carried at fair value. 14 Reserves related to the Company's mortality risk associated with these policies are included in annuity reserves. The operations of the separate accounts are not included in the accompanying statements of operations. Reclassifications Certain prior year amounts in the Company's statutory basis financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2003 financial statement presentation. 2. Permitted Statutory Basis Accounting Practices The financial statements of the Company are presented on the basis of accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Iowa Insurance Department. The Iowa Insurance Department recognizes only statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the State of Iowa for determining and reporting the financial condition and results of operations of an insurance company for determining its solvency under the Iowa Insurance Laws. The NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual has been adopted as a component of prescribed or permitted practices by the State of Iowa. The Commissioner of Insurance has the right to permit other specific practices that deviate from prescribed practices. The Company is required to identify those significant accounting practices that are permitted, and obtain written approval of the practices from the Iowa Department of Insurance. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had no such permitted accounting practices. 15 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Investments The amortized cost and fair value of bonds and equity securities are as follows: Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- (In Thousands) At December 31, 2003: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations $ 48,426 $ 798 $ 69 $ 49,155 States, municipalities, and political subdivisions 418 29 - 447 Foreign government 30,752 113 75 30,790 Public utilities securities 30,435 1,509 83 31,861 Corporate securities 322,331 13,447 2,135 333,643 Mortgage-backed securities 80,500 739 1,778 79,461 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 27,892 1,563 130 29,325 Other asset-backed securities 40,142 420 824 39,738 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total fixed maturities 580,896 18,618 5,094 594,420 Common stocks - 2 - 2 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total equity securities - 2 - 2 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total $ 580,896 $ 18,620 $ 5,094 $ 594,422 ============= ============ ============ ============= At December 31, 2002: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations $ 112,154 $ 3,593 $ - $ 115,747 States, municipalities, and political subdivisions 452 39 - 491 Public utilities securities 22,776 853 780 22,849 Corporate securities 288,160 12,781 1,452 299,489 Mortgage-backed securities 128,750 6,063 1,149 133,664 Commerical mortgage-backed securities 24,221 1,465 62 25,624 Other asset-backed securities 32,357 330 6,202 26,485 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total fixed maturities 608,870 25,124 9,645 624,349 Common stocks 20 8 18 10 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total equity securities 20 8 18 10 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total $ 608,890 $ 25,132 $ 9,663 $ 624,359 ============= ============ ============ ============= 16 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of December 31, 2003, the aggregate fair value of debt securities with unrealized losses and the time period that cost exceeded fair value are as follows: More than 6 Less than 6 months and less More than 12 months below than 12 months months below cost below cost cost Total ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- ------------------ (In Thousands) Fair value $ 77,073 $ 86,922 $ 13,324 $ 177,389 Unrealized loss 497 2,725 1,872 5,094 Of the unrealized losses more than 6 months and less than 12 months in duration of $2,725,000, there were $958,000 in unrealized losses that are primarily related to interest rate movement or spread widening for other than credit-related reasons. Business and operating fundamentals are performing as expected. The remaining unrealized losses of $1,767,000 as of December 31, 2003 included the following significant items: $1,258,000 of unrealized losses related to mortgage-backed and structured securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by SSAP 43 Loan-backed and Structured Securities. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the fair value was $35,618,000. $384,000 of unrealized losses related to the energy/utility industry, for which the fair value was $12,734,000. During 2003, the energy sector recovered due to a gradually improving economic picture and the lack of any material accounting irregularities similar to those experienced in the prior two years. Current analysis indicates that the debt will be serviced in accordance with the contractual terms. The remaining unrealized losses totaling $125,000 relate to a fair value of $4,754,000. Of the unrealized losses more than 12 months in duration of $1,872,000, there were $1,413,000 in unrealized losses that are primarily related to mortgage-backed and structured securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by SSAP 43 Loan-backed and Structured Securities. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the fair value was $8,574,000. The remaining unrealized losses of $459,000 as of December 31, 2003 included the following: $446,000 of unrealized losses related to the airline industry, for which the fair value was $3,265,000. During 2003, the airline industry continued to suffer from decreased passenger volumes offset by a gradually improving economy. The majority of the airline investments are comprised of Enhanced Equipment Trust Certificates ("EETC"). Current analysis indicates the specific collateral backing EETC investments is predominantly represented by newer models that are expected to be retained as individual airlines reduce their fleets. 17 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The amortized cost and fair value of investments in bonds at December 31, 2003, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Amortized Fair Cost Value -------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Maturity: Due in 1 year or less $ 19,841 $ 20,040 Due after 1 year through 5 years 227,329 232,957 Due after 5 years through 10 years 122,529 127,444 Due after 10 years 62,663 65,455 -------------- --------------- Total maturities 432,362 445,896 Mortgage-backed securities 80,500 79,461 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 27,892 29,325 Other asset-backed securities 40,142 39,738 -------------- --------------- Total $ 580,896 $ 594,420 ============== =============== At December 31, 2003, investments in certificates of deposit and bonds, with an admitted asset value of $11,377,000, were on deposit with state insurance departments to satisfy regulatory requirements. Proceeds from the sales of investments in bonds and other fixed maturity interest securities were $890,061,000 and $600,173,000 in 2003 and 2002, respectively. Gross gains of $12,342,000 and $15,128,000 and gross losses of $2,375,000 and $13,017,000 during 2003 and 2002, respectively, were realized on those sales. A portion of the gains realized in 2003 and 2002 has been deferred to future periods in the interest maintenance reserve. Major categories of net investment income are summarized as follows: Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Income: Bonds $ 33,926 $ 42,754 Mortgage loans 2,568 2,617 Contract loans 72 27 Other 309 635 ---------------- ---------------- Total investment income 36,875 46,033 Investment expenses 2,132 1,777 ---------------- ---------------- Net investment income $ 34,743 $ 44,256 ================ ================ 18 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As part of its overall investment strategy, the Company has entered into agreements to purchase securities as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Investment purchase commitments $ 165 $ 558 The lending rate for long-term mortgage loans during 2003 was 4.21%. Fire insurance is required on all properties covered by mortgage loans and must at least equal the excess of the loan over the maximum loan which would be permitted by law on the land without the buildings. The maximum percentage of any loan to the value of collateral at the time of the loan, exclusive of insured or guaranteed or purchase money mortgages, was 62.1% on commercial properties. As of December 31, 2003, the Company held no mortgages with interest more than 180 days overdue. 4. Concentrations of Credit Risk The Company held less-than-investment-grade bonds with an aggregate book value of $49,623,000 and $40,723,000 and with an aggregate market value of $51,584,000 and $40,582,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Those holdings amounted to 8.5% of the Company's investments in bonds and 7.7% of total admitted assets at December 31, 2003. The holdings of less-than-investment-grade bonds are widely diversified and of satisfactory quality based on the Company's investment policies and credit standards. The Company held unrated bonds of $2,480,000 and $17,624,000 with an aggregate NAIC market value of $1,951,000 and $17,726,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The carrying value of these holdings amounted to 0.43% of the Company's investment in bonds and 0.35% of the Company's total admitted assets at December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2003, the Company's commercial mortgages involved a concentration of properties located in California (46.0%) and Pennsylvania (13.5%). The remaining commercial mortgages relate to properties located in 18 other states. The portfolio is well diversified covering many different types of income-producing properties on which the Company has first mortgage liens. The maximum mortgage outstanding on any individual property is $6,290,000. 19 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5. Annuity Reserves At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company's annuity reserves, including those held in separate accounts and deposit fund liabilities that are subject to discretionary withdrawal with adjustment, subject to discretionary withdrawal without adjustment, and not subject to discretionary withdrawal provisions are summarized as follows: Amount Percent ---------------- -------------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment): With market value adjustment $ 1,124 0.2% At book value less surrender charge of 5% or more 44,238 7.2 At fair value 60,233 9.7 ---------------- -------------- Subtotal 105,595 17.1 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without adjustment): At book value with minimal or no charge or adjustment 490,524 79.4 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal 21,806 3.5 ---------------- -------------- Total annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities before reinsurance 617,925 100.0% ============= Less reinsurance ceded 5,739 ---------------- Net annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities $ 612,186 ================ December 31, 2002 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment): With market value adjustment $ 889 0.1% At book value less surrender charge of 5% or more 94,326 14.2 At fair value 61,500 9.3 ---------------- -------------- Subtotal 156,715 23.6 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without adjustment): At book value with minimal or no charge or adjustment 482,267 72.6 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal 25,543 3.8 ---------------- -------------- Total annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities before reinsurance 664,525 100.0% ============== Less reinsurance ceded 1,925 ---------------- Net annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities $ 662,600 ================ 20 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6. Separate Accounts Separate account assets and liabilities held by the Company represent funds held for the benefit of the Company's variable annuity policy and contract holders who bear all the investment risk associated with the policies. Such policies are of a non-guaranteed nature. All net investment experience, positive or negative, is attributed to the policy and contract holders' account values. The assets of these accounts are carried at fair value. Premiums, deposits, and other considerations received for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002 were $201,000 and $408,000, respectively. The general nature and characteristics of the Company's nonguaranteed separate accounts business follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Premium, consideration or deposits $ 201 $ 408 ================ ================ Reserves for accounts with assets at: Market value $ 60,233 $ 61,500 Amortized cost - - ---------------- ---------------- Total reserves $ 60,233 $ 61,500 ================ ================ Reserves for separate accounts by withdrawal characteristics: Subject to descretionary withdrawal: With market value adjustment $ - $ - At book value without market value adjustments and with current surrender charge of 5% or more - - At market value 60,233 61,500 At book value without market value adjustments and with current surrender charge of less than 5% - - ---------------- ---------------- Subtotal 60,233 61,500 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal - - ---------------- ---------------- Total separate account aggregate reserves $ 60,233 $ 61,500 ================ ================ 21 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A reconciliation of the amounts transferred to and from the separate accounts is presented below: Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Transfers as reported in the Summary of Operations of the Separate Accounts Statement: Transfers to separate accounts $ 201 $ 408 Transfers from separate accounts (12,261) (17,790) ---------------- ---------------- Transfers as reported in the Statement of Operations $ (12,060) $ (17,382) ================ ================ 7. Reinsurance The Company is involved in ceded reinsurance with other companies for the purpose of diversifying risk and limiting exposure on larger risks. To the extent that the assuming companies become unable to meet their obligations under these treaties, the Company remains contingently liable to its policyholders for the portion reinsured. To minimize its exposure to significant losses from retrocessionaire insolvencies, the Company evaluates the financial condition of the retrocessionaire and monitors concentrations of credit risk. The Company's ceded reinsurance arrangements reduced certain items in the accompanying financial statements by the following amounts: December 31 2003 2002 -------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Premiums $ 2,550 $ 2,832 Benefits paid or provided 11,049 6,101 Policy and contract liabilities at year end 83,857 91,095 22 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8. Federal Income Taxes The components of the net deferred tax asset/(liability) are as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Total deferred tax assets $ 13,725 $ 18,420 Total deferred tax liabilities (717) (859) ---------------- ---------------- Net deferred tax assets 13,008 17,561 Deferred tax asset nonadmitted (10,369) (12,176) ---------------- ---------------- Net admitted deferred tax asset $ 2,639 $ 5,385 ================ ================ Decrease (increase) in nonadmitted asset $ 1,807 $ (6,537) ================ ================ Current income taxes incurred consisted of the following major components: Year ended December 31 2003 2002 --------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Federal taxes on operations $ (1,413) $ (5,786) Federal taxes on capital gains 2,925 3,926 Capital loss on carryovers utilized (2,925) (675) --------------- ---------------- Total current taxes incurred $ (1,413) $ (2,535) =============== ================ 23 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The main components of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows: December 31 2003 2002 --------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Deferred tax assets resulting from book/tax differences in: Present value of insurance in force $ 7,291 $ 8,751 Capital loss carryovers 705 3,446 Investments 3,155 3,270 Deferred acquisition costs 924 1,096 Unrealized loss on investments 972 1,019 Insurance reserves 185 113 Other 493 725 --------------- ---------------- Total deferred tax assets 13,725 18,420 Deferred tax assets nonadmitted 10,369 12,176 --------------- ---------------- Admitted deferred tax assets 3,356 6,244 --------------- ---------------- Deferred tax liabilities resulting from book/tax differences in: Investments 633 725 Other 84 134 --------------- ---------------- Total deferred tax liabilities 717 859 --------------- ---------------- Net admitted deferred tax asset $ 2,639 $ 5,385 =============== ================ The change in net deferred income taxes is comprised of the following: December 31 2003 2002 Change -------------- -------------- -------------- (In Thousands) Total deferred tax assets $ 13,725 $ 18,420 $ (4,695) Total deferred tax liabilities 717 859 (142) -------------- -------------- -------------- Net deferred tax asset $ 13,008 $ 17,561 (4,553) ============== ============== Remove current year change in unrealized gains 47 -------------- Change in net deferred income tax (4,506) Remove other items in surplus: Current year change in non-admitted assets 74 -------------- Change in deferred taxes for rate reconciliation $ (4,432) ============== 24 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The provision for federal income taxes incurred and change in deferred taxes is different from that which would be obtained by applying the statutory Federal income tax rate to income (including capital items) before income taxes. The significant items causing this difference are: Year Ended December 31, 2003 --------------------- (In Thousands) Ordinary income $ 5,115 Capital gains 8,188 --------------------- Total pre-tax book income $ 13,303 ===================== Provision computed at statutory rate $ 4,656 Refinement of deferred tax balances (455) Interest maintenance reserve (376) Nondeductible general expenses 2 Amortization of reinsurance gain (764) Other (44) --------------------- Total $ 3,019 ===================== Federal income taxes incurred $ (1,413) Change in net deferred income taxes 4,432 --------------------- Total statutory income taxes $ 3,019 ===================== The amount of federal income taxes incurred that will be available for recoupment in the event of future net losses is $0 and $738,000 from 2003 and 2002 respectively. The Company has a recoverable of $607,000 at December 31, 2003 and $1,406,000 at December 31, 2002 from the United States Treasury for federal income taxes. The Company has gross capital loss carry forwards, which expire as follows: Expiration Year Amount ---------------------- -------------------- (In Thousands) 2005 $ 2,014 9. Investment in and Advances to Subsidiaries The Company has one wholly owned noninsurance subsidiary at December 31, 2003, United Variable Services, Inc. 25 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Amounts invested in and advanced to the Company's subsidiary is summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Common stock (cost $25,000 in 2003 and in 2002) $ 25 $ 25 10. Capital and Surplus Under Iowa insurance regulations, the Company is required to maintain a minimum total capital and surplus of $7,806,000. Additionally, the amount of dividends that can be paid by the Company to its stockholder without prior approval of the Iowa Insurance Department is limited to the greater of 10% of statutory surplus or the statutory net gain from operations of the preceding year. Life and health insurance companies are subject to certain Risk-Based Capital ("RBC") requirements as specified by the NAIC. Under those requirements, the amount of capital and surplus maintained by a life and health insurance company is to be determined based on the various risk factors related to it. At December 31, 2003, the Company meets the RBC requirements. 26 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11. Fair Values of Financial Instruments Life insurance liabilities that contain mortality risk and all nonfinancial instruments have been excluded from the disclosure requirements. However, the fair values of liabilities under all insurance contracts are taken into consideration in the Company's overall management of interest rate risk, such that the Company's exposure to changing interest rates is minimized through the matching of investment maturities with amounts due under insurance contracts. The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company's financial instruments are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ----------------------------- ------------------------------ Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- (In Thousands) Assets: Bonds $ 580,896 $ 594,420 $ 608,870 $ 624,349 Unaffiliated common stocks 2 2 10 10 Mortgage loans 36,853 40,955 34,829 39,729 Policy loans 880 880 933 933 Short-term investments 3,450 3,450 14,450 14,450 Cash 250 250 291 291 Separate account assets 63,193 63,193 64,410 64,410 Receivable for securities 1,081 1,081 8,308 8,308 Liabilities: Individual and group annuities 530,146 529,848 578,170 575,913 Deposit type contract 13,869 13,882 14,926 14,939 Indebtedness to related parties 1,293 1,293 1,634 1,634 Separate account liabilities 63,193 63,193 64,410 64,410 The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value disclosures for financial instruments in the accompanying financial statements and notes thereto: Cash and short-term investments: The carrying amounts reported in the accompanying balance sheets for these financial instruments approximate their fair values. 27 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fixed maturities and equity securities: The fair values for bonds and common stocks reported herein are based on quoted market prices, where available. For securities not actively traded, fair values are estimated using values obtained from independent pricing services or, in the case of private placements, are estimated by discounting the expected future cash flows. The discount rates used vary as a function of factors such as yield, credit quality, and maturity, which fall within a range between 3% and 8% over the total portfolio. Fair values determined on this basis can differ from values published by the SVO. Fair value as determined by the SVO as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 is $584,169,000 and $611,948,000, respectively. Mortgage loans: Estimated market values for commercial real estate loans were generated using a discounted cash flow approach. Loans in good standing are discounted using interest rates determined by U.S. Treasury yields on December 31 and spreads applied on new loans with similar characteristics. The amortizing features of all loans are incorporated in the valuation. Where data on option features is available, option values are determined using a binomial valuation method, and are incorporated into the mortgage valuation. Restructured loans are valued in the same manner; however, these loans were discounted at a greater spread to reflect increased risk. All residential loans are valued at their outstanding principal balances, which approximate their fair values. Other investment-type insurance contracts: The fair values of the Company's deferred annuity contracts are estimated based on the cash surrender values. The carrying values of other policyholder liabilities, including immediate annuities, dividend accumulations, supplementary contracts without life contingencies, and premium deposits, approximate their fair values. The carrying value of all other financial instruments approximates their fair value. 12. Commitments and Contingencies The Company is a party to threatened or pending lawsuits arising from the normal conduct of business. Due to the climate in insurance and business litigation, suits against the Company sometimes include claims for substantial compensatory, consequential or punitive damages and other types of relief. Moreover, certain claims are asserted as class actions, purporting to represent a group of similarly situated individuals. While it is not possible to forecast the outcome of pending lawsuits, in light of existing insurance, reinsurance and established reserves, it is the opinion of management that the disposition of such lawsuits will not have a materially adverse effect on the Company's operations or financial position. 28 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Matters Like many financial services companies, certain U.S. affiliates of ING Groep N.V. ("ING"), the Company's ultimate parent, have received informal and formal requests for information since September 2003 from various governmental and self-regulatory agencies in connection with investigations related to mutual funds and variable insurance products. ING has cooperated fully with each request. In addition to responding to regulatory requests, ING management initiated an internal review of trading in ING insurance, retirement, and mutual fund products. The goal of this review has been to identify whether there have been any instances of inappropriate trading in those products by third parties or by ING investment professionals and other ING personnel. This internal review is being conducted by independent special counsel and auditors. Additionally, ING reviewed its controls and procedures in a continuing effort to deter improper frequent trading in ING products. ING's internal reviews related to mutual fund trading are continuing. The internal review has identified several arrangements allowing third parties to engage in frequent trading of mutual funds within the Company's variable insurance and mutual fund products, and identified other circumstances where frequent trading occurred despite measures taken by ING intended to combat market timing. Most of the identified arrangements were initiated prior to ING's acquisition of the businesses in question. In each arrangement identified, ING has terminated the inappropriate trading, taken steps to discipline or terminate employees who were involved, and modified policies and procedures to deter inappropriate activity. While the review is not completed, management believes the activity identified does not represent a systemic problem in the businesses involved. These instances included agreements (initiated in 1998) that permitted one variable life insurance customer of Reliastar Life Insurance Company ("Reliastar"), an affiliate of the Company, to engage in frequent trading, and to submit orders until 4pm Central Time, instead of 4pm Eastern Time. Reliastar was acquired by ING in 2000. The late trading arrangement was immediately terminated when current senior management became aware of it in 2002. ING believes that no profits were realized by the customer from the late trading aspect of the arrangement. In addition, the review has identified five arrangements that allowed frequent trading of funds within variable insurance products issued by Reliastar and by ING USA Annuity & Life Insurance Company and in certain ING Funds. ING entities did not receive special benefits in return for any of these arrangements, which have all been terminated. The internal review also identified two investment professionals who engaged in improper frequent trading in ING Funds. ING will reimburse any ING Fund or its shareholders affected by inappropriate trading for any profits that accrued to any person who engaged in improper frequent trading for which ING is responsible. Management believes that the total amount of such reimbursements will not be material to ING or its U.S. business. 29 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13. Financing Agreements The Company maintains a revolving loan agreement with SunTrust Bank, Atlanta (the "Bank"). Under this agreement, which expires July 31, 2004, the Company can borrow up to $25,000,000 from the Bank. Interest on any Company borrowing accrues at an annual rate equal to: (1) the cost of funds for the Bank for the period applicable for the advance plus 0.225% or (2) a rate quoted by the Bank to the Company for the borrowing. Under this agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $182 for the year ended December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2003, the Company had no amounts payable to the Bank. The Company also maintains a revolving loan agreement with Bank of New York, New York ("BONY"). Under this agreement, the Company can borrow up to $50,000,000 from BONY. Interest on any Company borrowing accrues at an annual rate equal to: (1) the cost of funds for BONY for the period applicable for the advance plus 0.35% or (2) a rate quoted by BONY to the Company for the borrowing. Under this agreement, the Company incurred no interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2003, the Company had no amounts payable to BONY. 14. Related Party Transactions Affiliates Management and service contracts and all cost sharing arrangements with other affiliated ING U.S. life insurance companies are allocated among companies in accordance with normal, generally accepted expense and cost allocation methods. Investment Management: The Company has entered into an investment advisory agreement and an administrative services agreement with ING Investment Management, LLC ("IIM") under which IIM provides the Company with investment management and asset liability management services. Total fees under this agreement were approximately $1,871,000 and $1,617,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Inter-insurer Services Agreement: The Company has entered into a services agreement with certain of its affiliated insurance companies in the United States ("affiliated insurers") whereby the affiliated insurers provide certain administrative, management, professional, advisory, consulting and other services to each other. Net amounts paid under these agreements were $2,304,000 and $384,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. 30 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reciprocal Loan Agreement: The Company maintains a reciprocal loan agreement with ING AIH to facilitate the handling of unusual and/or unanticipated short-term cash requirements. Under this agreement, which expires April 1, 2011, the Company and ING AIH can borrow up to $22,400,000 from one another. Interest on any borrowing is charged at the rate of ING AIH's cost of funds for the interest period plus 0.15%. Interest on any ING AIH borrowings is charged at the rate based on the prevailing interest rate of U.S. commercial paper available for purchase with a similar duration. Under this agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $17,000 and interest income of $36,000 for the year ended December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2003, the Company had no amounts payable to or receivable from ING AIH. Assets and liabilities, along with related revenues and expenses, recorded as a result of transactions and agreements with affiliates may not be the same as those recorded if the Company was not a wholly-owned subsidiary of its parent. 15. Guaranty Fund Assessments Insurance companies are assessed the costs of funding the insolvencies of other insurance companies by the various state guaranty associations, generally based on the amount of premiums companies collect in that state. The Company accrues the cost of future guaranty fund assessments based on estimates of insurance company insolvencies provided by the National Organization of Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Associations ("NOLHGA") and the amount of premiums written in each state. The Company has recorded $490,000 and $474,000 for this liability as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The Company has also recorded an asset of $26,000 and $351,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, for future credits to premium taxes for assessments already paid. 16. Subsequent Events Golden American Life Insurance Company ("Golden") requested that the Delaware Insurance Department approve the redomestication of Golden from Delaware to Iowa effective January 1, 2004. Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa ("Equitable"), the Company, and USG Annuity and Life Company ("USG") requested the Iowa Department of Insurance (for Equitable and the Company) and the Oklahoma Department of Insurance (for USG) to approve the merger of the affiliated life insurance company operations of Equitable, the Company, Golden, and USG with Golden being the survivor. The sequence of events, effective January 1, 2004, is as follows: redomestication of Golden to Iowa, merger of the four affiliated insurers with Golden being the survivor, and the renaming of Golden to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company ("ING USA"). 31 United Life & Annuity Insurance Company Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Basis - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Delaware Insurance Department provided a "no objection letter" for the redomestication of Golden to Iowa on August 25, 2003. The Iowa Department of Insurance approved the merger on July 21, 2003 and the Oklahoma Department of Insurance approved it on August 11, 2003. 17. Reconciliation to the Annual Statement During 2002, the Company recorded prior year adjustments in its summary of operations in the 2002 Annual Statement. As a result, the differences below exist between the 2002 Annual Statement and the accompanying statutory basis financial statements: Capital and Net Income Surplus -------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Amounts as reported in the 2002 Annual Statement $ 8,817 $ 82,852 Capital gains tax (1,935) - Mortgage loan income 198 - Federal income taxes 4,471 - Asset valuation reserve - (1,646) -------------- --------------- $ 11,551 $ 81,206 ============== =============== 32 Exhibit 99.3 Report of Independent Auditors Board of Directors and Stockholder ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company We have audited the accompanying statutory basis balance sheets of USG Annuity & Life Company ("the Company" which, effective January 1, 2004, merged into an affiliate, ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc.) as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related statutory basis statements of operations, changes in capital and surplus, and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. As described in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company presents its financial statements in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Commissioner of Insurance of the State of Oklahoma ("Oklahoma Insurance Department"), which practices differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The variances between such practices and accounting principles generally accepted in the United States are described in Note 1. The effects on the financial statements of these variances are not reasonably determinable but are presumed to be material. In our opinion, because of the effects of the matter described in the preceding paragraph, the financial statements referred to above do not present fairly, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, the financial position of USG Annuity & Life Company at December 31, 2003 and 2002 or the results of its operations or its cash flows for the years then ended. 1 However, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of USG Annuity & Life Company at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department. /s/ Ernst & Young March 22, 2004 USG Annuity & Life Company Balance Sheets - Statutory Basis December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Admitted assets Cash and invested assets: Bonds $ 6,231,961 $ 6,116,495 Preferred stocks 1,273 1,088 Mortgage loans 1,471,607 1,483,855 Real estate, less accumulated depreciation (2003-$29, 2002-$304) 2,679 1,477 Contract loans 32,247 32,454 Other invested assets 41,017 47,704 Cash and short-term investments 27,739 9,116 --------------- --------------- Total cash and invested assets 7,808,523 7,692,189 Deferred and uncollected premiums, less loading (2003-$12, 2002-$58) 284 386 Accrued investment income 68,590 77,674 Reinsurance balances recoverable 252 335 Indebtedness from related parties 19,597 25 Federal income tax recoverable (including $18,475 and $15,601 net deferred tax assets at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively) 20,761 22,163 Other assets 33 2,451 --------------- --------------- Total admitted assets $ 7,918,040 $ 7,795,223 =============== =============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 3 USG Annuity & Life Company Balance Sheets - Statutory Basis December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) except share amounts) Liabilities and capital and surplus Liabilities: Policy and contract liabilities: Life and annuity reserves $ 6,918,897 $ 6,859,914 Deposit type contracts 224,767 246,501 Policyholders' funds 16 53 Unpaid claims 3,064 3,622 --------------- --------------- Total policy and contract liabilities 7,146,744 7,110,090 Interest maintenance reserve 41,337 11,799 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 17,684 13,807 Indebtedness to related parties 16,587 22,147 Asset valuation reserve 51,181 50,634 Borrowed money 286,886 184,450 Other liabilities 17,667 16,110 --------------- --------------- Total liabilities 7,578,086 7,409,037 Capital and surplus: Common stock: authorized 1,000 shares of $3,000 par value, 833 issued and outstanding 2,500 2,500 Paid-in and contributed surplus 316,963 316,963 Unassigned surplus 20,491 66,723 --------------- --------------- Total capital and surplus 339,954 386,186 --------------- --------------- Total liabilities and capital and surplus $ 7,918,040 $ 7,795,223 =============== =============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 4 USG Annuity & Life Company Statements of Operations - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Premiums and other revenues: Life, annuity, and accident and health premiums $ 423,362 $ 1,285,640 Policy proceeds and dividends left on deposit 7,710 9,267 Net investment income 452,278 536,206 Amortization of interest maintenance reserve (6,647) (7,446) Commissions, expense allowances and reserve adjustments on reinsurance ceded 42,615 14,159 Other income - 1,619 --------------- --------------- Total premiums and other revenues 919,318 1,839,445 Benefits paid or provided: Death benefits 5,182 112,299 Annuity benefits 250,745 250,411 Surrender benefits 522,262 582,708 Interest on policy or contract funds 6,384 8,033 Other benefits 11 - Life contract withdrawals 9,827 8,968 Increase in life, annuity, and accident and health reserves 58,983 648,698 --------------- --------------- Total benefits paid or provided 853,394 1,611,117 Insurance expenses: Commissions 71,151 86,074 General expenses 32,567 33,272 Insurance taxes, licenses and fees, excluding federal income taxes 3,748 (231) Other 1,287 856 --------------- --------------- Total insurance expenses 108,753 119,971 --------------- --------------- (Loss) gain from operations before federal income taxes and net realized capital losses (42,829) 108,357 Federal income tax (benefit) expense (27,668) 41,015 --------------- --------------- (Loss) gain from operations before net realized capital losses (15,161) 67,342 Net realized capital losses; net of income tax (benefit) expense: 2003 - $18,494 and 2002 - ($6,049); and excluding net transfers to the interest maintenance reserve 2003- $22,891 and 2002- ($638) (31,599) (41,467) --------------- --------------- Net (loss) income $ (46,760) $ 25,875 =============== =============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 5 USG Annuity & Life Company Statements of Changes and Surplus - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Common stock: Balance at beginning and end of year $ 2,500 $ 2,500 --------------- --------------- Paid-in and contributed surplus: Balance at beginning of year 316,963 286,963 Capital contribution - 30,000 --------------- --------------- Balance at end of year 316,963 316,963 --------------- --------------- Unassigned surplus: Balance at beginning of year 66,723 19,994 Net (loss) income (46,760) 25,875 Change in net unrealized capital losses (395) (7,240) Change in nonadmitted assets (742) 3,284 Change in asset valuation reserve (547) 20,987 Change in net deferred income tax 2,212 3,480 Other - 343 --------------- --------------- Balance at end of year 20,491 66,723 --------------- --------------- Total capital and surplus $ 339,954 $ 386,186 =============== =============== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 6 USG Annuity & Life Company Statements of Cash Flows - Statutory Basis Year ended December 31 2003 2002 --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Operations Premiums, policy proceeds, and other considerations received, net of reinsurance paid $ 423,582 $ 1,295,738 Net investment income received 620,710 647,957 Commission and expense allowances received on reinsurance ceded - 14,159 Benefits paid (821,273) (998,100) Insurance expenses paid (109,625) (122,791) Federal income taxes received (paid) 13,451 (53,696) Net other revenue 37,575 89 ------------------ ------------------ Net cash provided by operations 164,420 783,356 Investment activities Proceeds from sales, maturities, or repayments of investments: Bonds 8,021,572 8,709,883 Stocks - 357 Mortgage loans 329,751 275,949 Real estate 1,450 - Other invested assets 4,156 6,856 ------------------ ------------------ Net proceeds from sales, maturities, or repayments of investments 8,356,929 8,993,045 Cost of investments acquired: Bonds 8,253,561 9,713,052 Stocks 185 1,230 Mortgage loans 317,467 100,251 Real estate 2,708 - Other invested assets 10,530 14,594 ------------------ ------------------ Total cost of investments acquired 8,584,451 9,829,127 Change in contract loans (207) (279) ------------------ ------------------ Net cash used in investment activities (227,315) (835,803) Financing and miscellaneous activities Cash provided: Capital and surplus paid-in - 30,000 Borrowed money, net 102,436 1,102 Net deposits on deposit-type contract funds (21,734) (8) Other sources (uses) 816 (72,379) ------------------ ------------------ Net cash provided by (used in) financing and miscellaneous activities 81,518 (41,285) ------------------ ------------------ Net increase (decrease) in cash and short-term investments 18,623 (93,732) Cash and short-term investments: Beginning of year 9,116 102,848 ------------------ ------------------ End of year $ 27,739 $ 9,116 ================== ================== The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 7 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1. Nature of Operations and Significant Accounting Policies USG Annuity & Life Company (the "Company") is domiciled in Oklahoma and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Equitable Life Insurance Company of Iowa ("Equitable"), an Iowa domiciled insurance company. Equitable is a wholly owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings, Inc., which in turn is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ING America Insurance Holdings, Inc. ("ING AIH"). Effective January 1, 2004, the Company merged into an affiliate, ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lion Connecticut Holdings, Inc. The Company offers various insurance products, including deferred fixed annuities, immediate annuities, and interest-sensitive life insurance. These products are primarily marketed to individuals by independent insurance broker/dealers, financial institutions, and a career agency force. The Company is licensed in 48 states and the District of Columbia. The preparation of financial statements of insurance companies requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Such estimates and assumptions could change in the future as more information becomes known, which could impact the amounts reported and disclosed herein. Basis of Presentation The accompanying financial statements of the Company have been prepared in conformity with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Commissioner of Insurance of the State of Oklahoma ("Oklahoma Insurance Department"), which practices differ from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP"). The most significant variances from GAAP are as follows: Investments: Investments in bonds and mandatorily redeemable preferred stocks are reported at amortized cost or market value based on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") rating; for GAAP, such fixed maturity investments are designated at purchase as held-to-maturity, trading or available-for-sale. Held-to-maturity investments are reported at amortized cost, and the remaining fixed maturity investments are reported at fair value with unrealized capital gains and losses reported in operations for those designated as trading and as a component of other comprehensive income in stockholder's equity for those designated as available-for-sale. Investments in real estate are reported net of related obligations rather than on a gross basis. Changes between depreciated cost and admitted asset investment amounts are credited or charged directly to unassigned surplus rather than income as would be required under GAAP. 7 8 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SSAP 31 applies to derivative transactions prior to January 1, 2003. The Company also follows the newly adopted hedge accounting guidance in SSAP 86 for derivative transactions entered into or modified on or after January 1, 2003. Under this guidance, derivatives that are deemed effective hedges are accounted for in a manner which is consistent with the underlying hedged item. Derivatives used in hedging transactions that do not meet the requirements of SSAP 86 as an effective hedge are carried at fair value with the change in value recorded in surplus as unrealized gains or losses. Embedded derivatives are not accounted for separately from the host contract. Under GAAP, the effective and ineffective portions of a single hedge are accounted for separately, an embedded derivative within a contract that is not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics and risk of the host contract is accounted for separately from the host contract and valued and reported at fair value, and the change in fair value for cash flow hedges is credited or charged directly to a separate component of shareholder's equity rather than to income as required for fair value hedges. The Company invests in structured securities, including mortgage-backed securities/collateralized mortgage obligations, asset-backed securities, collateralized debt obligations, and commercial mortgage-backed securities. For these structured securities, management compares the undiscounted cash flows to the carrying value. An other than temporary impairment is considered to have occurred when the undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value. When a decline in fair value is determined to be other than temporary, the individual security is written down to fair value and the loss accounted for as a realized loss. Valuation Reserves: The asset valuation reserve ("AVR") is determined by an NAIC-prescribed formula and is reported as a liability rather than as a valuation allowance or an appropriation of surplus. The change in AVR is reported directly to unassigned surplus. Under a formula prescribed by the NAIC, the Company defers the portion of realized gains and losses on sales of fixed-income investments, principally bonds and mortgage loans, attributable to changes in the general level of interest rates, and amortizes those deferrals over the remaining period to maturity based on groupings of individual securities sold in five-year bands. The net deferral is reported as the interest maintenance reserve ("IMR") in the accompanying balance sheets. Realized gains and losses on investments are reported in operations net of federal income tax and transfers to the IMR. Under GAAP, realized capital gains and losses are reported in the statements of operations on a pretax basis in the period that the asset giving rise to the gain or loss is sold and valuation allowances are provided when there has been a decline in value deemed other than temporary, in which case the provision for such declines is charged to income. 9 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Valuation allowances, if necessary, are established for mortgage loans based on the difference between the net value of the collateral, determined as the fair value of the collateral less estimated costs to obtain and sell, and the recorded investment in the mortgage loan. Under GAAP, such allowances are based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan,s effective interest rate or, if foreclosure is probable, on the estimated fair value of the collateral. The initial valuation allowance and subsequent changes in the allowance for mortgage loans as a result of a temporary impairment are charged or credited directly to unassigned surplus, rather than being included as a component of earnings as would be required under GAAP. Policy Acquisition Costs: The costs of acquiring and renewing business are expensed when incurred. Under GAAP, acquisition costs related to traditional life insurance, to the extent recoverable from future policy revenues, are deferred and amortized over the premium-paying period of the related policies using assumptions consistent with those used in computing policy benefit reserves. For universal life insurance and investment products, to the extent recoverable from future gross profits, acquisition costs are amortized generally in proportion to the present value of expected gross margins from surrender charges and investment, mortality, and expense margins. Premiums: Life premiums are recognized as revenue when due. Premiums for annuity policies with mortality and morbidity risk, except for guaranteed interest and group annuity contracts, are also recognized as revenue when due. Premiums received for annuity policies without mortality or morbidity risk and for guaranteed interest and group annuity contracts are recorded using deposit accounting. Under GAAP, premiums for traditional life insurance products, which include those products with fixed and guaranteed premiums and benefits and consist primarily of whole life insurance policies, are recognized as revenue when due. Group insurance premiums are recognized as premium revenue over the time period to which the premiums relate. Revenues for universal life, annuities and guaranteed interest contracts consist of policy charges for the cost of insurance, policy administration charges, amortization of policy initiation fees and surrender charges assessed during the period. Benefit and Contract Reserves: Life policy and contract reserves under statutory accounting practices are calculated based upon both the net level premium and Commissioners' Reserve Valuation methods using statutory rates for mortality and interest. GAAP requires that policy reserves for traditional products be based upon the net level premium method utilizing reasonably conservative estimates of mortality, interest, and withdrawals prevailing when the policies were sold. For interest-sensitive products, the GAAP policy reserve is equal to the policy fund balance plus an unearned revenue reserve which reflects the unamortized balance of early year policy loads over renewal year policy loads. 10 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reinsurance: For business ceded to unauthorized reinsurers, statutory accounting practices require that reinsurance credits permitted by the treaty be recorded as an offsetting liability and charged against unassigned surplus. Under GAAP, an allowance for amounts deemed uncollectible would be established through a charge to earnings. Statutory income recognized on certain reinsurance treaties representing financing arrangements is not recognized on a GAAP basis. Policy and contract liabilities ceded to reinsurers have been reported as reductions of the related reserves rather than as assets as required under GAAP. Commissions allowed by reinsurers on business ceded are reported as income when received rather than being deferred and amortized with deferred policy acquisition costs as required under GAAP. Nonadmitted Assets: Certain assets designated as "nonadmitted," principally deferred federal income tax assets, disallowed interest maintenance reserves, non-operating software, past-due agents' balances, furniture and equipment, intangible assets, and other assets not specifically identified as an admitted asset within the NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual are excluded from the accompanying balance sheets and are charged directly to unassigned surplus. Under GAAP, such assets are included in the balance sheets. Universal Life and Annuity Policies: Revenues for universal life and annuity policies consist of the entire premium received and benefits incurred represent the total of death benefits paid and the change in policy reserves. Under GAAP, premiums received in excess of policy charges would not be recognized as premium revenue and benefits would represent the excess of benefits paid over the policy account value and interest credited to the account values. Deferred Income Taxes: Deferred tax assets are provided for and admitted to an amount determined under a standard formula. This formula considers the amount of differences that will reverse in the subsequent year, taxes paid in prior years that could be recovered through carrybacks, surplus limits, and the amount of deferred tax liabilities available for offset. Any deferred tax assets not covered under the formula are non-admitted. Deferred taxes do not include any amounts for state taxes. Under GAAP, a deferred tax asset is recorded for the amount of gross deferred tax assets that are expected to be realized in future years and a valuation allowance is established for the portion that is not realizable. Statements of Cash Flows: Cash and short-term investments in the statements of cash flows represent cash balances and investments with initial maturities of one year or less. Under GAAP, the corresponding caption of cash and cash equivalents includes cash balances and investments with initial maturities of three months or less. 11 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reconciliation to GAAP The effects of the preceding variances from GAAP on the accompanying statutory basis financial statements have not been determined, but are presumed to be material. Other significant accounting practices are as follows: Investments Investments are stated at values prescribed by the NAIC, as follows: Bonds not backed by other loans are principally stated at amortized cost using the interest method. Single class and multi-class mortgage-backed/asset-backed securities are valued at amortized cost using the interest method including anticipated prepayments. Prepayment assumptions are obtained from dealer surveys or internal estimates and are based on the current interest rate and economic environment. The retrospective adjustment method is used to value all such securities except for higher-risk asset backed securities, which are valued using the prospective method. The Company has elected to use the book value as of January 1, 1994, as the cost for applying the retrospective method to securities purchased prior to that date where historical cash flows are not readily available. Redeemable preferred stocks rated as high quality or better are reported at cost or amortized cost. All other redeemable preferred stocks are reported at the lower of cost, amortized cost, or market value and nonredeemable preferred stocks are reported at market value or the lower of cost or market value as determined by the Securities Valuation Office of the NAIC ("SVO"). The Company analyzes the general account investments to determine whether there has been an other than temporary decline in fair value below the amortized cost basis. Management considers the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, future economic conditions and market forecasts, and the Company's intent and ability to retain the investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for recovery in market value. If it is probable that all amounts due according to the contractual terms of a debt security will not be collected, an other than temporary impairment is considered to have occurred. 12 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Company uses derivatives such as interest rate swaps, caps and floors, and options as part of its overall interest rate risk management strategy for certain life insurance and annuity products. As the Company only uses derivatives for hedging purposes, the Company values all derivative instruments on a consistent basis with the hedged item. Upon termination, gains and losses on those instruments are included in the carrying values of the underlying hedged items and are amortized over the remaining lives of the hedged items as adjustments to investment income or benefits from the hedged items. Any unamortized gains or losses are recognized when the underlying hedged items are sold. Interest rate swap contracts are used to convert the interest rate characteristics (fixed or variable) of certain investments to match those of the related insurance liabilities that the investments are supporting. The net interest effect of such swap transactions is reported as an adjustment of interest income from the hedged items as incurred. Interest rate caps and floors are used to limit the effects of changing interest rates on yields of variable rate or short-term assets or liabilities. The initial cost of any such agreement is amortized to net investment income over the life of the agreement. Periodic payments that are receivable as a result of the agreements are accrued as an adjustment of interest income or benefits from the hedged items. The derivatives are reported in a manner that is consistent with the hedged asset or liability. All derivatives are reported at amortized cost. Upon termination of a derivative that qualified for hedge accounting, the gain or loss is deferred in IMR or adjusts the basis of the hedged item. Mortgage loans are reported at amortized cost, less allowance for impairments. Contract loans are reported at unpaid principal balances. Land is reported at cost. Real estate is reported at the lower of depreciated cost or fair value. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the properties. For reverse repurchase agreements, Company policies require a minimum of 95% of the fair value of securities purchased under reverse repurchase agreements to be maintained as collateral. Cash collateral received is invested in short-term investments and the offsetting collateral liability is included in miscellaneous liabilities. 13 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reverse dollar repurchase agreements are accounted for as collateral borrowings, where the amount borrowed is equal to the sales price of the underlying securities. The Company engages in securities lending whereby certain domestic bonds from its portfolio are loaned to other institutions for short periods of time. Collateral, primarily cash, which is in excess of the market value of the loaned securities, is deposited by the borrower with a lending agent, and retained and invested by the lending agent to generate additional income for the Company. The Company does not have access to the collateral. The Company's policy requires a minimum of 102% of the fair value of securities loaned to be maintained as collateral. The market value of the loaned securities is monitored on a daily basis with additional collateral obtained or refunded as the market value fluctuates. Short-term investments are reported at amortized cost. Short-term investments include investments with maturities of less than one year at the date of acquisition. Partnership interests, which are included in other invested assets, are reported at the underlying audited GAAP equity of the investee. Residual collateralized mortgage obligations, which are included in other invested assets, are reported at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Realized capital gains and losses are determined using the specific identification method. Cash on hand includes cash equivalents. Cash equivalents are short-term investments that are both readily convertible to cash and have an original maturity date of three months or less. Short-term investments are carried at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Aggregate Reserve for Life Policies and Contracts Life, annuity, and accident and health reserves are developed by actuarial methods and are determined based on published tables using statutorily specified interest rates and valuation methods that will provide, in the aggregate, reserves that are greater than or equal to the minimum or guaranteed policy cash value or the amounts required by law. Interest rates range from 3.00% to 8.75%. The Company waives the deduction of deferred fractional premiums upon the death of the insured. It is the Company's practice to return a pro rata portion of any premium paid beyond the policy month of death, although it is not contractually required to do so for certain issues. 14 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The methods used in valuation of substandard policies are as follows: For life, endowment and term policies issued substandard, the standard reserve during the premium-paying period is increased by 50% of the gross annual extra premium. Standard reserves are held on Paid-Up Limited Pay contracts. For reinsurance accepted with table rating, the reserve established is a multiple of the standard reserve corresponding to the table rating. For reinsurance with flat extra premiums, the standard reserve is increased by 50% of the flat extra. The tabular interest has been determined from the basic data for the calculation of policy reserves for all direct ordinary life insurance and for the portion of group life insurance classified as group Section 79. The tabular interest of funds not involving life contingencies is calculated as the current year reserves, plus payments, less prior year reserves, less funds added. Reinsurance Reinsurance premiums, commissions, expense reimbursements, and reserves related to reinsured business are accounted for on bases consistent with those used in accounting for the original policies issued and the terms of the reinsurance contracts. Reserves are based on the terms of the reinsurance contract and are consistent with the risks assumed. Premiums and benefits ceded to other companies have been reported as a reduction of premium revenue and benefits expense. Amounts applicable to reinsurance ceded for reserves and unpaid claim liabilities have been reported as reductions of these items, and expense allowances received in connection with reinsurance ceded have been reflected in operations. Nonadmitted Assets Nonadmitted assets are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Deferred federal income taxes $ 55,372 $ 54,496 Agents' debit balances 603 519 Deferred and uncollected premium 35 119 Other 751 885 ---------------- ---------------- Total nonadmitted assets $ 56,761 $ 56,019 ================ ================ 15 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Changes in nonadmitted assets are generally reported directly in unassigned surplus as an increase or decrease in nonadmitted assets. Changes in nonadmitted invested assets are reported directly in unassigned surplus as a component of the change in unrealized capital gains or losses. Claims and Claims Adjustment Expenses Claims expenses represent the estimated ultimate net cost of all reported and unreported claims incurred through December 31, 2003. The Company does not discount claims and claims adjustment expense reserves. Such estimates are based on actuarial projections applied to historical claims payment data. Such liabilities are considered to be reasonable and adequate to discharge the Company's obligations for claims incurred but unpaid as of December 31, 2003. Cash Flow Information Cash and short-term investments include cash on hand, demand deposits and short-term fixed maturity instruments with a maturity of less than one year at date of acquisition. The Company borrowed $1,342,670,000 and repaid $1,342,670,000 in 2003 and borrowed $1,021,035,000 and repaid $1,021,035,000 in 2002. These borrowings were on a short-term basis, at an interest rate that approximated current money market rates and exclude borrowings from reverse dollar repurchase transactions. Interest paid on borrowed money was $140,000 and $109,000 during 2003 and 2002, respectively. Reclassifications Certain prior year amounts in the Company's statutory basis financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2003 financial statement presentation. 2. Permitted Statutory Basis Accounting Practices The financial statements of the Company are presented on the basis of accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Oklahoma Insurance Department. The Oklahoma Insurance Department recognizes only statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the State of Oklahoma for determining and reporting the financial condition and results of operations of an insurance company for determining its solvency under the Oklahoma Insurance Laws. The NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual has been adopted as a component of prescribed or permitted practices by the state of Oklahoma. The Commissioner of Insurance has the right to permit other specific practices that deviate from prescribed practices. The Company is required to identify those significant accounting practices that are permitted, and obtain written approval of the practices from the Oklahoma Insurance Department. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had no such permitted accounting practices. 16 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3. Investments The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturities and equity securities are as follows: Gross Gross Amortized Unrealized Unrealized Fair Cost Gains Losses Value ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- (In Thousands) At December 31, 2003: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies $ 59,838 $ 363 $ 27 $ 60,174 States, municipalities, and political subdivisions 11,000 - 886 10,114 Foreign government 292,529 10,584 2,314 300,799 Public utilities securities 468,119 31,654 2,243 497,530 Corporate securities 3,263,827 157,736 26,919 3,394,644 Mortgage-backed securities 1,447,813 40,896 40,369 1,448,340 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 249,580 13,801 429 262,952 Other structured securities 443,419 5,181 16,690 431,910 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total fixed maturities 6,236,125 260,215 89,877 6,406,463 Preferred stocks 1,273 - - 1,273 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total equity securities 1,273 - - 1,273 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total $ 6,237,398 $ 260,215 $ 89,877 $ 6,407,736 ============= ============ ============ ============= At December 31, 2002: U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies $ 285,347 $ 4,998 $ 36 $ 290,309 Foreign government 120,649 4,200 2,385 122,464 Public utilities securities 270,390 14,526 4,008 280,908 Corporate securities 3,244,826 182,420 34,973 3,392,273 Mortgage-backed securities 1,668,901 90,300 46,006 1,713,195 Other structured securities 320,274 9,786 28,080 301,980 Commerical mortgage-backed securities 217,028 18,254 76 235,206 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total fixed maturities 6,127,415 324,484 115,564 6,336,335 Preferred stocks 1,088 - - 1,088 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total equity securities 1,088 - - 1,088 ------------- ------------ ------------ ------------- Total $ 6,128,503 $ 324,484 $ 115,564 $ 6,337,423 ============= ============ ============ ============= 17 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As of December 31, 2003, the aggregate market values of debt securities with unrealized losses and the time period that cost exceeded market value are as follows: More than 6 Less than 6 months and less More than 12 months below that 12 months months below cost below cost cost Total ----------------- ------------------ ----------------- ------------------ (In Thousands) Fair value $ 912,922 $ 781,315 $ 99,880 $ 1,794,117 Unrealized loss 13,888 40,720 35,269 89,877 Of the unrealized losses more than 6 months and less than 12 months in duration of $40,720,000, there were $8,509,000 in unrealized losses that are primarily related to interest rate movement or spread widening for other than credit-related reasons. For these securities business and operating fundamentals are performing as expected. The remaining unrealized losses of $32,211,000 as of December 31, 2003 included the following significant items: $18,193,000 of unrealized losses related to mortgage-backed and structured securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by SSAP 43 Loan-backed and Structured Securities. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the fair value was $257,131,000. $3,265,000 of unrealized losses related to the energy/utility industry, for which the fair value was $66,629,000. During 2003, the energy sector recovered due to a gradually improving economic picture and the lack of any material accounting irregularities similar to those experienced in the prior two years. Current analysis indicates that the debt will be serviced in accordance with the contractual terms. $8,488,000 of unrealized losses related to non-domestic issues, with no unrealized loss exposure per country in excess of $2,036,000 for which the fair value was $194,288,000. Credit exposures are primarily in the construction industry in Italy. The remaining unrealized losses totaling $2,265,000 related to a fair value of $31,760,000. Of the unrealized losses more than 12 months in duration of $35,269,000, there were $449,000 in unrealized losses that are primarily related to interest rate movement or spread widening for other than credit-related reasons. Business and operating fundamentals are performing as expected. The remaining losses of $34,820,000 as of December 31, 2003 included the following significant items: 18 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $32,683,000 of unrealized losses related to mortgage-backed and structured securities reviewed for impairment under the guidance prescribed by SSAP 43 Loan-backed and Structured Securities. This category includes U.S. government-backed securities, principal protected securities and structured securities which did not have an adverse change in cash flows for which the fair value was $81,284,000. $1,453,000 of unrealized losses related to the energy/utility industry, for which the fair value was $9,278,000. During 2003, the energy sector recovered due to a gradually improving economic picture and the lack of any material accounting irregularities similar to those experienced in the prior two years. Current analysis indicates that the debt will be serviced in accordance with the contractual terms. $679,000 of unrealized losses related to the airline industries, for which the fair value was $4,075,000. During 2003, the airline industry continued to suffer from decreased passenger volumes offset by a gradually improving economy. The majority of the airline investments are comprised of Enhanced Equipment Trust Certificates ("EETC"). Current analysis indicates the specific collateral backing the EETC investments is predominantly represented by newer models that are expected to be retained as individual airlines reduce their fleets. The remaining unrealized losses totaling $5,000 relate to a fair value of $245,000. The amortized cost and fair value of investments in bonds at December 31, 2003, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Amortized Fair Cost Value -------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Maturity: Due in 1 year or less $ 57,631 $ 58,607 Due after 1 year through 5 years 1,320,691 1,382,661 Due after 5 years through 10 years 1,804,228 1,882,506 Due after 10 years 912,763 939,487 -------------- --------------- 4,095,313 4,263,261 Mortgage-backed securities 1,447,813 1,448,340 Commercial mortgage-backed securities 249,580 262,952 Other structured securities 443,419 431,910 -------------- --------------- Total $ 6,236,125 $ 6,406,463 ============== =============== 19 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- At December 31, 2003, investments in certificates of deposit and bonds, with an admitted asset value of $3,310,000, were on deposit with state insurance departments to satisfy regulatory requirements. Reconciliation of bonds from amortized cost to carrying value is as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Amortized cost $ 6,236,125 $ 6,127,415 Less nonadmitted bonds 4,164 10,920 ---------------- ---------------- Carrying value $ 6,231,961 $ 6,116,495 ================ ================ Proceeds from the sales of investments in bonds and other fixed maturity interest securities were $4,610,345,000 and $5,811,132,000 in 2003 and 2002, respectively. Gross gains of $107,661,000 and $125,255,000 and gross losses of $25,138,000 and $103,039,000 during 2003 and 2002, respectively, were realized on those sales. A portion of the gains realized in 2003 and 2002 has been deferred to future periods in the interest maintenance reserve. Major categories of net investment income are summarized as follows: Year ended December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Income: Bonds $ 404,578 $ 459,813 Mortgage loans 112,905 128,230 Contract loans 1,522 1,091 Company-occupied property 244 376 Other (34,857) (26,548) ---------------- ---------------- Total investment income 484,392 562,962 Investment expenses (32,114) (26,756) ---------------- ---------------- Net investment income $ 452,278 $ 536,206 ================ ================ As part of its overall investment strategy, the Company has entered into agreements to purchase securities as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Investment purchase commitments $ 90,956 $ 87,963 20 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Company entered into reverse dollar repurchase transactions to increase its return on investments and improve liquidity. Reverse dollar repurchases involve a sale of securities and an agreement to repurchase substantially the same securities as those sold. The reverse dollar repurchases are accounted for as short term collateralized financing and the repurchase obligation is reported in borrowed money. The repurchase obligation totaled $286,886,000 and $173,448,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The securities underlying these agreements are mortgage-backed securities with a book value of $285,832,000 and $173,246,000 and fair value of $288,285,000 and $176,504,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The securities have a weighted average coupon rate of 5.8% and have maturities ranging from December 2018 through December 2033. The primary risk associated with short-term collateralized borrowings is that the counterparty may be unable to perform under the terms of the contract. The Company's exposure is limited to the excess of the net replacement cost of the securities over the value of the short-term investments, which was not material at December 31, 2003. The Company believes the counterparties to the reverse dollar repurchase agreements are financially responsible and that the counterparty risk is minimal. The Company participates in reverse repurchase transactions. Such transactions include the sale of corporate securities to a major securities dealer and a simultaneous agreement to repurchase the same security in the near term. The proceeds are invested in new securities of intermediate durations. As of December 31, 2003, there were no outstanding amounts on these agreements. The securities underlying these agreements are mortgage-backed securities with a book value of $11,394,000 and fair value of $11,520,000 at December 31, 2002. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had loaned securities (which are reflected as invested assets on the balance sheet) with a market value of approximately $22,330,000 and $32,662,000, respectively. The maximum and minimum lending rates for long-term mortgage loans during 2003 were 6.07% and 3.40%. Fire insurance is required on all properties covered by mortgage loans and must at least equal the excess of the loan over the maximum loan which would be permitted by law on the land without the buildings. The maximum percentage of any loan to the value of collateral at the time of the loan, exclusive of insured or guaranteed or purchase money mortgages, was 74.7% on commercial properties. As of December 31, 2003, the Company held no mortgages with interest more than 180 days overdue. Total interest due, as of December 31, 2003 is $9,000. In the course of the Company's asset management, securities are sold and reacquired within 30 days of the sale date to enhance the Company's return on the investment portfolio or to manage interest rate risk. 21 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The details by NAIC designation 3 or below of securities sold during 2003 and reacquired within 30 days of the sale date are: Cost of Number of Securities Transactions Book Value Repurchased Gain --------------- --------------- --------------- --------------- (In Thousands) NAIC 3 2 $ 4,730 $ 6,948 $ 1,095 4. Derivative Financial Instruments Held for Purposes Other than Trading The Company enters into derivatives such as swaps caps and floors, to reduce and manage risks, which include the risk of a change in the value, yield, price, cash flows, exchange rates or quantity of, or a degree of exposure with respect to, assets, liabilities, or future cash flows, which the Company has acquired or incurred. Hedge accounting practices are supported by cash flow matching, scenario testing and duration matching. The Company uses interest rate swaps to reduce market risks from changes in interest rates and to alter interest rate exposure arising from mismatches between assets and liabilities. Interest rate swap agreements generally involve the exchange of fixed and floating interest payments over the life of the agreement without an exchange of the underlying principal amount. Interest rate cap and interest rate floor agreements owned entitle the Company to receive payments to the extent reference interest rates exceed or fall below strike levels in the contracts based on the notional amounts. Premiums paid for the purchase of interest rate contracts are included in other invested assets and are being amortized to interest expense over the remaining terms of the contracts or in a manner consistent with the financial instruments being hedged. Amounts paid or received, if any, from such contracts are included in interest expense or income. Accrued amounts payable to or receivable from counterparties are included in other liabilities or other invested assets. Gains or losses realized as a result of early terminations of interest rate contracts are amortized to investment income over the remaining term of the items being hedged to the extent the hedge is considered to be effective; otherwise, they are recognized upon termination. 22 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interest rate contracts that are matched or otherwise designated to be associated with other financial instruments are recorded at fair value if the related financial instruments mature, are sold, or are otherwise terminated, or if the interest rate contracts cease to be effective hedges. Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded as investment income. The Company manages the potential credit exposure from interest rate contracts through careful evaluation of the counterparties' credit standing, collateral agreements, and master netting agreements. The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties on interest rate contracts; however, the Company does not anticipate nonperformance by any of these counterparties. The amount of such exposure is generally the unrealized gains in such contracts. The table below summarizes the Company's interest rate contracts included in other invested assets at December 31, 2003 and 2002: Notional Carrying Fair Amount Value Value --------------- -------------- --------------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Swaps $ 828,066 $ - $ (124,226) Caps and floors 441,243 1,554 7 --------------- -------------- --------------- Total derivatives $ 1,269,309 $ 1,554 $ (124,219) =============== ============== =============== December 31, 2002 Swaps $ 1,146,498 $ - $ (138,473) Caps and floors 548,465 3,393 1,296 --------------- -------------- --------------- Total derivatives $ 1,694,963 $ 3,393 $ (137,177) =============== ============== =============== 5. Concentrations of Credit Risk The Company held less-than-investment-grade bonds with an aggregate book value of $479,259,000 and $435,061,000 and with an aggregate market value of $497,620,000 and $413,437,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. These holdings amounted to 7.7% of the Company's investments in bonds and 6.1% of total admitted assets at December 31, 2003. The holdings of less-than-investment-grade bonds are widely diversified and of satisfactory quality based on the Company's investment policies and credit standards. The Company held unrated bonds of $159,686,000 and $204,268,000 with an aggregate NAIC market value of $161,201,000 and $208,297,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The carrying value of these holdings amounted to 2.0% of the Company's investment in bonds and 2.0% of the Company's total admitted assets at December 31, 2003. 23 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- At December 31, 2003, the Company's commercial mortgages involved a concentration of properties located in California (14.06%) and Pennsylvania (9.05%). The remaining commercial mortgages relate to properties located in 37 other states. The portfolio is well diversified; covering many different types of income-producing properties on which the Company has first mortgage liens. The maximum mortgage outstanding on any individual property is $30,000,000. 6. Annuity Reserves At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company's annuity reserves, including those held in deposit fund liabilities that are subject to discretionary withdrawal with adjustment, subject to discretionary withdrawal without adjustment, and not subject to discretionary withdrawal provisions are summarized as follows: Amount Percent ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) December 31, 2003 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment): With market value adjustment $ 4,536,520 54.0 % At book value less surrender charge of 5% or more 1,995,432 23.7 ---------------- -------------- Subtotal $ 6,531,952 77.7 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without adjustment): At book value with minimal or no charge or adjustment 1,258,530 15.0 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal 614,236 7.3 ---------------- -------------- Total annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities before reinsurance $ 8,404,718 100.0 % ============== Less reinsurance ceded 1,346,600 ---------------- Net annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities $ 7,058,118 ================ December 31, 2002 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment): With market value adjustment $ 4,447,295 56.2 % At book value less surrender charge of 5% or more 1,635,038 20.6 ---------------- -------------- Subtotal 6,082,333 76.8 Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without adjustment): At book value with minimal or no charge or adjustment 1,194,281 15.1 Not subject to discretionary withdrawal 641,496 8.1 ---------------- -------------- Total annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities before reinsurance $ 7,918,110 100.0 % ============== Less reinsurance ceded 895,734 ---------------- Net annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities $ 7,022,376 ================ 24 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7. Reinsurance The Company is involved in both ceded and assumed reinsurance with other companies for the purpose of diversifying risk and limiting exposure on larger risks. To the extent that the assuming companies become unable to meet their obligations under these treaties, the Company remains contingently liable to its policyholders for the portion reinsured. To minimize its exposure to significant losses from retrocessionaire insolvencies, the Company evaluates the financial condition of the retrocessionaire and monitors concentrations of credit risk. Assumed premiums amounted to $7,000 and $136,400,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The Company's ceded reinsurance arrangements reduced certain items in the accompanying financial statements by the following amounts: December 31 2003 2002 -------------- --------------- (In Thousands) Premiums $ 561,792 $ 260,544 Benefits paid or provided 13,168 9,447 Policy and contract liabilities at year end 1,347,473 896,762 8. Federal Income Taxes The Company joins in filing a consolidated federal income tax return with its parent, Equitable, and other affiliates. The method of tax allocation is governed by a written tax sharing agreement. The tax sharing agreement provides that each member of the consolidated return shall reimburse Equitable for its respective share of the consolidated federal income tax liability and shall receive a benefit for its losses at the statutory rate. The components of the net deferred tax asset (liability) are as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Total deferred tax assets $ 75,954 $ 70,328 Total deferred tax liabilities (2,107) (231) ---------------- ---------------- Net deferred tax asset 73,847 70,097 Deferred tax asset nonadmitted (55,372) (54,496) ---------------- ---------------- Net admitted deferred tax asset $ 18,475 $ 15,601 ================ ================ (Increase) decrease in nonadmitted asset $ (876) $ 1,337 ================ ================ 25 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Current income taxes incurred consist of the following major components: Year ended December 31 2003 2002 --------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Federal tax (benefit) expense on operations $ (27,668) $ 41,015 Federal tax expense (benefit) on capital gains 18,494 (6,049) --------------- ---------------- Total current tax (benefit) expense incurred $ (9,174) $ 34,966 =============== ================ The main components of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ---------------- ---------------- (In Thousands) Deferred tax assets resulting from book/tax differences in: Deferred acquisition costs $ 24,803 $ 23,431 Insurance reserves 10,751 8,423 Investments 29,808 32,290 Guaranty assessments 4,348 4,339 Unrealized loss on investments 5,346 499 Other 898 1,346 ---------------- ---------------- Total deferred tax assets 75,954 70,328 Deferred tax assets nonadmitted (55,372) (54,496) ---------------- ---------------- Admitted deferred tax assets 20,582 15,832 ---------------- ---------------- Deferred tax liabilities resulting from book/tax differences in: Due and deferred premiums $ 150 231 Investments 1,951 - Other 6 - ---------------- ---------------- Total deferred tax liabilities 2,107 231 ---------------- ---------------- Net admitted deferred tax asset $ 18,475 $ 15,601 ================ ================ 26 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The change in net deferred income taxes is comprised of the following: December 31 2003 2002 Change -------------- -------------- -------------- (In Thousands) Total deferred tax assets $ 75,954 $ 70,328 $ 5,626 Total deferred tax liabilities 2,107 231 1,876 -------------- -------------- -------------- Net deferred tax asset $ 73,847 $ 70,097 $ 3,750 ============== ============== Remove current year change in unrealized gains (1,538) -------------- Change in net deferred income tax 2,212 Remove other items in surplus: Current year change in non-admitted assets 44 Other (3,310) -------------- Change in deferred taxes for rate reconciliation $ (1,054) ============== The provision for federal income taxes incurred and change in deferred taxes is different from that which would be obtained by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to income (including capital items) before income taxes. The significant items causing this difference are: Year Ended December 31, 2003 ----------------- (In Thousands) Ordinary loss $ (42,829) Capital gains 9,786 ------------------ Total pre-tax book loss (33,043) ================== Provision (benefit) computed at statutory rate (11,565) Refinement of deferred tax balances 1,116 Interest maintenance reserve 2,326 Other 2 ------------------ Total $ (8,121) ================== Federal income tax incurred $ (9,175) Change in net deferred income tax 1,054 ------------------ Total statutory income tax benefit $ (8,121) ================== There are no federal income taxes incurred that will be available for recoupment in the event of future net losses for 2003 and 2002. The Company had receivables of $2,285,000 and $6,562,000 at December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, for federal income taxes under the intercompany tax sharing agreement 27 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9. Capital and Surplus Under Oklahoma insurance regulations, the Company is required to maintain a minimum total capital and surplus of $750,000. Additionally, the amount of dividends that can be paid by the Company to its stockholder without prior approval of the Oklahoma Insurance Department is limited to the greater of 10% of statutory surplus or the statutory net gain from operations. Life and health insurance companies are subject to certain Risk-Based Capital ("RBC") requirements as specified by the NAIC. Under those requirements, the amount of capital and surplus maintained by a life and health insurance company is to be determined based on the various risk factors related to it. At December 31, 2003, the Company meets the RBC requirements. 10. Fair Values of Financial Instruments Life insurance liabilities that contain mortality risk and all nonfinancial instruments have been excluded from the disclosure requirements. However, the fair values of liabilities under all insurance contracts are taken into consideration in the Company's overall management of interest rate risk, such that the Company's exposure to changing interest rates is minimized through the matching of investment maturities with amounts due under insurance contracts. The carrying amounts and fair values of the Company's financial instruments are summarized as follows: December 31 2003 2002 ----------------------------- ------------------------------ Carrying Fair Carrying Fair Amount Value Amount Value ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- (In Thousands) Assets: Bonds $ 6,231,961 $ 6,406,763 $ 6,116,495 $ 6,336,335 Preferred stocks 1,273 1,273 1,088 1,088 Mortgage loans 1,471,607 1,576,183 1,483,855 1,632,720 Contract loans 32,247 32,247 32,454 32,454 Derivative securities 1,554 (124,219) 3,393 (137,177) Short-term investments 16,651 16,651 5,650 5,650 Cash 11,088 11,088 3,466 3,466 Receivable for securities 341 341 2,873 2,873 Liabilities: Individual and group annuities 6,833,372 6,645,174 6,775,875 6,621,753 Deposit type contract 224,767 235,291 246,501 258,945 The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating the fair value disclosures for financial instruments in the accompanying financial statements and notes thereto: 28 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cash and short-term investments: The carrying amounts reported in the accompanying balance sheets for these financial instruments approximate their fair values. Fixed maturities: The fair values for bonds and preferred stocks reported herein are based on quoted market prices, where available. For securities not actively traded, fair values are estimated using values obtained from independent pricing services or, in the case of private placements, collateralized mortgage obligations and other mortgage derivative investments, are estimated by discounting the expected future cash flows. The discount rates used vary as a function of factors such as yield, credit quality, and maturity, which fall within a range between 2% and 12% over the total portfolio. Fair values determined on this basis can differ from values published by the SVO. Market value as determined by the SVO as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 is $6,263,837,000 and $6,154,770,000, respectively. Mortgage loans: Estimated market values for commercial real estate loans were generated using a discounted cash flow approach. Loans in good standing are discounted using interest rates determined by U.S. Treasury yields on December 31 and spreads applied on new loans with similar characteristics. The amortizing features of all loans are incorporated in the valuation. Where data on option features is available, option values are determined using a binomial valuation method, and are incorporated into the mortgage valuation. Restructured loans are valued in the same manner; however, these loans were discounted at a greater spread to reflect increased risk. All residential loans are valued at their outstanding principal balances, which approximate their fair values. Derivative financial instruments: Fair values for on-balance-sheet derivative financial instruments (caps and floors) and off-balance-sheet derivative financial instruments (swaps) are based on broker/dealer valuations or on internal discounted cash flow pricing models taking into account current cash flow assumptions and the counterparties' credit standing. Other investment-type insurance contracts: The fair values of the Company's deferred annuity contracts are estimated based on the cash surrender values. The carrying values of other policyholder liabilities, including immediate annuities, dividend accumulations, supplementary contracts without life contingencies, and premium deposits, approximate their fair values. The carrying value of all other financial instruments approximates their fair value. 1. 29 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11. Commitments and Contingencies The Company is a party to threatened or pending lawsuits arising from the normal conduct of business. Due to the climate in insurance and business litigation, suits against the Company sometimes include claims for substantial compensatory, consequential or punitive damages and other types of relief. Moreover, certain claims are asserted as class actions, purporting to represent a group of similarly situated individuals. While it is not possible to forecast the outcome of pending lawsuits, in light of existing insurance, reinsurance and established reserves, it is the opinion of management that the disposition of such lawsuits will not have a materially adverse effect on the Company's operations or financial position. The Company has committed to provide additional capital contributions of $31,599,000 in partnership investments at December 31, 2003. 12. Financing Agreements The Company maintains a revolving loan agreement with SunTrust Bank, Atlanta (the "Bank"). Under this agreement, which expires July 30, 2004, the Company can borrow up to $75,000,000 from the Bank. Interest on any borrowing accrues at an annual rate equal to: the cost of funds for the Bank for the period applicable for the advance plus 0.225%, or a rate quoted by the Bank to the Company for the borrowing. Under this agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $9,000 and $20,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had no amounts payable to the Bank. The Company also maintains a revolving loan agreement with Bank of New York, New York (the "BONY"). Under this agreement, the Company can borrow up to $100,000,000 from BONY. Interest on any of the Company borrowing accrues at an annual rate equal to: the cost of funds for BONY for the period applicable for the advance plus .35% or a rate quoted by BONY to the Company for the borrowing. Under this agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $4,000 and $31,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. At December 31, 2003 and 2002, the Company had no amounts payable to BONY. 13. Related Party Transactions Affiliates Management and service contracts and all cost sharing arrangements with other affiliated ING U.S. life insurance companies are allocated among companies in accordance with normal, generally accepted expense and cost allocation methods. 31 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Company maintains a reciprocal loan agreement with ING AIH to facilitate the handling of unusual and/or unanticipated short-term cash requirements. Under this agreement, which expires April 1, 2007, the companies can borrow up to $95,800,000 from one another. Interest on any Company borrowings is charged at the rate of ING AIH's cost of funds for the interest period plus 0.15%. Interest on any ING AIH borrowings is charged at a rate based on the prevailing interest rate of U.S. commercial paper available for purchase with a similar duration. Under this agreement, the Company incurred interest expense of $125,000 and interest income of $275,000 for the year ended December 31, 2003. At December 31, 2003, the Company had no amounts payable to ING AIH and $16,400,000 receivable from ING AIH. Investment Management: The Company has entered into an investment advisory agreement and an administrative services agreement with ING Investment Management, LLC ("IIM") under which IIM provides the Company with investment management and asset liability management services. Total fees under the agreement were approximately $25,272,000 and $19,698,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Inter-insurer Services Agreement: The Company has entered into a services agreement with certain of its affiliated insurance companies in the United States ("affiliated insurers") whereby the affiliated insurers provide certain administrative, management, professional, advisory, consulting and other services to each other. Net amounts received under these agreements were $30,727,000 and $31,437,000 for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Tax Sharing Agreements: The Company has entered into federal tax sharing agreements with members of an affiliated group as defined in Section 1504 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The agreement provides for the manner of calculation and the amounts/timing of the payments between the parties as well as other related matters in connection with the filing of consolidated federal income tax returns. The Company has also entered into a state tax sharing agreement with ING AIH and each of the specific subsidiaries that are parties to the agreement. The state tax agreement applies to situations in which ING AIH and all or some of the subsidiaries join in the filing of a state or local franchise, income tax or other tax return on a consolidated, combined or unitary basis. Services Agreement with ING Financial Advisors, LLC: The Company has entered into a services agreement with Services Agreement with ING Financial Advisors, LLC ("ING FA") to provide certain administrative, management, professional advisory, consulting and other services to the Company for the benefit of its customers. Charges for these services are to be determined in accordance with fair and reasonable standards with neither party realizing a profit nor incurring a loss as a result of the services provided to the Company. The Company will reimburse ING FA for direct and indirect costs incurred on behalf of the Company. 32 USG ANNUITY & LIFE COMPANY Notes to Financial Statements - Statutory Policies - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Assets and liabilities along with related revenues and expenses recorded as a result of transactions and agreements with affiliates may not be the same as those recorded if the Company was not a wholly-owned subsidiary of its parent. 14. Guaranty Fund Assessments Insurance companies are assessed the costs of funding the insolvencies of other insurance companies by the various state guaranty associations, generally based on the amount of premiums companies collect in that state. The Company accrues the cost of future guaranty fund assessments based on estimates of insurance company insolvencies provided by the National Organization of Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Associations ("NOLHGA") and the amount of premiums written in each state. The Company has estimated this liability to be $12,422,000 and $12,397,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively and has recorded a reserve. The Company has also recorded an asset of $34,000 and $2,451,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, for future credits to premium taxes for assessments already paid. 15. Subsequent Events Effective January 1, 2004, the Company was a party to a merger with its parent, Equitable, and two other affiliated companies, United Life and Annuity Insurance Company ("ULA") and Golden American Life Insurance Company ("Golden"). Golden requested that the Delaware Insurance Department approve the redomestication of Golden from Delaware to Iowa effective January 1, 2004. Equitable, ULA, and the Company requested the Iowa Department of Insurance (for Equitable and ULA) and the Oklahoma Insurance Department (for the Company) approve the merger of the affiliated life insurance company operations of Equitable, ULA, Golden, and the Company with Golden being the survivor. The sequence of events, effective January 1, 2004, was as follows: redomestication of Golden to Iowa, merger of the four affiliated insurers with Golden being the survivor, and the renaming of Golden to ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company. The Delaware Insurance Department provided a "no objection letter" for the redomestication of Golden to Iowa on August 25, 2003. The Iowa Department of Insurance approved the merger on July 21, 2003 and the Oklahoma Insurance Department approved it on August 11, 2003. 33 PART II INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS ITEM 14. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION Not Applicable ITEM 15. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company (ING USA) shall indemnify (including therein the prepayment of expenses) any person who is or was a director, officer or employee, or who is or was serving at the request of ING USA as a director, officer or employee of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise for expenses (including attorney's fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him with respect to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceedings against him by reason of the fact that he is or was such a director, officer or employee to the extent and in the manner permitted by law. ING USA may also, to the extent permitted by law, indemnify any other person who is or was serving ING USA in any capacity. The Board of Directors shall have the power and authority to determine who may be indemnified under this paragraph and to what extent (not to exceed the extent provided in the above paragraph) any such person may be indemnified. ING Groep N.V. maintains an umbrella insurance policy with an international insurer. The policy covers ING Groep N.V. and any company in which ING Groep N.V. has an ownership control of over 50%. This would encompass the principal underwriter as well as the depositor. The policy provides for the following types of coverage; errors and ommissions, directors and officers, employment practices, fiduciary and fidelity. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant, as provided above or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification by the Depositor is against public policy, as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933, and therefore may be unenforceable. In the event that a claim of such indemnification (except insofar as it provides for the payment by the Depositor of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted against the Depositor by such director, officer or controlling person and the SEC is still of the same opinion, the Depositor or 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 of whether such indemnification by the Depositor is against public policy as expressed by the Securities Act of 1933 and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue. ITEM 16. EXHIBITS 3(a) Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, dated (01/01/04). (5) (b) Amended and Restated By-Laws of ING USA annuity and Life Insurance Company, dated (01/01/04). (5) (c) Resolution of Board of Directors for Powers of Attorney. (04/23/99)(6) (d) Articles of Merger and Agreement and Plan of Merger of USGALC, ULAIC, ELICI into GALIC and renamed ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company, dated (06/25/03). (5) 4 Instruments Defining the Rights of Security Holders: (a) Single Premium Deferred Modified Guaranteed Annuity Contract. (1) (b) Single Premium Deferred Modified Guaranteed Annuity Master Contract. (2) (c) Single Premium Deferred Modified Guaranteed Annuity Certificate. (2) (d) Individual Retirement Annuity Rider. (3) (e) Single Premium Deferred Modified Guaranteed Annuity Application. (2) (f) Single Premium Deferred Modified Guaranteed Annuity Enrollment Form. (2) (g) Roth Individual Retirement Annuity Rider. (3) (h) Simple Retirement Account Rider. (3) (i) 403(b) Rider. (4) (j) Company Address and Name Change Endorsement. (5) 5 Opinion and Consent of Kimberly J. Smith 10 Material contracts are listed under Item 14(a)10 in the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 (File Nos. 333-57212, 333-104539, 333-104546, 333-104547, 333-104548), as filed with the Commission on March 29, 2004. Each of the Exhibits so listed is incorporated by reference as indicated in the Form 10-K. 13(a) ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. (b) Unaudited pro forma financial statements for the merged company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. (c) Audited Statutory financials for Equitable Life Insurance Company, United Life and Annuity Insurance Company and USG Annuity & Life Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. 23(a) Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors. (b) Consent of Counsel, incorporated in Item 5 of this Part II, together with the Opinion of Counsel. 24 Powers of Attorney. (7) Exhibits other than those listed above are omitted because they are not required or are not applicable. - ---------------------------------- (1) Incorporated herein by reference to an initial registration statement on Form S-1 for Golden American Life Insurance Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 30, 2000 (File No. 333-40596). (2) Incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-1 for Golden American Life Insurance Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 13, 2000 (File No. 333-40596). (3) Incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to Registration Statement on Form N-4 for Golden American Life Insurance Company Separate Account B filed on April 15, 2003 (File Nos. 033-23351, 811-5626). (4) Incorporated herein by reference to an initial registration statement on Form S-2 for Golden American Life Insurance Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 15, 2003 (File No. 333-104548). (5) Incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to a Registration Statement on Form N-4 for ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company Separate Account B filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 13, 2004 (File Nos. 333-28679, 811-5626). (6) Incorporated by reference to Amendment No. 5 to a Registration Statement for Golden American Life Insurance Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 23, 1999 (File No. 333-28765). (7) Powers of Attorney incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form S-2 of ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company (File No. 333-104456), as filed on April 5, 2004. Item 17. Undertakings - ----------------------- The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes as follows, pursuant to Item 512 of Regulation S-K: (a) Rule 415 offerings: (1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales of the registered securities are being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement: (i) To include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933; (ii) To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement; and (iii)To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material changes to such information in the registration statement. (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering. (h) Request for Acceleration of Effective Date: Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised 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 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULES Not Applicable SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the Registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-2 and has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of West Chester, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on this 8th day of April, 2004. By: ING USA ANNUITY AND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY By: -------------------- Keith Gubbay* President (principle executive officer) By: /s/ Linda E. Senker ------------------------ Linda E. Senker Counsel As required by the Securities Act of 1933, this Amendment to Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities indicated on April 8, 2004. Signature Title - --------- ----- President and Director - -------------------- (principle executive officer) Keith Gubbay* DIRECTORS - ---------------------- David A. Wheat* Chief Financial Officer (principle accounting officer) - ---------------------- Thomas J. McInerney* - ---------------------- Kathleen A. Murphy* - ---------------------- Jacques de Vaucleroy* By: /s/ Linda E. Senker ------------------------ Linda E. Senker Counsel of Depositor *Executed by Linda E. Senker on behalf of those indicated pursuant to Power of Attorney. EXHIBIT INDEX ITEM EXHIBIT PAGE # - ---- ------- ------ 5 Opinion and Consent of Kimberly J. Smith EX-5 13(a) ING USA Annuity and Life Insurance Company Form 10-K * for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. 13(b) Unaudited pro forma financial statements for the ** merged company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. 13(c) Audited Statutory financials for ELIC, ULA and USG *** for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. 23(a) Consent of Independent Auditors EX-23.A 23(b) Consent of Legal Counsel **** - ----------------------------- * See Module No. INGUSA10K123103 ** See Module No. INGUSAPROFORMA *** See Module No. ELI_ULA_USG **** Included in Exhibit 5 above