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Financial Products: Beyond Mayhem: Zombies, Ninjas and Monkeys in Allstate's Online Game Draw Attention to Life Insurance Needs

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 10:00:00 -0500

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You're strolling through the city, minding your own business, when suddenly monkeys drop plants on you…flying ninjas attack…and hordes of zombies block your path to safety.

These are just a few examples of the mayhem you'll face in Allstate's "Life's Unpredictable" online game, which uses play to help people consider their life insurance needs.

"Many people who need life insurance don't purchase it because they think it's complicated or expensive, or they simply don't want to think about death," said Don Civgin, president and chief executive officer of Allstate Financial. "In a brainstorming session, Allstate employees suggested that we develop this game as a fun way to help people think about a serious subject. We also remind players that Allstate can help get you through those unexpected moments not only in a game, but in life."

The "Life's Unpredictable" online game takes your character through a series of levels. The object of the game is to progress as quickly as possible, dodging obstacles such as monkeys, ninjas and zombies to stay healthy and preserve "life points." You also win by collecting tokens or "game points" associated with real-life information, such as various reasons for purchasing life insurance. You'll read thought-provoking facts between each level, including: "In a recent survey, 40 percent of households with children under 18 say they would have immediate trouble meeting everyday expenses if the primary wage earner died." And of course, the game's friendly neighborhood Allstate agent provides you with tools to help you achieve the next level - and is only a mouse-click away for information or a life insurance quote.

To play the game: www.lifesunpredictable.com. For consumer information about life insurance, visit http://www.myallstatefinancial.com/tools-and-resources.aspx. For recent poll data about Americans' financial well-being and preparedness in areas such as life insurance, visit the Allstate Life Tracks Poll news release.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, serving approximately 16 million households through its Allstate, Encompass, Esurance and Answer Financial brand names and Allstate Financial business segment. Allstate branded insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services are offered through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®, and are widely known through the slogan "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®." As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

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Note to editors: Game screen shots may be obtained at www.lifesunpredictable.com.

Contact:

Maryellen Thielen
(847) 402-5600
On Twitter @AllstateNews

Financial Products: Video on Allstate IncomeProtector℠ Annuity Explains Retirement Income Savings Option in Easy-to-Understand Terms

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 15:11:00 -0500

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Some of us are visual learners - we remember things better when we see them in writing. Others are auditory learners - we learn more by hearing an explanation. An Allstate video appealing to both types of learners has attracted new attention to the complex topic of annuities.

"Insurance in general and annuities in particular can be difficult to understand," said Bob Becker, Allstate senior vice president, Allstate Life Insurance Company. "In response, we created a video about our new Allstate IncomeProtector℠ annuity to explain retirement income savings options through visuals and the announcer's step-by-step discussion of our annuity's features in easy-to-understand terms. The video works for both visual and auditory learners. We're enthusiastic about our customers' positive reaction to this approach."

The video, posted online at www.myallstatefinancial.com, begins by pointing out common retirement worries: losing your savings if markets decline, not having a predictable and reliable income stream or even outliving your money in retirement. The video then discusses various aspects of the Allstate IncomeProtector annuity that can address these retirement concerns, including guaranteed lifetime income, principal protection and bonuses under certain circumstances, which vary by state and are offered at the discretion of the company.

"My customers have given the video rave reviews, it's been featured on agent websites and in seminars all over the country, and it's had more than 5,000 views on YouTube in just the past few weeks," said Troy Trahan, an Allstate exclusive financial specialist in Louisiana. "While a six-minute video can't tell you everything you need to know about retirement planning, it's a great way to build your knowledge about the products and features available to help you achieve a more secure future."

For more information on the Allstate IncomeProtector annuity, contact your local Allstate agency. Additional information about retirement planning can be found online at http://www.myallstatefinancial.com/life-tracks/planning-retirement.aspx.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, serving approximately 16 million households through its Allstate, Encompass, Esurance and Answer Financial brand names and Allstate Financial business segment. Allstate branded insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services are offered through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®, and are widely known through the slogan "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

Allstate IncomeProtector℠ annuity is a deferred income fixed indexed annuity contract issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company, Home Office: Northbrook, IL. Allstate IncomeProtector annuity is available in most states with contract series number LU10996 or ICC12-AF9.

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Contact:

Maryellen Thielen
(847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Customized Life Insurance Saves Money

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 09:00:00 -0500

Allstate's True Term(SM) life insurance allows you to tailor features to your needs as you expect them to change over time
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You can customize new cars, smart phones and t-shirts. Why not demand the ability to customize your life insurance?

"Life insurance needs vary with your age, the ages of your children and your financial plans," said Don Civgin, president and chief executive officer of Allstate Financial. "If you can anticipate some of those needs, you no longer need to overbuy life insurance coverage. Allstate can now save you money through a more tailored term life insurance policy."

Allstate's True Term^SM life insurance now enables customers to choose any coverage period from 10 to 30 years. For example, you might end the term in 17 years to coincide with the age you plan to retire. In addition, you can choose up to five optional "layers" of protection, which allows you to expand coverage during the periods you're most likely to need it, and decrease coverage during periods when you have less need for life insurance. For example, you might increase the life insurance amount by $250,000 until after your child graduates from college, resulting in lower premiums than if you had purchased the additional $250,000 in coverage for the entire length of the life insurance term. Only Allstate's True Term life insurance offers the ability to customize both the coverage period and the amount of coverage throughout the term.

To help its customers save money on True Term premiums, Allstate developed an innovative "total coverage pricing" model that is so unique, it has a patent pending. In addition, you may be able to save money by purchasing both auto and life insurance through Allstate. For more information about TrueTerm life insurance, visit www.myallstatefinancial.com/life-insurance/term-life-insurance.aspx.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer, serving approximately 16 million households through its Allstate, Encompass, Esurance and Answer Financial brand names. Widely known by its slogan "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®," Allstate offers insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

Life insurance is issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, Ill.; Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, Neb.; American Heritage Life, Jacksonville, Fla.; and in New York, by Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, N.Y.

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Contact:

Maryellen Thielen
(847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Benefits to Offer Guardian Group PPO Dental Product

Tue, 15 May 2012 09:00:00 -0500

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Allstate Benefits, a leading provider of employee benefits, and The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian), one of America's largest mutual life insurers, today announced an agreement to provide a comprehensive and cost-effective group PPO dental product. Allstate Benefits expects to begin offering DentalGuard®, Guardian's group PPO dental plan, to employers starting in July 2012.

This agreement expands Allstate Benefits' capabilities by providing planholders with access to Guardian's leading dental network of more than 79,000 dentists at over 181,000 locations.

"Allstate Benefits is pleased to team up with Guardian to deliver a new option to planholders that complements our already wide-ranging product portfolio," said Jim Baum, senior vice president, group operations at Allstate Benefits. "Guardian is a name that customers know they can trust, which is important to us."

The agreement covers several plan options, including value plans, which can save employers an average of 15 percent to 20 percent compared to a typical PPO dental plan, and network access plans, for employers that require provider choice. An orthodontia benefit is optional on all plans. The DentalGuard® plan also will provide Guardian's Preventive Advantage, which does not deduct the dollars spent on preventive care services from the annual maximum benefit, providing more insurance against unpredictable, higher-cost dental needs.

"This arrangement gives Allstate Benefits customers access to Guardian's leading dental benefits, efficient claims payment process, and extensive network of dentists, ensuring not only quality of care but the means to get it," said Chris Swanker, Guardian Vice President of Worksite and Specialty Markets.

About Allstate

Allstate Benefits, a leading voluntary benefits insurer, was founded in 1956 as American Heritage Life Insurance Company (American Heritage Life®) in Jacksonville, Fla. It was acquired by Allstate in 1999. Allstate Benefits offers a portfolio of products that include universal life, term life, disability income, cancer, accident, heart and stroke, critical illness, hospital indemnity, vision and dental insurance. For more information, visit www.allstateatwork.com.

About Guardian

A mutual insurer founded in 1860, The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries are committed to protecting individuals, business owners and their employees with life insurance, disability income insurance, dental insurance products, and offer funding vehicles for 401(k) plans, annuities and other financial products. Guardian operates one of the largest dental networks in the United States, and protects more than six million employees and their families at 115,000 companies. The company has approximately 5,000 employees in the United States and a network of over 3,000 financial representatives in more than 80 agencies nationwide. For more information, visit www.guardianlife.com.

Contact:

Maryellen Thielen
(847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Launches New Annuities to Address Retirement Worries, Meet Demand for Income, Protection, Growth and Flexibility

Thu, 03 May 2012 12:33:00 -0500

Allstate Introduces IncomeProtector℠ and Allstate GrowthProtector℠ in 40 States; Planned Rollout to 49 States by Year-End 2012
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After the “Great Recession” and economic uncertainty of recent years, people within five to 15 years of retirement are frankly worried. Baby Boomer Americans age 50 or older who have not yet retired expect to delay retirement, work in retirement, and have a less secure retirement than their parents, according to a recent Allstate-National Journal Heartland Monitor Poll.

Allstate has addressed these concerns by expanding its retirement product suite. Allstate IncomeProtectorSM and Allstate GrowthProtectorSM annuities were launched in 40 states on Monday, April 30. These new fixed indexed annuities are expected to be available in 49 states by year-end 2012.

"Allstate serves 16 million households in the United States and Canada, so we have a clear window into the retirement concerns of our customers as they move through life," said Don Civgin, president and chief executive officer, Allstate Financial. "In response, we designed Allstate IncomeProtector and GrowthProtector to guarantee future lifetime income, protect current assets and provide the flexibility to meet individual and family needs."

Allstate research shows that consumers of all ages worry about having enough money to fund their retirements – which makes minimum guaranteed interest rates very attractive when considering retirement savings vehicles. The Allstate Protector annuities offer a minimum guaranteed interest rate combined with an interest rate linked to a market index, such as the Standard & Poor's 500®. This type of annuity has no downside market risk and higher return potential than many traditional fixed annuities, based on positive changes in the S&P 500 up to a maximum cap.

To more closely match consumers' top-of-mind retirement planning need for either income or savings, Allstate offers a choice of two Protector annuities:

Allstate IncomeProtector is a "deferred income" fixed indexed annuity offering guarantees for retirement income – protecting what consumers have saved, while guaranteeing lifetime income in the future with the flexibility to start taking retirement income when the time is right. Allstate guarantees to double the amount of a customer's first-year purchase payment including bonuses (also known as the income base) less any withdrawals after 10 years, as long as income payments have not begun. All guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of Allstate Life Insurance Company. Furthermore, Allstate guarantees 7 percent annual growth on the income base for 10 years if income payments have not yet begun. The income base is separate from the contract value and is not available as a surrender value or death benefit.
Allstate GrowthProtector is a "flexible premium" fixed indexed annuity offering guarantees for retirement savings – helping consumers' money grow, protecting what they have accumulated while simplifying their ability to save. Another feature of this product is that you can voluntarily increase your premium to accelerate your savings growth – in other words, a "flexible" premium.

Both Allstate Protector annuities have a purchase payment bonus. For as long as the annuity contract is in force, the bonus remains part of your contract value and your IncomeProtector income base. Therefore, it is used to determine your "guaranteed lifetime income benefit," or the income payments you eventually will receive. A bonus is fully vested after 10 years.

Withdrawals of gain or other taxable amounts are subject to current ordinary income taxes and if made prior to age 59-1/2 may be subject to a 10% federal penalty tax. If the contract is tax qualified, generally all withdrawals are treated as distributions of gain.

For more information on Allstate IncomeProtector and GrowthProtector annuities, contact the financial professional at your local Allstate agency. Information about retirement planning can be found online at http://www.myallstatefinancial.com/life-tracks/planning-retirement.aspx.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

Allstate IncomeProtector Annuity is a limited flexible premium deferred indexed annuity contract issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company, Home Office: Northbrook, IL. Allstate IncomeProtector Annuity is available in most states with contract series number LU10996. Riders/Endorsements: LU10998 Annual Point to Point with Low Water Mark, LU10999 Annual Point to Point with Monthly Averaging, LU11000 Monthly Cap Crediting Strategy, LU11001 Purchase Payment Bonus Endorsement, LU11003 Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit Rider, LU11005 Waiver of Charges, LU11021 WOC for LTC or Hospital, LU11022 WOC for Terminal Illness, LU11023 WOC for Unemployment, LU11024 ADL Waiver of Charges.

Allstate GrowthProtector Annuity is a limited flexible premium fixed indexed annuity contract issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company, Home Office: Northbrook, IL. Allstate GrowthProtector Annuity is available in most states with contract series number LU11002. Riders/Endorsements: LU11001 Purchase Payment Bonus Endorsement, LU11005 Waiver of Charges, LU11021 WOC for LTC or Hospital, LU11022 WOC for Terminal Illness, LU11024 ADL Waiver of Charges.

Contact:

Maryellen Thielen
(847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate to Open Full-Service Agent Offices at Auto Dealerships Across the Country

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:05:00 -0600

Customers enjoy 'one-stop-shop' option for comprehensive, affordable insurance
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The next time a consumer buys a car from a dealer, they may be able to insure their new car, home and discuss their insurance protection needs with an Allstate agent before they drive off the lot. Allstate Insurance Company and Allstate Dealer Services announced today that auto dealers have the opportunity to open full-service Allstate agencies inside their dealerships.

"Allstate's dealer program seamlessly integrates the purchase and service of a vehicle with the opportunity to price your auto insurance with Allstate and work with a licensed insurance professional on all your coverage needs in a way that's never been done before," said Mark LaNeve, Allstate senior executive vice president and chief marketing officer. "Our agency owners are at the heart of Allstate's business and this program allows us to attract new customers at a time and location that's convenient for the customer."

Agency offices will be placed inside the dealership, typically on the showroom floor and operate during regular hours of the dealership. Licensed insurance professionals and a team of support staff employed by the agency owner will be onsite to help customers assess their insurance portfolio and help make sure they have the protection they want. The program combines the power of an Allstate Exclusive Agency, a Good Hands® Network Repair Facility and Allstate Dealer Service products with dealer F&I offerings and the ability to integrate Allstate Benefits into the dealer's employee benefits platform.

"Many times there is a short waiting time between when a customer purchases a car and when they drive off the lot. During this time, the customer can talk with a licensed insurance professional about their insurance needs not only for their new vehicle, but also their home and other protection needs," said Doug Herberger, president of Allstate Dealer Services. "With a continued focus on our partners, we are bringing Allstate's suite of products and services to the consumer and giving auto dealers an opportunity to deepen their relationship with customers."

Allstate and Allstate Dealer Services tested and modified this unique program during the past two years with Allstate agents in 11 dealerships around the country. The pilot revealed that the dealer program delivers the convenience of a one-stop-shop, the comprehensive and affordable coverage and the face-to-face interaction customers want.

"We have been extremely impressed with the Allstate program," states Randall Reed, president and CEO of World Class Automotive Group. His Houston, Texas dealership Plant 45 Ford is a participating member of the pilot program. "The relationship allows us to leverage our product offerings with the strong suite of F&I products and repair network of Allstate which has helped us to increase profitability. The expansion of our relationship with Allstate to include an on-site, full service Allstate insurance agency differentiates us from our competition. And our customers love it."

Dealers interested in learning more about this industry-leading program can visit Allstate Dealer Services at booth #772 at the NADA Conference in Las Vegas, February 3-6, 2012. Dealers can also contact Allstate Dealer Services directly at 904-992-6185 with any program questions.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate's commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

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Contact:

Meghann Dowd
(847) 402-5600
@AllstateNews on Twitter

Financial Products: New on Allstate.com: Click Here to Buy Life Insurance

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:10:00 -0600

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If you believe buying life insurance has to be a hassle, Allstate has news for you - it's now possible to purchase life insurance entirely online.

On November 19, Allstate became one of only a handful of insurance carriers in the United States to offer an online "quote-and-buy" option for a life insurance policy. A customer who views a quote for TrueTermsm term life insurance on allstate.com has the option to click further to fill out a simplified application and purchase the policy, subject to approval by Allstate. Alternatively, the customer can take the application to an Allstate agency to complete the purchase.

"Our goal was to create a better shopping experience for customers by enabling them to act immediately after viewing a life insurance quote," said J. Wayne Kullman, vice president, Allstate Financial Direct sales and fulfillment. "As we tested this new online feature, it became clear that many customers appreciate the convenience of one-stop shopping and buying for their life insurance needs."

For more information, read the TrueTerm description and click through to the quote page at www.myallstatefinancial.com/life-insurance/term-life-insurance.aspx.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Financial Products: Life's Not as Complicated as You Think

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Find the options that are right for your situation during Life Insurance Awareness Month in September
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For most of us, shopping for life insurance ranks high on the "pain" scale, right alongside preparing your own tax return. Reading just half a page of fine print in an insurance contract or an IRS instruction booklet might make you want to run screaming from the room.

"The good news is that life insurance companies have recognized the need to simplify and better explain their products," said Shayna Schulz, Allstate vice president, corporate relations. "Navigating the decision to purchase life insurance is not as complicated as you might think – especially with a bit of assistance from a licensed life insurance agent."

Schulz offers the following tips for individuals who want to simplify their life insurance decision:

Seek help from a professional. An insurance agent can provide a complimentary review of your needs to help you decide the coverage that's right for you. You might find a referral to a life insurance agent from your auto insurance agent, accountant or financial planner.
Do a little reading beforehand. Spending a bit of time online can give you some of the basic concepts and terminology. Two of the most important terms to know are "permanent life insurance" and "term life insurance." Knowing a few terms and concepts will give you confidence (and maybe a few questions) when you meet with your insurance agent. You can find this information on the websites of insurance companies (such as Allstate, at www.myallstatefinancial.com/financial-articles-and-calculators) or not-for-profit organizations (check out the LIFE Foundation at www.lifehappens.org/life-insurance).
Look for products you can truly understand. As an example of the new options now available, Schulz points to a new "Basic Term" life insurance policy offered by Allstate Life Insurance Company. People age 18 to 45 can purchase a 15-year Basic Term policy after a simplified application and shortened approval process of a few days. Based on your individual situation, you can choose from among three levels of coverage ($50,000, $100,000 or $150,000). To speed up the closing process, you can even sign the paperwork via the Internet.
Go with a company you know and trust. Many reputable companies sell life insurance, so you shouldn't be surprised if you are not familiar with a given company's name. However, you might simplify the life insurance purchase decision if you begin your shopping with familiar brand names. You also may want to ask how long the company has offered life insurance to its customers.
Choose a company with a good report card. On their websites, insurance companies often post third party ratings of their financial strength. For an example, see Allstate's website at http://www.allstate.com/about/financial-strength-ratings.aspx.
Do it now. Sometimes, making excuses for important financial purchases is more complicated than resolving to take action. If you've been putting off a life insurance purchase, consider setting a goal to purchase a life insurance policy during September – which has been declared Life Insurance Awareness Month by the nonprofit LIFE Foundation. If you need more inspiration, view the "realLIFEstories" on the foundation's website.

Allstate Basic Term is a term life policy (LU10987 series in most states) issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company, Home Office, Northbrook, Ill. Available riders include the Accelerated Death for Terminal Illness (LU10990 series). See rider for terms, conditions and restrictions. Subject to state availability. Other life insurance products are issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, Neb.; American Heritage Life, Jacksonville, Fla.; and Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, N.Y.

Financial Products: Allstate Brings 'The Savage Truth on Money Presented by Allstate' to Five Cities Through Year-End

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:58:00 -0500

This release contains: 1 Related Document, 3 Videos

Allstate agency owners across the United States report that their customers are increasingly worried about their ability to achieve financial goals, such as a secure retirement. This anxiety has been compounded by grim headlines about the economy, employment trends and stock market volatility.

In response to these concerns, Allstate will bring "The Savage Truth on Money Presented by Allstate" to five metropolitan areas through year-end: Denver; Minneapolis/St. Paul; Nashville, Tenn.; Chicago and Jacksonville, Fla. Allstate customers and members of the public are invited to attend the free 90-minute seminar, which features practical advice from award-winning personal finance journalist and author Terry Savage on:

Understanding your money personality - saver or spender?
Rebuilding your credit report - or getting started on a good credit score
Dealing with debt and mortgage problems
Starting to invest in the stock market with as little as $50 a month
Saving for college
Paying down student loans
Insuring what's important to you and your family
Planning for retirement

"Nothing is more empowering than owning your financial future. To achieve that goal, individuals must have the right tools, knowledge and advice," said Joan Walker, Allstate executive vice president. "We are committed to help provide these, both through our superb network of more than 12,000 local agency owners and financial specialists across the country, as well as through our sponsorship of powerful events like 'The Savage Truth on Money.' "

Terry Savage writes a nationally syndicated personal finance column and is a regular guest on CNN, NBC and CNBC, among others. Attendees of The Savage Truth on Money tour will receive a free copy of Savage’s book, The Savage Truth on Money.

For more information about "The Savage Truth on Money Presented by Allstate," visit http://www.myallstatefinancial.com/the-savage-truth.aspx.

Downloadable, broadcast-quality excerpts from Savage's presentation:

Financial Products: Aetna and Allstate Benefits Form Strategic Alliance to Offer Financial Protection Plans to Aetna Clients and Members

Tue, 10 May 2011 02:23:56 -0500

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Aetna (NYSE: AET ) and The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) today announced a strategic alliance that will provide Aetna clients and members with greater access to financial protection plans. Through this agreement, Aetna expects to offer Allstate Benefits' voluntary Critical Illness Plans and Accident Plans starting in the third quarter of the year. Allstate Benefits' plans can help cover out-of-pocket health care expenses that members may face as the result of a serious injury or a major illness. In addition, individuals who could lose income from missing work and may need additional financial support have the flexibility to use their benefits to pay for everyday expenses, such as rent or mortgage payments, daycare or utility bills.

"We are excited to work with Allstate Benefits to offer products that provide our members and their loved ones with financial protection," said Frank McCauley, senior vice president and head of Aetna's Local Employers and Consumers business. "Allstate Benefits is a leader in providing voluntary solutions that help individuals during a critical time of need - such as an accident, a disabling injury, illness or death. In addition, this agreement will enhance our ability to offer our clients and their employees benefits beyond traditional health insurance plans."

"This is the first time Allstate Benefits will collaborate with another company to expand our presence in the workplace as one of America's largest providers of voluntary employee benefits," said Matthew Winter, President and Chief Executive Officer of Allstate Financial. "Our strategic alliance with Aetna is a great opportunity for us to work with one of the nation's leading health care benefits companies. We look forward to introducing financial protection plans to Aetna clients and their employees."

Initial Product Options*
The Aetna-Allstate alliance will start with two products that will be available for most employers' enrollment period in the fall:

A Critical Illness Plan that pays benefits directly to members diagnosed with a major illness, including heart attack, stroke and cancer.
An Accident Plan that pays benefits directly to members for death, dismemberment or injury caused by a covered accident on or off the job.

These plans offer several positive features for both employers and members.

"For employers, voluntary plans broaden their benefits offering and provide employees with important financial protection benefits without incurring additional direct costs," said James Reid, head of Aetna Voluntary Plans. "Voluntary plans also offer the power of choice, allowing members to customize their benefits package to meet their unique needs."

"We are truly enthusiastic about working withAetna, as itservesmore than33 million unique members and hashistorically strong customer and broker relationships," said David A. Bird, President of Allstate Benefits."This new relationshipaligns well with Allstate Benefits'strengths - ourproducts, services andexpertise in thevoluntary benefits market."

More information on Aetna Voluntary Plans can be found at www.AetnaVoluntary.com. More information about Allstate Benefits can be found at www.allstateatwork.com.

*The initial product offerings will be underwritten and serviced byAmerican Heritage Life Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Allstate. Offerings contain limitations and exclusions.

About Aetna
Aetna is one of the nation's leading diversified health care benefits companies, serving approximately 33.8 million people with information and resources to help them make better informed decisions about their health care. Aetna offers a broad range of traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including medical, pharmacy, dental, behavioral health, group life and disability plans, and medical management capabilities and health care management services for Medicaid plans. Our customers include employer groups, individuals, college students, part-time and hourly workers, health plans, governmental units, government-sponsored plans, labor groups and expatriates. For more information, see www.aetna.com. To learn more about Aetna's innovative online tools, visit www.aetnatools.com.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer known for its "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan. Now celebrating its 80th anniversary as an insurer, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Financial Products: Allstate and Discover to Enter into Multi-Year Marketing Agreement

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 10:09:55 -0600

Allstate Bank to Sell Deposits to Discover Bank
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The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) and Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) today announced their plans to enter into a multi-year distribution and marketing agreement. As part of the transaction, Discover Bank will purchase substantially all of the deposits of Allstate Bank. The parties expect the transaction to close by mid-year, subject to regulatory approval. Under the terms of the agreement, Discover Bank will assume the Allstate Bank deposit accounts and provide banking products and services to Allstate customers. Allstate Financial does not intend to originate banking products or services after the transaction closes. Financial terms of the transaction are not considered material.

"Allstate Financial has refocused on insurance, retirement and investment products. That, combined with the changing regulatory environment, led us to the determination that operating Allstate Bank is no longer core to our long-term strategy," said Matthew Winter, president and chief executive officer, Allstate Financial. "This agreement will enable Allstate Financial to deepen its focus on producing differentiated products for our key markets, strengthening relationships with existing customers, and creating profitable growth for Allstate. Our customers will have uninterrupted access to their FDIC-insured deposits and services through Discover, a leading direct bank with a nationally respected brand."

As part of the distribution and marketing agreement, Allstate affiliates and agents will offer personal savings and money market accounts, CDs and individual retirement account CDs to their customers through Discover. Discover Bank offers a differentiated set of products with competitive rates, financial management tools, 24/7 customer service, and broad online functionality with mobile access. Discover Bank accounts are insured by the FDIC for up to $250,000 per depositor.

"By joining forces with Allstate, an industry leader with a well-known brand, Discover will continue to offer the safe and secure products Allstate customers have come to trust," said Carlos Minetti, president of consumer banking and operations for Discover. "Affinity relationships with leading organizations have provided us with an effective platform for offering Discover Bank's products to an expanded customer base."

The transfer of deposits will not affect insurance policies and other non-banking products that customers have with Allstate. Discover will continue to offer Allstate customers many of the same banking services that are available through Allstate Bank today. Bank customers can expect to receive further notification about timing and the transition of their accounts in the next few months. Allstate Financial will continue to offer and administer business loans to Allstate agencies through Allstate Finance Company, LLC.

Allstate Bank received its thrift charter in 1998 and began offering retail banking products in 2001 as part of Allstate's strategy to help Americans save for their financial futures. The bank currently offers FDIC-insured certificates of deposit, money market accounts, savings accounts, checking accounts, ATM/debit cards and home mortgages. Allstate Bank had $1.1 billion in deposits at Sept. 30, 2010.

About Discover
Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) is a direct banking and payment services company with one of the most recognized brands in U.S. financial services. Since its inception in 1986, the company has become one of the largest card issuers in the United States. The company operates the Discover card, America's cash rewards pioneer, and offers personal and student loans, online savings accounts, certificates of deposit and money market accounts through its Discover Bank subsidiary. Its payment businesses consist of Discover Network, with millions of merchant and cash access locations; PULSE, one of the nation's leading ATM/debit networks; and Diners Club International, a global payments network with acceptance in more than 185 countries and territories. For more information, visit www.discoverfinancial.com.

Contact:

Maryellen Thielen
Allstate
(847) 402-5600

Laura Gingiss
Discover
(224) 405-0185

Financial Products: Allstate Introduces GoodForLife℠; New Financial Product is Life Insurance—and more

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:07:56 -0500

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate (NYSE: ALL) today announced the launch of GoodForLife, a unique multi-coverage life insurance product that provides consumers a benefit, not only in the event of sickness, accident or death, but also when consumers enjoy a long life.

GoodForLife takes the complexity out of protecting families from the unexpected by bundling life insurance with severe accident and critical illness benefits in one simple and affordable product. And, if all goes as planned, at age 65 GoodForLife features a return of premium, as well as a paid up death benefit with no additional payments.

“GoodForLife exemplifies Allstate’s commitment to reinvent protection based on consumer wants and needs,” said Matt Winter, president and chief executive officer of Allstate Financial. “Consumers told us they wanted affordable, easy-to-understand coverage with multiple benefits. They also asked us why companies don’t reward those who maintain good health throughout their life. This product is the direct result of those conversations.”

Allstate GoodForLife benefits include:

Coverage amounts available in three different amounts:
- Life coverage to age 65; $50,000, $75,000, or $100,000
- After age 65, life coverage of $15,000; no more premium payments
Protection against the unexpected:
- Critical Illness & Severe Accident Coverage, $10,000 benefit
- Terminal Illness coverage up to 75% of death benefit
Fewer financial worries. Premium Forgiveness – customers may miss up to 6 months of payments by accumulating a premium credit in each of the first six policy years
At age 65, a return of at least 50% of premiums paid **

GoodForLife is available through Allstate agencies in 13 states today. Additional rollouts will occur throughout the rest of the year as the company works with departments of insurance to make GoodForLife available nationwide.

The guaranteed benefits of GoodForLife are dependent on the terms and conditions of the policy. Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of American Heritage Life Insurance Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL

Allstate GoodForLife is a flexible premium universal life policy (UL21AF series) issued by American Heritage Life Insurance Company, Home Office, Jacksonville, FL, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Allstate Corporation, Northbrook, IL. Available riders include the Accelerated Death Benefit Rider (ULBR1 series), the Critical Illness Rider (UL-CIR1series), the Enhanced Grace Period Rider (UPFRAFseries), and the Accidental Death and Severe Injury Rider (UARAF series). See riders for terms, conditions and restrictions. Additional costs may apply. Subject to state availability.

** Money back at age 65 will vary by age and tobacco use.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help more than 17 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®.

Contact:

Raleigh Floyd
(847) 402-5600

Financial Products: New Allstate Tool Brings More Than Numbers to Retirement Equation

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 22:31:32 -0500

Innovative Retirement Bridge™ survey goes beyond a financial portrait to help consumers achieve retirement dreams
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Life isn't just a balance sheet. Retirement shouldn't be either.

Allstate today announced the acquisition of Retirement Bridge™, an innovative Web-based customer engagement and reporting tool that goes beyond the numbers which are often the focus of retirement planning. Retirement Bridge™ paints a holistic portrait of consumers' hopes, dreams, fears and readiness for their retirement years.

While most retirement planning tools seek only data - how many years until you plan to retire, how much you've saved so far, and what products you're using to save for retirement - Retirement Bridge™ helps customers better envision their individual retirement goals, including where they want to live, what they want to do in retirement, their biggest worries, and their retirement preparation. Through this secure, online survey, customers are able to address what is truly important in their lives through a wide range of topics, from care giving to how they would like to work with a financial representative.

Easy-to-read reports help customers see the challenges and opportunities ahead of them, including worksheets containing tips and resources based on the customer's interests during retirement. The survey tool allows Allstate financial representatives greater insight into the customer, enabling stronger and more trusting long-term relationships.

"Planning for retirement can be frustrating and intimidating for anyone," said J. Eric Smith, president, Allstate Financial Services. "Allstate's vision is to reinvent retirement for middle market consumers and Retirement Bridge™ allows us to help customers envision and plan for their retirement in new and more meaningful ways."

"So many retirement planners look only at numbers, which can often be confusing and misleading. Retirement Bridge™ gives our financial representatives a comprehensive picture of a customer's hopes and dreams for retirement. That enables our customers and our financial representatives to work together toward a vision of retirement they both clearly understand," said Smith.

Retirement Bridge™ was developed by Dr. Ken Dychtwald, president and CEO of Age Wave. Allstate acquired Retirement Bridge™ after receiving positive feedback from its financial representatives and customers during a pilot of the survey last year.

"Today's retirement will require new styles of financial planning and preparedness. Currently, the industry falls short on providing tools that help financial professionals gain insight into what truly matters most to consumers about their lives and their retirement," said Ken Dychtwald. "We are excited that Allstate's financial representatives will have a tool such as Retirement Bridge to better help customers visualize their future and how to prepare to fund it."

"Our customers have said they want simple, yet effective retirement solutions, and those who have tried Retirement Bridge™ like all that it offers," J. Eric Smith said. "We're thrilled that we're now able to bring this innovative tool exclusively to our customers."

Allstate's acquisition of Retirement Bridge™ comes at a time when Allstate Financial continues to expand its portfolio of innovative retirement products and services. Just last month, the company announced two new retirement products:

ClearTarget℠ Retirement Funds, a target date mutual fund that automatically rebalances as consumers approach their retirement date

Allstate Guaranteed Lifetime Income, a companion product to the ClearTarget℠ Retirement Funds that helps assure customers receive guaranteed income payments for as long as they live

With Retirement Bridge™, Allstate is continuing its commitment to helping middle market consumers plan for retirement, on their terms.

"Preparing for retirement today isn't what it used to be," Smith said. "Given the uncertainties around Social Security and pension plans, people need to take control of their own retirement planning."

"They need a company they can trust, a company that understands their needs and can help visualize retirement on their terms, and a company that can deliver the best new products and services to help ensure a comfortable future." he said. "At Allstate, it's our goal to meet those needs like no other company has done to date."

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,900 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.
# # #

Contact:

David Steck
847-402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Funds Seek to Provide Simplified Retirement Investing and a Unique Optional Guaranteed Lifetime Income For American Families

Tue, 13 May 2008 16:50:00 -0500

Consumers may benefit from New Products with a Straightforward Retirement Approach and Lifetime Income
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate today introduced an innovative new retirement solution-designed to boost consumers' retirement investments with a new product that provides the opportunity to receive guaranteed lifetime income combined with certain Clear Target Funds.

By combining the Allstate ClearTarget^SM Retirement Funds with Allstate® Guaranteed Lifetime Income¹, the company's goal is to help middle-market Americans save more money for retirement and help ensure that those retirees have the opportunity to have guaranteed income payments for the rest of their lives. Guarantees are subject to the claims paying ability of the issuer.

Today's announcement comes at a time when recent national studies show record low U.S. retirement savings, anxiety over market downturns eroding retirement savings, and frustration about complex financial information that creates greater barriers to investing in retirement savings.

"Our customers are hard working Americans with enormous day-to-day demands on their pocketbooks and on their time," said Jim Hohmann, president and CEO of Allstate Financial, a business unit of the Allstate Corporation. "They tell us they are looking for simple retirement savings solutions that provide flexibility and access to their money."

The Allstate® ClearTarget^SM Retirement Funds are a target date mutual fund product that automatically rebalances as consumers approach their retirement date. The new companion product, Allstate® Guaranteed Lifetime Income¹, helps assure customers guaranteed income payments for as long as they live.

The Allstate® ClearTarget^SM Retirement Funds shift the burden of investment decisions to professionals who carefully monitor and automatically diversify the investment mix. And as a consumer's retirement date approaches, these investment professionals gradually move the investment mix from a more aggressive portfolio into a more conservative blend of stocks, bonds and short-term investments. Diversification does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market.

When Allstate Guaranteed Lifetime Income is added, consumers have additional protection against outliving their income (currently available only on the 2005, 2010, and 2015 funds). This product helps ensure an income stream for the life of consumers should the mutual fund account be depleted due to withdrawals taken under the terms of the Allstate® Guaranteed Lifetime Income certificate. This product, which is available to people age 50-80 years-of-age, is a contingent deferred annuity that adds a potential level of protection to select ClearTarget funds to help ensure customers can receive lifetime income for as long as they live.

An Allstate ClearTarget^SM Retirement Fund can be opened for an initial investment of $2,500 or more. It offers diversification in a single fund, which helps simplify the decision-making process for retirement². The customer just needs to pick the year and how much money they want to invest.

"Allstate's network of approachable, licensed personal financial representatives can help consumers use this straightforward retirement approach to either get their retirement savings started or make the most of current savings," said Hohmann.

"For 75 years families have trusted Allstate to help protect their autos, homes, and futures. These products we've introduced today were designed to broaden our portfolio of retirement solutions and increase our ability in aiming to protect the future for our customers," said Hohmann. "Our focus is to reinvent protection and retirement for the consumer."

AllianceBernstein, one of the world's largest publicly traded global asset management firms and Allstate Investment Management Company (AIMCO) subadvise the investment pools that make up the Allstate ClearTarget funds.

Allstate is launching the ClearTarget^SM Retirement Funds in all states. Allstate® Guaranteed Lifetime Income will be introduced in approved states. Check out allstate.com or contact a local Allstate agency about planning for retirement.

Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of Allstate Life Insurance Company. The certificate does not provide a cash value or death benefit. Also, benefits may never be received because the fund account performs well enough that it never reduces to zero, or the certificate owner(s) dies, or the certificate terminates before the fund account is reduced to zero. A 10% penalty tax applies to the taxable amount of any premature distributions from a certificate. The penalty tax generally applies to any distribution made prior to age 59 1/2. Please read the prospectus and certificate for more details. The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,900 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers. Allstate Institutional Advisors, LLC is a registered investment advisor and serves as investment advisor to the Allstate ClearTarget Retirement Funds.

¹ Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of Allstate Life Insurance Company. Allstate Guaranteed Lifetime Income is a contingent deferred annuity available with ClearTarget^SM 2005, ClearTarget^SM 2010 and ClearTarget^SM 2015. Additional fees and restrictions may apply. We reserve the right to limit availability to Individual Retirement Accounts only.

² Diversification does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market.

Note: An investment in an Allstate ClearTarget Retirement Fund offers no guarantee of future growth and may lose value. The value of the fund will fluctuate with market conditions and is subject to the volatility of the U.S. and International financial markets. The funds may be subject to additional risks associated with investing in high-yield, ^SMall-cap and foreign securities. Please see the prospectus for more details.

Please note that an annual fee of 1% of your Fund Account Value is associated with Allstate Guaranteed Lifetime Income. The certificate 3 fee reduces the growth of the investment, which negatively affects the growth of the Fund Account Value. Depending on an investor's life span, fund withdrawals or the investment's performance, an investor may receive no income payments as the certificate was designed to offer potential protection against outliving your income. The certificate may not be suitable for all investors.

Note: Distributions from the fund are subject to federal income tax and may also be subject to state and local tax. Dividends and short-term capital gains distributions that you receive, regardless of distribution option, are taxable to you as ordinary income. If you are an individual, and certain holding period requirements are met, you may be eligible for taxation at long-term capital gains rates on "qualified dividend income" distributed from the fund. Distributions of net long-term capital gains are taxable to you as long-term capital gains for federal income tax purposes. If you are investing through an IRA, all distributions from the IRA are subject to ordinary income tax. Special tax rules apply to IRAs. Please consult your tax advisor. Note: Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA). Registered Broker-Dealer. Member FINRA, SIPC. Main Office: 2920 South 84th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506. 877-525-5727. Allstate ClearTarget Retirement Funds are offered by Allstate Financial Investment Trust, a registered open-end investment company, Northbrook, IL and distributed by Funds Distributor, LLC, Columbus, OH.

Note: Allstate Guaranteed Lifetime Income is a group contingent deferred annuity issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company, Home Office, Northbrook, IL, and is available in most states through certificate number LU10905 or contract series LU10926. It is sold by registered representatives of broker-dealers who are licensed insurance agents.

Allstate ClearTarget Retirement Funds are designed for long-term investing. Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of Allstate ClearTarget Retirement Funds before purchasing a fund or investing money. This information is only a summary. The prospectus contains details on the investment alternatives, fees, charges, expenses and other pertinent information. To obtain a prospectus, please contact your Allstate Personal Financial Representative or visit accessallstate.com. Customers should read the prospectus carefully before purchasing shares or sending money.

Contact:
David Steck
847-402-5600

Financial Products: Life Lights Up with Ultra Index Universal Life

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 18:14:00 -0500

Lincoln Benefit Life Company, an Allstate Company introduces new universal life product
This release contains: 1 Related Document

With their industry sales growing 462 percent¹ in just six years, indexed universal life products have caught on fire in the life insurance industry, practically making them the must-have product in any agent's product arsenal. The reason for the sales heat up? For many customers, indexed universal life products not only answer their life insurance needs, but also what could be their desire for growth potential-with less risk than similar alternatives.

Now, Lincoln Benefit Life will be a part of that industry growth with its introduction of Ultra Index^SM. Like traditional universal life insurance policies, indexed universal life insurance is designed to provide dependable death benefit protection while accumulating cash value that grows tax-deferred. Indexed universal life products, which are linked to changes in equity indexes, offer customers the potential to increase the cash value of their policy. Unlike direct investment in the stock market, however, indexed universal life products typically have a floor which can protect a customer from losing cash value. Because of its growth potential and features that can provide downside market protection, this permanent life insurance product is likely to continue to be popular.

"Customers now have so many choices when it comes to life insurance-and while choice is generally a good thing, in the case of indexed universal life, it can be confusing," explained, J. Eric Smith, CEO, Allstate Distributors, LLC, a subsidiary of the Allstate Life Insurance Company. "Ultra Index^SM Universal Life (Ultra Index) tries to make things easier with a simple two account design: a strong fixed account and a straightforward indexed account."

The index account in Ultra Index is linked to changes in the S&P 500², providing interest that is equal to 100 percent of the upward movement in the S&P 500 index, up to a maximum limit each year. In addition, if the S&P 500 declines, the interest in the index account is floored at 0 percent. When purchasing an Ultra Index policy, customers can choose to allocate their premiums to the indexed account, the fixed account or a combination of the indexed and fixed account. And they can change their allocations in the future in accordance with the policy terms. By providing these two accounts, Ultra Index allows customers to tailor the risk in their policy to match their needs, even if those needs change over time

In addition to the features for growth potential, Ultra Index is first and foremost a life insurance product that provides customers with solid death benefit protection as well as features that help protect and provide access to customer's money. Along with attractive withdrawal and loan features that allow the customer to access their cash value, the accelerated death benefit riders allow the customer to tap into the death benefit itself under certain conditions. Note that there could be tax consequences to accessing policy values.

For more than 65 years, Lincoln Benefit Life Company has been an innovator in bringing insurance and annuity products to policyholders nationwide. Lincoln Benefit Life was acquired in 1984 by Allstate Life Insurance Company specifically for its ability to develop competitively priced insurance and annuity products for distribution through independent agents. By the end of 2004, the company had $211.3 billion of life insurance in force. And its financial strength and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders are reflected in the high rankings it has received by independent statistical rating agencies. Lincoln Benefit Life prides itself on its ability to provide exceptional products and service to its customers.

Lincoln Benefit Life Company is a proud member of the Insurance Marketplace Standards Association - IMSA. Membership signifies commitment to honesty and fairness in the sales and service of individually sold life insurance and annuity products.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,600 exclusive agencies and financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

¹ Advantage Compendium, 2006. Based on a survey of 23 indexed life insurance companies.
² One cannot invest directly in the S&P 500. S&P 500 does not reflect dividends paid on the stocks underlying the S&P 500.

Contact: Nicole Alley
(847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Survey Shows Many Newlyweds Leaving Financial Future To Chance

Tue, 04 Sep 2007 14:00:00 -0500

Recently Married Couples Have Six-Figure Assets, but Lack Adequate Life Insurance Protection
This release contains: 1 Related Document

While newlyweds traditionally receive advice from friends and relatives on secrets for a successful marriage, protecting their financial future is one thing seemingly forgotten in these conversations.

A recent survey by Allstate Insurance Company shows the value of newlyweds' combined assets is approximately $107,000 on average. However, few newlyweds are actually taking steps to protect their financial future through purchases such as life insurance. The majority of the respondents (61%) did not purchase a policy before marriage, and 64% of those still had not purchased life insurance within the first three years of marriage. In fact, only 23% of these spouses claimed to have bought life insurance during their first year of marriage, and this trend continued in years two (2%) and three (7%).

"Newlyweds have several things to consider in their first year of marriage, one of which should be wealth protection and obligations they are now taking on jointly," said Jim Hohmann, president and CEO of Allstate Financial, a business unit of the Allstate Corporation. "While many individuals may have life insurance coverage through their employer, most of these policies only cover up to two times a person's current salary and are not portable from one job to another. In general, individuals should purchase policies that are at least five times their current salary, but that needs to be balanced with the couples' long-term goals. Newlyweds should meet with a life insurance professional to review all their options and considerations."

First Anniversary - The "Paper" Gift
The survey also found that 42% of respondents think that life insurance would be a thoughtful and meaningful gift for their spouse. However, just 3% of respondents said they received or would likely receive a card or note to meet with a life insurance agent as an anniversary gift.

"While life insurance may not be a romantic anniversary gift, our survey suggests that couples see it as an important gift," said Hohmann. "Not having life insurance truly could be a costly oversight. That first year of marriage may be hectic, but newlyweds should set aside time to talk to a life insurance professional and begin planning."

Allstate offers the following checklist as a guideline when thinking about life insurance coverage:

Talk to an expert. Work with an Allstate professional to evaluate your financial needs and goals and to determine how much life insurance you and your spouse will need. Each situation is different and it's important to learn about possible coverage amounts and options.
Plan for the future. Do you plan on having children? Will you have debts that would need to be paid? Will you have enough to cover your children's education costs? Will you have aging parents that may need taking care of? All of these common life situations require planning - having life insurance in the event of untimely death can help provide an added layer of protection for these situations.
Don't rely on savings alone. Many people do not have enough in their personal savings, and if people don't have enough saved, their family most likely won't be able to pay off final expenses or be able to hold onto assets like a home. Life insurance is important to have for that added layer of protection.
Employer-based coverage is not enough. Typically, group life insurance through an employer isn't portable - meaning if an employee leaves the job, he or she is probably also leaving the life insurance protection behind. Having an individual life insurance policy purchased through an insurance agent or financial professional, however, will have no effect on the coverage provided by an employer.

Additional Research Findings

The Allstate survey also revealed the following:

More men (42%) than women (35%) had life insurance beyond their employers' coverage prior to marriage.
More than half (53%) of the respondents said purchasing life insurance policies showed a commitment to their future together as spouses.
More than three-fourths (77%) of respondents gave their spouse a first anniversary gift.
While the traditional first anniversary gift is paper, two-thirds of respondents did not follow tradition when giving an anniversary gift to their spouse.

*Survey of 1070 men and women who have been married between 1 and 3 years conducted by Impulse Research in August 2007 on behalf of Allstate®. Respondents were not informed that the survey was being conducted on behalf of Allstate®.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,800 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. Encompass® and Deerbrook® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

Financial Products: Women See the Reality of Retirement Years Spent Alone

Mon, 16 Oct 2006 02:00:00 -0500

Allstate Survey Also Shows Women Need to Adopt Tougher Attitude As They Approach Saving for Retirement to Avoid the Poverty Trap
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Women clearly have gotten the message that they are likely to spend at least some of their retirement years alone because of divorce or the high probability of outliving their husbands. The U.S. Department of Labor has estimated that nearly 90 percent of women will end up managing their finances alone. Unfortunately, this realization has not translated into concrete steps-including frank financial discussions with their husbands or partners, according to the sixth annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

The 2006 survey, which measures Americans' attitudes toward and savings for retirement, showed that almost half of women (48 percent) have considered the financial implications of retiring alone, compared with 36 percent of men.

Not surprisingly, the Allstate survey showed that women are slightly more likely than men to say they are planning for retirement separately from their spouse or partner (37 percent of women versus 32 percent of men). The steps these women are most likely to take are making sure their spouse or partner has adequate life insurance (84 percent of women versus 75 percent of men) and a will (54 percent of women versus 52 percent of men).

Among women, 49 percent said they invest money separately from their spouse or partner, compared with 43 percent of men. And 42 percent of women said they maintain a separate savings account, compared with 28 percent of male respondents.

But the survey also highlighted two potential barriers between women and a financially comfortable retirement. First, almost half of the women respondents (45 percent, as well as 65 percent of men) said the husband or partner takes the lead in planning for retirement. Second, couples appear to believe that just "a simple conversation" keeps their plan on track; 48 percent of women and 58 percent of men said that's all that is needed to get their partner to take a specific action regarding saving for retirement. But, that confidence may conceal serious defects in planning for retirement.

Tough conversations needed

"The reality is that women must feel capable of handling planning for retirement on their own, because there is a strong likelihood they'll spend at least some of their retirement years alone," said Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a subsidiary of Allstate Corp. "Statistics show women are more at risk of ending their lives in poverty or a nursing home . And, only planning and follow-through can prevent that. The first step is a frank discussion with your spouse or partner about retirement goals, and how much you need to save to achieve those goals."

More than half of women (54 percent) said they know "a great deal" about what their husbands or partners want out of retirement. But only 39 percent of men-the ones supposedly taking the lead in planning-said they know "a great deal" about what their wives or partners want to achieve.

More sobering, few respondents said they feel "very prepared" financially for retirement, although men are a bit more optimistic than women (23 percent of men versus 19 percent of women).

"There is a huge disconnect in people's attitudes," said Barbara Stanny, author, " Prince Charming Isn't Coming" and speaker on women and financial issues. "On the one hand people say they expect a terrific, fun and exciting retirement, and on the other hand they say they haven't saved enough. Denial is the most dangerous habit we have to break. This isn't just about women being alone in retirement. It's denial about the need to start saving earlier."

Stanny reiterates that the stakes are higher for women, since they're likely to be alone at some point in retirement. She said women need to break planning for retirement and savings into manageable chunks rather than ignore the issue. "And you don't have to do it alone. Talk about it with your spouse, with other women, with financial professionals."

Conversation starters

Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D., president of Mathew Greenwald and Associates Inc., the Washington , D.C. firm that conducted the survey for Allstate, said couples need to approach the planning for retirement conversation thoughtfully. "Talking about retirement dreams is the fun part, but talking about the financial steps to achieve those dreams can be difficult, especially if part of the conversation needs to address the likelihood that the wife will outlive the husband," he said. "Nobody wants to start a conversation by contemplating his own death!"

Greenwald suggests that couples identify broad and neutral topics to start a conversation about retirement. One starting point is an annual event, such as filing taxes, reviewing life insurance coverage or making decisions about employee benefits.

"Couples also need to understand and capitalize on the different perspectives their partners have," Greenwald said. "For example, women tend to be responsible for day-to-day expenses, and thus are focused on current finances, while men think longer-term. Perhaps a neutral conversation-starter is for the wife to lay out the costs of running the household for a month, and asking whether their retirement savings will be adequate to cover this amount-or whether these are the expenses they expect to have in retirement."

Because lifestyle is the driver of retirement expenses, Greenwald said any conversation ultimately needs to address how couples want to live. Those differences need to be addressed before it's possible to budget accurately, he said.

Another key element is to decide what tradeoffs are acceptable, Greenwald said. Couples may be willing to work longer to save more for a high-cost retirement, or they may be willing to scale back lifestyle plans so they can retire sooner. Another option is to plan to reduce lifestyle, and costs, some years into retirement to stretch savings further, continues Greenwald.

The fear factor

Part of planning is recognizing fears and identifying what can be done to eliminate or lessen the possibility of the worst coming true. For all survey respondents, the top fears concerned health care costs and the availability of care. Women were more likely than men to worry about not having enough money to afford the "little things" that make life worthwhile, or to end up being a burden on children.

"Regardless of their worries, everybody needs to think of retirement in financial terms," Stanny said. "And one gender isn't automatically more adept than the other when it comes to finance. In my experience, men were raised to be financially successful, and women were raised to be financially dependent. But no one taught either gender how to manage money. The good news is that it's not that difficult to learn, and it's never too late to start."

For more details regarding the Allstate " Retirement Reality Check " survey on Women and Retirement, download the Executive Summary (PDF).

Allstate created the sixth-annualAllstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,603 people b or n between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 or m or e. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of err or (at the 95 percent confidence level) f or the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.5 percent f or inf or mation specific to Gen Xers or Baby Boomers.

Now celebrating the 75^th anniversary of the founding of Allstate Insurance Company, The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,100 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Topolewski, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Lincoln Benefit Life Strengthens Life Insurance Portfolio with New TrueTerm

Thu, 31 Aug 2006 02:00:00 -0500

New Term Life Insurance Offers Up to 35 Percent Savings on Rates and Return of Premium Rider

Now, more than ever, is the time to consider purchasing term life insurance. An aging population and competition driven by the Internet have attributed to the recent decline in the cost of term life insurance policies. Lincoln Benefit Life Company has followed suit with the Sept. 1 introduction of a new term product, TrueTerm^SM. Compared to its previous term offerings, Lincoln Benefit Life has significantly decreased TrueTerm premiums for face amounts below $500,000. In many cases, these rate reductions reflect a substantial savings, as much as 15 to 35 percent.

"Many Americans are not in a financial situation to meet the expense of permanent life insurance but realize they have a duty to protect one's family from life's unexpected turns," says Kevin Slawin, president, Distribution, Allstate Life Insurance Company. "We created TrueTerm with the middle market in mind, and we feel confident that it is a cost-conscious solution that will help safeguard customers' futures."

With improved rates, TrueTerm provides middle market consumers reasonably priced life insurance protection. For example, a 35-year-old male can purchase a 10-year TrueTerm policy with a $250,000 face amount at best rate available for approximately $13 per month¹.

TrueTerm also introduces the new Return of Premium rider. For an additional premium, customers can purchase the Return of Premium rider and if the policy is still in force at the end of the guaranteed level premium period (15, 20 or 30 years), the total of their premiums paid will be returned to them in one lump sum².

"A win-win for consumers, TrueTerm with Return of Premium will provide life insurance protection if you need it or your premiums back if you don't," adds Slawin.

TrueTerm benefits include:

Optional riders, including a Return of Premium, customize policies to meet special needs²;
Coverages starting at $50,000 with premiums guaranteed for 10-, 15-, 20- or 30-year terms; and
Ability to convert term policy to permanent life insurance with same face amount.

Other optional riders offered with TrueTerm consist of: Accidental Death Benefit, Accelerated Death Benefit-Terminal Illness, Additional Insured, Child Protection and Waiver of Premium².

"As with all Lincoln Benefit Life Company policies, our TrueTerm premiums are based on an insured's actual age, as opposed to rounding up to their next birthday, as is the practice with many other insurance companies," explains Slawin. "This often allows our customers to obtain a lower price for life insurance."

TrueTerm is a term life insurance policy issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Home Office: Lincoln, Neb., a wholly owned subsidiary of Allstate Life Insurance Company, Home Office: Northbrook, Ill. All guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of Lincoln Benefit Life Company. TrueTerm and its optional riders are subject to state availability as they are not yet approved in all states; terms, limitations and additional costs may apply.

Lincoln Benefit Life Company's TrueTerm is offered through Allstate Agents and independent agents appointed to sell Lincoln Benefit Life Company products. For more information or to view the application online, please visit www.accessallstate.com.

For more than 65 years, Lincoln Benefit Life Company has been an innovator in bringing insurance and annuity products to policyholders nationwide. Lincoln Benefit Life was acquired in 1984 by Allstate Life Insurance Company specifically for its ability to develop competitively priced insurance and annuity products for distribution through independent agents. By the end of 2005, the company had $250 billion of life insurance in force. And its financial strength and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders are reflected in the high rankings it has received by independent statistical rating agencies. Lincoln Benefit Life prides itself on its ability to provide exceptional products and service to its customers.

Now celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of Allstate Insurance Company, The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,100 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

¹Other face amounts and guaranteed premium terms are available, underwriting restrictions may apply.
² Terms, limitations and additional costs may apply.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Topolewski, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Receives U.S. Patent Related To Treasury-Linked Annuities

Wed, 30 Aug 2006 04:00:00 -0500

Innovation Pays Off for Allstate, Producers and Consumers

Methods used in connection with Allstate's innovative deferred fixed annuity products, the Allstate^® Treasury-Linked Annuity (T-Link) and Allstate^® Treasury-Linked Annuity Plus (T-Link Plus), are now subject to patent protection through a patent issued to Allstate by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Allstate first introduced T-Link in 2002 followed by T-Link Plus in 2003, both of which quickly stirred the interest of producers and consumers due to the unique ability of the products to keep pace with rising rates.

Allstate was awarded U.S. Patent 7,080,032 on July 18, 2006, for the innovative methods behind the fixed annuities, which give consumers the ability to earn additional interest based on increases in the U.S. Treasury Note Constant Maturity 5-year rate (U.S. Treasury 5-year rate). Consumers benefit from upward movement in the U.S. Treasury 5-year rate and, on the flip side, if the U.S. Treasury 5-year rate is down, the contract maintains the guaranteed interest rate.

"This is a significant milestone for Allstate," said Casey Sylla, chairman and president, Allstate Life Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Allstate Insurance Company. "It's truly inspiring to see a product go from the brainchild of two of our employees, to becoming a well received, and now patented product, that's helping consumers find a better way to save for retirement."

As Treasury interest rates have risen, so have sales of the products. Through the end of the second quarter of 2006, T-Link and T-Link Plus sales have more than tripled compared to the first six months of 2005. Producers who understand and are aware of the value of this product design will also know how well it can perform in today's interest rate environment. Customers buying either of these products may have benefited from the rising rates as well. For example, a contract owner who bought T-Link on April 1, 2003 would have received a rate of 2.3 percent in the first year, and renewal rates of 2.32 percent in 2004, 3.7 percent in 2005 and 4.34 percent in 2006.

The products appeal to investors who seek stability for their retirement monies. They particularly draw consumers who normally may have placed their additional retirement savings in other fixed income products, but value the tax deferred growth and other features of an annuity product, such as the ability to convert the contract value into a stream of guaranteed income payments for life or a certain period of time.

The Allstate Treasury-Linked Annuity is a flexible premium deferred annuity sold by licensed insurance agents in all distribution channels, which include: Allstate agencies, independent agents, financial institutions and broker-dealers. The Allstate Treasury-Linked Annuity is issued by: Allstate Life Insurance Company (ALIC), Northbrook, Ill.; Lincoln Benefit Life Company (LBL), Lincoln, Neb.; and in the state of New York by Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. ALIC and LBL are not licensed to do business in New York.

The Allstate Treasury-Linked Annuity Plus is a single premium deferred annuity, with a market value adjustment, sold by prospectus only, issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company and underwritten by Allstate Distributors, LLC, Northbrook, IL; and sold through agreements with registered representatives or bank employees who are licensed insurance agents.

T-Link Plus has a Market Value Adjustment (MVA) feature. An MVA will be assessed to withdrawals based on the change in interest rates since the 5-year guarantee period was established. If the 5-year U.S. Treasury Rate has gone down since the purchase of the annuity, withdrawal values could be higher. If the 5-year U.S. Treasury Rate has gone up since the purchase of the annuity, withdrawal values could be lower. An MVA applies to withdrawals in excess of the free amount, withdrawals outside of the 45-day window period (at the end of each guaranteed period clients have 45 days to withdraw part or all of the current annuity value without withdrawal charges or MVA), and certain death benefit options. The MVA will be applied subject to requirements of state law. Please see the prospectus for details.

Withdrawal charges for both T-Link and T-Link Plus ranging from 0 percent to 9 percent for a range of 0-11 years may apply. Distributions taken prior to annuitization are generally considered to come from the gain in the contract first. If the contract is tax qualified, generally all payments and/or withdrawals are treated as ordinary income and, if taken prior to age 59 ˝, may be subject to an additional 10 percent federal tax penalty. All guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.

Annuities are long-term investments designed for retirement purposes. Before investing, you should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks and charges of the Allstate Treasury-Linked Annuity Plus. For additional information about these and other details, please refer to the prospectus. To obtain a prospectus, please contact your financial representative or call Allstate at 1-800-203-0068. Please read the prospectus carefully before purchasing a contract.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Topolewski, Allstate Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Americans Choose Middle Lane of Retirement Highway

Wed, 09 Aug 2006 08:00:00 -0500

Allstate's retirement survey finds that just keeping up with peers isn't enough if others are saving too slowly
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Most Americans see themselves just cruising into retirement with their peers, regardless what kind of savings and spending habits they have in place now, according to Allstate's 2006 "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

The sixth-annual survey, which measures Americans' attitudes toward and savings for retirement, showed that, regardless of age, gender, education, income or geography, Americans generally consider themselves only "somewhat" prepared financially for retirement, and thus they have some fears about the years ahead. But when specifically asked, "If saving for retirement were like driving on the highway, where would you be?" almost half (48 percent) said they are "in the middle lane, keeping up." Other responses were:

In the fast lane, passing others (20 percent of total respondents)
On the on ramp, still getting started (14 percent)
In the slow lane, watching others go by (13 percent)
Lost and looking for a map (5 percent)

However, the Allstate survey did show clear links between the "lane" respondents say they are in, and specific actions they have taken-or not taken-to prepare financially and emotionally for retirement.

Life in the fast lane
For example, most people who describe their retirement savings as "in the fast lane" are saving aggressively, while those who are "lost" admit they aren't saving much at all. "Fast laners" are more aggressive than any other group in making sure they and their spouses or partners have adequate life insurance and in establishing an emergency fund that could support their families for at least three months. The only step that a majority of "losts" have taken in making sure they have adequate auto and homeowners insurance.

Among the "middle lane" respondents, 88 percent said they have secured adequate homeowners and auto insurance, and 55 percent said they've saved enough money to support their families for at least three months. And 69 percent said they've made sure that they and their spouse or partner have enough life insurance.

In addition, 57 percent of the "fast-lane" respondents say that in terms of their retirement readiness they are "very prepared," and another 38 percent say they are "somewhat prepared." Among those in the "middle lane," 78 percent say they're "somewhat prepared," and only 14 percent say they are "very prepared" financially for retirement.

Overall, 21 percent of respondents say they are "very prepared" and 59 percent say they are "somewhat prepared."

"The good news is that most people do have time to find a map and get on the right road," says Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a subsidiary of Allstate Corp. "As with driving, doing nothing won't get you to your destination. And to continue with that analogy, people should work to move over one lane at a time rather than thinking they need a plan to take them instantly from the on ramp to the fast lane."

On a road to nowhere
The "lost" respondents are a significant departure from the general optimism, with 1 percent calling themselves "very prepared" and 26 percent saying they are only "somewhat prepared." A sobering 57 percent of the "losts" say they are "very unprepared" financially, and another 17 percent say they are "somewhat unprepared."

At the same time, more than 70 percent of the "lost" drivers say they expect retirement to be fulfilling, fun and relaxing. More than 90 percent of respondents in the "slow lane," "middle lane" and "fast lane" say that, as well as more than 80 percent of those on the "on ramp."

Driving demeanors
Despite overall optimism, the Allstate survey did identify some attitudinal differences among those on the road to retirement. For example, "lost" respondents were significantly more likely to anticipate a retirement that is boring (39 percent), depressing (34 percent) or lonely (26 percent). All other groups were significantly less likely to describe retirement in this way.

"Fast-lane" respondents were more likely to call themselves disciplined (97 percent) compared with the overall (93 percent), and compared with the "lost" (81 percent) and "on-ramp" (91 percent) respondents. Respondents in the "middle lane," closely mirrored the overall figures, with 94 percent saying they are disciplined.

Differences among the various "lanes" were even more pronounced when questions concerned financial issues. Not surprisingly, the "losts" were most nervous, with 83 percent saying retirement will be "uncertain," and 87 percent saying it will be "financially difficult." A majority of "on-ramp" and "slow-lane" respondents said those things as well, but not to the extent of the "losts."

By comparison, 25 percent of the "fast laners" and 43 percent in the "middle lane" said retirement will be uncertain; 15 percent in the "fast lane" and 31 percent in the "middle lane" said retirement will be financially difficult.

The "losts" are clear on why they are so worried; 48 percent admit they are not saving at all for retirement, and another 38 percent say they're saving some money, but not seriously. That compares with the majority of "middle-lane" and "fast-lane" respondents, who say they are saving seriously for retirement. The majority of "on-ramp" and "slow-lane" respondents said they are saving, but not seriously.

"The link between ‘being lost' and not saving is so clear it should be a wake-up call to people who feel concerned about their futures," said Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D., president of Mathew Greenwald and Associates Inc., the Washington, D.C. firm that conducted the survey for Allstate. "There's a reason for that concern-not having enough money could have severe consequences."

Driving hazards
Regardless of which lane they believe they're in, a majority of all respondents worry about affording health care after retirement. "On-ramp," "slow-lane" and "lost" respondents also are concerned about not having enough money for the extras that make retirement worthwhile. These two groups also worry most about having to ask children or friends for money.

Not surprisingly, a whopping 85 percent of "losts" say they expect they'll have to work after retirement, with 52 percent saying it's "very likely" they'll do so. That compares with 68 percent overall who say they may work after retirement, and 25 percent saying that scenario is "very likely." Among the fast-lane respondents, 56 percent said they may work, but only 19 percent said it's "very likely." And among those in the "middle lane," 22 percent say it's very likely they'll work after retirement, while 47 percent say it's somewhat likely.

Lane shift
When they read stories in the media about Americans not saving enough for retirement, those on the "on ramp," "slow lane" and "middle lane" say they think about saving more. And 39 percent of those who are "lost" say they think about saving more-but the same percentage admit they think they'll deal with it another time. "Fast laners" say those stories don't apply to them.

Savers on the "on ramp" and in the "slow lane" said that learning more about investments would be the most effective way to encourage them to save for retirement (38 percent and 34 percent respectively). But those in the "middle lane" and "fast lane" said having a payroll-deduction system at work would be the most effective. Interestingly, those who are "lost" most strongly supported a workplace payroll-deduction plan-44 percent.

"It is frustrating to see people consistently admit they don't save enough, but at the same time say they're optimistic about the future," says Sylla. "The key is to find a way of thinking that drives people to act-in this case, to save more for their retirement. Perhaps using this comparison will help Americans think differently and lose the ‘blind spot' when it comes to preparing for retirement."

For more details regarding the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey on highway lanes, download the mini executive summary (PDF).

Allstate created the sixth-annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,603 people born between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 or more. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of error (at the 95 percent confidence level) for the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.8 percent for information specific to Gen Xers, ±4.5 percent for Baby Boomers, and ±5.0 for Silent Generation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Topolewski, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: 'Financial Independence' a State of Mind, not a State of Saving

Tue, 27 Jun 2006 02:00:00 -0500

Allstate Retirement Survey Reveals Three Out of Four Boomers Admittedly Ill-Prepared for Retirement; Gen-X Males Most Optimistic About Personal Finances
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Allstate's 2006 Retirement Reality Check survey shows that 70 percent of Americans polled-regardless of age, gender, household income and education-describe themselves as "financially independent." But, despite such optimism, 40 percent of respondents admit they are not saving seriously for retirement.

In fact, the sixth-annual survey, which tracks Americans attitudes toward and savings for retirement, reveals that only 21 percent overall-and only 25 percent of Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964)-believe they are "very prepared" financially for retirement. And, overall, 38 percent say they expect their retirement to be "financially difficult."

Survey respondents also express apprehension about recent trends, such as rising costs of healthcare. Other unplanned factors also hamper America's retirement dreams. For example, 34 percent of respondents overall-and 43 percent of Boomers-say providing support to adult children has affected their ability to save for retirement. Even 21 percent of Generation Xers (those born from 1965 to 1978) say this.

"It's remarkable that people can at once declare they are financially independent, yet not be financially prepared for the future," says Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a subsidiary of Allstate Corp. "A sobering finding is that the generation least likely to deem themselves financially independent are those age 45-54, which suggests that as people near retirement age some reality is setting in. The key is for that reality to lead to action."

Age Matters
Age clearly plays into how individuals answered. Respondents age 25-34 are most likely to define financial independence as "not having to rely on others for money" (32 percent). Thirty-one percent in this age group said "having enough money to live without hardship" and a presumably less short-sighted 15 percent responded that financial independence is "having enough money to last as long as you live."

One unexpected finding is that Generation X respondents are more likely than their elders to describe themselves as financially independent-73 percent of Gen-Xers compared with 67 percent of Baby Boomers. And while there is no significant difference among male respondents (70 percent) versus females (69 percent), Gen-X males are the most optimistic of all, with 76 percent saying they are financially independent.

Among respondents age 55 and older, financial freedom means "having enough money to live without hardship" or "to last as long as you live, no matter what occurs." Both were cited by 26 percent, and "not having to rely on others for money" was noted by only 19 percent.

Indeed, the 2006 survey shows that the majority of respondents-regardless of age, gender, income or education-consider themselves to be disciplined, good savers and good shoppers. They say they stick to a budget and balance their checkbooks regularly.

"These findings suggest that when people look at their financial situation, they focus on how they're able to handle their current expenses, not on long-term or retirement savings," said Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D., president of Mathew Greenwald and Associates Inc., the Washington, D.C. firm that conducted the survey for Allstate.

A Need to Act
So what will get people to save for retirement? Survey respondents ranked having a company payroll-deduction plan as the biggest incentive (34 percent), followed by being better educated about investments (29 percent). And 52 percent said that media coverage of retirement issues prompts them to think about it.

"It's as if people are saving from the neck on up-they think about it, they feel good about it, but they don't actually do it," adds Sylla. "It's important to discuss and think about saving in a manner that actually drives action."

For more details regarding the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey on financial independence, download the mini executive summary (PDF).

Allstate created the sixth-annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,603 people born between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 or more. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of error (at the 95 percent confidence level) for the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.8 percent for information specific to Gen Xers, ±4.5 percent for Baby Boomers, and ±5.0 for Silent Generation.

Now celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of Allstate Insurance Company, The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,100 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurancethrough Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Topolewski, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: New Legacy Secure Survivorship Life Insurance from Lincoln Benefit Life Company Enhances Estate Planning Process

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 02:00:00 -0500

Legacy Secure SL Provides No-Cost Riders to Meet a Customer's Changing Needs

Lincoln Benefit Life Company, an Allstate company, has introduced a new Legacy Secure Survivorship Life (SL) insurance product. The product insures two people, normally a husband and wife, and may help beneficiaries cover potential estate taxes and estate settlement costs. It pays a death benefit after the second insured person dies, when estate taxes are typically due.

The product provides estate heirs with the liquidity they may need to meet potential estate tax requirements, so they may not need to draw from estate assets, sell the family business, or attempt to use their own cash reserves.

"Legacy Secure SL was designed to be flexible enough to respond to life's changing needs, yet competitive enough to provide affordable, solid guarantees," said Kevin Slawin, president, Distribution, Allstate Life Insurance Company. "The product includes riders at no additional cost to the customer that guarantee death benefits and provide options should tax laws change."

One example, the estate liquidity rider (UL0522)¹, provides two windows when customers can receive a partial or full return of premium or have their surrender charges waived. This feature gives customers the ability to manage changes in their personal situation or in estate tax laws.

"Another no-additional cost rider that may be available is the policy split exchange option²," Slawin said. "This rider allows customers to split the policy upon divorce or estate tax law change."

Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of Lincoln Benefit Life Company.

Legacy Secure SL is issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, Neb., a wholly owned subsidiary of Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, Ill. Legacy Secure SL is available in most states with contract series UL0520. Riders and waivers may not be available in all states.

The new Legacy Secure Survivorship Life (SL) insurance product is offered via Allstate agents and financial representatives appointed to sell Lincoln Benefit Life Company products. Allstate agents and independent financial representatives may obtain more informationby registering and logging onto www.accessallstate.com.

For more than 65 years, Lincoln Benefit Life Company has been an innovator in bringing insurance and annuity products to policyholders nationwide. Lincoln Benefit Life was acquired in 1984 by Allstate Life Insurance Company specifically for its ability to develop competitively priced insurance and annuity products for distribution through independent agents. By the end of 2005, the company had $250 billion of life insurance in force. And its financial strength and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders are reflected in the high rankings it has received by independent statistical rating agencies. Lincoln Benefit Life prides itself on its ability to provide exceptional products and service to its customers.

Now celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of Allstate Insurance Company, The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 14,100 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such asauto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. The Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

¹ Estate Liquidity Rider (UL0522) is attached at no cost to all Legacy Secure SL policies in which the youngest insured is age 75 or younger.

² Policy Split Exchange. Rider is not available if one of the insureds is rated uninsurable.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jen Topolewski, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Signs Agreement for Reinsurance of Variable Annuities

Wed, 08 Mar 2006 01:00:00 -0600

Today, The Allstate Corporation announced it has reached definitive agreements with Prudential Financial, Inc. for the reinsurance of its existing variable annuity business and for an exclusive distribution arrangement. The price for the entire transaction is $580.5 million and is subject to adjustment for market changes for the period between the execution date of the agreement and the closing date. The agreement is subject to regulatory approval and the transaction is expected to be completed by the end of the second quarter of 2006.

The company's variable annuity products, with approximately $16 billion in account values, are manufactured by Allstate Financial, the business segment that provides life insurance, retirement and investment products to individuals and institutional customers. As part of the transaction, Prudential Financial will become the exclusive provider of variable annuity products through Allstate's exclusive agency channel and will take on Allstate's distribution responsibilities in the broker-dealer channel. Allstate Financial will continue to market variable annuities through its extensive set of bank distribution relationships by transitioning to an Allstate-branded, Prudential designed variable annuity product.

"This transaction will enable Allstate Financial to dedicate additional resources and better deploy capital to a more focused portfolio of life insurance, fixed annuity and equity indexed annuity products where we have scale and significant market presence," said Casey Sylla, chairman and president, Allstate Financial. "It represents another action we are taking to deliver products and services on a more cost effective basis."

Prudential Financial will manufacture variable annuity products for sale through Allstate's proprietary distribution force, which consists of approximately 12,400 exclusive agency owners in the U.S. (8,000 of whom are licensed to sell securities products) and 1,300 exclusive financial service representatives for the next three years. After this exclusive period, Prudential Financial will be a non-exclusive preferred provider for the following two years.

"We are very pleased with this agreement and look forward to an outstanding relationship with Prudential Financial. We think it is a win for our business, our agency force and our customers. Allstate Financial can focus on leveraging our strengths in our core products."

After operating expenses and the amortization of deferred acquisition costs, the variable annuity business had historically only a minor contribution to Allstate Financial's operating results. The company expects to recognize a small GAAP gain on the transaction, which will be amortized into earnings over the life of the agreement.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Michael Trevino, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Lincoln Benefit Life Puts its Strength Behind New Saver's Index® Annuities

Thu, 02 Mar 2006 01:00:00 -0600

Customized Product Solutions Help Secure Made-to-Order Retirement Dreams

Ask 10 people how they want to spend retirement and the odds are 10 different responses will follow. Customers are looking for customized solutions to achieve their unique retirement dreams. Producers now have two new products that deliver greater value to customers looking to secure their retirement. Lincoln Benefit Life Company (LBL) is expanding its Saver's Index^® Annuity Series with Saver's Index^® Annuity Plus and Saver's Index^® Annuity Premier, available March 3, 2006.

These two new annuity products build on the Saver's Index Annuity Series' 11-year track record. The LBL series has one of the longest published interest rate histories of any indexed annuity in the marketplace today.

"LBL is recognized as a leader in this market," said Kevin Slawin, president, Distribution, Allstate Life Insurance Company. "And, we're proud to introduce a creative solution that enables producers to help customers chart their way, to reach their financial goals and to protect their dreams."

Saver's Index Annuity Plus and Saver's Index Annuity Premier offer top-notch features that allow customers to access money when they need it through an Activities of Daily Living Waiver and a choice of surrender-charge periods as short as five years. Each product has a selection of four crediting strategies, including the innovative Low Water Mark Option, and a fixed account. The ability to mix crediting strategies to meet individual needs and a 100 percent participation rate also provide customers greater upside potential.

"These products are ideal for customers who are seeking a secure way to save for retirement and want to have personal choice in how they get there," says Slawin. "They are also looking for potentially higher returns than other fixed rate alternatives and the ability to access their money when they need it."

Saver's Index Annuity Plus and Saver's Index Annuity Premier are sold by financial representatives and Allstate agents licensed to sell Lincoln Benefit Life products. For more information, visit www.accessallstate.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Topolewski, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Customers Will Now Have More Choices in Disability Income Products

Thu, 19 Jan 2006 01:00:56 -0600

Company to Withdraw Own Individual Disability Product from Allstate Agency Sales Force Effective January 31, 2006

Allstate current and prospective customers will now have more individual disability income product choices via the Allstate agency sales force. Through an agreement with BISYS, a leading provider of outsourcing solutions for the financial services sector, Allstate agencies will have access to leading disability income products from a variety of carriers beginning January 31, 2006.

The new arrangement replaces the current individual disability income products produced by Allstate Workplace Division, located in Jacksonville, Fla. The Heritage Protector and The Heritage Protector Plus will no longer be offered to Allstate customers after January 31. This decision does not impact current Allstate disability income customers, as Allstate Workplace Division will continue to administer these policies.

Under this new agreement, BISYS will provide expertise and ongoing support in working with leading disability income carriers. BISYS' work with the Allstate agency force will include education, access to wholesalers, product details, sales illustrations and providing required forms. This support won't be new to the Allstate agency sales force, as BISYS began working with Allstate recently to provide the company access to long-term care products and service support.

The arrangement with BISYS will not affect Allstate Workplace Division's disability income product that is offered through workplace accounts. In addition, Allstate Workplace Division will continue to offer individual accident and cancer insurance, along with a supplemental health option policy (SHOP), to the Allstate agency sales force.

Allstate Workplace Division is the marketing name for American Heritage Life Insurance Company (In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York), wholly owned subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation. Products are underwritten by American Heritage Life Insurance Company, Home Office, Jacksonville, FL. (In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Home Office: Hauppauge, NY.)^© 2006 Allstate Insurance Company.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Topolewski / Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: New Year's Resolution: Get Fiscally Fit

Wed, 14 Dec 2005 06:00:00 -0600

Allstate suggests adapting weight-loss and stop-smoking tactics to savings
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It's that time of the year when Americans set lofty goals to improve their lives by ditching unhealthy habits like smoking or overeating. In that spirit, a survey by Allstate suggests that people start the year off right with a savings plan that they can stick to all year.

Allstate's fifth annual "Retirement Reality Check" survey, which measures Americans attitudes about saving for retirement, gives insight on tactics that can help you achieve your resolutions.

"Our survey asked people what goal is hardest to achieve, and the clear front-runners were saving for retirement, losing weight and stopping smoking," said Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a business unit of The Allstate Corporation. "A distant fourth-place goal was staying physically fit."

The survey also asked respondents what tactic would be the best first step to achieve the goal they declared was toughest. Regardless what goal respondents cited as most difficult, having a goal or plan was the No. 1 tactic suggested. The second most-mentioned tactic was getting professional help.

Sylla said the growth of smoking-cessation and weight-loss programs demonstrates that people are willing to seek help to find a plan that works for them. Using the same tactics to work out a savings plan that suits individual needs should make it easier for people to achieve retirement goals, he said.

"So often New Year's resolutions are abandoned after only a few weeks because people can't see the light at the end of the tunnel," Sylla said. "Our survey suggests that people are more likely to succeed if they set reasonable goals. Instead of seeing the goal only as the whole piece, saving $50,000 for retirement or losing 40 pounds, doing these things in manageable steps will allow people to be more successful."

Professional advice can help people identify goals that are significant but achievable, he said. "Once people see results, it is easier to stick to a plan or even increase the goal," he added.

Seeking advice might be particularly useful in creating a savings plan because there are so many factors to consider, he said.

"When it comes to saving for retirement, people need to consider a combination of their current income and expenses as well as their long-term lifestyle goals," he said. "When you look at the big picture, it is easier to identify goals that are achievable and trade-offs you're willing to make to get, and stay, fiscally fit."

Allstate recommends that people follow 10 steps to create a retirement savings plan that addresses short- and long-term needs. Those 10 steps are:

Educate yourself on the different savings options available.
Monitor your savings and investments to determine the appropriate investment choices given the time you have left before retirement.
Discuss with your spouse how you want to spend your retirement.
Decide which savings vehicles will help you save more for retirement.
Work with a financial professional to ensure your insurance needs are adequate and keeping up with the changes in your life.
Determine how much money you need to save by the time you retire.
Determine whether you have prepared for life's unexpected events in your retirement planning.
Educate yourself on how to pay for long-term health care.
Determine how much you will spend each year on your retirement lifestyle.
Estimate how much you will receive in retirement from Social Security and your employer-sponsored retirement plan, if you have one.

People need to pay particular attention to their assumptions about Social Security benefits. The Allstate survey showed that the majority of respondents are extremely pessimistic about Social Security, with 57 percent saying they have "major concerns" that their benefits will be reduced or even eliminated. Another 27 percent cited this as a minor concern.

Only 16 percent said Social Security is not a concern at all. But at the same time, only 2 percent of respondents said that drastic changes to Social Security would prompt them to start saving more for retirement.

"It isn't logical to have a concern but then do nothing to address it," Sylla said. "This underscores why it's so important for people to take a hard, critical look at what income they truly expect to have in retirement."

Download the mini executive summary (New Year's Resolution (PDF)) of the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

Allstate created the fifth annual "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,601 people born between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 or more. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of error (at the 95 percent confidence level) for the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.8 percent for information specific to Gen Xers, ±4.5 percent for Baby Boomers.

Allstate Life Insurance Company, Lincoln Benefit Life Company and American Heritage Life Insurance Company (Allstate Workplace Division) are proud members of the Insurance Marketplace Standards Association - IMSA. Our membership signifies our commitment to honesty and fairness in the sales and service of individually sold life insurance and annuity products.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate VA Sales Kit Ranked Number One Among Advisors

Mon, 12 Dec 2005 01:01:56 -0600

The sales/marketing kit created for the January 2005 re-launch of the Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity suite has been ranked number one by financial advisors, according to Marketing Matrix International's 2005 Best Practices in Variable Annuity Sales Literature Study. The kit was also ranked number three among investors.

"Allstate's variable annuity kit is functional and easy-to-use," said Marcia Selz, Ph.D., president of Marketing Matrix, a marketing consulting firm that specializes in research on sales literature for financial services companies. "They have done an exceptional job in designing visually appealing marketing pieces and applying the elements that financial advisors find most helpful in educating themselves and their clients about Allstate's variable annuity products."

According to Rob Shore, president, Allstate Distributors, L.L.C., the Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity sales kit was completely redesigned and rewritten from the previous version to re-introduce the product suite and in particular, SureIncome, Allstate's guaranteed minimum withdrawal benefit. The objective of the new kit's design was to break through the clutter and make an impact.

"Based on our research, we wanted to present our product suite as a comprehensive solution offering something for nearly every client whether they're saving, spending or building a nest egg for their heirs," explained Shore. "In addition, we felt it was important to offer easier to understand information when it came to variable annuities and all the features available with the product." In line with these objectives, the redesigned kit included profiles of customers in various stages of retirement and explanations on how they could benefit from various choices based upon their goals for retirement.

The kit also included information about why an investor would choose Allstate, which has been in the financial services business for more than 45 years, but is most recognizable to consumers as a home and auto insurer. Shore anticipates that this recognition will help create broader awareness for the range of financial product solutions Allstate offers. "We're extremely proud of these rankings," said Shore. "We hope this recognition helps to educate financial advisors and consumers about the many benefits of variable annuities and how, under the right circumstances, they can fit into an individual's comprehensive financial plan."

In order to receive this top ranking, the kits were ranked on the following six components:

Visual Appeal
Readability
Usability
Information Substance
Information Comprehension
Motivation (to sell or buy)

In addition to this recognition by Marketing Matrix, the Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity sales kit also won a "Best of Show" award in the Personal Lines Sales Promotion to Producers category at the Insurance Marketing Communications Association's (IMCA) showcase competition this past June.

Variable annuities are long-term investments designed for retirement purposes. Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the investment alternatives before purchasing a contract or investing money. These contracts have limitations and are sold by prospectus only. The prospectus contains details on the investment alternatives, contract features, the underlying portfolios, fees, charges, expense and other pertinent information. Investors should read the prospectus carefully before purchasing a contract or sending money.

Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of Allstate Life Insurance Company: Home Office, Northbrook, IL.

The Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity is issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company and underwritten by Allstate Distributors, L.L.C.: Home Offices, Northbrook, IL.

Allstate Life Insurance Company is a proud member of the Insurance Marketplace Standards Association - IMSA. Membership signifies the company's commitment to honesty and fairness in the sales and service of individually sold life insurance and annuity products.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, 847-402-5600

Financial Products: Kicking the Spending Habit is a Tough Task

Tue, 15 Nov 2005 01:00:00 -0600

Allstate survey shows people view saving for retirement as a lifestyle challenge
This release contains: 1 Related Document

Saving for retirement sounds easy enough, but many people view achieving financial security as a lifestyle challenge similar to quitting smoking or losing weight.

That is an unexpected finding in Allstate's fifth annual "Retirement Reality Check" survey, which measures Americans attitudes about saving for retirement.

People say it feels good to save money, and in general they consider themselves a disciplined bunch. Yet one-third of the respondents Allstate surveyed rated quitting smoking and saving for retirement as equally difficult for most people to accomplish (32 percent and 31 percent respectively). In comparison, losing weight was cited as most difficult by only 25 percent of the respondents- a smaller group, but still a significant finding in that more people view saving for retirement as more difficult to accomplish than even this notoriously challenging lifestyle goal. Taken together, these findings shed some light on why financial security doesn't come easy to more Americans.

At the same time, nearly half the survey respondents-44 percent-acknowledged that the most effective first step to achieving success is setting a goal or having a plan in place to help them save more, quit smoking or reach a healthy weight. And nearly a third-29 percent-said getting advice from a professional would be an effective first step.

"It's incredibly valuable to have this insight," said Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a business unit of The Allstate Corporation. "We now know many people think about saving for retirement, or kicking the spending habit, in terms similar to how they view losing weight or giving up cigarettes. That creates opportunities to adopt some of the approaches, tactics and tools used by successful smoking cessation or weight loss programs. Americans now have a better roadmap for how to become successful savers."

Demographic differences
Baby Boomers and women who responded to Allstate's survey ranked stopping smoking and saving for retirement as their No. 1 challenges, and both groups rated losing weight as the second hardest goal to accomplish. A slightly higher percentage of men (33 percent) rated quitting smoking as more difficult than saving for retirement (31 percent), while more women (26 percent) than men (23 percent) rated losing weight as hardest to accomplish.

Regionally, respondents living in the West rated saving for retirement as the toughest of the three challenges (38 percent), followed by those in the Midwest (32 percent), the South (28 percent) and the Northeast (26 percent).

"One possible reason those living in the West view retirement savings as the most difficult challenge is because they tend to be more health conscious than the rest of the country," said Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D., president of Mathew Greenwald & Associates, the Washington, D.C. firm that conducted the survey for Allstate. "Many of them could be non-smokers who also are physically fit, so they've either never faced the challenges of quitting smoking or losing weight, or they've already overcome those challenges. Saving for retirement, however, is likely still a hurdle for them."

Only those living in the South ranked losing weight (31 percent) as more difficult than either saving for retirement (28 percent) or quitting smoking (26 percent), while respondents from the Northeast were the sole group to rank saving for retirement as the least difficult challenge (26 percent), ranking stopping smoking as No. 1 (32 percent) and losing weight as No. 2 (27 percent). Midwesterners said giving up cigarettes is the most difficult (37 percent), followed by saving for retirement (32 percent) and losing weight (20 percent).

All groups ranked a fourth challenge-staying fit-as far less difficult than the other three lifestyle-related challenges.

Action steps
Regardless of what respondents rated as the hardest to accomplish, they agree that the most effective first step to achieve any of those goals is to have a plan or to seek professional help. Those steps were consistent across all age, gender or regional demographics.

Other common approaches, including "will power" and "telling family or friends of your intentions," were cited by fewer than 5 percent of respondents as being effective.

"The survey results are interesting because they suggest people might want to view saving for retirement in a different way," Sylla said. "Culturally, Americans are bombarded with messages that glamorize spending, eating and even smoking. We're told how delicious food is, how hip smoking is, and how many wonderful things we can buy. "

Yet, according to Sylla, "The need for instant gratification can derail sound financial preparation, just as it can interfere with a healthy lifestyle. But the good news is it's never too late to adopt good habits or get back on track."

Feeling in control
According to the Allstate survey, most Americans say it "feels good" to save money. More than 90 percent of respondents said this, regardless of age, gender, income, education or region of the country. In addition, 93 percent overall said it is "important" to save for retirement.

"People generally feel good when they are in control, and that applies to both their physical health and their financial situation," Greenwald explained. "The findings in this survey suggest that Americans might want to approach managing their fiscal health just as they would approach managing their well-being. And just as they can take steps to lose weight or quit smoking, they can take simple but effective steps to kick the spending habit and create a more secure retirement."

A number of weight-loss and smoking-cessation programs teach people successful tactics to help them break bad habits, and many of those tactics can be modified to make Americans better savers.

For example, setting a goal or having a plan-cited by 44 percent of Allstate survey respondents as an effective first step-has proven effective for people who want to lose weight. "A realistic goal, such as losing 10 percent of your body weight, is effective because it is not overwhelming. Similarly, setting a goal to set aside 5 percent or 10 percent of your income is something many people might find easy to accomplish," Sylla said.

Keeping a "spending diary" that tracks weekly expenses can also help people get control over their finances. People who successfully lose weight often write down what they eat so they can keep better track of calories. "Jotting down expenses in a notebook and tallying them at the end of each week can help Americans track whether they are over or under their budget estimates and show them where they need to cut back in order to reach their savings targets," Sylla said.

A common tactic for people who want to quit smoking is to keep cigarettes out of the house or limit the number of cigarettes they will smoke in one day. That notion can be applied to credit card use. "People who are trying to curb spending so they can put more money towards retirement can choose to keep credit cards at home, rather than in their purses or wallets, or they can carry only a card that requires them to pay off their balance each month," Greenwald added.

"Tracking spending might sound like work, but just as people learn to adopt simple steps to lose weight or stop smoking, they can learn to make small behavioral changes that will help them take more control over their finances so they can reach their retirement savings goals," Sylla said. "And those who might need direction or encouragement recognize that seeking advice from a professional is also an effective strategy."

Viewing the goal of saving more for retirement as similar to adopting a healthier lifestyle acknowledges that success not only requires effort, but also discipline. And Allstate's survey shows Americans consider themselves well equipped in this area.

The vast majority of respondents-87 percent-describe themselves as "disciplined" and 78 percent describe themselves as "good savers." The majority also say they already practice good habits: 92 percent say they frequently shop around for the best deals, 82 percent say they have a budget, stick to it and save something each pay period. In addition, 80 percent say they balance their checkbooks regularly and 67 percent say they always pay off credit cards each month.

The Allstate survey shows that Americans are generally prepared to tackle their retirement savings goals, but they might be more successful if they adopt some of the tried and true methods used to overcome other tough lifestyle challenges. "Just like fad diets, quick fixes don't work; it takes setting a plan and taking a slow, steady and disciplined approach," Sylla said. "It's never too late to eat better, stop smoking or save more. And often it's the small changes that, over time, have the biggest impact."

Download the mini executive summary (Kicking the Spending Habit (PDF)) of the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: You Are What (and How) You Save

Tue, 01 Nov 2005 01:00:00 -0600

Allstate survey shows that personality drives planning for retirement
This release contains: 1 Related Document

The manner in which Americans save for retirement is a reflection of their individual personalities, according to the 2005 Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

Simply put, measuring specific actions people take to save for retirement, coupled with their attitudes about retirement, generated five distinct personalities in the 2005 survey. Interestingly, people's attitudes don't always mesh with the actions they've taken to prepare financially for retirement.

The fifth annual Allstate survey asked Americans which of 10 specific steps they have taken to save for retirement. Those responses were cross-referenced to responses about attitudes toward retirement, confidence in financial preparation and specific fears about life after retirement. The various combinations of actions and attitudes yielded the five personality types.

"It is easy to look at people's track records, but in order to help improve their savings habits, we also need to understand what motivates and worries them," said Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a business unit of The Allstate Corporation. "These findings give unusual and clear insight into how people view themselves, which is the first step toward understanding why they save the way they do."

The survey showed that people's attitudes do not always mirror their actual savings habits, said Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D, president of Mathew Greenwald & Associates, the Washington, D.C.-based firm that conducted the survey for Allstate.

"We find that a significant number of people have extreme optimism about their habits and their futures, but in fact have not saved enough money to justify that attitude. We also found one segment that is far more pessimistic about their prospects than their actions justify," explained Dr. Greenwald.

The five "Colors of Savers" identified in the 2005 Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey are:

Green: The Color of Retirement Readiness
(20 percent of survey respondents)

This group is most prepared financially and emotionally for retirement, having taken at least nine of the Ten Steps to Retirement Savings. Greens tend to be educated and relatively well-off, and they have good financial habits. As survey respondents age, they're more likely to fall into this group. Not surprisingly, Greens are most likely to be looking forward to retirement, and their savings success gives them a green light to the retirement lifestyle they want. Among men, 21 percent are Greens, compared with only 16 percent of women.

Blue: The Color of Retirement Worry
(27 percent of survey respondents)

Members of this group need to take a tougher look at their savings program. While they say they've done eight of the Ten Steps to Retirement Savings, the amount they've actually socked away is far less than the Greens. They talk the talk - they call themselves disciplined and good savers - but they just don't walk the walk. And they know they fall short because Blues do, indeed, have the blues. This group is defined, not by income or education, but by worry - 48 percent look to retirement with apprehension, and 7 percent say they dread it.

Yellow: The Color of False Sunshine/Optimism
(19 percent of survey respondents)

Members of this group need to get their savings program into sync with their attitudes. Simply put, Yellows are merry optimists about their financial outlook, with only 20 percent saying they're worried about how to finance their retirement. But their savings habits are cause for alarm. They've taken only half of the Ten Steps to Retirement Savings, and 56 percent have socked away less than $100,000. This is worrisome because 51 percent of Yellows are 45 or older, so there isn't a lot of time to pick up the slack.

Orange: The Color of Avoidable Risk
(21 percent of survey respondents)

This group is at high risk of a financial shortfall in retirement because they've only taken four of the Ten Savings Steps. Unlike the Yellows, this group is extremely pessimistic, with 64 percent looking to retirement with apprehension or dread, and 86 percent worried about financing retirement. But Oranges are relatively young - 40 percent are younger than 35 - so they have time to get on track. And they probably know where to start…members of this group admit they spend money carelessly, with 43 percent saying they often regret things they buy, and 36 percent saying they buy things to make themselves feel better.

Reds: The Color of Danger
(13 percent of survey respondents)

Reds say they are in difficult financial straits right now, with 70 percent worried about current finances. Only 34 percent of this group consider themselves good savers, and only 25 percent say they stick to a budget. More than half have saved less than $50,000, and 21 percent has less than $10,000. Reds tend to have less education and make less money than members of other groups, and they're extremely pessimistic about their outlook. Reds overwhelmingly worry about financing retirement (78 percent) and believe they'll likely have to work in retirement (67 percent). Understandably, 57 percent look to retirement with apprehension, and 15 percent with outright dread, far more than any other group.

"What is most interesting is the lack of correlation between individuals' level of worry or confidence and their actual savings for retirement," Sylla said. "This survey underscores that people's emotions and attitudes-even if they are based on misconceptions-can be savings barriers that are as significant as income or expenses."

Download the mini executive summary (You Are What (and How) You Save - (PDF)) of the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

Allstate created the fifth annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,601 people born between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 or more. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of error (at the 95 percent confidence level) for the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.8 percent for information specific to Gen Xers, ±4.5 percent for Baby Boomers, and ±5.0 for Silent Generation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: A Nation of Worriers Frets About Retirement

Tue, 18 Oct 2005 02:00:00 -0500

Allstate survey shows Americans concerned about health, money and terrorism
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When Americans look forward, they see a future fraught with peril. Accordingly they worry-about terrorism, about their families and about their health. Above all, as they consider retirement, they worry that despite their best efforts, they simply won't be able to save enough money.

These are just some of the responses from the 2005 Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey. The fifth annual survey, which tracks Americans' attitudes toward and savings for retirement, showed that 70 percent of respondents admit to being "concerned about the future"- and 22 percent said they are "very" concerned.

What are people so worried about?
The top two answers, according to the survey, were terrorism and saving for retirement, both cited by 55 percent of respondents. Those issues eclipse other worries, including family, cited by 43 percent; current finances, 38 percent; getting into an accident, 33 percent; and health, 30 percent. Only 22 percent said they worry about their careers.

"Many of these issues, such as one's health or career, are things we as individuals can control to a large extent," said Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a business unit of The Allstate Corporation. "Perhaps that is why they rank so far below terrorism, which is top-of-mind because of constant media coverage, but not within most people's control."

Control provides comfort
"What surprised us is that people said they worry equally about terrorism and saving for retirement," Sylla added. "Our message is that savings habits clearly are within people's control, which should prompt people to take steps that would heighten their confidence."

The Allstate survey showed that a majority of respondents look toward retirement with apprehension (43 percent) or outright dread (8 percent). Only 16 percent said they "eagerly await" retirement, and 30 percent expect to "enjoy" it.

At the same time, 74 percent of respondents said they consider themselves at least somewhat prepared financially for retirement.

"So why are people worried? It appears people aren't so much worried about retirement itself as they are about something they can't control-the cost of health care after retirement," said Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D., president of Mathew Greenwald & Associates, the Washington, D.C. firm that conducted the survey for Allstate. "Like terrorism, the retirement health-care issue has been discussed widely in the media, so it isn't surprising that it is on people's minds."

In fact, 65 percent of respondents said they worry about their ability to afford health care after retirement. Even 57 percent of those who "eagerly await" retirement cite this concern, as well as 50 percent who say they are "very prepared" financially.

Uncertainty, reliance on others fuels concerns
Other top retirement concerns also were health- or money- related. For example, the other most-mentioned concerns were not being able to care for oneself, listed by 58 percent of respondents; the possibility of Social Security benefits being cut or eliminated, 57 percent; and not having enough money, 50 percent.

While these worries were cited across the board, they are strongest in people who dread retirement and those who admit they are not financially prepared for retirement.

Beyond health care, people who have saved the least see a clear link between lack of money and quality of life after retirement.

For example, 70 percent of those who said they are not financially prepared for retirement say that, by not saving more now, they run the risk of being forced to work longer or work in retirement. Overall, 49 percent of respondents said that, and only 20 percent of those who described themselves as "very" prepared financially for retirement.

Similarly, 64 percent who "dread" retirement said that, versus 33 percent who "eagerly await" retirement.

Overall, about half of respondents-49 percent-said they risk having to cut back on their lifestyles after retirement if they don't save more money now. Among respondents who admit they are not financially prepared for retirement, 70 percent said they risk having to cut back on lifestyle. But of the respondents who described themselves as "very" financially prepared for retirement, only 20 percent said they risk having to cut back.

A significant number of respondents said that, by not saving more money now, they risk being forced to turn to social services after retirement (28 percent), or to rely on family members for financial support (23 percent).

"The link between financial security and people's comfort level about retirement is quite clear," Sylla said. "The consequences of lack of money-having to work, having to rely on family, even having to rely on social services-likely is the source of people's apprehension and dread about retirement. "

"The good news is that this is largely within individuals' control, and they have the opportunity to do something about it," he added. "The survey clearly shows that, the more people have prepared themselves financially, the more positive and confident they are. So people should consider their fears a call to action to take concrete steps to address those financial concerns."

Download the mini executive summary (Apprehension/Risk PDF) of the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: It Isn't Me - It's the Economy and My Low Pay

Tue, 04 Oct 2005 02:00:00 -0500

Allstate survey shows Americans say they save well, given their resources
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Americans, tired of being told they aren't saving enough for retirement, have a strong message of their own, according to Allstate's fifth annual "Retirement Reality Check" survey. Respondents sent the clear message that they think they're doing just fine, given the resources they have. In addition, survey respondents made it clear that if they are to save more money, they need to be paid more and the economy needs to improve.

The Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey measures Americans' attitudes about, and savings for, retirement.

Respondents in the 2005 survey also said they are financially stretched, at least until the kids are out of college, and that they'll worry about saving closer to retirement day. But in the meantime, the majority of respondents insist that they are on top of things.

Specifically, when asked which statements describe them well, respondents said they are disciplined (87 percent overall), educated about investments (71 percent) and good savers (78 percent), according to the Allstate survey. Even 79 percent of those who said they "dread" retirement called themselves disciplined, as did 84 percent of those who are "apprehensive" about retirement.

That discipline extends beyond finances, survey respondents said. For example, the Allstate survey found that 75 percent of respondents said they spend more time solving problems, rather than worrying about them. And 82 percent said they have, and stick to, a budget.

But at the same time, 56 percent of respondents said their savings and investments, not including their home, total less than $100,000. And 53 percent said they have less than $50,000 in accounts earmarked specifically for retirement, such as Individual Retirement Accounts, 401(k) plans, 403(b) savings, as well as taxable accounts.

And despite feeling they are good savers, 64 percent of respondents admit to feeling overwhelmed about how to finance their retirement, and 58 percent say they worry they'll outlive their retirement savings.

"This disconnect between people's attitudes and their actions is a clear reality check," said Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial, a business unit of The Allstate Corporation. "Our survey shows that many people view savings as beyond their control, but it is important to take control of our own finances. People cannot afford to leave planning for retirement to external forces."

What triggers Americans to save?
In fact, the 2005 Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey shows that external triggers are the most likely to prompt people to save more. Many of the events that might be assumed to trigger savings, such as marriage or birth of a child, were deemed much less significant to survey respondents.

By far the No. 1 savings trigger cited by survey respondents was making more money. Overall, 84 percent said this, and it was the No. 1 savings trigger regardless of age, income, education or gender.

The No. 2 savings trigger was getting closer to retirement, cited by 71 percent of respondents, and No. 3 was having children finish college, cited by 61 percent.

And 60 percent of survey respondents said that the economy needs to improve to allow them to save more.

"It is understandable that many people's first reaction is that they cannot save more unless they make more, because inflation is rising faster than many Americans' paychecks," said Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D., president of Mathew Greenwald & Associates, the Washington, D.C. firm that conducted the survey for Allstate.

The U.S. Labor Department's 2004 National Compensation Survey, released in September, reported that the average hourly wage rose 1.9 percent between July 2003 and July 2004. During that same period, however, inflation rose by 3 percent, meaning the average wage-earner lost actual buying power.

"Clearly some people's pay is increasing faster than inflation, while others are falling behind," Greenwald said. "The key point in the Allstate ‘Retirement Reality Check' survey is that people responded that they can't save more unless they get a raise, even if they're already earning more than $150,000. That suggests that many people are more focused on spending than saving."

Among respondents from households with annual income of $150,000 or more, 78 percent said they would save more if they got a salary increase. That compares with 84 percent of respondents from households with annual incomes of less than $55,000 who said that.
On the other hand, only 41 percent overall said that getting married would prompt them to start saving for retirement, and 29 percent said birth of a child would do that. In both cases, age of respondents was a significant factor

Priorities drive savings strategy
Among Generation X, those born from 1965 to 1978, more than half (55 percent) said marriage would prompt them to start saving for retirement, compared with only 32 percent of Baby Boomers, born from 1946 to 1964. And 39 percent of Gen-Xers cited birth of a child, compared with 20 percent of Baby Boomers.

"It's clear that people are focused on current expenses, which is understandable. It's also logical that having a child increases current expenses for parents. But waiting to save until retirement is on the horizon is unrealistic," Sylla said. "The key is to create a savings plan that addresses your future without shortchanging current needs. That means people have to prioritize needs and goals. The good news is that our survey shows people are emotionally prepared to save."

According to the Allstate survey, most Americans say it "feels good" to save money. More than 90 percent of all respondents said this, regardless of age, gender, income, education or region of the country. And 93 percent overall said it is "important" to save for retirement.

"This again highlights the disconnect between how people feel and how they act," said Greenwald. "It's as if people think it's enough to think about saving, rather than following through with a solid plan. The reality is that we all have to work with the income we have and make the choices that balance our current financial needs with the retirement style we desire."

Download the mini executive summary (PDF) of the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

Allstate Life Insurance Company, Lincoln Benefit Life Company and American Heritage Life Insurance Company (Allstate Workplace Division) are proud members of the Insurance Marketplace Standards Association - IMSA. Our membership signifies our commitment to honesty and fairness in the sales and service of individually sold life insurance, long-term care, and annuity products.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Single People Don't Need Life Insurance …and nine other life insurance misconceptions debunked by Allstate and its member companies

Thu, 15 Sep 2005 02:00:00 -0500

(En Español)

Single people or couples without kids don't need life insurance. Life insurance is too expensive. Stay-at-home parents do not need life insurance because they don't earn a paycheck. These and other misconceptions surround life insurance, a product that most consumers may need, but many still do not understand.

"Many Americans either don't have a life insurance policy or don't have enough coverage to meet their immediate or long term financial needs," said Matt Easley, Vice President of Life Products, Allstate Life Insurance Company. "The low level of Americans' personal savings has increased the need for life insurance to protect their family's future."

Interestingly, according to a 2004 survey from Allstate, 67 percent, or nearly seven out of 10 surveyed felt their life insurance was adequate. On average, respondents reported owning four times their household annual income of life insurance coverage. For families who have already incurred many of life's big expenses like buying and financing a home or sending children to college, four times their income may be enough. Yet, on the other hand, younger families with decades of financial obligations ahead may not have enough life insurance coverage to realize their goals. For example, as a rule of thumb the recommended amount of life insurance coverage often cited is seven times an individual's income, although individual circumstances should be taken into account when estimating actual life insurance coverage needs.

September marks the second annual Life Insurance Awareness Month. In an effort to debunk the myths surrounding life insurance, Allstate and its member companies and divisions, including Lincoln Benefit Life Company and Allstate Workplace Division, offer the following realities:

Myth #1) Singles or couples without kids don't need life insurance. Fact: Life insurance can help provide for loved ones in the event of death, even for those without children. For example, people in this group may carry debts that they would prefer were taken care of rather than taken out of assets left to their loved ones. Still, others may use life insurance proceeds to help nieces, nephews, cousins or siblings achieve their financial goals. For a modest premium, life insurance can help to provide for those who are left behind.

Myth #2) Life insurance is expensive. Fact: Term life insurance, which is life insurance purchased for a period of time, is very affordable for many people. For example, a healthy, non-smoking, 35-year-old female who has a good family health history may be able to purchase a 10-year term life insurance policy from Allstate with a $250,000 death benefit for an average of $14.66 per month. Or, she may be able to purchase a 10-year term life insurance policy from Allstate with a $500,000 death benefit for an average of $14.88 per month.^* Either way, the premiums are approximately the price of two movie tickets per month!

Myth #3) Stay-at-home parents don't need life insurance because they don't draw an income. Fact: While a stay-at-home parent may not provide an actual paycheck for the household, they do provide services that would cost tens of thousands of dollars to replace. These include: the cost of day care, a chauffeur or taxi service, a cook and a home cleaning service to name a few. An individual life insurance policy would help to ease the burden for the family if the stay-at-home parent should pass away.

Myth #4) You can take your life insurance policy with you from job to job. Fact: Typically, group life insurance purchased through an employer isn't portable - meaning if an employee leaves the job, he or she is probably also leaving the life insurance protection behind. However, because you own any individual life insurance policies purchased through an insurance agent or a financial professional, leaving a job will have no effect on the coverage provided by them. So, in that case, if you change your job, you will still have your life insurance policy even if you no longer have employer-provided group life insurance.

Having a policy through an employer is also becoming a rarity. According to a 2004 U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Employee Benefit Survey, fewer workers have life insurance benefits. The number has declined eight percent since 1999, from a high of 56 percent to 48 percent in 2004.

Myth #5) Your beneficiaries will have to pay income taxes on the proceeds of your life insurance policy. Fact: Life insurance death benefits are generally income tax-free; yet very few people know this. According to LIMRA¹ International's Individual Life Buyer Consumer survey, only 34 percent of those surveyed knew their death benefit is tax-free. Note, however, that death benefits are subject to estate taxes if the insured owned or had any ownership interest in the policy.

Myth #6) You are not covered by your life insurance policy if you travel. Fact: In the unlikely event an insured passes away while in a foreign country, the policy would most likely pay out to the beneficiaries. However, many life insurance policies exclude certain countries, such as those currently on the U.S. Department of State's Current Travel Warnings List; so it's important to review a policy prior to leaving the country and talk to your agent or financial professional if you have any questions.

Myth #7) Term life insurance policies can't be converted to permanent or whole life insurance policies. Fact: It is possible to convert a term life insurance policy into a permanent policy, depending on the policy purchased. However, individuals seeking to do so should expect an increase in premium. In addition, the conversion may have certain limitations or require renewals. Many people like to purchase term insurance, which tends to be less expensive, while they're younger because it may make obtaining a preferred premium easier when they attempt to convert later.

Myth #8) You don't need life insurance once your children are adults. Fact: Life insurance can help achieve a goal of leaving an inheritance to children or other loved ones or help relieve the burden of paying for final costs such as a funeral or final medical bills.

Myth #9) Kids don't need life insurance. Fact: Parents mistakenly think that since kids don't earn an income, they don't need life insurance. The reality is that there are several good reasons why buying life insurance for children makes sense including: 1) Lower premiums, and 2) Ensure child's future insurability in the unfortunate case that they become ill and thus will not qualify for life insurance.

Myth #10) People don't need life insurance if they feel they have enough in savings. Fact: Most Americans do not have enough in their personal savings. According to a June 2005 U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis, the personal savings rate as a percentage of disposable personal income was 9 percent at the end of the first-quarter 2005. If people don't have enough saved, most likely their family won't be able to pay off final expenses or be able to hold onto assets like a home. A suggestion for those who may feel that purchasing life insurance is just another bill to pay is to have the premiums automatically paid with after-tax money from a paycheck.

"Education is the key to getting the right life insurance policy that will meet an individual's needs," explains Easley. "We hope that our efforts to dispel the myths surrounding life insurance will encourage consumers to look into this important financial product."

For more information, visit www.allstate.com.

About Life Insurance Awareness Month
Life Insurance Awareness Month was created in response to growing concern about the large number of Americans who lack adequate life insurance protection. LIMRA estimates that more than 60 million adult Americans are inadequately insured. Forty percent of adult Americans have no life insurance coverage whatsoever. On average, insured adults have coverage equal to just 3.0 years of replacement income, which is far less than most experts recommend. Held each September, Life Insurance Awareness Month is an industry-wide effort that is coordinated by The Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE). LIFE was founded in 1994 in response to the public's growing need for information and education on life, health, disability and long-term care insurance.

Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA.) Registered Broker-Dealer. Member NASD, SIPC. Main Office: 2920 South 84th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506. 877-525-5727.

^* These policy premiums are shown as of May 15, 2005 for 10-year GT gold and GT platinum life insurance products. These policies have terms, limitations, and exclusions that affect continuation of coverage. Further underwriting may apply. A no-cost medical exam may be required depending on age, health, or amount of coverage requested. These policies are guaranteed renewable to age 95, and the premium is subject to change after the 10th year.

Subject to availability and qualifications. Other terms, conditions, and exclusions may apply.

¹ LIMRA: An Industry Research Organization

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: New Illustration Tool Allows Producers to Create Hypothetical Views of Entire Variable Annuity Product Suite

Tue, 16 Aug 2005 02:01:00 -0500

Allstate Launches ClearCast™ Illustrations

Allstate has launched a new illustration system for its variable annuity product line called ClearCast™ Illustrations. This new illustration system allows producers to create hypothetical views of the entire variable annuity product suite. This will enable them to easily demonstrate product benefits and features.

ClearCast™ walks the user through the process of selecting features, riders and subaccounts in a logical manner.

The illustration system has several unique characteristics that include:

Being fully integrated with Allstate's producer Web site: accessallstate.com;
Keeping subaccount information current with the most recent month end data
allowing for current performance to be shown;
Ability to save cases and retrieve them later;
Building a contact list for multiple agents within an agency or organization;
Showing forward projecting rates and historicals; and
Allowing dollar cost averaging.

"ClearCast™ Illustrations will allow our producers to easily demonstrate product benefits and features to their customers," said Eric Smith, vice president, Distribution Strategy and Support, Allstate Financial Group. "We believe this is a very unique tool that will save our producers time when working with our variable annuity product line."

It is the commitment to enhancements such as ClearCast™ that has allowed accessallstate.com to move from a "Very Good" to an "Excellent" designation with third party evaluator Dalbar, Inc. effective second quarter 2005. Out of the top 25 Web sites for financial professionals within the insurance industry, Allstate is one of only three firms who hold this designation. More information about this ranking can be found on Dalbar, Inc.'s Web site at www.dalbarinc.com.

Allstate agents and independent financial representatives may obtain more information about ClearCast™ by registering and logging onto www.accessallstate.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Life Insurance Company Participates in PREPARE Study to Evaluate New Medical Technology Allstate teams up with IMI and McNeil Consumer Healthcare for non-invasive risk assessments

Tue, 02 Aug 2005 02:01:56 -0500

Blood tests today, skin tests tomorrow. Allstate Life Insurance Company, a subsidiary of The Allstate Corporation, is participating in the PREPARE (PREVU* Predicts Atherosclerosis Risk and Events) clinical trial, a study with IMI International Medical Innovations Inc. and McNeil Consumer Healthcare. The study evaluates a new medical technology for assessing the risk of coronary artery disease.

Currently, Allstate Life Insurance Company customers who apply for a life insurance policy must undergo a blood test as one of a number of factors to assess their coronary artery disease risk. The new study incorporates a skin test that uses an adhesive collection strip that is applied to a study participant's hand. Upon removal of the strip, dead skin cells are collected and then sealed in a collection device and processed using IMI's patented PREVU* LT Skin Sterol Test system.

PREVU* non-invasively measures the amount of sterol, or skin tissue cholesterol, without the drawing of blood or a special pre-test diet, and takes minutes to perform. Skin sterol evaluates the level of cholesterol that has accumulated in the tissues of the body as opposed to the blood.

Allstate is always looking at new technology to make our underwriting process simpler for our customers, said Matt Easley, vice president of life products, Allstate Life Insurance Company. "Once the study is completed, we will closely review the results to determine if the skin test may be an acceptable alternative to blood testing for some insurance applicants.

As part of this clinical trial, customers will have the opportunity to voluntarily participate in this new scientific study. During this trial, the results of the skin test will have no impact on their life insurance application.

We are pleased to count Allstate as a partner in this important and potentially groundbreaking study, said Dr. Brent Norton, president and CEO of IMI International Medical Innovations Inc. (TSX: IMI; Amex: IME), developer of PREVU* LT Skin Sterol Test. In the U.S., approximately 13.5 million individual life insurance policies are purchased annually --- many of which do not include a cardiovascular disease assessment. PREVU* LT is designed to be a simple, effective tool for insurers to better manage this risk.

Peter Kalra, business unit director, Diagnostics, McNeil Consumer Healthcare Canada, agrees that this novel and simple method of measuring skin sterol may become a viable option for risk assessment in life insurance screening.

"We look forward to the results of the PREPARE Study as it may prove the utility of PREVU and provide the life insurance industry another tool to help provide the best product to their customers," said Kalra.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the You're In Good Hands With Allstate® slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Lincoln Benefit Life Company, an Allstate Company, to Cease Issuing New Lincoln Benefit Life Branded Long-Term Care Insurance Policies

Mon, 18 Jul 2005 02:01:00 -0500

Lincoln Benefit Life Company, an Allstate Company, has decided to no longer issue new Lincoln Benefit Life branded long-term care insurance policies, effective October 31, 2005. Customers who have existing long-term care insurance policies with Lincoln Benefit Life Company will not be affected. They will continue to have their policies serviced through LifeCare Assurance, a third-party company that has administered the Lincoln Benefit product since its inception.

"This decision is in line with the focus of Allstate Financial, the life and retirement savings business unit of The Allstate Corporation, which is to simplify and strengthen our product offerings by developing a limited portfolio of top-tier products," explains John Lounds, senior vice president in product management, Allstate Life Insurance Company.

The Lincoln Benefit Life long-term care insurance product is currently offered through independent financial representatives appointed to sell Lincoln Benefit Life Company products, along with Allstate exclusive agencies and financial professionals. The company has offered long-term care insurance since 1997.

According to Lounds, the actual Lincoln Benefit Life long-term care product and its administrator, LifeCare Assurance, have performed well, and this decision is not reflective of any aspects of the actual product performance, rather of the category in which the product resides.

"Lincoln Benefit Life's focus is on developing and offering retirement savings and life products and we want to focus more of our attention and resources on our core product lines," he explained.

This recent decision is one of many product decommissionings undertaken by the business unit. In fact, according to Lounds, Allstate Financial has decommissioned more than 100 products since the end of 2000. This strategy has strengthened the business unit.

The company does not expect this decision to impact net income or its workforce.

Despite this decision, Allstate recognizes the need to be able to offer long-term care insurance to the Allstate customer base, many of whom are nearing retirement. In line with this, Allstate plans to offer a long-term care insurance product issued by a third-party carrier, yet to be determined. The product would be sold through Allstate exclusive agencies and financial professionals.

Besides long-term care insurance, Lincoln Benefit Life, an Allstate Company, also offers fixed and variable life insurance, and fixed and variable annuities.

For more than 65 years, Lincoln Benefit Life Company has been an innovator in bringing insurance and annuity products to policyholders nationwide. Lincoln Benefit Life was acquired in 1984 by Allstate Life Insurance Company specifically for its ability to develop competitively priced insurance and annuity products for distribution through independent agents. By the end of 2004, the company had $211.3 billion of life insurance in force and more than $2.7 billion in assets under management. And its financial strength and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders are reflected in the high rankings it has received by independent statistical rating agencies. Lincoln Benefit Life prides itself on its ability to provide exceptional products and service to its customers.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life and supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Mike Siemienas or Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: One of the Industry's First Equity Indexed Annuities Now Renovated

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 02:01:00 -0500

Lincoln Benefit Life Company, an Allstate Company, Enhances the Saver's Index

Ups and downs in the stock market have made some consumers saving for retirement hesitant about easing back into it. Yet, knowing the gains that could be achieved makes some, even the most risk averse, interested in equity indexed annuities, which may provide higher potential earnings than a fixed annuity or CD, yet still provide protection from downside market risk.

To meet the needs of those individuals, Lincoln Benefit Life, an Allstate Company, has enhanced its popular equity indexed annuity offering, the Saver's Index^® Annuity series, with new competitive features. These features are applicable only to new contracts issued.

Specifically, the Saver's Index Annuity series now includes a 50 basis points higher cap for accumulated values over $100,000.In addition, the series contains a two percentage point cap bailout provision in which customers can remove their money without surrender charges if the cap decreases by two percentage points or more.

The Saver's Index Annuity series, which includes a single premium equity indexed annuity, also features the Saver's Index Annuity III, a flexible premium equity indexed annuity.Producers and consumers alike will be particularly interested in the changes made to the Saver's Index Annuity III; the surrender charge period is now contract year based, as opposed to each deposit having its own surrender charge, which provides additional liquidity to the customer.Additionally, the surrender charge waiver, which already included a nursing home waiver, now also includes terminal illness and unemployment waivers.

"The Saver's Index Annuity series is well known among our producers for being simple in design and dampening the impact of market volatility, along with providing solid returns," said Tim Vander Pas, head of annuity product management, Allstate Life Insurance Company."However, it was also among the first equity indexed annuity products on the market in 1995, so we enhanced the product with several new features that we think will capture the attention of customers who are concerned about the current interest rate environment and possible future losses, yet still want to participate in the gains of the S&P 500."

The Saver's Index Annuity series credits interest linked to changes in the S&P 500^® Index, which can offer potentially higher returns than traditional fixed annuities and CDs.At the same time, the minimum guaranteed interest rates protect a customer from the downside market risk that could be found in other investments.For example, the single premium product guarantees that at the end of seven years, the contract value will be at least 110% of what the customer put in, and the Saver's Index Annuity III product guarantees that at the end of 10 years, the contract value will be at least 121% of what the customer put in, assuming no withdrawals have been taken by the customer during that timeframe.

As an added benefit for producers who offer the product, the series now includes Eclipse Illustration Software, which makes it easier to explain to customers, in hypothetical terms, how the product works in different equity rate environments.

In addition to these new features, the Saver's Index Annuity series also offers:

Choice of two competitive interest crediting participation rate and cap options; and
The longest published renewal rate history of any indexed annuity on the market

The Saver's Index Annuity series is offered via Allstate agents and independent financial representatives appointed to sell Lincoln Benefit Life Company products.Allstate agents and independent financial representatives may obtain more information by registering and logging onto www.accessallstate.com.

Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of Lincoln Benefit Life Company.

The Savers Index Annuity series is comprised of single and flexible premium deferred annuities and is issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Allstate Life Insurance Company.The index on which interest rates are based may not behave in the future as in the past.Consumers may not invest directly in the S&P 500^® index. Distributions taken prior to annuitization are generally considered to come from the gain in the contract first.Withdrawals of gain are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken prior to age 59 1/2, may be subject to an additional 10% federal tax penalty.

"S&P 500^®" is a trademark of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., and has been licensed for use by Lincoln Benefit Life Company.Saver's Index Annuity is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by Standard & Poor's, and Standard and Poor's makes no representation regarding the advisability of purchasing the products.The S&P 500 does not include dividends paid on the underlying securities, and therefore, does not reflect the total return of the underlying stock.

Lincoln Benefit Life, an Allstate Company, sells variable and fixed annuities, variable and fixed life insurance, as well as long-term care insurance.Variable products are underwritten by ALFS, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Allstate Life Insurance Company.

For more than 65 years, Lincoln Benefit Life Company has been an innovator in bringing insurance and annuity products to policyholders nationwide. Lincoln Benefit Life was acquired in 1984 by the Allstate Life Insurance Company specifically for its ability to develop competitively priced insurance and annuity products for distribution through independent agents.By the end of 2004, the company had $211.3 billion of life insurance in force and more than $13.4 billion in assets under management.And its financial strength and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders are reflected in the high rankings it has received by independent analysts.Lincoln Benefit Life prides itself on its ability to provide exceptional products and service to its customers.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and prepare for tomorrow through approximately 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada.Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®.Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents.Allstate Financial Group provides life and supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Allstate Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Lincoln Benefit Life Company, an Allstate Company, Enhances Variable Annuity Product to Meet the Changing Face of "Retirement"

Thu, 12 May 2005 02:01:00 -0500

Consultant Solutions Flexible Premium Deferred Variable Annuity to help Americans Build, Enjoy and Share Retirement Funds

Numerous retirement surveys, including the annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey, have shown that Americans no longer think of retirement as a time to actually retire. Many Americans are starting to re-shape what retirement looks like - for example, working part-time in their "retirement."

But while retirees and Baby Boomers are working on re-shaping retirement, are their retirement assets keeping up with their changing needs? Namely, are these retirement assets allowing retirees to capitalize on market upswings and/or withdraw their retirement income if they need it? And are retirees even choosing investments that will help to meet their retirement goals?

To help consumers with these dilemmas, Lincoln Benefit Life Company, an Allstate Company, has updated its Consultant Solutions Flexible Premium Deferred Variable Annuity Product Suite with new benefit features that will allow customers to build, enjoy or share their retirement assets.

One compelling feature, the SureIncome Withdrawal Benefit Option, allows customers to access their money, up to eight percent of the principal per year, while still allowing for investment growth. SureIncome, an option that's available for an additional fee, will also guarantee that customers will not wind up with less than their original investment, which assures predictable withdrawals should the market decline. But if the market rises, the customer can lock in a higher guarantee after five years.

"Product option flexibility is the key in meeting the changing needs of today's and tomorrow's retirees," explains John Lounds, senior vice president in product management, Allstate Life Insurance Company. "In today's world, it's no longer about saving enough money for retirement; Americans need to get to the heart of the matter - which is saving enough to actually meet their goals for their retirement."

However, getting to the point where a customer can even have enough retirement income to withdraw is also a dilemma for many Americans. Many people are still unsure that the investments they choose are going to meet their individual retirement goals. For example, in the 2004 Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey, over half of Baby Boomers surveyed agreed with the statement that choosing the right investment is really a challenge for them.

To answer this call for assistance, the revised variable annuity product now includes the TrueBalance Asset Allocation Program, which helps customers invest their money in a way that will meet their own individual investment style - whether they are a conservative, moderate or aggressive investor - or variations in between.

This new feature, available at no additional cost, was developed in collaboration with Standard & Poor's^® Investment Advisory Services, LLC, one of Wall Street's providers of independent investment data. TrueBalance provides five Model Portfolios to suit a range of investment styles based on an already completed analysis of the subaccounts, or investment options, offered by Consultant Solutions. Within each Model Portfolio is a mix of subaccounts that are allocated to help meet a customer's diversification, risk tolerance and investment goals.

According to Lounds, revising the Consultant Solutions product is also in line with what is currently going on in the retirement industry. "Many employers are starting to offer asset allocation to employees as well because it's clear Americans need more help in saving for retirement. Asset allocation models really help to take the guesswork out of choosing investment options that will help individuals increase or maintain their savings."

All together, Consultant Solutions includes several optional benefit features that can help individuals build their retirement savings, enjoy what they've earned and share what they've accumulated with beneficiaries in the event of their death.

"These days individuals want their retirement assets to continue to grow, because many retirees are working past retirement age," explains Lounds. "They're also looking for the possibility of a guaranteed regular income stream they won't outlive, which is a major fear of retirement we have learned through our retirement surveys; so we offer an income protection benefit. Finally, many retirees or soon-to-be retirees really want the ability to pass their hard-earned retirement monies to their beneficiaries if they are not able to use them during their lifetime."

Other benefit features available in the Consultant Solutions Flexible Premium Deferred Variable Annuity for added charges include:

TrueReturn Accumulation Benefit Option- Offers an individual growth potential by guaranteeing the initial principal and possibly even more -up to 250 percent of initial deposits, depending on the option and timeframe selected.
Income Protection Benefit- Provides a guaranteed minimum level of income for as long as the customer lives, regardless of market performance.
Spousal Protection Benefit - Allows for spouses to be co-annuitants under one IRA contract, which will benefit a surviving spouse should one pass away.

TrueBalance can be combined with any of the optional benefits, including the SureIncome Withdrawal Benefit or TrueReturn Accumulation Benefit options.

"As more people get closer to retirement, they realize they can't wait out the highs and lows of the stock market," explains Lounds. "Variable annuities, and in particular Consultant Solutions, have features that will provide customers the ability to ease back into the market so they can capitalize on any upswings, while still providing some guarantee on their investments."

The revised Consultant Solutions Flexible Premium Deferred Variable Annuity Product Suite is offered via Allstate agents and independent registered representatives appointed to sell Lincoln Benefit Life Company products. Allstate agents and independent financial representatives may obtain more information and a prospectus by registering and logging onto www.accessallstate.com.

Variable annuities are long-term investments designed for retirement purposes. A customer should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the investment alternatives before purchasing a contract or investing money. These contracts have limitations and are sold by prospectus only. The prospectus contains details on the investment alternatives, contract features, the underlying portfolios, fees, charges, expense and other pertinent information. A customer should read the prospectus carefully before purchasing a contract or sending money.

Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of Lincoln Benefit Life Company.

The Consultant Solutions Variable Annuity is issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company and underwritten by ALFS, Inc. Lincoln Benefit Life Company and ALFS are whole owned subsidiaries of Allstate Life Insurance Company.

Lincoln Benefit Life, an Allstate Company, sells variable and fixed annuities, variable and fixed life insurance, as well as long-term care insurance.

For more than 65 years, Lincoln Benefit Life Company has been an innovator in bringing insurance and annuity products to policyholders nationwide. Lincoln Benefit Life was acquired in 1984 by the Allstate Life Insurance Company specifically for its ability to develop competitively priced insurance and annuity products for distribution through independent agents. By the end of 2004, the company had $211.3 billion of life insurance in force and more than $13.4 billion in assets under management. And its financial strength and ability to meet its obligations to policyholders are reflected in the high rankings it has received by independent analysts. Lincoln Benefit Life prides itself on its ability to provide exceptional products and service to its customers.

Allstate created the fourth annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,604 people born between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 and more. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of error (at the 95 percent confidence level) for the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.8 percent for information specific to Gen Xers, ±4.5 percent for Baby Boomers, and ±5.0 for Silent Generation.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in approximately 17 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through approximately 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial professionals in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services such as auto insurance and homeowners insurance through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life and supplemental accident and health insurance, annuity, banking and retirement products designed for individual, institutional and worksite customers that are distributed through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Workplace Division Becomes Special Fund Contributor to the Cancer Treatment Research Foundation

Tue, 08 Feb 2005 01:01:56 -0600

Allstate Workplace Division, a subsidiary of The Allstate Corporation, is now one of three "Special Funds" contributors for research projects sponsored through the Cancer Treatment Research Foundation (CTRF), a highly respected national organization committed to clinical research. The new Allstate Cancer Research Fund joins the Walter Payton Cancer Fund and the Pediatric/Adolescent Cancer Fund. CTRF also offers a general research fund for donor contributions.

Cancer insurance policies from Allstate Workplace Division represented 18 percent of all Allstate Workplace Division policies written in 2004; and as a company, Allstate Workplace Division is committed to helping cancer patients and their families cope with the financial and emotional crises associated with cancer treatment. As a special funds contributor, Allstate will donate monies to the fund that are relative to the volume of cancer policies sold. Donations can also be made directly to CTRF at http://www.ctrf.org/allstategifts.cfm.

"When insurance agents and financial professionals offer Allstate cancer policies to their customers, they are helping to protect families against the costs associated with cancer treatment," explains David Bird, president, Allstate Workplace Division. "But now, through this Allstate special fund program, agents and customers alike will also be helping researchers discover better and quicker diagnostic methods and more comfortable treatment plans for cancer patients."

According to the Cancer Treatment Research Foundation, 99 cents of every dollar donated to the organization goes directly to support innovative research programs that has been thoroughly screened and approved by the organization's Board of Scientific Counselors. CTRF, founded with the conviction that all cancer patients should receive the best possible treatments the world has to offer, supports some of the most gifted researchers in conventional, integrative and complementary medicine. Funded research studies encompass the most novel applications of conventional therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery, to complementary medicine such as nutrition, biofeedback, mind/body medicine, etc. CTRF has funded more than 55 innovative projects and committed more than $12 million to research.

"Cancer Treatment Research Foundation is grateful for Allstate Workplace Division's leadership in the fight to change the face of cancer NOW!," said Alicia L. Stephenson, Chair of the Cancer Treatment Research Foundation. "The studies funded by the Allstate Cancer Research Fund will accelerate the development of life-saving treatments that will help patients immediately, and lead to a greater understanding of how to defeat this disease permanently."

In addition to this sustaining sponsorship, which began accumulating funds on October 1, 2004, Allstate Workplace Division is planning a national fundraising event. This fall, Allstate Workplace Division will promote and host the inaugural Allstate Cancer Research Charity Classic Golf Tournament in Jacksonville, Florida, headquarters of Allstate Workplace Division. The golf tournament is expected to become an annual fundraising event for the company.

Allstate Workplace Division has also committed to CTRF that it will be its charity of choice as other fund-raising opportunities arise. In addition, CTRF is now a qualified recipient of the Allstate Giving Campaign, an annual charity drive for Allstate employees. The 2004 Giving Campaign raised more than $4 million for non-profit organizations across the country.

Allstate Workplace Division cancer policies provide an initial one-time benefit payment at diagnosis, as well as coverage for expenses such as hospital stays, surgical benefits, radiation, chemotherapy, transportation, lodging (for family members visiting), extended care, and cancer treatments. In addition to various packaging benefit levels, the plan includes individual and family coverage (unless assigned to a third party, benefits are paid directly to the insured). Allstate Workplace Division cancer policies are sold via Allstate agents and through independent insurance agents contracted to sell Allstate Workplace Division products. Cancer policies can be purchased individually through an agent or through the workplace. More information can be found at www.allstateatwork.com.

Allstate Workplace Division is the marketing name for American Heritage Life Insurance Company (a wholly owned subsidiary of The Allstate Corporation). Products are underwritten by American Heritage Life Insurance Company. ^© 2004 American Heritage Life Insurance Company, Jacksonville FL.

Cancer Treatment Research Foundation is a non-profit 501©(3) organization founded in 1991 based on the conviction that patients need and deserve the best possible treatments the world has to offer. We strive to fund the most innovative research known to man and shorten the distance between those dedicated to treating and curing cancer and patients who are fighting for their lives. Thanks to generous underwriting of operational expenses, 99 cents of every dollar donated to CTRF goes directly to cancer research programs -- not fundraising or overhead. More information about the research programs conducted by CTRF can be found by visiting the organization's Web site at www.ctrf.org.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^® slogan, Allstate helps individuals in more than 16 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through more than 13,600 exclusive agencies and financial specialists in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, annuity, retirement, banking and investment products through distribution channels that include Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Parents Putting Retirement Savings Ahead of College Savings

Tue, 11 Jan 2005 01:00:00 -0600

Allstate survey shows most seek a balance
This release contains: 1 Related Document

When parents have to choose between saving for their kids' college educations and saving for their own retirement, retirement wins, according to the fourth annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

While most people with children younger than 18 say they can save for retirement and college expenses, when forced to prioritize, fully one-third (33 percent) admit they are saving mostly for retirement and putting only a little money toward college, the survey showed.

Allstate's annual "Retirement Reality Check" survey examines Americans' attitudes toward, and saving habits for, retirement. The 2004 survey shows that, regardless of age, gender, education or income, Americans are placing a higher priority on retirement.

Overall, almost half (46 percent) of parents in the survey said they are saving equally for retirement and college. Another 14 percent said they are saving mostly for college while putting aside only a little money for retirement.

Only 5 percent said they have put off saving for retirement until they have paid for their child's college - compared with the 33 percent who said they're doing the opposite.

"When weighing the importance of saving for a child's education versus your own retirement, it is impossible to say which is more crucial. And though a child's education may be closer, the cost is small compared to 20 or more years of living expenses in retirement," said Casey Sylla, president, Allstate Financial. "Though it sounds daunting, with time on your side, it is possible to save for both. The key is to start sooner rather than later and save a sufficient amount toward both goals."

Parents Without College Degrees Push College For Kids
Interestingly, respondents with the least amount of college education are most likely to put their children's education and paying for it above their own retirement savings goals.

Among respondents with a high school degree or less, 9 percent said they have put off saving for retirement until they have paid for their child's education. That compares with just 2 percent of respondents with some college, trade or business school; 3 percent of college graduates; and 2 percent of people with post-graduate education.

The contrast is even greater when income is considered, the survey showed. Among respondents from households with income of less than $45,000 a year, 19 percent said they have delayed retirement savings in favor of paying for college costs.

Respondents from the West (10 percent) and Northeast (9 percent) also were more likely to tackle college first, compared with people in the Midwest (4 percent) or South (2 percent).

In another indication that Americans are focusing on retirement savings, 50 percent of respondents said they have beefed up savings in recent years to catch up to where they believe they should be. Among Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964 and nearing retirement, 53 percent said that the same.

Low Confidence in Government Safety Nets
One impetus for the emphasis on retirement savings over saving for college (for which financial assistance exists) may be the lack of confidence Americans have in government "safety net" programs like Social Security and Medicare, which are intended to provide income and cover some health care costs after retirement.

A majority of respondents made it clear they don't believe the federal government will make the changes necessary to keep those two programs strong, the Allstate survey showed.

Specifically, 42 percent of survey respondents overall "strongly" disagreed that the government will change Social Security adequately, and another 25 percent "somewhat" disagreed.

And 38 percent of respondents "strongly" disagreed that the government will make necessary changes to keep Medicare strong, and 25 percent "somewhat" disagreed.

"It seems clear that people are paying attention to federal policy, and making savings decisions based on their concerns about Social Security and Medicare," said Mathew Greenwald, Ph.D., president of Mathew Greenwald & Associates, the firm that conducted the "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

While Americans are focusing on their retirements, many also are preparing to support family members, even after retirement, the survey showed.

Overall, 25 percent of respondents who still are working said they believe that, after retirement, they'll still have to provide financial support for family members other than their spouse.

Southern respondents were most likely to say that (29 percent), and people living in the Midwest and Northeast were least likely (22 percent).

Americans are adamant about not turning to relatives for help even though they concede they are falling short in saving for retirement. Only 20 percent of total survey respondents described themselves as "very prepared" for retirement in terms of savings and investments, and 56 percent said they are "somewhat prepared."

Confidence in retirement savings generally rose with education and income level.

Allstate created the fourth annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,604 people born between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 and more. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of error (at the 95 percent confidence level) for the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.8 percent for information specific to Gen Xers, ±4.5 percent for Baby Boomers, and ±5.0 for Silent Generation.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in more than 16 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through more than 12,900 exclusive agencies and financial specialists in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, annuity, retirement, banking and investment products through distribution channels that include Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

Download the Executive Summary (PDF) of the Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, Media Relations, (847) 402-5600

Financial Products: Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity Can Now Help Individuals Save, Spend or Pass On Their Retirement Savings

Wed, 05 Jan 2005 01:01:00 -0600

VA Now Offers SureIncomesm Withdrawal Benefit, TrueReturnsm Accumulation Benefit and Spousal Protection Benefit Options

The 2004 Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey found that almost half (44 percent) of those surveyed who are still working admitted they're likely to work after retirement because they'll need income to make ends meet. Specifically among Baby Boomers surveyed, 53 percent, and 44 percent of Generation Xers said they have increased their retirement savings in recent years to catch up to where they believe they should be.

"These results reveal that many Americans are now realizing that they will need to increase their personal retirement savings and/or will have to continue to work into their retirement in order to make up for a retirement savings shortfall," explains Rob Shore, president, Allstate Distributors, L.L.C. "However, there are investment options available to consumers that can help provide them with a versatile approach to fulfill and preserve retirement goals - whether an individual wishes to save, spend or pass on their assets."

According to Shore, one such option financial advisors can now offer their customers is the newly enhanced Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity, which features a number of different options to meet a customer's needs. Variable annuities are investment products that may be used as a retirement savings vehicles once contributions to 401(k) plans and IRA's have been maxed out. This investment option can offer unique advantages to help build assets, protect from the ups and downs of the market, and may generate a predictable flow of income when an individual needs it. Variable annuities can also provide benefits that can extend to a spouse or family. In addition, similar to many retirement savings options, variable annuities can also provide tax advantages.

Spend It

For individuals who wish to begin accessing their money, but don't want to miss out on potential gains that could lift their portfolio further, the Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity now features the new SureIncomesm Withdrawal Benefit Option.

SureIncome can allow individuals to pursue potential investment growth, while guaranteeing that they will not end up with less than their original investment. This assures predictable withdrawals should the stock market decline. Yet if the market rises, individuals can lock in a higher guarantee after five years.

The SureIncome option, available to customers for an added annual charge, helps those who wish to protect their principal, pursue potential growth, and enjoy generous withdrawal amounts of up to 8 percent of the principal per year.

Customers who are transitioning into retirement and looking to build an income plan can also choose the Income Protection Benefit Option, which provides a guaranteed minimum level of income for the rest of their lives. This benefit can be added when the individual begins taking variable payments or income from the annuity. There is an added mortality and risk charge for this option.

Save It

For those still saving for retirement, but want to protect their principal and guarantee returns, the Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity offers the TrueReturnsm Accumulation Benefit Option.

TrueReturn, which was added to the Allstate Advisor in January 2004, guarantees that on the date the customer chooses (the rider maturity date), that they will have at least the principal they started with, and possibly even more, depending on the option and timeframe selected. On that date, even if the value of the investment is below the guarantee amount, Allstate will add money to the variable annuity to increase it to the guarantee amount. There is an added annual charge for TrueReturn.

Pass It On

The option to pass on retirement savings, should the person not be able to enjoy them, has long been an interest of consumers. In fact, according to the recent Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey, among current retirees, 72 percent said they intended to leave money to children or grandchildren. However, 18 percent of retirees surveyed said that the amount they're likely to leave has gone down since they began their retirement. And even among retirees who don't expect to leave money to children or grandchildren, 33 percent said that when they first retired, they thought they would be able to do so.

In line with these findings, the Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity offers a number of optional death benefits to help meet specific client needs. These features ensure beneficiaries will receive payments from the variable annuity should the customer pass away before they start receiving the payments. These optional death benefits also help to protect against market fluctuations.

One particularly innovative feature is the Spousal Protection (Co-Annuitant) Benefit, which provides a death benefit for both the IRA owner and their spouse as a co-annuitant under one annuity contract. By choosing this option, a surviving spouse will receive the death benefit should one spouse pass away. This benefit, which has an additional annual charge, is only available within a Traditional, Roth, Simplified Employee Pension or Custodial IRA.

The Money Managers Behind the Allstate Advisor VA

The newly enhanced Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity includes a number of investment alternatives from well-known Money Managers, such as:

‡Franklin Templeton Investments
‡Lord, Abbett & Co. LLC
‡OppenheimerFunds
‡Putnam Investments
‡Van Kampen Investments

Financial advisors, who wish to obtain more information and a prospectus for the enhanced Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity, can do so by registering and logging onto www.accessallstate.com. Or, Broker Dealers can call 1-877-507-6881 for more information. Financial Institutions/Independent Planners may call 1-877-254-0772.

Guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of Allstate Life Insurance Company.

The Allstate Advisor Variable Annuity is issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company and underwritten by Allstate Distributors, L.L.C.

Allstate created the fourth annual Allstate "Retirement Reality Check" survey in conjunction with Mathew Greenwald & Associates. Using a random digit dialing methodology, Greenwald & Associates polled 1,604 people born between 1946 and 1978, with household incomes of $35,000 or more. Retirees were accepted with incomes of at least $20,000. The margin of error (at the 95 percent confidence level) for the total number of respondents in this study is ±2.5 percent, ±3.8 percent for information specific to Gen Xers, ±4.5 percent for Baby Boomers, and ±5.0 for Silent Generation.

The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the "You're In Good Hands With Allstate^®" slogan, Allstate helps individuals in more than 16 million households protect what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow through more than 12,900 exclusive agencies and financial specialists in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate products and services through Allstate agencies, or in select states at allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate^®. Encompass^SM and Deerbrook^® Insurance brand property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent agents. Allstate Financial Group provides life insurance, annuity, retirement, banking and investment products through distribution channels that include Allstate agencies, independent agencies, financial institutions and broker-dealers.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Rebecca Hirsch, (847) 402-5600