Certified Financial Consultant (CFC) Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

When an annuitant dies during the accumulation period of an annuity, the benefit that will be included in their estate is typically the accumulated cash value. This is the amount that has been saved or accumulated within the annuity up to the date of the annuitant’s death. It reflects all contributions made, plus any interest earned or investment gains realized during the accumulation phase.

The accumulated cash value may be disbursed to the designated beneficiaries or the estate, depending on the terms of the contract and the decisions made by the annuitant prior to passing. This provision serves to protect the financial interests of the annuitant's heirs or beneficiaries, ensuring they receive the financial resources that were built up over time.

Other benefits, such as guaranteed income benefits, investment growth, or healthcare benefits, may not be relevant or applicable in this context, especially if the annuitant did not live long enough to convert the annuity into an income stream or to realize certain investment gains. Thus, the accumulated cash value stands as the definitive benefit applicable in the event of an annuitant's death during the accumulation stage.