Brighthouse Shield Level Selector Review

Positioning

Buffer-style indexed variable annuity. The buffer absorbs the first 10%, 15%, or 20% of index losses; further losses pass through to the contract owner.

Contract terms at a glance

Surrender period

6 years

Free withdrawal

10% annually after the first year, with terms by share class

Premium minimum

$25,000

Premium maximum

Per carrier underwriting

Crediting methods available

Point-to-point with buffer
Point-to-point with floor (selected products)

See How variable annuities work for how each method works.

Riders

Death benefit treatment per contract
No GLWB on Shield

Best fit

Consumers willing to accept some downside in exchange for higher caps than a fixed indexed annuity
Buyers who want a 6-year surrender rather than 10+

What to watch for

This is a registered security; the prospectus is required pre-sale reading
Downside is real beyond the buffer threshold; principal can decline if the index falls more than the buffer
Caps and buffers reset each crediting period

Verify on the carrier rate card

Cap rates, participation rates, rider charges, and surrender schedules change frequently. Before purchase, request and verify the following from the carrier or producer:

Current caps for each combination of index, term, and buffer/floor level
Available buffer levels (10%, 15%, 20%, etc.)
Surrender schedule by share class
Death benefit features per share class
M&E and product expenses (variable annuities have explicit fees)

How to verify and source current information

Current rate card and product brochure: Brighthouse Financial direct or through a licensed independent producer.
Statement of understanding (annuity contract disclosure document).
For variable and indexed variable annuities: the SEC-registered prospectus (search EDGAR).
Carrier financial strength ratings: A.M. Best, S&P Global Ratings, Moody's, Fitch.
NAIC carrier search and statutory filings: content.naic.org.
IRS Publication 575 (Pension and Annuity Income) for taxation: IRS Pub 575.

Compliance note

AnnuityMatchPro does not endorse, recommend, or sell the Brighthouse Shield Level Selector. This review is informational. Product features, surrender schedules, caps, participation rates, and rider charges vary by issue date, state, and underwriting. Confirm specific terms with the carrier or a licensed advisor before purchase. AnnuityMatchPro is not a registered investment adviser and is not a licensed insurance agency.