Registered Index-Linked Annuity (RILA)
A registered index-linked annuity (RILA) is a type of indexed annuity that is a security and therefore regulated by the SEC. It is a contract between you and an insurance company where the interest you earn is linked, in part, to the performance of a market index or other benchmark at the end of a set period of time. At the end of that period of time, the insurance company calculates and credits a positive or negative return to your contract value. Notably, RILA returns are typically subject to limits on both potential losses and potential gains. In addition, RILAs typically impose charges, penalties and adjustments for early withdrawals, which can significantly lower the value of your annuity. RILAs may also be referred to as Index-Linked Variable Annuities, Structured Annuities or Buffered Annuities.
Concept at a glance
Definition and explanation
A registered index-linked annuity (RILA) is a type of indexed annuity that is a security and therefore regulated by the SEC. It is a contract between you and an insurance company where the interest you earn is linked, in part, to the performance of a market index or other benchmark at the end of a set period of time. At the end of that period of time, the insurance company calculates and credits a positive or negative return to your contract value. Notably, RILA returns are typically subject to limits on both potential losses and potential gains. In addition, RILAs typically impose charges, penalties and adjustments for early withdrawals, which can significantly lower the value of your annuity. RILAs may also be referred to as Index-Linked Variable Annuities, Structured Annuities or Buffered Annuities. [1]
Source-supported connections
Frequently asked questions
What does Registered Index-Linked Annuity (RILA) mean in the cited reference?
A registered index-linked annuity (RILA) is a type of indexed annuity that is a security and therefore regulated by the SEC. It is a contract between you and an insurance company where the interest you earn is linked, in part, to the performance of a market index or other benchmark at the end of a set period of time. At the end of that period of time, the insurance company calculates and credits a positive or negative return to your contract value. Notably, RILA returns are typically subject to limits on both potential losses and potential gains. In addition, RILAs typically impose charges, penalties and adjustments for early withdrawals, which can significantly lower the value of your annuity. RILAs may also be referred to as Index-Linked Variable Annuities, Structured Annuities or Buffered Annuities. [1]
Registered Index-Linked Annuity (RILA) connection map
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Sources and review dates
Reviewed 23 October 2026. Historical dates and award-time affiliations retain their original context. A review date is not an event date. Background sources are identified separately from official records.