Why Work With a Financial Representative?

Individuals who are accustomed to making their own investment decisions in their 401(k) plans may not immediately recognize the value of a financial representative. But according to the consumer research experts at J.D Power and Associates, investors who use a financial representative are more satisfied with their investment performance than those who strike out on their own*. Why? Perhaps it's because a financial representative brings a much-needed dose of experience and objectivity to the equation, providing overall investment guidance and a valuable second opinion when it really counts.

A Trusted Confidant

Like the doctor who helps family members maintain their physical well-being, a financial representative can become a trusted resource that helps a family improve its overall net worth and financial health. Representatives help set goals, establish target asset allocations and provide investment education. They can also help individuals and families gauge their needs for asset protection and acquire appropriate insurance coverage.

An Expert Counselor

In most cases, as an investor's portfolio grows so does his or her options for building additional wealth. For example, investors just starting out may be best served by choosing a few mutual funds that meet their target asset allocation. Once a portfolio begins to grow, however, an investor's risk profile will typically shift a bit and he or she may want to consider different products designed to improve risk-adjusted returns. Financial representatives can help investors identify when they've reached that level and what products may best meet their needs.

A Voice of Reason

Perhaps most important, a financial representative provides an objective point of view during times of uncertainty. When the market takes a prolonged downturn - as it inevitably will at some point over a long-term time horizon - emotions can influence the decisions of even the most savvy and confident self-directed investors, leading them to make rash and potentially harmful decisions. During times of financial challenge, representatives help investors:

• Weed through the clutter of information
• Discern what's most important
• Help them stay on target toward their goals

An Ally in Pursuit of Success

One of a financial representative's primary objectives is to build loyalty among his or her client base. And how is loyalty achieved? Through a dedicated commitment to helping clients pursue success. The best representatives' help their clients achieve their goals and often become trusted family resources on par with a doctor or attorney. Some even become lifelong friends and allies.

Before heading down the path of self-directed investing, be sure to fully evaluate the potential benefits of adding a qualified financial professional to your team of personal representatives.

*Source: J.D. Power and Associates, 2007 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study, July 24, 2007
**Source: Office of the Surgeon General, "Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General," 1999

Contact the John Hancock Rollover Education Center at 1-888-695-4472 (1-888-My-JH-IRA) for more information including the product prospectus that contains complete details on investment objectives, risks, fees, charges, and expenses, as well as other information about the investment company, which should be carefully considered. Please read the prospectuses carefully prior to investing. The prospectuses contain this and other information on the product and the underlying portfolios.

John Hancock Annuities and the optional riders, which are available for an additional fee, are not available in all states; product features may vary, subject to state regulation. Variable annuities are not FDIC insured, are long-term contracts designed for retirement purposes, and are subject to investment risk, including the possible loss of principal. This informtion was prepared to support the promotion and marketing of the Guaranteed Income For Life Rollover Variable Annuity. Neither John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.), John Hancock Life Insurance Company of New York, John Hancock Distributors LLC, nor any of their representatives provide tax, accounting, or legal advice. Any tax statements contained herein were not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding U.S. federal, state, or local tax penalties. Please consult your own independent advisor as to any tax, accounting, or legal statements made herein. Guaranteed Income for Life Rollover Variable Annuity is issued and administered by John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.), Bloomfield Hills, MI, which is not licensed in New York. Guaranteed Income for Life Rollover Variable Annuity is distributed by John Hancock Distributors, LLC, Member FINRA.