Vanguard variable annuity costs

main article: Expense ratios

The following tables compare  with those of its corresponding investor class mutual funds. The first table looks at subaccount and mutual fund expense ratios. The second table includes the VA insurance cost loadings. The third table provides the effective expense ratio of the VA for contracts valued below $25,000 and subject to the $25 annual maintenance fee.

The 0.29% M&E expense represents Vanguard's accumulated value death benefit. Historically, a return of premium death benefit was available for an added insurance rider costing 0.345%; and an annual step-up death benefit insurance rider was once available at a 0.415% cost.