Vanguard variable annuity costs

main article: Expense Ratios

The following tables compares the Vanguard Variable Annuity subaccount expense ratios 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 0.295% M&E expense represents Vanguard's lowest cost, accumulated value death benefit. A return of premium death benefit is an added insurance rider costing 0.345%; an annual step-up death benefit insurance rider is available at a 0.415% cost.