Abstract: A system includes a client which can communicate through a network and a database layer with any of several databases. The client communicates with the database layer using a public network communication protocol, in a manner independent of respective protocols specific to each of the databases. The database layer handles communication with each database according to the respective protocol of that database.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method of calculating a value of a benefit for an annuity contract including a minimum contract accumulation value provision is disclosed. The method includes determining a current minimum contract accumulation value, determining a current value of the annuity contract investments, determining a predetermined reset percentage contained in the annuity contract, calculating the product of the current value of the annuity contract investments and the reset percentage and a fifth step of resetting the minimum contract accumulation value to the greater of the minimum contract accumulation value or the product of the current value of the annuity contract investments and the reset percentage.