Included in this category are multi-asset investments that can help you prepare for your retirement, conform to your risk-tolerance level, and help you allocate investment assets in a socially responsible way.

TIAA-CREF Lifecycle Funds are "funds of funds" that seek high total return over time through a combination of capital appreciation and income. The funds invest in underlying mutual funds according to an asset-allocation strategy designed for investors planning to retire in — or within a few years of — the fund's target year. Each fund's allocation gradually will become more conservative, until the mix of equity and non-equity securities reaches approximately 35% equities/65% non-equities by each fund's specific target year.

Lifecycle Funds offer:

• "One Decision" retirement strategy: Just select the fund that's closest to your expected year of retirement.
• Built-in Rebalancing: Each fund's investments automatically adjust from a more aggressive, higher risk allocation to a more conservative, lower risk allocation as the target retirement date approaches.
• A managed, diversified portfolio: Each Lifecycle Fund provides a ready-made diversified portfolio using TIAA-CREF mutual funds as underlying investments that include both equity and fixed-income instruments.

You can choose from among the following TIAA-CREF Lifecycle Funds:

If you're interested in socially responsible investing, your investment choices include an annuity account that is diversified among stocks and bonds and could be used as a "single choice" option.

If you need help making the choice that's best for you, call 800 TIAA-CREF (800 842-2273) to speak to one of our consultants. However, socially responsible investments may not allow you to take advantage of certain opportunities or market trends if they are excluded because of social criteria.