HANCOCK JOHN VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE CO
S-1/A, 1996-07-16
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<PAGE>
 
   As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 16, 1996
                                                       Registration No. 33-64945

                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

                                ---------------
                              AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO
                                   FORM S-1
                            REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                          THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
            (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)

                                ---------------

<TABLE>
<S>                                 <C>                            <C>
        MASSACHUSETTS                          6311                    04-2664016
  (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION      (PRIMARY STANDARD INDUSTRIAL   (I. R. S. EMPLOYER
OF INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)    CLASSIFICATION CODE NUMBER)   IDENTIFICATION NO.)
</TABLE>

                             200 CLARENDON STREET
                          BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02117
                                (617) 572-4390
              (ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER,
       INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)

                                ---------------
                           SANDRA M. DADALT, ESQUIRE
                  JOHN HANCOCK MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                              JOHN HANCOCK PLACE
                          BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02117
           (NAME, ADDRESS INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER,
                  INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)

                                ---------------
     APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO PUBLIC:  As soon as
practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

     If any of the securities being registered on this form are to be offered on
a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933, check the following box: [X]

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
===============================================================================================================
 
                                                                           PROPOSED    
           TITLE OF EACH                             PROPOSED              MAXIMUM     
        CLASS OF SECURITIES     AMOUNT TO BE         MAXIMUM              AGGREGATE           AMOUNT OF           
         TO BE REGISTERED        REGISTERED      OFFERING PRICE PER    OFFERING PRICE/*/   REGISTRATION FEE       
                                                     UNIT/*/       
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
<S>                             <C>              <C>                   <C>                 <C>
Interests under
deferred annuity
contracts...........            $ 89,000,000      Not Applicable        $ 89,000,000        $ 30,690
===============================================================================================================
</TABLE>

/*/The proposed maximum offering price per unit is not applicable as these
securities are not issued in predetermined amounts or units.  The maximum
aggregate offering price is estimated solely for the purpose of determining the
registration fee.
                                ---------------

   
THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR DATES 
AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL FILE 
A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT 
SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(A) OF THE 
SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME 
EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(A) 
MAY DETERMINE.      

<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

                             CROSS REFERENCE SHEET

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
     Form S-1 Item                                          Prospectus Caption
     -------------                                          ------------------

<S>                                          <C> 
1.   Forepart of the Registration
     Statement and Outside Front
     Cover Page of Prospectus.............................Outside Front Cover Page

2.   Inside Front and Outside Back
     Cover Pages of Prospectus..................................Inside Front Cover

3.   Summary Information, Risk
     Factors and Ratio of Earnings to
     Fixed Charges....................................Summary Information; The MVA
                                                          Fixed Account; Financial
                                                         Statements of the Company

4.   Use of Proceeds.........................................The MVA Fixed Account
 
5.   Determination of Offering Price................................Not Applicable
 
6.   Dilution.......................................................Not Applicable
 
7.   Selling Security Holders.......................................Not Applicable
 
8.   Plan of Distribution............................Distribution of the Contracts

9.   Description of Securities to be
     Registered....................................The Contracts; The Accumulation
                                                               Period; The Annuity
                                                               Period
10.  Interests of Named Experts and
     Counsel........................................................Not Applicable

11.  Information with Respect to the
     Registrant..............................Further Information About the Company

12.  Disclosure of Commission Position
     on Indemnification for Securities
     Act Liabilities................................................Not Applicable
</TABLE> 
<PAGE>
 
    
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Information contained herein is subject to completion or amendment. A 
registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the 
Securities and Exchange Commission. These securities may not be sold nor may 
offers to buy be accepted prior to the time the registration statement becomes 
effective. This prospectus shall not constitute an offer to sell or the 
solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities 
in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior 
to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such State. 
     
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
    
                  SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED JULY 16, 1996      
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

           DEFERRED COMBINATION FIXED AND VARIABLE ANNUITY CONTRACTS

                   JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT JF

                          PROSPECTUS -       __, 1996
                                        
     The deferred annuity contracts described in this prospectus may be funded
by any one or more of the ten subaccounts ("Subaccounts") of John Hancock
Variable Annuity Account JF ("Separate Account"), which is a separate investment
account of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company ("Company"), and by the
Market Value Adjustment Fixed Account ("MVA Fixed Account"). The contracts are
issued as group or individual contracts. An individual's interest in a group
contract is evidenced by the issuance of a separate certificate. In some states,
contracts are offered on an individual basis, with the issuance of an individual
contract. The certificates and individual contracts are collectively referred to
herein as the "Contracts."

     The Contracts are designed to provide retirement benefits under tax
qualified plans, as well as under non-qualified arrangements.  All funds
accumulate on a tax-deferred basis under the Contracts.  You may elect a
variable return investment option through the Separate Account or a guaranteed
interest investment option through the MVA Fixed Account, or a combination of
these two options.
    
     Under the variable return investment option, you can choose among one or
more of the following Subaccounts of the Separate Account: V.A. International, 
V.A. Emerging Growth, V.A. Discovery, V.A. Independence Equity, V.A. Sovereign
Investors, V.A. 500 Index, V.A. Sovereign Bond, V.A. Strategic Income, V.A.
World Bond, and V.A. Money Market. The assets of each Subaccount will be
invested in a corresponding series, or "Fund," of the John Hancock Declaration
Trust ("Trust"), a mutual fund advised by John Hancock Advisers, Inc.
("Adviser"). The prospectus for the Trust accompanies this prospectus, and
describes the investment objectives, policies and risks of the Trust.      

     Under the MVA Fixed Account guaranteed interest investment option, you can
choose among various available Guarantee Periods, each of which has its own
interest rate and expiration date.  Amounts allocated to the MVA Fixed Account
are credited with interest at a fixed rate for the entire Guarantee Period.  A
Market Value Adjustment, or "MVA," positive or negative, may be made upon
annuitization or any withdrawal, surrender or transfer prior to the last day of
any Guarantee Period.

     Currently, the number of investment options that may be selected to fund
the Contracts is limited to 18.
    
     This prospectus sets forth information about the Contracts that a
prospective investor ought to know before investing. A statement of additional
information ("SAI") for the Separate Account, dated July __, 1996, has been
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("Commission") and is
incorporated herein by reference. The SAI, the table of contents of which
appears at page 51 of this prospectus, is available without charge upon written
or oral request made to the Company's Servicing Office at the address or
telephone number below.      

 THIS PROSPECTUS SHOULD BE READ AND RETAINED FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.  IT IS NOT
      VALID UNLESS ACCOMPANIED BY THE CURRENT PROSPECTUS FOR THE TRUST.

THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY
OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

INTERESTS IN THE CONTRACTS ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR INSURED,
ENDORSED, OR GUARANTEED BY THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, ANY BANK, THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT
INSURANCE CORPORATION, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY, ENTITY OR
PERSON, AND INVOLVE INVESTMENT RISKS INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL.

                               Servicing Office

                  JOHN HANCOCK INVESTORS SERVICES CORPORATION
                                 P.O. BOX 9298
                       BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02205-9298

                            TELEPHONE 800-824-0335



<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                     Page
<S>                                                                  <C>
SPECIAL TERMS.....................................................     4
SYNOPSIS OF EXPENSE INFORMATION...................................     6
SUMMARY INFORMATION...............................................    10
SEPARATE ACCOUNT FINANCIAL INFORMATION............................    15
THE COMPANY AND JOHN HANCOCK......................................    15
THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT..............................................    15
THE TRUST.........................................................    16
THE MVA FIXED ACCOUNT.............................................    17
 Guaranteed Rates/Guarantee Periods...............................    17
 Market Value Adjustment..........................................    18
 Investments by the Company.......................................    19
CHARGES UNDER THE CONTRACTS.......................................    20
 Charges For Mortality And Expense Risks..........................    20
 Charges for Administrative Services..............................    20
 Contingent Deferred Sales Load...................................    20
 Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL Charge...............................    22
 Optional Death Benefit Charges...................................    22
 Variations in Charges............................................    23
 Premium or Similar Taxes.........................................    23
THE CONTRACTS.....................................................    24
 Purchase of Contracts............................................    24
 Premium Payments by Wire.........................................    24
THE ACCUMULATION PERIOD...........................................    25
 Allocation of Premium Payments...................................    25
 Value of Accumulation Units......................................    25
 Determination of MVA Fixed Account Value.........................    25
 Transfers Among Subaccounts and Guarantee Periods................    25
 Dollar-Cost Averaging............................................    26
 Surrender of Contract; Partial Withdrawals.......................    26
 Systematic Withdrawal............................................    27
 Standard Death Benefit...........................................    27
 Optional One Year Stepped-Up Death Benefit.......................    28
 Optional Accidental Death Benefit................................    28
 Payment of Death Benefits........................................    28
THE ANNUITY PERIOD................................................    29
 Variable Monthly Annuity Payments................................    30
 Fixed Monthly Annuity Payments...................................    30
 Annuity Options..................................................    31
 Transfers........................................................    31
 Other Conditions.................................................    31
VARIABLE ACCOUNT VALUATION PROCEDURES.............................    32
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS..........................................    32
 Restriction on Assignment........................................    32
 Deferment of Payment.............................................    33
 Reservation of Rights............................................    33
 Owner and Beneficiary............................................    33
</TABLE> 

                                       2
<PAGE>

     
<TABLE> 
<S>                                                                  <C> 
FEDERAL INCOME TAXES..............................................    34
 The Separate Account, the MVA Fixed Account, and the Company.....    34
 Contracts Purchased Other Than to Fund a Tax Qualified Plan......    34
 Diversification Requirements.....................................    35
 Contracts Purchased to Fund a Tax Qualified Plan.................    35
 Withholding of Taxes.............................................    38
 See Your Own Tax Adviser.........................................    38
FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE COMPANY.............................    38
 Business of the Company..........................................    38
 Selected Financial Data..........................................    39
 Recent Accounting Developments...................................    40
 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
  Results of Operations...........................................    40
 Competition......................................................    45
 Employees and Facilities.........................................    45
 Transactions with John Hancock...................................    45
 Regulation.......................................................    45
 Directors - Executive Officers...................................    47
 Executive Compensation...........................................    48
SEPARATE ACCOUNT PERFORMANCE......................................    48
REPORTS...........................................................    49
VOTING PRIVILEGES.................................................    49
CHANGES IN APPLICABLE LAW - FUNDING AND OTHERWISE.................    49
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.................................................    50
DISTRIBUTION OF THE CONTRACTS.....................................    50
AVAILABLE INFORMATION.............................................    50
EXPERTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS..................................    51
TABLE OF CONTENTS OF STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION..........    51
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS OF THE COMPANY...............................   F-1
APPENDIX A - SAMPLE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT CALCULATIONS..........   Appendix A
APPENDIX B - VARIABLE ANNUITY INFORMATION FOR INDIVIDUAL
 RETIREMENT ANNUITIES.............................................   Appendix B
</TABLE>      


THE CONTRACTS OFFERED BY THIS PROSPECTUS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE IN ALL STATES.
THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL, OR A SOLICITATION OF AN
OFFER TO BUY, SECURITIES IN ANY STATE TO ANY PERSON TO WHOM IT IS UNLAWFUL TO
MAKE OR SOLICIT AN OFFER IN THAT STATE.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
                                 SPECIAL TERMS


     As used in this prospectus, the following terms have the indicated
meanings:

ACCUMULATION PERIOD:  the period referred to in the term "Accumulation Unit."

ACCUMULATION UNIT:  a unit of measurement used in determining the value of an
Owner's interest in a Subaccount during the period prior to the commencement of
annuity payments or, if earlier, the surrender of the Contract.  The value of an
Accumulation Unit will reflect the investment experience of the Subaccount and
vary in dollar amount.

ACCUMULATED VALUE:  accumulated value of all Subaccounts and the MVA Fixed
Account Value under a Contract.

DATE OF MATURITY:  the date elected by the Owner as of which annuity payments
will commence. The election is subject to certain conditions described in "The
Annuity Period."  The Contract specifies a "Provisional Date of Maturity" as
discussed under "The Annuity Period."

ANNUITANT:  the person designated in the Contract as such.

ANNUITY OPTION:  the provisions under which a series of annuity payments is
made to the Annuitant or other payee, such as the Life Annuity with Ten Years
Certain.

ANNUITY UNIT:  a unit of measurement used in determining the amount of any
variable annuity payment. The value of an Annuity Unit for each Subaccount will
depend upon the assumed investment rate and the investment experience of that
Subaccount, and will vary in dollar amount.

CONTRACT YEAR:  the 12 month period following the date of issue of the Contract
and each 12 month period thereafter.  In Certificates issued under group
Contracts, these periods are the "Certificate Year."

FIXED ANNUITY OPTION:  an annuity option under which the Company promises to pay
the Annuitant, or any other payee designated by the Owner, fixed payments.

GENERAL ACCOUNT:  comprises all assets of the Company other than those in the
Separate Account, and other than those in any other legally segregated separate
account established by the Company.

GUARANTEE PERIOD:  the period for which a Guaranteed Rate is credited.

GUARANTEED RATE:  the rate of interest credited during any Guarantee Period, on
an effective annual basis.

MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT:  positive or negative adjustment to MVA Fixed Account
Value that is paid out at a time other than the last day of a Guarantee Period.
    
MVA FIXED ACCOUNT VALUE: the amount of premium payments allocated or transferred
to Guarantee Periods, plus interest and any positive Market Value Adjustment,
less any withdrawals including CDSLs and deductions for Contract fees, charges
and any premium or similar taxes and any negative Market Value Adjustment.      

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
OWNER:  the person or entity, usually the one to whom the Contract is issued,
who has the sole right to exercise all rights and privileges under the Contract
except as otherwise provided in the Contract.  As used in this prospectus, Owner
includes the "Participant" referred to in Certificates under Contracts issued on
a group basis.

SURRENDER VALUE:  the amount that is payable upon a surrender of the Contract
prior to the Date of Maturity.  Surrender Value is equal to the Accumulated
Value of a Contract after all applicable adjustments and deduction of all
applicable charges.

VARIABLE ANNUITY OPTION:  an annuity option under which the Company makes to the
Annuitant, or any other payee designated by the Owner, payments which vary in
amount in accordance with the net investment experience of the Subaccounts
selected by the Owner.  Not all of the Subaccounts are available under the
Contracts during the annuity period.

WE, US, OUR:  mean the Company.

YOU, YOUR:  mean the Owner.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
                        SYNOPSIS OF EXPENSE INFORMATION

     The purpose of this synopsis is to provide an understanding of the various
costs and expenses that the Owner will bear directly or indirectly.  The
synopsis includes expenses of the Separate Account and the Trust.  For a more
complete description of the fees and charges applicable under the Contracts, see
"Charges Under the Contracts."  The management fees charged the Funds and their
annual operating expenses are more fully described in the prospectus for the
Trust.

CONTRACT OWNER TRANSACTION EXPENSES

  CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES LOAD (or "CDSL," as a percentage of premium payments
     withdrawn in excess of the Free Withdrawal Value) /1/

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
     YEARS FROM DATE OF                                                                      
     PREMIUM PAYMENT TO                                                              CDSL      
     DATE OF SURRENDER OR WITHDRAWAL                                              PERCENTAGE   
     -------------------------------                                              ----------   
                                                                                               
     <S>                                                                          <C>          
     7 or more ....................................................................... 0%      
     6 but less than 7 ............................................................... 2%      
     5 but less than 6 ............................................................... 3%      
     4 but less than 5 ............................................................... 4%      
     3 but less than 4 ............................................................... 5%      
     2 but less than 3 ............................................................... 5%      
     less than 2 ..................................................................... 6%      
                                                                                                
  ANNUAL CONTRACT FEE /2/ ............................................................ $30      
</TABLE> 

SEPARATE ACCOUNT ANNUAL EXPENSES (as a percentage of Account Value) 

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                       Initial Premium Payment 
                                                                       -----------------------
                                                                      Less than       $250,000  
                                                                      $250,000        or More   
                                                                      --------        --------  

<S>                                                                   <C>              <C> 
Mortality and Expense Risk Charge ................................... 0.90%            0.90% 
Administration Charge ............................................... 0.35%            0.10% 
                                                                     -----            -----     
  Total                                                               1.25%            1.00% 
                                                                      ====             ==== 
</TABLE>

__________________________________

/1/In any Contract Year an Owner may withdraw, without a CDSL, an amount equal
to 10% of the Accumulated Value as of the beginning of the Contract Year less
any prior withdrawals, during the Contract Year. This is the "Free Withdrawal
Value."

/2/The annual Contract Fee is deducted on Contracts having an Accumulated Value
of less than $10,000.  The Contract Fee is deducted at the beginning of each
Contract Year after the first and at a full surrender during a Contract Year.
The Contract Fee is assessed only during the Accumulation Period, and is
referred to as the "Certificate Fee" in Certificates issued under group
Contracts.

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
TRUST ANNUAL EXPENSES (as a percentage of average net assets)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     MANAGEMENT         OTHER      TOTAL FUND              
                        FUND                            FEES         EXPENSES/3/    EXPENSES               
                        ----                          -------        --------       --------               
 <S>                                                 <C>             <C>           <C>                     
                                                 
 John Hancock V.A. International Fund                   0.90%          0.25%         1.15%

 John Hancock V.A. Emerging Growth Fund                 0.75%          0.25%         1.00%

 John Hancock V.A. Discovery Fund                       0.75%          0.25%         1.00%
                                                 
 John Hancock V.A. Independence Equity Fund             0.70%          0.25%         0.95%
                                                 
 John Hancock V.A. Sovereign Investors Fund             0.60%          0.25%         0.85%
                                                 
 John Hancock V.A. 500 Index Fund                       0.35%          0.25%          .60%
                                                 
 John Hancock V.A. Sovereign Bond Fund                  0.50%          0.25%          .75%
                                                 
 John Hancock V.A. Strategic Income Fund                0.60%          0.25%          .85%
                                                 
 John Hancock V.A. World Bond Fund                      0.75%          0.25%         1.00%

 John Hancock V.A. Money Market Fund                    0.50%          0.25%         0.75%
</TABLE>

 _____________________

 /3/ Other Fund expenses are based on estimates for the current fiscal year.
    

                                   EXAMPLES


     If you surrender your Contract at the end of the applicable time period,
you would pay the following current expenses on a $1,000 investment allocated to
one of the Subaccounts listed, assuming 5% annual return on assets:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               1 YEAR       3 YEARS
                                                               ------       -------
<S>                                                            <C>          <C>
V.A. INTERNATIONAL........................................     $79          $123
V.A. EMERGING GROWTH......................................      78           118
V.A. DISCOVERY............................................      78           118
V.A. INDEPENDENCE EQUITY..................................      77           117
V.A. SOVEREIGN INVESTORS..................................      76           114
V.A. 500 INDEX............................................      74           106
V.A. SOVEREIGN BOND.......................................      75           110
V.A. STRATEGIC INCOME.....................................      76           114
V.A. WORLD BOND...........................................      78           118
V.A. MONEY MARKET.........................................      75           110
</TABLE>

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
     If you annuitize at the end of the applicable time period, or if you do not
surrender your Contract, you would pay the following current expenses on a
$1,000 investment allocated to one of the Subaccounts listed, assuming 5% annual
return on assets:

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                                 1 YEAR     3 YEARS  
                                                                 ------     -------  
<S>                                                              <C>        <C>      
                                                                                     
V.A. INTERNATIONAL..........................................     $25         $78   
V.A. EMERGING GROWTH........................................      24          73   
V.A. DISCOVERY..............................................      24          73   
V.A. INDEPENDENCE EQUITY....................................      23          72   
V.A. SOVEREIGN INVESTORS....................................      22          69   
V.A. 500 INDEX..............................................      20          61   
V.A. SOVEREIGN BOND.........................................      21          65   
V.A. STRATEGIC INCOME.......................................      22          69   
V.A. WORLD BOND.............................................      24          73   
V.A. MONEY MARKET...........................................      21          65    
</TABLE>      
 
                               ________________


     The annual Contract Fee reflected in the examples has been expressed as an
annual percentage of assets based on the Company's experience with other
variable annuity contracts using the same contract fee provision.

     The examples do not give effect to any premium taxes that may be
applicable, or to any of the charges described under "Optional Benefit Riders,"
below. The examples should not be considered representations of past or future
expenses; actual expenses may be greater than or less than those shown above.


OPTIONAL BENEFIT RIDERS

     The Company offers, subject to state availability, three optional 
benefit riders that may be elected by the Owner.  A separate monthly charge 
is made for each rider selected. The charge, as applicable, is made pro-rata
based on relative values through a reduction in Accumulation Units of the
Subaccounts and dollar amounts in the Guarantee Periods under a Contract.

   
     The applicable charge is equal to the Accumulated Value at the beginning of
each month multiplied by 1/12th of the following annual percentage rates. With 
respect to the Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL Rider, the applicable charge will be 
assessed only upon the Accumulated Value associated with premium payments upon 
which a CDSL would continue to be applicable at the time the charge is assessed.
    

<TABLE> 
     <S>                                                                                   <C>  
     ONE YEAR STEPPED-UP DEATH BENEFIT RIDER ............................................. 0.15%
                                                                                                
     ACCIDENTAL DEATH BENEFIT RIDER (terminates at age 80) ............................... 0.10%
                                                                                                
     NURSING HOME WAIVER OF CDSL RIDER ................................................... 0.05% 
</TABLE> 

     For a description of these riders, see "One Year Stepped-Up Death Benefit
Rider" and "Accidental Death Benefit Rider" under "The Accumulation Period," and
"Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL Rider" under "Charges Under the Contracts."

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT AND CHARGES APPLICABLE TO THE MVA FIXED ACCOUNT
    
     Except when effected on the last day of a Guarantee Period, surrenders,
transfers or partial withdrawals from the MVA Fixed Account, including amounts
withdrawn to provide an annuity or a death benefit, are subject to a Market
Value Adjustment that may increase or reduce the amount of MVA Fixed Account
Value paid out by the Company. The Market Value Adjustment is computed pursuant
to a formula that is described under "The MVA Fixed Account-Market Value
Adjustment." Of the expenses summarized above, only the "Contingent Deferred
Sales Load," "Annual Contract Fee," and "Optional Benefit Riders" charges are
applicable to the MVA Fixed Account.      

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
                              SUMMARY INFORMATION

     The Contracts are designed for purchase by individuals doing their own
retirement planning, including plans and trusts that do not qualify for special
tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), and
for purchase in connection with (1) pension and profit-sharing plans qualified
under Section 401(c) of the Code, known as "H.R. 10 plans," (2) pension or
profit-sharing plans qualified under Sections 401(a) or 403(a) of the Code,
known as "corporate plans," (3) plans qualifying under Section 401(k) of the
Code, (4) annuity purchase plans adopted under the provisions of Section 403(b)
of the Code by public school systems and certain other tax-exempt organizations,
and (5) individual retirement annuity plans satisfying the requirements of
Section 408 of the Code. For additional information pertaining to the purchase
of a Contract as an Individual Retirement Annuity, see "Appendix B - Variable
Annuity Information for Individual Retirement Annuities".

     The Company has appointed its affiliated company, John Hancock Investors
Services Corporation ("JHISC"), as its Servicing Agent for the purpose of
facilitating various administrative, processing, servicing and similar functions
related to the Contracts.  JHISC may be reached at the address and telephone 
number shown on the cover page of this prospectus.

     In order to accommodate "employer-related" plans funded by the Contracts,
Contract forms using "unisex" purchase rates, i.e., rates the same for males and
females, are available. Any questions you have as to whether you are
participating in an employer-related plan should be directed to your employer.
Any other question you or your employer may have with respect to this topic can
be directed to JHISC.


THE CONTRACTS

     The Contracts offered are "flexible premium" deferred annuity Contracts
under which premium payments may be made in a single sum or at intervals until
the Date of Maturity. At that time annuity payments by the Company will commence
unless the Owner elects to surrender the Contract, in which case, the Surrender
Value will be paid.

     An application for a Contract is available from broker-dealers and certain
financial institutions who are participating in the distribution of the
Contracts.  Applications are also available directly from the Company by
contacting JHISC.  Upon completion, the application is transmitted, along with
the premium payment, to JHISC for processing.  See "The Contracts."


JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT JF

     The Separate Account is a separate investment account of the Company. It is
operated as a unit investment trust and supports the variable benefits payable
under the Contracts. There are currently ten Subaccounts within the Separate
Account: V.A. International, V.A. Emerging Growth, V.A. Discovery, V.A.
Independence Equity, V.A. Sovereign Investors, V.A. 500 Index, V.A. Sovereign
Bond, V.A. Strategic Income, V.A. World Bond, and V.A. Money Market. Each
Subaccount invests in a corresponding Fund of the Trust. The Trust is a "series"
type mutual fund.

     Each Fund has a different investment objective.  The Adviser provides
investment management services to the Funds for which it receives a fee from the
Trust.  The Adviser utilizes sub-advisers for three of the Funds.  John Hancock
Advisers International Limited ("JHAI") provides sub-investment management
services for the International Fund; Independence Investment Associates, Inc.
("IIA") provides sub-advisory services for the Diversified Core Equity Fund; and
Sovereign Asset Management Corporation ("SAMCO") together with JHAI and IIA, the
"Sub-advisers") provides sub-advisory services for the Sovereign Investors Fund.
The Sub-advisers are indirect, wholly-owned subsidiaries of John Hancock Mutual
Life Insurance Company ("John Hancock").  Each

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
Sub-adviser receives a fee from the Adviser for these services which in no way
increases the costs borne by the Trust, the Account, or the Owners.

     For a more detailed description of the Trust, see its prospectus which
accompanies this prospectus.


MVA FIXED ACCOUNT INVESTMENT OPTIONS

     Any amount allocated by the Owner to the MVA Fixed Account earns interest
at a Guaranteed Rate. The level of the Guaranteed Rate depends on the length of
the Guarantee Period selected by the Owner. We currently make available various
Guarantee Periods with durations of up to ten years.

     If amounts are transferred, surrendered or otherwise paid out at any time
other than the last day of the applicable Guarantee Period, a Market Value
Adjustment will be applied that will increase or decrease the amount of MVA
Fixed Account Value paid out.  Accordingly, the Market Value Adjustment can
result in gains or losses.

     For a more complete discussion of the MVA Fixed Account investment options
and Market Value Adjustment, see "The MVA Fixed Account."


PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER AND DISTRIBUTOR

     John Hancock Funds, Inc. ("JHFI"), a registered broker-dealer affiliate of
John Hancock, acts as principal underwriter of the Account and principal
distributor of the Contracts. The Contracts are offered through broker-dealers
and financial institutions.


INVESTMENT OF PREMIUM PAYMENTS

     Premium payments received under Contracts, after deduction of any premium
or similar taxes, are allocated to one or more of the Subaccounts and/or one or
more of the Guarantee Periods in the MVA Fixed Account, as directed by the
Owner.

     Premium payments may be mailed to JHISC, P. O. Box 9298, Boston, MA 02205-
9298. All checks or other money orders should be made payable to John Hancock.
Procedures also have been established for the receipt of premium payments by
wire order. See "Payments by Wire" under "The Contracts."


MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM PREMIUM PAYMENTS
       
     Each premium payment must be at least $500. The total premium payments may
not exceed $1,000,000 in any Contract Year without our prior approval. No
premium payments may be made within six months prior to the Annuitant's 85th
birthday or thereafter. These limits may be waived by the Company.     
 

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
FEES AND CHARGES


     ACCOUNT CHARGES

     Charges made directly to the Account include daily charges aggregating
0.90% annually for mortality and expense risks, and daily charges at the annual
rate of 0.35% and 0.10% under Contracts with initial premium payments of less
than $250,000 and $250,000 or more, respectively. These charges are based on the
average daily net asset value of each Subaccount, and reduce the unit values of
the Subaccounts.


     FUND CHARGES

     Management fees at annual rates ranging from 0.35% to 0.90% of average
daily net assets are paid by the Funds to the Adviser. The Funds also incur
charges for other expenses incurred in their operations. Management fees and
other expenses are reflected in the net asset value of each Fund's shares.


     WITHDRAWAL CHARGES

     A withdrawal charge, or contingent deferred sales load (the CDSL), if
applicable, is deducted from the amount of any premium payment withdrawn from
the Accumulated Value under a Contract, including any partial withdrawal or any
full withdrawal upon a surrender of the Contract. The charge is 6% for
withdrawals made in the first two years from the date we receive a premium
payment and decreases decrementally to zero in the seventh year. The charge does
not apply to any premium payments withdrawn after seven years from the date we
receive the payments. In any Contract Year, up to 10% of the Accumulated Value
as of the beginning of the Contract Year, less any prior withdrawals during the
Contract Year, may be withdrawn without a CDSL. The CDSL also does not apply to
a withdrawal made to provide an annuity or a death benefit or, if necessary, to
meet minimum distribution requirements under qualified plans, or under the
waiver described in the next paragraph.


     NURSING HOME WAIVER OF CDSL CHARGE

   
     Subject to state availability, an optional "Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL"
rider may be elected at the time the Owner applies for a Contract. Under this
benefit, the CDSL, if otherwise applicable, will be waived on any withdrawals if
beginning at least 90 days after the date of issue, the Owner becomes confined
to a long term care facility ("LTCF") for at least 90 consecutive days, subject
to certain conditions. At the beginning of each month, we make a charge for this
rider equal to 1/12th of 0.05% (annual percentage rate) of the Accumulated Value
associated with premium payments upon which a CDSL would continue to be
applicable at the time the charge is assessed. The benefit is not available for
applicants over age 75.     


     CONTRACT FEE AND CERTAIN OTHER CHARGES

   
     An annual Contract Fee of $30 is deducted during the Accumulation Period
under Contracts having an Accumulated Value of less than $10,000. The Company
reserves the right to increase the Contract Fee up to $50, subject to applicable
state regulations. No Contract Fee will be deducted if the Accumulated Value is
$10,000 or more. Charges also may be made for any taxes or interest expense 
attributable to the Contracts or the Account.      

     Deductions are also made for any applicable premium or similar taxes based
on the amount of a premium payment. Currently, such taxes in certain states are
up to 5% of each premium payment. In addition, separate monthly charges are made
for the optional death benefit riders described under "Death Benefits" below.

     A more detailed description of all fees and charges applicable under the
Contracts appears under "Charges

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
Under the Contracts."  Fees and charges of the Trust are described in its
prospectus which is attached to this prospectus.


WITHDRAWAL PRIOR TO DATE OF MATURITY

     At any time before annuity payments begin, if the Annuitant is living, a
Contract may be surrendered in full for its Surrender Value or a portion of the
Accumulated Value may be withdrawn, subject to applicable charges and certain
limits.  See "Surrender of Contract; Partial Withdrawals" under "The Contracts."
A 10% tax penalty may be applicable to withdrawals before the Owner attains age
59 1/2.  A Market Value Adjustment may also be applied.  See "The MVA Fixed
Account."


SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL

     The Accumulated Value of a Contract may be systematically withdrawn on a
monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis, as elected by the Owner.
Systematic withdrawals in any Contract Year in excess of 10% of the Accumulated
Value as of the beginning of the Contract Year may be subject to a CDSL.  See 
"Contingent Deferred Sales Load" under "Charges Under the Contracts."   A
minimum Accumulated Value of $15,000 is required to start the program and
certain other conditions apply. See "Systematic Withdrawal" under "The
Accumulation Period."


DOLLAR COST AVERAGING

     The Owner may elect to have amounts automatically transferred from the
Money Market Subaccount into one or more of the other Subaccounts of the
Account. Transfers of $250 or more may be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually
or annually. A minimum Accumulated Value of $15,000 is required to start the
program. See "Dollar Cost Averaging" under "The Accumulation Period."


DEATH BENEFITS

     STANDARD DEATH BENEFIT

     The Contracts include a standard death benefit payable upon the death of
the Annuitant prior to the Date of Maturity. The beneficiary will receive the
greater of (a) the Accumulated Value, adjusted by any Market Value Adjustment,
and (b) the aggregate amount of the premium payments made under the Contract,
less any prior withdrawals and CDSLs.

     OPTIONAL ONE YEAR STEPPED-UP DEATH BENEFIT

     At the time a Contract is applied for, the Owner may elect a one year
stepped-up death benefit rider designed to enhance the death benefit payable to
the beneficiary. Under this rider the benefit payable will be the greater of (a)
the standard death benefit, and (b) the highest Accumulated Value, adjusted by a
Market Value Adjustment, of the Contract as of any Contract anniversary
preceding the date of receipt of due proof of death together with any required
settlement instructions and preceding the Contract anniversary nearest the
Annuitant's 81st birthday, plus any premium payments, less any withdrawals and
CDSLs, since such Contract anniversary.  See "Optional One Year Stepped-Up
Death Benefit" under "The Accumulation Period."   At the beginning of each
month, we make a charge for this rider equal to 1/12th of 0.15% (annual
percentage rate) of the Accumulated Value of the Contract at that time.  This 
one year stepped up death benefit is not available for applicants age 80 or 
older.

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
     OPTIONAL ACCIDENTAL DEATH BENEFIT

     At the option of the Owner, an accidental death benefit rider may be
elected. Under this rider, upon the accidental death of the Annuitant prior to
the earlier of the Date of Maturity or the Annuitant's 80th birthday, the
beneficiary will receive, in addition to any other death benefit, an amount
equal to the Accumulated Value of the Contract, as of the date of receipt of
proof of the Annuitant's death, up to a maximum of $200,000. The benefit only
may be elected at the time the Contract is applied for, and is not available to
applicants age 80 or older. At the beginning of each month, we make a charge
for this rider equal to 1/12th of 0.10% (annual percentage rate) of the
Accumulated Value of the Contract at that time.

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
                    SEPARATE ACCOUNT FINANCIAL INFORMATION

     The Separate Account has not yet commenced operations and therefore has no
assets or liabilities.  Accordingly, neither this prospectus nor the SAI
contains any financial statements for the Separate Account.


                         THE COMPANY AND JOHN HANCOCK

     The Company was organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts in 1979 and commenced insurance operations in 1980. It is a 
wholly-owned subsidiary of John Hancock, a mutual life insurance company
organized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1862. The
Company's Home Office is located at 200 Clarendon Street, Boston, Massachusetts
02117. See "Further Information About the Company."

     John Hancock is a major financial services company. As the Company's
parent, it is anticipated that John Hancock will from time to time make capital
contributions to the Company to enable it to meet its reserve requirements and
expenses in connection with its business. John Hancock is committed to make
additional capital contributions if necessary to ensure that the Company
maintains a positive net worth.


                             THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT

     The Separate Account is a separate account of the Company established under
Massachusetts law on November 13, 1995.  The Separate Account, although an
integral part of the Company, meets the definition of a "separate account" under
the Federal securities laws and is registered as a unit investment trust under
the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act").

     The Separate Account's assets are the property of the Company and the
obligations under the Contracts are the obligations of the Company. Each
Contract provides that the portion of the Separate Account's assets equal to the
reserves and other liabilities under the Contract with respect to the Separate
Account shall not be chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other
business the Company may conduct. In addition to the net assets and other
liabilities for Contracts, the Separate Account's assets include assets derived
from charges made by the Company and, possibly, funds contributed by the Company
to commence operation of the Subaccounts.  From time to time these additional
assets may be transferred in cash by the Company to its general account. Before
making any such transfer, the Company will consider any possible adverse impact
the transfer might have on any Subaccount.

     Income, gains and losses, whether or not realized, from assets allocated to
the Separate Account are, in accordance with the Contracts, credited to or
charged against the Separate Account without regard to other income, gains or
losses of the Company.
    
     There currently are ten Subaccounts in the Separate Account: the V.A.
International, V.A Emerging Growth, V.A. Discovery, V.A. Independence Equity,
V.A. Sovereign Investors, V.A. 500 Index, V.A. Sovereign Bond, V.A. Strategic
Income, V.A. World Bond, and V.A. Money Market Subaccounts. The assets in each
Subaccount are invested in shares of a corresponding Fund of the Trust. The
assets of one Subaccount are not necessarily legally insulated from liabilities
associated with another Subaccount. New subaccounts may be added and made
available to Owners. Prior to the date of this prospectus, the Separate Account
had no operations.      

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
                                   THE TRUST
    
     The Trust is a "series" type of mutual fund that is registered under the
1940 Act as an open-end diversified management investment company and organized
as a Massachusetts business trust. The Trust serves as an investment medium for
the Account and for John Hancock Variable Annuity Account H. In the future, 
other unit investment trust separate accounts established by John Hancock, the
Company, or other unaffiliated life insurance companies for variable life
insurance policies and variable annuity contracts may also invest in the Trust.
A full description of the Trust, its investment objectives, policies and
restrictions, its charges and expenses, and all other aspects of its operation
is contained in its attached prospectus (which should be read carefully before
investing) and the SAI referred to therein, which should be read together with
this prospectus. Among other items, the description of the need to monitor
events on the part of the Trust's Board of Trustees for possible conflicts
between separate accounts and other consequences should be noted.      

     The following is a brief summary of the investment objectives of each Fund
of the Trust.

  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. INTERNATIONAL FUND - seeks long-term growth of capital. The
Fund invests primarily in equity securities of foreign companies and
governments.


  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. EMERGING GROWTH FUND - seeks long-term growth of capital.
The potential for growth of capital is the sole basis for selection of portfolio
securities.  Current income is not a factor in this selection.


  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. DISCOVERY FUND - seeks long-term growth of capital.  The
Fund invests primarily in common stocks of companies of all levels of
capitalization which are believed by the Fund's managers to offer superior
prospects for growth.  Current income is not a factor of consequence in the
selection of stocks for the Fund.


  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. INDEPENDENCE EQUITY FUND - seeks above-average total
return, consisting of capital appreciation and income.  The Fund will diversify
its investments to create a portfolio focused on stocks of companies that
management believes are undervalued and have improving fundamentals over both
the intermediate and long term.


  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. SOVEREIGN INVESTORS FUND - seeks long-term growth of capital
and income without assuming undue market risks.  At times, however, because of
market conditions, the Fund may find it advantageous to invest primarily for
current income.  The Fund invests primarily in common stocks of seasoned
companies in sound financial condition with a long record of paying increasing
dividends.

    
  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. 500 INDEX FUND - seeks to provide investment results that
correspond to the total return performance of the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock
Price Index ("S&P 500 Index"). The 500 Index Fund normally invests at least 80%
of the Fund's assets in common stocks of companies that comprise the S&P 500
Index in approximately the same proportions as they are represented in the
Index. (Requisite disclosure regarding the use of the Standard & Poor's name is 
        -----------------------------------------------------------------------
included in the Trust's prospectus attached at the end of this prospectus.)  
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
     


  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. SOVEREIGN BOND FUND - seeks a high level of current income
consistent with prudent investment risk.  The Fund invests primarily in a
diversified portfolio of investment grade fixed income securities of U.S. and
foreign issuers, although the Fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in
lower-rated high-yield, high-risk fixed income securities.

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. STRATEGIC INCOME FUND - seeks a high level of current
income.  The Fund invests primarily in foreign government and corporate fixed
income securities, U.S. Government securities and lower-rated high-yield, high-
risk fixed income securities of U.S. issuers.


  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. WORLD BOND FUND - seeks competitive total investment
return, consisting of current income and capital appreciation.  The Fund invests
primarily in a global portfolio of high-grade, fixed income securities.


  JOHN HANCOCK V.A. MONEY MARKET FUND - seeks maximum current income consistent
with capital preservation and liquidity.  The Fund invests only in high-quality
money market instruments.

                    _______________________________________

  Prospective investors should carefully read the risk disclosures contained in
the Trust prospectus with regard to the investment risks of the high-yield,
high-risk fixed income securities invested in by the John Hancock V.A. Sovereign
Bond Fund and the John Hancock V.A. Strategic Income Fund.

  The Company will purchase and redeem shares of the Trust for the Separate
Account at their net asset value without any sales or redemption charges.  The
shares of the Trust represent an interest in the Funds that correspond to the
Subaccounts of the Separate Account.  Any dividend or capital gains
distributions received by the Separate Account will be reinvested in shares of
the respective Funds at their net asset value as of the dates paid. Any such
distribution will result in a reduction in the value of the shares of the Fund
from which the distribution was made.  However, the total net asset value of the
Separate Account, or of any Fund, will not change because of such distribution.

  On each Valuation Date, shares of each Fund are purchased or redeemed by the
Company for each Subaccount based on, among other things, the amount of net
premium payments allocated to the Subaccount, dividends and distributions
reinvested, transfers to, from and among Subaccounts, all to be effected as of
that date. Such purchases and redemptions are effected at the net asset value
per share for each Fund determined on that same Valuation Date.


                             THE MVA FIXED ACCOUNT
         

GUARANTEED RATES/GUARANTEE PERIODS
    
     Amounts allocated by the Owner to the MVA Fixed Account earn interest at a
Guaranteed Rate commencing with the date of allocation. The Guaranteed Rate
continues for a number of years, i.e., the Guarantee Period, selected by the
Owner. At the end of the Guarantee Period, the Accumulated Value in that
Guarantee Period, including interest accrued thereon, will be automatically
transferred to the Money Market Subaccount unless the Owner elects to: (a)
withdraw such Accumulated Value from the Contract, (b) allocate all or a portion
of the Accumulated Value to a new Guarantee Period of the same duration as the
expiring Guarantee Period, or (c) allocate all or any portion of the Accumulated
Value to a different Guarantee Period or periods or to one or more of the
Subaccounts. The Company must be notified of any election by the Owner at
JHISC's office in a form satisfactory to it within 30 days prior to the end of
the expiring Guarantee Period. The first day of any new Guarantee Period or
other reallocation will be the day after the end of the prior Guarantee Period.
The Company will notify the Owner at least 30 days prior to the end of any
Guarantee Period. A Guarantee Period will not be available if it extends beyond
the Date of Maturity.      

     The Company currently makes available Guarantee Periods of various
durations. At any time, the Guarantee Periods may be one year and multiple year
periods of up to ten years. The Company reserves the right to add or delete
Guarantee Periods from those that are available at any time for new allocations.
Each

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
Guarantee Period has its own Guaranteed Rate, which may differ from those for
other Guarantee Periods.  We may, at our discretion, change the Guaranteed Rate
for future Guarantee Periods.  These changes will not affect the Guaranteed
Rates being paid on Guarantee Periods that have already commenced.  Each
allocation or transfer of an amount to a Guarantee Period commences the running
of a new Guarantee Period with respect to that amount, which will earn a
Guaranteed Rate that will continue unchanged until the end of that period. 
Where required under state law, the Company will not make available any 
Guarantee Period offering a Guaranteed Rate below 3%. 

     The Company declares the Guaranteed Rates from time to time as market
conditions and other factors dictate.  The Company advises an Owner of the
Guaranteed Rate for a chosen Guarantee Period at the time a premium payment is
received, a transfer is effectuated or a Guarantee Period is renewed.

     The Company has no specific formula for establishing the Guaranteed Rates
for the Guarantee Periods. The rates may be influenced by, but not necessarily
correspond to, interest rates generally available on the types of investments
acquired with amounts allocated to the Guarantee Period. See "Investments by the
Company," below. The Company, in determining Guaranteed Rates, may also
consider, among other factors, the duration of a Guarantee Period, regulatory
and tax requirements, sales and administrative expenses borne by the Company,
risks assumed by the Company, the Company's profitability objectives, and
general economic trends.

THE COMPANY'S MANAGEMENT MAKES THE FINAL DETERMINATION OF THE GUARANTEED RATES
TO BE DECLARED.  THE COMPANY CANNOT PREDICT OR ASSURE THE LEVEL OF ANY FUTURE
GUARANTEED RATES.

     Information concerning the Guaranteed Rates applicable to the various
Guarantee Periods, and the durations of the Guarantee Periods offered, at any
time may be obtained from the Company by calling JHISC at the telephone number
indicated on the cover page of this prospectus.


MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT

     If any MVA Fixed Account Value is withdrawn, transferred or otherwise paid
out before the end of the Guarantee Period in which it is being held, a Market
Value Adjustment will be applied. This generally includes amounts that are paid
out as death benefits pursuant to the Contract, amounts applied to an annuity
option, and amounts paid as a single sum in lieu of an annuity. No Market Value
Adjustment will be applied to amounts that are paid out on the last day of a
Guarantee Period.


     The Market Value Adjustment may increase or decrease the amount of MVA
Fixed Account Value being withdrawn, transferred or otherwise paid out. The
comparison of two Guaranteed Rates determines whether the Market Value
Adjustment produces an increase or a decrease. The first rate to compare is the
Guaranteed Rate for the existing Guarantee Period from which amounts are being
transferred or withdrawn. The second rate is the Guaranteed Rate then being
offered for new Guarantee Periods of the same duration as that remaining in the
existing Guarantee Period. If the first rate exceeds the second by more than
1/2%, the Market Value Adjustment produces an increase. If the first rate does
not exceed the second by at least 1/2%, the Market Value Adjustment produces a
decrease. Sample calculations are shown in Appendix A.

     The Market Value Adjustment will be determined by multiplying the amount
being withdrawn or transferred from the Guarantee Period (before deduction of
any applicable CDSL) by the following factor:
                                   
                                           n/12
                                   1 + g
                               (-----------)     -1
                                1 + c +.005               
where,

                                       18
<PAGE>
 
     .  g is the Guaranteed Rate in effect for the current Guarantee Period (in
        decimal form).


     .  c is the current Guaranteed Rate (in decimal form) in effect for new
        Guarantee Periods with durations equal to the number of years remaining
        in the current Guarantee Period (rounded up to the nearest whole number
        of years). If not available, the Company will declare a Guaranteed Rate
        solely for this purpose that is consistent with interest rates for
        Guarantee Periods that are currently available.

     .  n is the number of complete months from the date of withdrawal to the
        end of the current Guarantee Period. (Where less than one complete month
        remains, n will equal one unless the withdrawal is made on the last day
        of the Guarantee Period, in which case no adjustment will apply.)


INVESTMENTS BY THE COMPANY

     The Company's obligations with respect to the MVA Fixed Account are
supported by its General Account assets, which also support other general
obligations incurred by the Company. Subject to applicable law, the Company has
sole discretion over the investment of assets in the MVA Fixed Account and the
General Account, and neither account is subject to registration under the 1940
Act.

     Amounts in the Company's General Account and the MVA Fixed Account will be
invested in compliance with applicable state insurance laws and regulations
concerning the nature and quality of investments for the General Account.  See
the Company's Financial Statements for information on the Company's investments.
Investment management for amounts in the General Account and in the MVA Fixed
Account is provided to the Company by John Hancock.

     The Company intends to consider the return available on the instruments in
which it intends to invest amounts allocated to the MVA Fixed Account when it
establishes Guaranteed Rates. Such return is only one of the factors considered
in establishing the Guaranteed Rates. See "Guaranteed Rates/Guarantee Periods,"
above.

     The Company expects that amounts allocated to the MVA Fixed Account will be
invested according to its detailed investment policy and guidelines, in fixed
income obligations, including corporate bonds, mortgages, mortgage-backed and
asset-backed securities and government and agency issues having durations in 
the aggregate consistent with those of the Guarantee Periods. JHVLICO intends to
invest proceeds from the Contracts attributable to the MVA Fixed Account 
primarily in domestic investment-grade securities. In addition, derivative 
contracts will be used only for hedging purposes, to reduce the ordinary
business risk of the Contracts associated with changes in interest rates, and
not for speculating on future changes in the financial markets. Notwithstanding
the foregoing, the Company is not obligated to invest amounts allocated to the
MVA Fixed Account according to any particular strategy. See "Management
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations-
Reserves and Obligations" under "Further Information About the Company."

                                       19
<PAGE>
 
                          CHARGES UNDER THE CONTRACTS

CHARGES FOR MORTALITY AND EXPENSE RISKS

     While variable annuity payments to Annuitants will vary in accordance with
the investment performance of the Separate Account, the amount of such payments
will not be decreased because of adverse mortality experience of Annuitants as a
class or because of an increase in actual expenses of the Company over the
expense charges provided for in the Contracts. The Company assumes the risk that
Annuitants as a class may live longer than expected (necessitating a greater
number of annuity payments) and that its expenses may be higher than the
deductions for such expenses. The Company also provides a standard death benefit
and waives any CDSL upon the death of the Annuitant.

     In return for the assumption of these mortality and expense risks, the
Company makes a daily charge to the assets of the Separate Account. The daily
charge is at the rate of 0.002466%, or 0.90% annually, of which 0.45% is for
mortality risks and 0.45%, for expense risks. The Company reserves the right to
revise the amounts of the charge as between mortality risks and expense risks,
should estimates change, but the aggregate charge will not exceed 0.90% on an
annual basis.


CHARGES FOR ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

     The Company maintains an account for each Owner and Annuitant and makes all
disbursements of benefits. The Company also furnishes such administrative and
clerical services, including the calculation of Accumulation Unit values and the
values and interests determined thereby, as are required for each Subaccount.
The Company makes disbursements from Separate Account funds to pay obligations
chargeable to the Separate Account and maintains the accounts, records, and
other documents relating to the business of the Separate Account required by
regulatory authorities.  These administrative services may be performed by the
Company, by JHISC, or by one or more of the Company's other affiliates.  For
these and other administrative services, the Company makes a daily charge to the
assets of the Separate Account and assesses, during the Accumulation Period, a
Contract Fee of $30 on all Contracts having an Accumulated Value of less than
$10,000.  The Contract Fee will be deducted at the beginning of each Contract
Year after the first and at a full surrender during a Contract Year. The Company
reserves the right to increase this fee up to a maximum of $50 subject to state
regulations.  No Contract Fee will be deducted if the Accumulated Value is
$10,000 or more.  The Contract Fee will be deducted from each Subaccount and
each Guarantee Period in the same proportion that the Accumulated Value in that
Subaccount or Guarantee Period bears to the full Accumulated Value.
    
     The daily administrative charge is 0.000959%, or 0.35% on an annual basis,
under any Contract with an initial premium payment of less than $250,000; and
0.000274%, or 0.10% on an annual basis, under any Contract with an initial
premium payment of $250,000 or more. The different charges reflect the fact that
the cost of administering larger Contracts will tend to be smaller in proportion
to the Contract's Accumulated Value and that amounts realized by the Company 
from expense charges made under smaller Contracts will be lower.      

     The administrative services charges are not designed, nor are they
expected, to exceed the Company's cost in providing these services.


CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES LOAD

     A contingent deferred sales load, or CDSL, may be assessed whenever a
Contract is surrendered for cash prior to the Date of Maturity ("total
withdrawal" or "surrender") or whenever an amount less than the total
Accumulated Value is withdrawn from a Contract prior to the Date of Maturity
("partial withdrawal"). This charge is used to help defray expenses relating to
the sales of the Contracts, including commissions paid and other distribution
costs.

                                       20
<PAGE>
 
     An Owner may withdraw in any Contract Year up to 10% of the Accumulated
Value as of the beginning of the Contract Year without the assessment of any
CDSL. This is the Free Withdrawal Value. If, in any Contract Year, the Owner
withdraws an aggregate amount in excess of 10% of the Accumulated Value as of
the beginning of the Contract Year, the amount withdrawn in excess of 10% is
subject to a CDSL to the extent that the excess is attributable to premium
payments made within seven years of the date of withdrawal or surrender.

     No CDSL is assessed on amounts applied to provide an annuity or to pay a
death benefit. Also, no CDSL will apply to certain withdrawals if an Owner has
elected the nursing home waiver of CDSL rider described under "Nursing Home
Waiver of CDSL" below. Amounts withdrawn to satisfy the minimum distribution
requirements for tax qualified plans funded by a Contract are not subject to a
CDSL in any Contract Year. Amounts above the minimum distribution requirements
are subject to a CDSL if otherwise applicable.

     The CDSL percentage charge depends upon the number of years that have
elapsed from the date of premium payment to the date of its withdrawal, as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                         Years from Date
                         of Premium Payment to                              CDSL
                         Date of Surrender or Withdrawal                 Percentage
                         -------------------------------                 -----------

                         <S>                                             <C>
                         7 or more ...................................        0%
                         6 but less than 7 ...........................        2%
                         5 but less than 6 ...........................        3%
                         4 but less than 5 ...........................        4%
                         3 but less than 4 ...........................        5%
                         2 but less than 3 ...........................        5%
                         less than 2 .................................        6%
</TABLE>

     Whenever a CDSL is imposed, it is deducted from each Subaccount of the
Separate Account and each Guarantee Period of the MVA Fixed Account in the
proportion that the amount subject to the CDSL in each bears to the total amount
subject to the CDSL.  In calculating the CDSL, all amounts withdrawn plus all
Contract Fees and CDSLs are assumed to be deducted first from the earliest
purchase payment, and then from the next earliest purchase payment, and so forth
until all payments have been exhausted, satisfying the first-in first out, or
"FIFO," method of accounting.  The CDSL only applies to premium payments, not to
any earnings or appreciation.  For a discussion of the taxation of partial
withdrawals, see "Contracts Purchased Other Than to Fund a Tax Qualified Plan"
under "Federal Income Taxes."

     To the extent that any CDSL is applicable, the Accumulated Value will
generally be reduced by the amount of the CDSL, as well as by the actual dollar
amount of the withdrawal request.  Any positive MVA will reduce the amount
deducted from the Accumulated Value by the amount of the positive MVA.  Any
negative MVA will increase the amount deducted by the amount of the negative
MVA.  The CDSL is calculated based upon the full amount by which the Accumulated
Value is reduced, adjusted for any MVA, and subject to the conditions noted
above.

          For example, assume a Contract is issued on January 1, 1996, that the
     Owner makes premium payments of $5,000 on January 1, 1996, $1,000 on
     January 1, 1997, and $1,000 on January 1, 1998. Assume that the Accumulated
     Value on January 1, 1999, is $9,000 and that a partial withdrawal is made
     by the Owner in the amount of $6,000 (no tax withholding) on June 1, 1999.
     The CDSL in this case, assuming no prior partial withdrawals, would equal
     $272.23.

          In calculating the CDSL under the FIFO method, the January 1, 1996,
     $5,000 premium payment is first reduced by the three $30 Contract Fees
     assessed on January 1, 1997, 1998, and 1999, i.e., to $4,910. Ten percent
     of the Accumulated Value on January 1, 1999, i.e., $900, the free
     withdrawal

                                       21
<PAGE>
 
     amount, is then deducted leaving $4,010.

          The remaining balance of the $5,000 January 1, 1996, premium payment,
     i.e., $4,010, is then withdrawn in its entirety and is assessed a CDSL of
     $200.50 (.05 x $4,010). All of the $1,000 January 1, 1997, premium payment
     is to be withdrawn and is assessed a CDSL of $50 (.05 x $1,000). To make up
     the remainder of the $6,000 paid to the Owner, $362.23 is withdrawn from
     the January 1, 1998, premium payment. This is assessed a CDSL of $21.73
     (.06 x $362.23).

          Therefore, the total amount paid to the Owner is $6,000 and the total
     CDSL is $272.23. The above example assumes all amounts withdrawn are after
     the application of any Market Value Adjustment.

     Withdrawals made prior to the Owner attaining age 59 1/2 may be subject to
certain adverse tax consequences. A Federal penalty of 10% is generally
applicable to the taxable portion (earnings) of a premature withdrawal from the
Contract.  See "Penalty for Premature Withdrawals" under "Federal Income Taxes."

     To the extent that the proceeds from the CDSLs may be insufficient to cover
distribution costs, the Company may recover them from its General Account assets
which may consist of, among other things, proceeds derived from mortality and
expense risk charges deducted from the Separate Account, and charges for the 
optional benefits described in this prospectus.

    
NURSING HOME WAIVER OF CDSL

   
     An optional Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL rider may be elected when the
Contract is applied for. Under this benefit, the CDSL, if otherwise applicable,
will be waived as to any withdrawals if, beginning at least 90 days after the
Contract date of issue, the Owner becomes confined to a nursing home facility
for at least 90 consecutive days and receives skilled nursing care. The Company
must receive a request for a withdrawal and adequate proof of confinement no
later than 90 days after discharge from the facility, and the confinement must
be prescribed by a physician and medically necessary. This rider is not
available to Contract applicants 75 years of age or older, or to applicants who
were confined to a nursing home within the prior two years. Reference should be
made to the rider for a complete description of its terms, conditions, and
benefits. At the beginning of each month, a charge equal to 1/12th of .05%
(annual percentage rate) is made against the Accumulated Value associated with 
premium payments upon which a CDSL would continue to be applicable at the time 
the charge is assessed. The charge is made through a pro-rata reduction in 
Accumulation Units of the Subaccounts and dollar amounts in the Guarantee 
Periods, based on relative values.      


OPTIONAL DEATH BENEFIT CHARGES

     Separate monthly charges are made for the optional One Year Stepped-Up
Death Benefit and Accidental Death Benefit riders offered by the Company. In
each case, the charge for the rider is made through a pro-rata reduction in
Accumulation Units of the Subaccounts and dollar amounts in the Guarantee
Periods, based on relative values. The charge, made at the beginning of each
month, is equal to the Accumulated Value at that time multiplied by 1/12th of
the following applicable annual percentage rates: One Year Stepped-Up Death
Benefit rider - 0.15%; Accidental Death Benefit rider - 0.10%. See "Optional One
Year Stepped-Up Death Benefit Rider" and "Optional Accidental Death Benefit
Rider" under "The Accumulation Period."


VARIATIONS IN CHARGES

   
     In the future, the Company may allow a reduction in or the elimination of
the CDSL, the charge for the Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL rider, the charge for
expense risks, the administrative services charge, or the annual Contract Fee, 
or the charge for the One Year Stepped-Up Death Benefit rider or      

                                       22
<PAGE>
 
Accidental Death Benefit rider, under Contracts sold to groups or classes of
individuals in a manner resulting in a reduction in the expenses associated with
the sale of such Contracts and the benefits offered, or the costs associated
with administering or maintaining the Contracts.

     The entitlement to such a reduction in or elimination of charges and fees
will be determined by the Company based upon factors such as the following: (1)
the size of the initial premium payment, (2) the size of the group or class, (3)
the total amount of premium payments expected to be received from the group or
class and the manner in which premium payments are remitted, (4) the nature of
the group or class for which the Contracts are being purchased and the
persistency expected from that group or class as well as the mortality risks
associated with that group or class, (5) the purpose for which the Contracts are
being purchased and whether that purpose makes it likely that costs and expenses
will be reduced, or (6) the level of commissions paid to selling broker-dealers
or certain financial institutions with respect to Contracts within the same
group or class.

     The Company will make any reduction in charges or fees according to its own
rules in effect at the time an application for a Contract is approved. The
Company reserves the right to change these rules from time to time. Any
variation in charges or fees will reflect differences in costs and services,
will apply uniformly to all prospective Contract purchasers in the group or
class, and will not be unfairly discriminatory to the interests of any Owner.


PREMIUM OR SIMILAR TAXES

     Several states and local governments impose a premium or similar tax on
annuities. Currently, such taxes range up to 5% of the Accumulated Value applied
to an Annuity Option. Ordinarily, any state-imposed premium or similar tax will
be deducted from the Accumulated Value only at the time of annuitization.

     For Contracts issued in South Dakota the Company pays a tax on each premium
payment at the time it is made. The Company will deduct a charge for these taxes
from the Accumulated Value at the time of annuitization, death, surrender, or
withdrawal. Such a charge is equal to the applicable premium tax percentage
times the amount of Accumulated Value that is applied to an Annuity Option,
surrendered, withdrawn, or at death. The net economic effect of this procedure
is not significantly different than if the Company deducted the premium tax from
each premium payment when received.


                       ________________________________


     The charges described above (exclusive of taxes) and the Contracts' annuity
purchase rates will apply for the duration of each Contract and, except as noted
above, will not be increased by the Company. However, these charges do not
include all of the expenses which may be incurred for the account of Owners and
Annuitants. Additional charges will be made directly to the Separate Account for
taxes, if any, based on the income of, capital gains of, assets in, or the
existence of, the Separate Account and interest on funds borrowed. In addition,
the Company reserves the right to deduct premium taxes from premiums when paid.
Moreover, the Separate Account purchases and redeems shares of the Trust at net
asset value, a value which reflects the deduction from the assets of the Trust
of the applicable investment management fees and of certain operating expenses
listed under "Synopsis of Expense Information."

                                       23
<PAGE>
 
                                 THE CONTRACTS

     The descriptions herein are based on certain provisions of the Contracts.
Reference should be made to the actual Contracts and to the terms and
limitations of any tax qualified plan which is to be funded by such Contracts.
Tax qualified plans are subject to several requirements and limitations which
may affect the terms of any particular Contract or the advisability of taking
certain action permitted thereby.


PURCHASE OF CONTRACTS

     Authorized representatives of the broker-dealer or financial institution
participating in the distribution of the Contracts will assist in the completion
of the application or the placing of an order for a Contract and will be
responsible for its transmittal, together with the necessary premium payment, to
the Company's Servicing Agent, JHISC. If the application or order is complete
and the Contract applied for is suitable, the Contract will be issued and
delivered to the Owner. If the completed application or order is received in
proper form, the initial premium payment accompanying the completed application
is applied within two business days after receipt. If an initial premium payment
is not applied within five business days after receipt, it will be refunded
unless the applicant consents to the retention of the premium payment until
receipt of information necessary to allow the issuance of the Contract.

     Each premium payment must be at least $500 in amount. The total premium
payments in any Contract Year may not exceed $1,000,000. The maximum dollar
amount of transfers and payments to any one Subaccount in a Contract Year is
$1,000,000. While the Annuitant is living and the Contract is in force, premium
payments may be made at any time before the Date of Maturity, except that no new
premium payments may be made after the Annuitant reaches age 84 1/2 under
Contracts funding non-qualified arrangements, or age 70 1/2 under tax qualified
plans. A Contract will not be issued if the proposed Annuitant is older than age
84 1/2. The foregoing limits may be waived by the Company.

     All checks or other forms of premium payment must be made payable to John
Hancock.


PREMIUM PAYMENTS BY WIRE

     The initial premium payment may be transmitted by wire order from broker-
dealers and financial institutions participating in the distribution of the
Contracts. Wire orders accepted by the Company will be invested in the
investment options selected by the prospective Owner at the value next
determined following receipt in good order. Wire orders must include information
necessary to allocate the payment among the investment options selected by the
prospective Owner. Wire orders not accompanied by complete information may be
held for up to five business days in order to obtain the missing information. If
that information is not obtained within the five business day period, JHISC will
so advise the broker-dealer or financial institution involved and return the
premium payment immediately to the prospective Owner, unless he or she consents
to the retention of the premium payment by the Company until JHISC has received
the information not provided. A Contract will, nevertheless, not be issued,
until the Company receives and accepts a properly completed application. Until a
signed application is received and accepted, no further premium payments or
other transactions will be allowed.

     If within ten days of the receipt of the initial premium payment by wire a
completed application is not received or an incomplete application received
cannot be completed, the initial premium payment will be returned to the
prospective Owner.

     After a Contract has been issued, subsequent premium payments may be
transmitted by wire through the Owner's bank. Information as to the name of the
Company's bank, our account number and the ABA routing number may be obtained by
calling JHISC at the telephone number on the cover page of this prospectus. The

                                       24
<PAGE>
 
wire order must identify the Subaccounts and Guarantee Periods to which the
premium payment is to be allocated, and the dollar amount to be allocated to
each Subaccount and Guarantee Period. Banks may charge a fee for wire services.


                            THE ACCUMULATION PERIOD

ALLOCATION OF PREMIUM PAYMENTS

     Premium payments are allocated by the Company to one or more of the
Subaccounts or Guarantee Periods, or among the Subaccounts and Guarantee
Periods, as specified by the Owner at the time of purchasing the Contract, and
as directed by the Owner from time to time thereafter. Any change in the
allocations will be effective as to premium payments made after the receipt by
JHISC of notice in form satisfactory to the Company.

     Each premium payment allocated to a Subaccount purchases Accumulation
Units of that Subaccount at the value of such units next determined after the
receipt of such premium payment at JHISC. See "Variable Account Valuation
Procedures."

     Currently, premium payments may be allocated to a maximum of 18 Subaccounts
and Guarantee Periods.


VALUE OF ACCUMULATION UNITS

     The number of Accumulation Units of a Subaccount purchased with a specific
premium payment will be determined by dividing the premium payment by the
value of an Accumulation Unit in that Subaccount when the premium payment is
applied. The value of the Accumulation Units so purchased will vary in amount
thereafter, depending upon the investment performance of the Subaccount and the
charges and deductions made against the Subaccount. At any date prior to the
Date of Maturity, the total value of the Accumulation Units in a Subaccount
which have been credited to a Contract can be computed by multiplying the number
of such Accumulation Units by the appropriate Accumulation Unit Value in effect
for such date.


DETERMINATION OF MVA FIXED ACCOUNT VALUE

     A Contract's MVA Fixed Account Value is guaranteed by the Company.  The
Company bears the investment risk with respect to amounts allocated to the MVA
Fixed Account, except that (a) the Company may vary the Guaranteed Rate for
future Guarantee Periods (subject to the 3% effective annual minimum guaranteed
rate where required under state law) and (b) the Market Value Adjustment 
imposes investment risks on the Owner.

     The Contract's MVA Fixed Account Value is the sum of the MVA Fixed Account
Values in each Guarantee Period on any date.  The MVA Fixed Account Value in a
Guarantee Period is equal to the following amounts, in each case increased by
accrued interest at the applicable Guaranteed Rate:
    
     .  The amount of premium payments or transferred amounts allocated to
the Guarantee Period, including the amount of any positive Market Value 
Adjustment; less      
    
     .  The amount of any withdrawals, including any CDSLs, or transfers out of
the Guarantee Period; less      
    
     .  The amount of any charges and fees deducted from that Guarantee Period;
less      

     .  The amount of any negative Market Value Adjustment.                 

                                      25
<PAGE>
 
TRANSFERS AMONG SUBACCOUNTS AND GUARANTEE PERIODS

     Not more than 12 times in each Contract Year the Owner may (a) transfer all
or any part of the Accumulation Units credited under a Contract from one
Subaccount to another Subaccount, or into a Guarantee Period or (b) transfer all
or any part of the dollar amount in one Guarantee Period to another Guarantee
Period, or to a Subaccount. However, transfers may not be made within 30 days of
the Date of Maturity, and transfers from one Subaccount or Guarantee Period to
another may not exceed $1,000,000 in value in any Contract Year. A transfer
pursuant to the dollar cost averaging feature discussed below does not count
toward the limitation of 12 transfers per Contract Year.

     Transfers involving the Subaccounts will result in the redemption and/or
purchase of Accumulation Units on the basis of the respective unit values next
determined after receipt of notice satisfactory to the Company at JHISC.
Transfers from a Guarantee Period before its expiration date are subject to a
Market Value Adjustment. The amount of any positive or negative Market Value
Adjustment will be added to or deducted from the transferred amount.

     An Owner may request a transfer in writing or, if a telephone transfer
authorization is in effect, by telephoning 800-824-0335. The Owner may send a
written request to JHISC at P.O. Box 9298, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-9298. Any
written request should include the Owner's name, daytime telephone number, and
Contract number, and identify the Subaccounts or Guarantee Periods from which
and to which transfers are to be made. Transfers will be effective on the date
of receipt at our Servicing Office, JHISC, of a request in form satisfactory to
us. The Company reserves the right to modify, suspend, or terminate telephone
transfers at any time without notice to the Owners.

     An Owner who authorizes telephone transfers will be liable for any loss,
expense or cost arising out of any unauthorized or fraudulent telephone transfer
instructions which the Company and/or JHISC reasonably believes to be genuine,
unless such loss, expense or cost is the result of the Company's and/or JHISC's
mistake or negligence. The Company and JHISC employ procedures which provide
safeguards against the execution of unauthorized transfers, and which are
reasonably designed to confirm that transfer instructions received by telephone
are genuine. These procedures include requiring personal identification, tape
recording calls, and providing written confirmation to the Owner.


DOLLAR COST AVERAGING

     The Owner may elect to have automatically transferred on a monthly,
quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis, at no cost, Accumulation Units credited
to the Money Market Subaccount into one or more of the other Subaccounts. The
minimum amount of each transfer is $250. To begin the program, the Accumulated
Value must be at least $15,000. The program continues until it is discontinued
by the Owner, or the full liquidation of the Money Market Subaccount. Changes in
your dollar cost averaging instructions may be made by telephone or in writing
provided the telephone authorization option has been elected by the Owner. The
Company reserves the right to terminate the dollar cost averaging program at any
time. Automatic transfers into the Guarantee Periods are not permitted.


SURRENDER OF CONTRACT; PARTIAL WITHDRAWALS

     Prior to the Date of Maturity, if the Annuitant is living, a Contract may
be surrendered for a cash payment of its Surrender Value, or a partial
withdrawal of the Accumulated Value may be made. The Surrender Value of a
Contract is the Accumulated Value, after any Market Value Adjustment, less any
applicable charges, including any CDSL. Accumulation Units will be redeemed at
their value next determined after the receipt by JHISC of notice of surrender or
partial withdrawal in form satisfactory to the Company. The amount of MVA Fixed
Account Value will be determined on the date of receipt by JHISC of such notice.
The value of any 

                                       26
<PAGE>
     
Accumulation Units redeemed may be more or less than the premium payments
applied under the Contract, depending upon the value of the Trust's shares held
in a Subaccount at the time. Additionally, the Surrender Value of the MVA Fixed
Account, as adjusted by any applicable Market Value Adjustment, may be
more or less than the premium payments applied to the MVA Fixed Account.
The resulting cash payment upon a surrender will be reduced by any applicable
CDSL and any unpaid Contract Fees or other charges.      

     Unless directed otherwise by the Owner, that portion of the Accumulated
Value of the Contract redeemed in a partial withdrawal will be redeemed in each
Subaccount and each Guarantee Period in the same proportion as the Accumulated
Value of the Contract is then allocated among the Subaccounts and the Guarantee
Periods. The Company will redeem Accumulation Units and/or withdraw dollar
amounts from the MVA Fixed Account so that the total amount of a partial
withdrawal (after any Market Value Adjustment) equals the dollar amount of the
partial withdrawal request. Any applicable CDSL will be determined after any
Market Value Adjustment and will reduce the remaining Accumulated Value in the
Separate Account and MVA Fixed Account, as the case may be. The CDSL, if any,
will not reduce the partial withdrawal payment made to the owner so long as the
Accumulated Value is sufficient to cover the CDSL.

     Payments of Surrender Value, in a single sum, and partial withdrawal
payments, ordinarily will be made within seven days after receipt of the above
notice by JHISC. As described under "Miscellaneous Provisions-Deferment of
Payment," however, redemptions and payments may be delayed under certain
circumstances. See "Federal Income Taxes" for possible adverse tax consequences
of certain surrenders and partial withdrawals.

     Any request for a surrender or partial withdrawal should be mailed to
JHISC, P. O. Box 9298, Boston, MA 02205-9298.

     Without our approval, a partial withdrawal is not permitted for an amount
less than $100, nor may a partial withdrawal be made if the total remaining
Accumulated Value would be less than $1,000. If the CDSL Free Withdrawal Value
is at any time less than $100, then that amount must be withdrawn in full, in a
single withdrawal, before any further partial withdrawal is made. The Contract
may be terminated by the Company if the Accumulated Value of the Contract at any
time becomes zero.


SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL

     An optional systematic withdrawal plan enables the Owner to pre-authorize
periodic withdrawals. Owners electing the plan instruct the Company to withdraw
a percentage or a level dollar amount from the Contract on a monthly, quarterly,
semi-annual, or annual basis. The amount withdrawn will result in the
cancellation of Accumulation Units from each applicable Subaccount in the
Separate Account, and the deduction of dollar amounts from each applicable
Guarantee Period in the MVA Fixed Account, in the ratio that the value of each
bears to the total Accumulated Value. Currently, systematic withdrawal is
available to Owners who have an Accumulated Value of $15,000 or more. The
Company reserves the right to modify the eligibility rules or other terms and
conditions of this program at any time, without notice. Systematic withdrawals
in any Contract Year in excess of 10% of the Accumulated Value as of the
beginning of the Contract Year may be subject to a CDSL. The minimum systematic
withdrawal is $100. In the event that the modal amount of the withdrawal drops
below $100 or the Accumulated Value becomes less than $5,000, the plan will be
suspended by the Company and the Owner will be notified. The systematic
withdrawal will terminate upon cancellation by the Owner.
     
     Systematic withdrawals are subject to the CDSL and Market Value Adjustment
described above. There may be tax consequences associated with the systematic
withdrawal plan. See "Federal Income Taxes."

                                       27
<PAGE>
 
STANDARD DEATH BENEFIT

     If the Annuitant dies before the Date of Maturity, a standard death benefit
is payable. The death benefit will be the greater of (a) the Accumulated Value,
adjusted by any Market Value Adjustment, next determined following receipt by
JHISC of due proof of death together with any required instructions as to method
of settlement, and (b) the aggregate amount of the premium payments made under
the Contract, less any partial withdrawals and CDSLs.

     Payment of the death benefit will be made in a single sum to the
beneficiary designated by the Owner prior to the Annuitant's death unless an
optional method of settlement has been elected by the Owner. If an optional
method of settlement has not been elected by the Owner, the beneficiary may
elect an optional method of settlement in lieu of a single sum. No deduction is
made for sales or other expenses upon such election. Payment will be made in a
single sum in any event if the death benefit is less than $5000. See "Annuity
Options" under "The Annuity Period". If there is no surviving beneficiary, the
Owner, or his or her estate is the beneficiary.


OPTIONAL ONE YEAR STEPPED-UP DEATH BENEFIT

     The Owner may elect a one year stepped-up death benefit rider that is
designed to enhance the standard death benefit payable to the beneficiary. Under
this rider, upon the death of the Annuitant before the Date of Maturity, the
benefit payable will be the greater of (a) the standard death benefit, and (b)
the highest Accumulated Value, adjusted by any Market Value Adjustment, of the
Contract as of any Contract anniversary preceding the date of receipt of due
proof of death together with any required settlement instructions and preceding
the Contract anniversary nearest the Annuitant's 81st birthday, plus any premium
payments, less any withdrawals and CDSLs, since such Contract anniversary. The
rider is elected at the time a Contract is applied for. Reference should be made
to the rider for a complete description of its terms, conditions, and benefits.
A monthly charge is made for this benefit, so long as the rider is in effect.
See "Charges Under the Contracts." This one year stepped-up death benefit is not
available for applicants age 80 or older.


OPTIONAL ACCIDENTAL DEATH BENEFIT

     At the option of the Owner, an accidental death benefit may be elected at
the time the Contract is applied for. Under this rider, upon the accidental
death of the Annuitant prior to the earlier of the Date of Maturity or the
Annuitant's 80th birthday, the beneficiary will receive, in addition to any
other death benefit, an amount equal to the Accumulated Value of the Contract,
as of the date of the accident, upon receipt of due proof of the Annuitant's
death together with any required instructions as to method of settlement, up to
a maximum of $200,000. This benefit is not available to applicants age 80 or
older. A monthly charge is made for this rider as described under "Charges Under
the Contracts."


PAYMENT OF DEATH BENEFITS

     Distribution Requirements Following Death of Owner

     The Code requires certain distribution provisions to be included in any
Contract used to fund other than a tax qualified plan. See "Federal Income
Taxes". Failure to include the required distribution provisions results in the
Contract not being treated as an annuity for Federal tax purposes. The Code
imposes comparable distribution requirements for Contracts used to fund tax
qualified plans. These required provisions for tax qualified plans will be
reflected by means of separate disclosures and endorsements furnished to
Owners.

     The Code distribution requirements are expected to present few practical
problems when the Annuitant and Owner are the same person. Nevertheless, all
Owners of Contracts not used to fund a tax qualified plan and IRA Contract
Owners should be aware that the following distribution requirements are
applicable notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in the Contract (or in
this prospectus) relating to payment of the death benefit or death of the
Annuitant.

     If the Owner dies before annuity payments have begun: (a) if the
beneficiary is the surviving spouse of the 

                                       28
<PAGE>
 
Owner, the beneficiary may continue the Contract in force as Owner; or (b) if
the beneficiary is not the surviving spouse of the Owner, or if the beneficiary
is the surviving spouse of the Owner but does not choose to continue the
Contract, the entire interest in the Contract on the date of death of the Owner
must be: (i) paid out in full within five years of the Owner's death, or (ii)
applied in full towards the purchase of a life annuity on the beneficiary with
payments commencing within one year of the Owner's death. If the Owner dies on
or after annuity payments have begun, any remaining benefit must be paid out at
least as rapidly as under the method of making annuity payments then in effect.

     The Code imposes comparable distribution requirements on tax qualified
     plans.

     If the Owner is not the Annuitant, "the entire interest in the Contract on
the date of death of the Owner" is equal to the Surrender Value if paid out in
full within five years of the Owner's death, or is equal to the Accumulated
Value if applied in full towards the purchase of a life annuity on the
beneficiary with payments commencing within one year of the Owner's death. Note
that "the entire interest in the Contract on the date of death of the Owner"
which is payable if the Owner dies before annuity payments have begun may be an
amount less than the death benefit which would have been payable if the
Annuitant had died instead.

     Notice should be furnished promptly to JHISC upon the death of the Owner.


                              THE ANNUITY PERIOD

     During the annuity period, the total value of a Contract may be allocated
among no more than four "Accounts." For this purpose, all Guarantee Periods
comprising the MVA Fixed Account are counted as one Account; each of the
Subaccounts is counted as one Account. Amounts allocated to the MVA Fixed
Account will provide annuity payments on a fixed basis; amounts allocated to the
Subaccounts will provide annuity payments on a variable basis. If more than four
Accounts are being used on the Date of Maturity, the Company will divide the
total Accumulated Value proportionately among the four Accounts with the largest
Accumulated Values.

     Any Accumulated Value in the MVA Fixed Account at the Date of Maturity will
be subject to any positive or negative Market Value Adjustment that is
applicable at that time, before such amount is applied to provide annuity
payments.

     Annuity payments will begin on the Date of Maturity if the Annuitant is
then living and the Contract has been in force for at least six months. Each
Contract will provide at the time of its issuance for a Life Annuity with Ten
Years Certain. Under this form of annuity, annuity payments are made monthly to
the Annuitant for life and, if the Annuitant dies within ten years after the
Date of Maturity, the payments remaining in the ten-year period will be made to
the contingent payee, subject to the terms of any supplementary agreement
issued. A different form of annuity may be elected by the Owner, as described in
"Annuity Options," below, prior to the Date of Maturity. However, the minimum
Accumulated Value that may be applied to an annuity form, other than a Life
Annuity with Ten Years Certain, is $5,000. Once a given form of annuity takes
effect, it may not be changed.

     If the initial monthly annuity payment under a Contract would be less than
$50, the Company may make a single sum payment equal to the total Surrender
Value of the Contract on the date the initial payment would be payable, in place
of all other benefits.

     Each Contract specifies a Provisional Date of Maturity at the time of its
issuance, which may be no earlier than six months after the date the first
payment is applied to the Contract. The Owner may subsequently elect a different
Date of Maturity, however. Unless otherwise permitted by the Company, such
subsequent date may be any earlier date provided it is no earlier than six
months after the date the first payment is applied to the Contract, nor later
than the maximum age specified in the Contract, generally age 85. The election
is made by 

                                       29
<PAGE>
 
written notice received by JHISC before the Provisional Date of Maturity and at
least 31 days prior to the Date of Maturity. If a Date of Maturity different
from the Provisional Date of Maturity is not elected by the Owner, the
Provisional Date of Maturity shall be the Date of Maturity of the Contract.
Particular care should be taken in electing the Date of Maturity for Contracts
issued under tax qualified plans. See "Federal Income Taxes."



VARIABLE MONTHLY ANNUITY PAYMENTS

     Variable monthly annuity payments under a Contract are determined by
converting each Subaccount's Accumulation Units credited to the Contract (less
any applicable premium tax) into the respective Annuity Units of each applicable
Subaccount on the Date of Maturity or some other date elected for commencement
of variable annuity payments.

     The amount of each variable annuity payment after the first payment will
depend on the investment performance of the Subaccounts being used. If the
actual net investment return (after deducting all charges) of a Subaccount
during the period between the dates for determining two monthly payments based
on that Subaccount exceeds the "assumed investment rate" (explained below), the
latter monthly payment will be larger than the former. On the other hand, if the
actual net investment return is less than the assumed investment rate, the
latter monthly payment will be smaller than the former.


 Assumed Investment Rate

     The assumed investment rate for the variable annuity portion of the
Contracts will be 3 1/2% per year except as provided below. The assumed
investment rate is significant in determining the amount of the initial variable
monthly annuity payment and the amount by which subsequent variable monthly
payments are more or less than the initial variable monthly payment.

     Where applicable state law so provides, an Owner may elect a Variable
Annuity Option with assumed investment rates of 5% or 6%, if such a rate is
available in the Owner's state. Election of a higher assumed investment rate
produces a larger initial annuity payment but also means that eventually the
monthly annuity payments would be smaller than if a lower assumed investment
rate had been elected.


 Calculation of Annuity Units

     Accumulation Units are converted into Annuity Units by first multiplying
the number of each Subaccount's Accumulation Units credited to the Contract on
the date of conversion by the appropriate Accumulation Unit Value as of ten
calendar days prior to the date the initial variable monthly annuity payment is
due. For each Subaccount the resulting value (less any applicable premium tax)
is then multiplied by the applicable annuity purchase rate, which reflects the
age and, possibly, sex of the Annuitant and the assumed investment rate,
specified in the Contract. This computation determines the amount of each
Subaccount's initial monthly variable annuity payment to the Annuitant. The
number of each Subaccount's Annuity Units to be credited to the Contract is then
determined by dividing the amount of each Subaccount's initial variable monthly
annuity payment by each Subaccount's Annuity Unit Value as of ten calendar days
prior to the date the initial payment is due.

FIXED MONTHLY ANNUITY PAYMENTS

     The dollar amount of each fixed monthly annuity payment, specified during
the entire period of annuity payments according to the provisions of the annuity
form selected, will be determined by dividing the amount 

                                       30
<PAGE>
 
applied under the Fixed Annuity Option (net of any applicable premium taxes) by
$1,000 and multiplying the result by the greater of: (a) the applicable factor
shown in the appropriate table in the Contract; or (b) the factor currently
offered by the Company at the time of annuitization. This current factor may be
based on the sex of the payee unless prohibited by law.

ANNUITY OPTIONS

     The Owner may elect an Annuity Option during the lifetime of the Annuitant
by written notice received by JHISC prior to the Date of Maturity of the
Contract. If no option is selected, Option A with Ten Years Certain will be
used. A beneficiary entitled to payment of a death benefit in a single sum may,
if no election has been made by the Owner prior to the Annuitant's death, elect
an Annuity Option by written notice received by JHISC prior to the date the
proceeds become payable. No option may be elected, other than the Life Annuity
with Ten Years Certain, if the Accumulated Value to be applied is less than
$5000, in which case we will make a payment equal to the total Surrender Value
on the date the initial payment would be payable in place of all other benefits.
Among the options available are the following Annuity Options, available for
variable annuity payments and fixed annuity payments.

 Option A: Life Annuity with Payments for a Guaranteed Period

     Monthly payments will be made for a guaranteed period of 5, 10, or 20
years, as selected by the Owner or Beneficiary, and thereafter as long as the
payee lives, with the guarantee that if the payee dies prior to the end of the
guarantee period selected, payments will continue for the remainder of the
guaranteed period to a contingent payee, subject to the terms of any
supplementary agreement issued.

 Option B: Life Annuity Without Further Payment on Death of Payee

     Monthly payments will be made to the payee as long as he or she lives. No
minimum number of payments is guaranteed.

 Option C: Joint and Last Survivor
 
     Payments will be provided monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually for
your life and the life of your spouse/joint payee. Upon the death of one payee, 
payments will continue to the surviving payee and stop upon the death of the 
surviving payee.

 Option D: Joint and 1/2 Survivor
           Joint and 2/3 Survivor

     Payments will be provided monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually for
your life and the life of your spouse/joint payee. Upon the death of one payee, 
payments (reduced to 1/2 or 2/3 the full payment amount) will continue to the 
surviving payee. Payments stop upon the death of the surviving payee.

 Option E: Life Income With Cash Refund

     Payments will be provided monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually for
your life. Upon your death, your contingent payee will receive a lump-sum 
payment, if the total payments to you were less than your accumulated value at 
the time of annuitization. The lump-sum payment, if any, will be for the 
balance.

 Option F: Income for a Fixed Period

     Payments will be provided monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually for
a pre-determined period of time to a maximum of 30 years. If you die before the 
end of the fixed period, payments will continue to your contingent payee until 
the end of the period.

 Option G: Income of a Specific Amount

     Payments will be provided for a specific amount. Payments stop only when 
the premium deposit applied and earnings have been completely paid out. If you 
die before all payments are made, payments continue to your contingent payee 
until the end of the contract.
    
     Fixed and variable annuity payments are available with Annuity Options A,
B, C, and D. Only fixed annuity payments are available with Annuity Options E,
F, and G. With respect to Options F and G, payments must continue for 10 years
unless the Contract has been in force for 5 years or more.      

     The Option A life annuity with 5 years guaranteed and Option B life annuity
without further payment on the death of payee are not available if the Annuitant
is more than 85 years of age on the Date of Maturity.


TRANSFERS

     The procedures for and terms and conditions of transfers by an Annuitant
among Subaccounts during the annuity period are the same as for transfers by
Owners among Subaccounts during the Accumulation Period. See "Accumulation
Period --Transfers Among Subaccounts and Guarantee Periods." Such transactions
involve the redemption and purchase of Annuity Units in the same manner that
transfers during the Accumulation Period involve the redemption and purchase of
Accumulation Units. No transfers to or from a Fixed Annuity Option are
permitted.

                                       31

<PAGE>
 
OTHER CONDITIONS

     The Company reserves the right at its sole discretion to make available to
Owners and other payees optional methods of payment in addition to the Annuity
Options described in this prospectus and the applicable Contract.

     Federal income tax requirements currently applicable to H.R. 10 and
individual retirement annuity plans provide that the period of years guaranteed
under Option A cannot be any greater than the joint life expectancies of the
payee and his or her designated beneficiary.

     If the Owner dies on or after annuity payments have begun, any remaining
benefit must be paid out at least as rapidly as under the method of making
annuity payments then in effect. The Code imposes a comparable distribution
requirement for Contracts used to fund tax qualified plans.


                     VARIABLE ACCOUNT VALUATION PROCEDURES

VALUATION DATE.  A Valuation Date is any date on which the New York Stock
Exchange is open for trading and on which the Trust values its shares. On any
date other than a Valuation Date, the Accumulation Unit Value or Annuity Unit
Value will be the same as that on the next following Valuation Date.

VALUATION PERIOD.  A Valuation Period is that period of time from the beginning
of the day following a Valuation Date to the end of the next following Valuation
Date.

ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUE.  The Accumulation Unit Value is calculated separately
for each Subaccount. The value of one Accumulation Unit on any Valuation Date is
determined for each Subaccount by multiplying the immediately preceding
Accumulation Unit Value by the applicable Net Investment Factor for the
Valuation Period ending on such Valuation Date.

ANNUITY UNIT VALUE. The Annuity Unit Value is calculated separately for each
Subaccount. The value of one Annuity Unit on any Valuation Date is determined
for each Subaccount by first multiplying the immediately preceding Annuity Unit
Value by the applicable Net Investment Factor for the Valuation Period ending on
such date and then multiplying this product by an adjustment factor which will
neutralize the assumed investment rate used in determining the amounts of
annuity payable. The adjustment factor for a Valuation Period of one day for
Contracts with an assumed investment rate of 3 1/2% per year is 0.999905754. The
assumed investment rate is neutralized by applying the adjustment factor so that
the variable annuity payments will increase only if the actual net investment
rate of the Subaccount exceeds 3 1/2% per year and will decrease only if it is
less than 3 1/2% per year.

NET INVESTMENT FACTOR. The Net Investment Factor for each Subaccount for any
Valuation Period is equal to 1 plus the applicable net investment rate for such
Valuation Period. A Net Investment Factor may be more or less than 1. The net
investment rate for each Subaccount for any Valuation Period is equal to (a) the
accrued investment income and capital gains and losses, whether realized or
unrealized, of the Subaccount for such Valuation Period less (b) the sum of a
deduction for any applicable income taxes and, for each calendar day in the
Valuation Period, a deduction of 0.003425% or 0.002740% (depending on whether
the total asset-based charge for mortality and expense risks and for
administration is 1.25% or 1.00%, respectively, on an annual basis) of the value
of the Subaccount at the beginning of the Valuation Period, the result then
being divided by (c) the value of the total net assets of the Subaccount at the
beginning of the Valuation Period.

ADJUSTMENT OF UNITS AND VALUES.  The Company reserves the right to change the
number and value of the Accumulation Units or Annuity Units or both credited to
any Contract, without the consent of the Owner or any other person, provided
strict equity is preserved and the change does not otherwise affect the
benefits, provisions or investment return of the Contract.

                                       32
<PAGE>
 
                           MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

RESTRICTION ON ASSIGNMENT

     In order to qualify for favorable tax treatment, certain Contracts may not
be sold, assigned, discounted or pledged as collateral for a loan or as security
for the performance of an obligation or for any other purpose, to any person,
unless the Owner is the trustee of a trust described in Section 401(a) of the
Code. Because an assignment, pledge or other transfer may be a taxable event an
Owner should consult a competent tax adviser before taking any such action.


DEFERMENT OF PAYMENT

     The Company may defer for up to 15 days the payment of any amount
attributable to a premium payment made by check to allow the check reasonable
time to clear.

     Payment of the value of any Accumulation Units in a single sum upon a
surrender or partial withdrawal will ordinarily be made within seven days after
receipt of the written request therefor by JHISC.  However, redemption may be
suspended and payment may be postponed at times (a) when the New York Stock
Exchange is closed, other than customary weekend and holiday closings, (b) when
trading on that Exchange is restricted, (c) when an emergency exists as a result
of which disposal of securities in a Subaccount is not reasonably practicable or
it is not reasonably practicable to determine the value of the net assets of a
Subaccount or (d) when a governmental body having jurisdiction over the Separate
Account by order permits such suspension. Rules and regulations of the
Commission, if any are applicable, will govern as to whether conditions
described in (b) or (c) exist.

     The Company may also defer payment of surrender proceeds payable out of the
MVA Fixed Account for a period of up to six months.


RESERVATION OF RIGHTS

     The Company reserves the right to add or delete Subaccounts, to change the
underlying investments of any Subaccount, to operate the Separate Account in any
form permitted by law and to terminate the Separate Account's registration under
the 1940 Act if such registration should no longer be legally required. Certain
changes may, under applicable laws and regulations, require notice to or
approval of Owners. Otherwise, changes do not require such notice or approval.


OWNER AND BENEFICIARY

     The Owner has the sole and absolute power to exercise all rights and
privileges under the Contract, except as otherwise provided by the Contract or
by written notice of the Owner.  The Owner and the beneficiary are designated in
the application and may be changed by the Owner, effective upon receipt of
written notice at JHISC, subject to the rights of any assignee of record, any
action taken prior to receipt of the notice and certain other conditions.  While
the Annuitant is alive, the Owner may be changed by written notice. The
beneficiary may be changed by written notice no later than receipt of due proof
of the death of the Annuitant. The change will take effect whether or not the
Owner or the Annuitant is then alive.

                                       33
<PAGE>
 
                             FEDERAL INCOME TAXES

THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT, THE MVA FIXED ACCOUNT, AND THE COMPANY

     The Company is taxed as a life insurance company under the Code. The
Separate Account is part of the Company's total operations and is not taxed
separately as a "regulated investment company" or otherwise.

     The Contracts permit the Company to charge against the Separate Account and
the MVA Fixed Account any taxes, or provisions for taxes, attributable to the
operation or existence of the Contracts or the Separate Account.  Currently, the
Company does not anticipate making a charge for income and other taxes because
of the level of such taxes. If the level of current tax is increased, or is
expected to increase in the future, the Company reserves the right to make a
charge in the future.

     The Company assumes no responsibility for determining whether a particular
retirement plan satisfies the applicable requirements of the Code or whether a
particular employee is eligible for inclusion under a plan.


CONTRACTS PURCHASED OTHER THAN TO FUND A TAX QUALIFIED PLAN

  The Owner or Other Payee

     The Contracts are considered annuity contracts under Section 72 of the
Code. Currently no Federal income tax is payable on increases in Accumulated
Value until payments are made to the Owner or other payee under such Contract.
However, a Contract owned other than by a natural person is not generally an
annuity for tax purposes and any increase in value thereunder is taxable as
ordinary income as accrued.

     When payments under a Contract are made in the form of an annuity, the
amount of each payment is taxed to the Owner or other payee as ordinary income
to the extent that such payment exceeds an allocable portion of the Owner's
"investment in the contract" (as defined in the Code). In general, an Owner's
"investment in the contract" is the aggregate amount of premium payments made by
him, reduced by any amounts previously distributed under the Contract that were
not subject to tax. The portion of each variable annuity payment to be excluded
from income is determined by dividing the "investment in the contract," adjusted
by any refund feature, by the number of periodic payments anticipated during the
time that periodic payments are to be made. In the case of a fixed annuity
payment, the amount to be excluded in each year is determined by dividing the
"investment in the contract," adjusted by any refund feature, by the amount of
"expected return" during the time that periodic payments are to be made, and
then multiplying by the amount of the payment." After the entire "investment in 
the contract" has been distributed, any remaining payment is fully taxable.

     When a payment under a Contract is made in a single sum, the amount of the
payment is taxed as ordinary income to the Owner or other payee to the extent it
exceeds the Owner's "investment in the contract."

     For purposes of determining the amount of taxable income resulting from a 
partial or complete withdrawal, all Contracts and other annuity contracts issued
by the Company or its affiliates to the Owner within the same calendar year will
be treated as if they were a single contract.

 Partial Withdrawals Before Date of Maturity

     When a payment under a Contract, including a payment under a systematic
withdrawal plan, is less than the amount that would be paid upon the Contract's
complete surrender and such payment is made prior to the commencement of annuity
payments under the Contract, part or all of the payment (the partial withdrawal)
may be taxed to the Owner or other payee as ordinary income.

     On the date of the partial withdrawal, if the cash value of the Contract is
greater than the investment in the Contract, any part of such excess value so
withdrawn is subject to tax as ordinary income.

     If an individual assigns or pledges any part of the value of a Contract,
the value so pledged or assigned is taxed as ordinary income to the same extent
as a partial withdrawal.

                                       34
<PAGE>
 
  Penalty for Premature Withdrawals

     In addition to being included in ordinary income, the taxable portion of
any withdrawal may be subject to a 10-percent penalty tax. The penalty tax does
not apply to payments made to the Owner or other payee after the Owner attains
age 59 1/2, or on account of the Owner's death or disability. If the withdrawal
is made in substantially equal periodic payments over the life of the Annuitant
or other payee or over the joint lives of the Annuitant and the Annuitant's
beneficiary the penalty will also not apply.


DIVERSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

     Each of the Funds of the Trust intends to qualify as a regulated investment
company under Subchapter M of the Code and will have to meet the investment
diversification tests of Section 817(h) of the Code and the underlying
regulations. The Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service may, at
some future time, issue a ruling or a regulation presenting situations in which
it will deem "investor control" to be present over the assets of the Funds of
the Trust, causing the Owner to be taxed currently on income credited to the
Contracts. In such a case, the Company reserves the right to amend the Contract
or the choice of investment options to avoid current taxation to the Owners.


CONTRACTS PURCHASED TO FUND A TAX QUALIFIED PLAN

  Withholding on Eligible Rollover Distributions

     Recent legislation requires 20% withholding on certain distributions from
tax qualified plans. An Owner wishing to rollover his entire distribution should
have it paid directly to the successor plan. Otherwise, the Owner's distribution
will be reduced by the 20% mandatory income tax. Consult a qualified tax adviser
before taking such a distribution.


  Contracts Purchased under Individual Retirement Annuity Plans (IRA)

     The maximum amount of premium payments deductible each year with respect to
an individual retirement annuity contract (as defined in Section 408 of the
Code) issued on the life of an eligible purchaser is the lesser of $2,000 or
100% of compensation includible in gross income. A person may also purchase a
contract for the benefit of his or her non-working spouse. Where an individual
elects to deduct amounts contributed on his or her own behalf and on behalf of a
spouse, the maximum amount of premium payments deductible is the lesser of
$2,250 or 100% of the compensation included in the gross income of the working
spouse; provided, however, not more than $2,000 can be allocated to either
person's account. Taxpayers who are active participants in an employer-sponsored
retirement plan are permitted to make a deductible premium payment only if their
adjusted gross incomes are below certain amounts.

     No deduction is allowed for premium payments made in or after the taxable
year in which the Owner has attained the age of 70 1/2 years nor is a deduction
allowed for a "rollover contribution" as defined in the Code.

     When payments under a Contract are made in the form of an annuity, or in a
single sum such as on surrender of the Contract or by partial withdrawal, the
payment is taxed as ordinary income.

     IRS required minimum distributions must begin no later than April 1 of the
year following the year in which the Owner attains age 70 1/2. The Owner may
incur adverse tax consequences if a distribution on surrender of the Contract or
by partial withdrawal is made prior to his attaining age 59 1/2, except in the
event of his death or total disability.

                                       35
<PAGE>
 
  Contracts Purchased under Section 403(b) Plans (TSA)

     Premium payments made by an employer which is a public school system or a
tax-exempt organization described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Code under annuity
purchase arrangements described in Section 403(b) of the Code are not taxable
currently to the Owner, to the extent that the aggregate of such amounts does
not exceed the Owner's "exclusion allowance" (as defined in the Code). In
general, an Owner's "exclusion allowance" is determined by multiplying 20% of
his "includible compensation" (as defined in the Code) by the number of years of
his service with the employer and then subtracting from that product the
aggregate amount of premium payments previously excluded from income and certain
other employer payments to retirement plans in which the Owner is a participant.
Additional limitations applicable to premium payments are described in Section
415 of the Code. Deferrals under all plans made at the election of the Owner
generally are limited to an aggregate of $9500 annually.

     When payments under a Contract are made in the form of an annuity, such
payments are taxed to the Owner or other payee under the same rules that apply
to such payments under corporate plans (discussed below) except that five-year
averaging and capital gain phase-out are not available.

     When payment under a Contract is made in a single sum, such as on surrender
of the contract or by partial withdrawal, the taxable portion of the payment is
taxed as ordinary income and the penalty for premature withdrawals may be
applicable.

     Ordinarily an Owner in a Section 403(b) plan does not have any "investment
in the contract" and, thus, any distribution is fully taxed as ordinary income.

     Distributions are prohibited before the Owner is age 59 1/2, except on the
Owner's separation from service, death, or disability and except with respect to
distributions attributable to assets held as of December 31, 1988. This
prohibition does not (1) preclude transfers and exchanges to other products that
qualify under Section 403(b) or (2) restrict withdrawals of certain amounts
attributable to pre-January 1, 1989, premium payments.


  Contracts Purchased under Corporate Plans

     In general, premium payments made by a corporation under a qualified
pension or profit-sharing plan described in Section 401(a) of the Code or a
qualified annuity plan described in Section 403(a) of the Code are deductible by
the corporation and are not taxable currently to the employees.

     When payments under a Contract are made in the form of an annuity, the
amount of each payment is taxed to the Annuitant or other payee as ordinary
income except in those cases where the Annuitant has an "investment in the
contract" (as defined in the Code). In general, an Annuitant's "investment in
the contract" is the aggregate amount of premium payments made by him. If an
Annuitant has an "investment in the contract," a portion of each annuity payment
is excluded from income until the investment in the contract is recovered. The
amount to be excluded in each year, in the case of a variable annuity payment,
is determined by dividing the "investment in the contract," adjusted by any
refund feature, by the number of periodic payments anticipated during the time
that periodic payments are to be made. The calculation for fixed annuity
payments is somewhat different. For fixed annuity payments, in general, prior to
recovery of the "investment in the Contract," there is no tax on the amount of
each payment which bears the same ratio to that payment as the "investment on
the Contract" bears to the total expected value of the annuity payments for the
term of the payments. However, the remainder of each annuity payment is taxable.
The taxable portion of a distribution (in the form of an annuity or a single sum
payment) is taxed as ordinary income.

     When payment under a Contract is made in a single sum or a total
distribution is made within one taxable year of the Annuitant or other payee,
the amount of the payment is taxed to the Annuitant or other payee to the extent
it exceeds the Annuitant's "investment in the contract." If such payment is made
after the Annuitant

                                       36
<PAGE>
 
has attained age 59 1/2, or on account of his death, retirement or other
termination of employment or on account of his death after termination of
employment, five year averaging and a phase-out of capital gains treatment for
pre-1974 contributions may be available with respect to one distribution. Other
rules may be available to taxpayers who have attained age 50 prior to January 1,
1986.

     IRS required minimum distributions must begin no later than April 1 of the
year following the year in which the Annuitant attains age 70 1/2 even if the
Annuitant has not retired.


  Contracts Purchased under H.R. 10 Plans (Self-Employed)

     Self-employed persons, including partnerships, may establish tax qualified
pension and profit-sharing plans and annuity plans for themselves and for their
employees. Generally, the maximum amount of premium payments deductible each
year with respect to variable annuity contracts issued on the life of self-
employed persons under such plans is $30,000 or 25% of "earned income" (as
defined in the Code), whichever is less. Self-employed persons must also make
premium payments for their employees (who have met certain eligibility
requirements) at least at the same rate as they do for themselves. In general,
such premium payments are deductible in full and are not taxable currently to
such employees.

     Tax qualified plans may permit self-employed persons and their employees to
make additional premium payments themselves (which are not deductible) of up to
10% of earned income or compensation.

     When payments under a Contract are made in the form of an annuity, such
payments are taxed to the Annuitant or other payee under the same rules that
apply to such payments under corporate plans (discussed earlier).

     The tax treatment of single sum payments is also the same as under
corporate plans except that five year averaging may be unavailable to a self-
employed Annuitant on termination of service for reasons other than disability.

     The same rules that apply to commencement of annuity payments under
corporate plans apply to H.R. 10 plans.


  Contracts Purchased By Top-Heavy Plans

     Certain corporate and H.R. 10 plans may be characterized under Section 416
of the Code as "top-heavy plans" if a significant portion of the plan assets is
held for the benefit of the "key employees" (as defined in the Code). Care must
be taken to consider the special limitations applicable to top-heavy plans and
the potentially adverse tax consequences to key employees.

                                       37
<PAGE>
 

WITHHOLDING OF TAXES

     The Company is obligated to withhold taxes from certain payments unless the
recipient elects otherwise. The withholding rate varies depending upon the
nature and the amount of the distribution. The Company will notify the Owner or
other payee of his or her right to elect out of withholding and furnish a form
on which the election may be made. Any election must be received by JHISC in
advance of the payment in order to avoid withholding.


SEE YOUR OWN TAX ADVISER

     The above description of Federal income tax consequences of owning a
Contract and of the different kinds of tax qualified plans which may be funded
by the Contracts is only a brief summary and is not intended as tax advice. The
rules governing the provisions of tax qualified plans are extremely complex and
often difficult to understand. Anything less than full compliance with the
applicable rules, all of which are subject to change from time to time, can have
adverse tax consequences. For example, premature withdrawals are generally
subject to a 10-percent penalty tax. The taxation of an Annuitant or other payee
has become so complex and confusing that great care must be taken to avoid
pitfalls. For further information a prospective purchaser should consult a
qualified tax adviser.



                     FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE COMPANY


                                       38
<PAGE>


                                          
     
BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY      
     
  The Company (or "JHVLICO" herein) was organized under the laws of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1979 and commenced insurance operations in
1980. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance
Company (or "JHMLICO" herein), a mutual life insurance company organized under
the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 1862.      
 
  JHVLICO is principally engaged in the writing of variable and universal life
insurance policies. JHVLICO's policies are primarily marketed through
JHMLICO's sales organization, which includes a proprietary sales force
employed at JHMLICO's own agencies and a network of independent general
agencies. Policies also are sold through various unaffiliated securities
broker-dealers and certain financial institutions with which JHMLICO and
JHVLICO have sales agreements. Currently, JHVLICO writes business in all
states except New York. At December 31, 1994, JHVLICO had $30.0 billion of
life insurance in force, net of reinsurance ceded of $4.3 billion.
     
  In 1993, JHVLICO acquired Colonial Penn Annuity and Life Insurance Company
and changed the latter company's name to John Hancock Life Insurance Company
of America. The subsidiary's principal business activity at December 31, 1995,
is the run-off of a block of single premium whole life insurance. For
additional discussion of this acquisition, see Note 3 of Notes to Financial
Statements of JHVLICO.      
 
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
     
  The following financial data for JHVLICO and its subsidiary should be read
in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto, included
elsewhere in this Prospectus. The results for past accounting periods are not
necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in the future. The
selected financial data and financial statements have been prepared on the
basis of accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Division of Insurance and in conformity with the practices of
the National Association of Insurance Commissioners ("NAIC") ("statutory
accounting practices") which are currently considered generally-accepted
accounting principles for a stock life insurance company wholly-owned by a
mutual life insurance company. See "Recent Accounting Developments," page 40,
for additional discussion, regarding generally accepted accounting standards
for mutual life insurance companies.      
 
                                      39
<PAGE>
     
  The information presented below should be read in conjunction with, and is
qualified in its entirety by, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations," page 41, and the financial
statements and other information included elsewhere in this prospectus. The
unaudited interim financial information as of and at March 31, 1996, and 1995,
and for the periods then ended, set forth below and in the consolidated
financial statements reflects all adjustments which are, in the opinion of
management, necessary to a fair statement of the results for the interim
periods presented; all such adjustments were of a normal recurring nature.      
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              THREE
                          MONTHS ENDED
                         AND AT MARCH 31    YEAR ENDED AND AT DECEMBER 31
                         ---------------  ------------------------------------
                          1996    1995     1995   1994   1993    1992    1991
                         ------- -------  ------ ------ ------  ------  ------
                                           (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                      <C>     <C>      <C>    <C>    <C>     <C>     <C>
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
INCOME STATEMENT DATA
  Premiums.............. $ 175.4 $  99.9  $570.9 $430.5 $398.8  $416.4  $377.6
  Net investment
   income...............    17.8    16.3    62.1   57.6   61.3    62.0    59.5
  Other income
   (expense)............    26.0    23.5    85.7   95.5   (4.0)   (3.9)   (1.7)
    TOTAL REVENUES......   219.2   139.7   718.7  583.6  456.1   474.5   435.4
  Total benefits and
   expenses.............   207.1   128.6   659.2  556.0  456.6   440.8   389.4
  Income tax expense....     8.1     5.7    28.4   15.0    6.5    20.5    25.9
  Net realized capital
   gains (losses).......     0.0    (0.8)    0.5    0.4   (2.6)   (1.4)   (1.4)
  Net gain (loss).......     4.0     4.6    31.6   13.0   (9.6)   11.8    18.7
BALANCE SHEET DATA
  Total assets.......... $ 3,626 $ 2,741  $3,446 $2,627 $2,379  $2,348  $2,118
  Total obligations.....   3,373   2,519   3,197  2,409  2,176   2,108   1,893
  Total stockholder's
   equity...............     253     222     249    218    203     240     225
</TABLE>
- ---------
* On October 1, 1993, JHVLICO entered into an assumption reinsurance agreement
  with JHMLICO to cede a block of variable life, universal life and flexible
  variable life insurance policies to JHMLICO representing substantially all
  of such policies written by JHVLICO in the State of New York. In connection
  with this agreement, general account assets consisting of bonds, mortgage
  loans, policy loans, cash, investment income due and accrued and deferred
  and uncollected premiums totaling $72.2 million were transferred by JHVLICO
  to JHMLICO, along with policy reserves, unearned premiums and dividend
  liabilities totaling $47.7 million and surplus totaling $24.5 million.
  Separate account assets consisting of common stock and policy loans totaling
  $200.8 million were transferred to John Hancock's separate accounts along
  with $200.8 million in separate account policyholder obligations.
 
RECENT ACCOUNTING DEVELOPMENTS
 
  The financial statements have been prepared on the basis of accounting
practices prescribed or permitted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Division of Insurance and in conformity with the practices of the NAIC which
are currently considered generally accepted accounting principles for a stock
life insurance company wholly-owned by a mutual life insurance company.
However, in April 1993, the Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) issued
Interpretation 40, "Applicability of General Accepted Accounting Principles to
Mutual Life Insurance and Other Enterprises" (Interpretation). The
Interpretation, as amended, is effective for 1996 annual financial statements
and thereafter and no longer will allow statutory-basis financial statements
to be described as being prepared in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles (GAAP). Upon the effective date of the Interpretation,
in order for their financial statements to be described as being prepared in
conformity with GAAP, mutual life insurance companies
 
                                      40
<PAGE>
 
will be required to adopt all applicable authoritative GAAP pronouncements in
any general-purpose financial statements that they may issue. The Company has
not quantified the effects of the application of the Interpretation on its
financial statements.
 
  The Company has not yet determined whether for general purposes it will
continue to issue statutory-basis financial statements or statements adopting
all applicable authoritative GAAP pronouncements. If the Company decides that
its general-purpose financial statements will be prepared in accordance with
GAAP rather than statutory accounting practices, the financial statements
included herein would have to be restated to reflect all applicable
authoritative GAAP pronouncements.
 
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
 
 Financial Condition
 
  As of March 31, 1996, total assets grew by 5.2% to $3,626.0 million, from
$3,446.3 million at December 31, 1995. This increase is principally due to the
growth in the separate accounts where assets increased by 6.4% during 1996
from $2,421.0 million at December 31, 1995, to $2,575.9 million at March 31,
1996. Total obligations grew by 5.5% to $3,372.6 million from $3,197.6 million
at December 31, 1995. Most of the growth in total obligations was in the
separate accounts, which grew by 6.4% during 1996, from $2,417.0 million at
December 31, 1995, to $2,571.8 million at March 31, 1996. Separate account
assets and liabilities consist primarily of the fund balances associated with
variable life business. The asset holdings include fixed income, equity
growth, total return real estate, and global mutual funds, with liabilities
representing amounts due to policyholders. Total stockholder's equity grew by
1.9% from $248.7 million at December 31, 1995, to $253.4 million at March 31,
1996.
 
  As of December 31, 1995, total assets grew by 31.2%, to $3,446.3 million,
from $2,626.9 million at December 31, 1994. Much of this growth was also
attributable to an increase in separate account assets, which grew by 40.7%
during 1995, from $1,721.0 million at December 31, 1994, to $2,421.0 million
at December 31, 1995. Total obligations grew by 32.7% during 1995, from
$2,409.0 million at December 31, 1994, to $3,197.6 million at December 31,
1995. As with assets, most of this growth was in separate accounts, which grew
by 40.7% during 1995, from $1,717.7 million at December 31, 1994, to $2,417.0
million at December 31, 1995. Total stockholder's equity grew by 14.1%, from
$217.9 million at December 31, 1994, to $248.7 million, at December 31, 1995.
 
 Investments
 
  The Company continues to address industry wide issues of asset quality and
liquidity that have emerged in recent years. JHVLICO's bond portfolio is
highly diversified. It maintains diversity by geographic region, industry
group, and limiting the size of individual investments relative to the total
portfolio. For the past several years, the Company has invested new money
predominantly in long-term investment grade corporate bonds as a means of
lowering the relative proportion of assets invested in commercial mortgages.
As a result, the Company's holdings in investment (NAIC SVO classes 1 and 2)
and medium (NAIC SVO class 3) grade bonds are 89.7% and 7.0%, respectively, of
total general account bonds at March 31, 1996. The corresponding percentages
at December 31, 1995 were 90.1% and 6.7%, respectively. Most of the medium
grade bonds are private placements that provide long-term financing for medium
size companies. These bonds typically are protected by individually negotiated
financial covenants and/or collateral. At March 31, 1996, the balance (NAIC
SVO classes 4, 5, and 6) of 3.3% of total general account bonds consists of
lower grade bonds and bonds in default. Bonds in default represent 0.5% of
total general account bonds.
 
                                      41
<PAGE>
 
  Management believes the Company's commercial mortgage lending philosophy and
practices are sound. The Company generally makes mortgage loans against
properties with proven track records and high occupancy levels, and typically
does not make construction or condominium loans nor lend more than 75% of the
property's value at the time of the loan. To assist in the management of its
mortgage loans, the Company uses a computer-based mortgage risk analysis
system.
 
  The Company has outstanding commitments to purchase long-term bonds and
issue real estate mortgages totaling $9.4 million and $0.0 million,
respectively at March 31, 1996. The corresponding amounts at December 31, 1995
were $16.6 million and $5.4 million, respectively. The Company monitors the
creditworthiness of borrowers under long-term bond commitments and requires
collateral as deemed necessary. The majority of these commitments expire in
1996.
 
 Reserves and Obligations
 
  The Company's obligations principally consist of aggregate reserves for life
policies and contracts of $677.4 million in the general account and
obligations of $2,571.8 million in the separate accounts at March 31, 1996.
The corresponding amounts at December 31, 1995 were $671.1 million and
$2,417.0 million, respectively. These liabilities are computed in accordance
with commonly accepted actuarial standards and are based on actuarial
assumptions which are in accordance with, or more conservative than, those
called for in state regulations. All reserves meet the requirements of the
insurance laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Intensive asset adequacy
testing was performed in 1995 for all reserves. As a result of that testing,
no additional reserves were established. Adequacy testing is done annually and
generally performed in the fourth quarter.
 
  The Company's obligations include the Asset Valuation Reserve ("AVR")
required by the NAIC and state insurance regulatory authorities. At March 31,
1996, the AVR was $15.5 million, compared to $15.4 million at December 31,
1995 and $12.6 million at December 31, 1994. The AVR contained voluntary
contributions of $2.8 million in 1995, $1.1 million in 1994, and $1.7 million
in 1993. There was no voluntary contribution made during the three months
ended March 31, 1996. Management believes the Company's level of reserve is
adequate and is made more conservative by the voluntary contributions.
 
  The AVR was established to stabilize statutory surplus from non-interest
related fluctuations in the market value of bonds, stocks, mortgage loans,
real estate and other invested assets. The AVR generally captures realized and
unrealized capital gains or losses on such assets, other than those resulting
from changes in interest rates. Each year, the amount of an insurer's AVR will
fluctuate as capital gains or losses are absorbed by the reserve. To adjust
for such changes over time, an annual contribution must be made to the AVR
equal to 20% of the difference between the maximum AVR (as determined annually
according to the type and quality of an insurer's assets) and the actual AVR.
The AVR provisions permitted a phase-in period whereby the required
contribution was 10% in 1992, 15% in 1993, and the full 20% factor thereafter.
 
  Such contributions may result in a slower rate of growth of, or a reduction
to, surplus. Changes in the AVR are accounted for as direct increases or
decreases in surplus. The impact of the AVR on the surplus position of John
Hancock in the future will depend in part on the composition of the Company's
investment portfolio.
 
  The Interest Maintenance Reserve ("IMR") captures realized capital gains and
losses (net of taxes) on fixed income investments (primarily bonds and
mortgage loans) resulting from changes in interest rate levels. These amounts
are not reflected in the Company's capital account and are amortized into net
investment income over the estimated remaining lives of the investments
 
                                      42
<PAGE>
 
disposed. At March 31, 1996, December 31, 1995 and December 31, 1994, the
balance of the IMR was $7.0 million, $6.9 million and $7.1 million,
respectively. The IMR provisions permitted a phase-in period so that in 1992,
50% of realized capital gains and losses on United States government
securities were recognized in net income and were not captured by the IMR. In
1993, the provisions allowed 25% of these capital gains and losses to flow to
net income with the remainder being captured in the IMR. In 1995 and 1994, all
capital gains and losses on United States government securities were captured
by the IMR. The impact of the IMR on the surplus of the Company depends upon
the amount of future interest related capital gains and losses on fixed income
investments.
 
 Results of Operations
 
  Three Months Ended March 31, 1996 and 1995
 
  Net gain from operations was $4.0 million for the three months ended March
31, 1996, $1.4 million lower than the same period during 1995. Operating gain
was relatively stable even with the sale of the new variable annuity product
which was introduced in early 1995. Premium income was offset by credits to
contractholders' accounts in the form of reserve increases. The gain was
further dampened by the first year commission charged on new products.
 
  Total revenues increased by 56.9%, or $79.5 million to $219.2 million during
1996 as compared to the same period during 1995. Premiums, net of premium
ceded to reinsurers, increased by 75.6% or $75.5 million for the three months
ended March 31, 1996. Of this increase, $56.2 million was due to the sale of a
new variable annuity product. Continued growth in the flexible variable life
product increased premium by $14.3 million. Net investment income increased by
9.2% or $1.5 million to $17.8 million during 1996 due largely to a 19.1%, or
$2.0 million increase in gross income on long-term bonds. The increase on
long-term bond income was the result of increased asset base. Other income
increased by $2.5 million, which was primarily attributable to the increase in
commission and expense allowances and reserve adjustments on reinsurance
ceded.
 
  Total benefits and expenses increased by 61.0% or $78.5 million to $207.1
million during the three months ended March 31, 1996 as compared to the same
period during 1995. Benefit payments and additions to reserves increased by
86.3% or $73.6 million to $158.9 million. Insurance expenses increased by
13.4% or $5.4 million, to $45.8 million. The increase was attributable largely
to commission expense resulting from the sale of new business.
 
  1995 Compared to 1994
 
  Net gain from operations was $31.1 million in 1995, $18.5 million higher
than 1994. Operating gain was impacted positively by the effects of a modified
coinsurance reinsurance agreement between John Hancock and the Company entered
into during 1994. Under the agreement, John Hancock reinsured 50% of the 1995
and 1994 sales of the Company's flexible premium variable and scheduled
premium variable life insurance policies. The increase in the 1995 operating
gain attributable to this reinsurance agreement was $20.3 million, as compared
to $26.9 million in 1994. The increase in operating gain for 1995 was
partially offset by acquisition expenses on new sales and an increase in the
federal income tax expense.
 
  Total revenues increased by 23.1%, or $135.1 million to $718.7 million,
during 1995. Premiums increased by 32.6% or $140.4 million during 1995. This
increase was primarily due to the sale of a new variable annuity product.
 
  Total benefits and expenses increased by 18.6%, or $103.2 million to $659.2
million during 1995. Benefit payments and additions to reserves increased by
33.0%, or $123.0 million to $495.8 million. This increase was partially offset
by a decrease of $18.2 million in insurance expenses.
 
                                      43
<PAGE>
 
  1994 Compared to 1993
 
  Net gain from operations was $12.6 million in 1994, $19.6 million higher
than the net loss of $7.0 million in 1993. This increase in operating gain was
primarily attributable to the effects of the modified coinsurance reinsurance
agreement between John Hancock and the Company which was previously described.
The 1994 increase in net operating gain attributable to this reinsurance
agreement was $26.9 million.
 
  Total revenues increased by 28.0%, or $127.5 million, to $583.6 million,
during 1994. Premiums increased by 7.9%, or $31.7 million, to $430.5 million
during 1994, reflecting growth in premium revenues from the universal life
insurance line, as well as the introduction in late 1993 and 1994 of three new
products: the Medallion variable universal product, a variable COLI product,
and a variable survivorship product. Net investment income decreased by 6.0%,
or $3.7 million to $57.6 million, during 1994, due largely to a 16.8%, or $3.3
million decrease in gross income on mortgages and real estate, which
contributed to an overall decrease of 4.9%, or $3.2 million, in gross
investment income. Net investment income was further dampened in 1994 by a
17.2%, or $0.5 million, increase in investment expenses. Other income improved
by $99.5 million during 1994, primarily due to the increase in commission and
expense allowances and reserve adjustments on reinsurance ceded, as described
above.
 
  Total benefits and expenses increased by 21.8%, or $99.4 million, to $556.0
million, during 1994. Benefit payments and additions to reserves increased by
23.3%, or $70.5 million, to $372.8 million, during 1994. The increase
primarily was due to $73.8 million or 66.2% increase in additions to reserves,
most of which occurred in both the universal life and flexible variable life
insurance lines, offset by a 1.7% or $3.3 million decrease in benefit
payments. Insurance expenses, which included a $3.0 million charge for
restructuring during 1994, increased by 19.0%, or $27.4 million, to $171.9
million, during 1994. This growth in expenses was attributable largely to the
cost of growth in new business.
 
 Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
  The Company's liquidity resources at March 31, 1996, include cash and short-
term investments of $48.4 million, public bonds of $253.0 million, and
investment grade private placement bonds of $297.2 million. The corresponding
amounts at December 31, 1995 were $76.6 million, $206.2 million, and $294.7
million, respectively. In addition, the Company's separate accounts are highly
liquid and are available to meet most outflow needs for variable life
insurance.
 
  Management believes the liquidity resources above of $598.6 million as of
March 31, 1996, strongly position the Company to meet all its obligations to
policyholders and others. Generally, the Company's financing needs are met by
means of funds provided by normal operations. As of March 31, 1996 and year
end 1995, the Company had no outstanding borrowings from sources outside its
affiliated group.
 
  Total surplus, or stockholder's equity, including the AVR, is $268.9 million
as of March 31, 1996, compared to $264.1 million as of December 31, 1995, and
$230.5 million as of December 31, 1994. The current statutory accounting
treatment of deferred acquisition cost ("DAC") taxes results in an
understatement of the Company's surplus, which will persist during periods of
growth in new business written. These taxes result from federal income tax law
that approximates acquisition expenses and then spreads the corresponding tax
deduction over a period of years. The result is a DAC tax which is collected
immediately and subsequently returned through tax deduction in later years.
 
  Since it began its operations, the Company has received a total of $381.8
million in capital contributions from John Hancock, of which $377.5 million is
credited to paid-in capital and $2.5
 
                                      44
<PAGE>
 
    
million is credited to capital stock as of March 31, 1996. In 1993, $1.8
million of capital was returned to John Hancock. To support the Company's
operations for the indefinite future, John Hancock is committed to make
additional capital contributions if necessary to ensure that the Company
maintains a positive net worth. The Company's stockholder's equity, net of
unassigned deficit, was $253.4 million at March 31, 1996 and $248.7 million at
December 31, 1995. For additional discussion of the Company's capitalization,
see Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements of JHVLICO.      
 
  In December 1992, the NAIC approved risk-based capital ("RBC") standards for
life insurance companies as well as a Model Act (the "RBC Model Act") to apply
such standards at the state level. The RBC Model Act provides that life
insurance companies must submit an annual RBC report which compares a
company's total adjusted capital (statutory surplus plus AVR, voluntary
investment reserves, and one-half the apportioned dividend liability) with its
risk-based capital as calculated by a RBC formula, where the formula takes
into account the risk characteristics of the company's investments and
products. The formula is to be used by insurance regulators as an early
warning tool to identify possible weakly capitalized companies for purposes of
initiating further regulatory action. The formula is not intended as a means
to rank insurers. The RBC Model Act gives state insurance commissioners
explicit regulatory authority to require various actions by, or take various
actions against, insurance companies whose total adjusted capital does not
meet the RBC standards. The RBC Model Act imposes broad confidentiality
requirements on those engaged in the insurance business (including insurers,
agents, brokers and others) as to the use and publication of RBC data. As of
December 31, 1995, the Company's total adjusted capital as defined by the NAIC
was well in excess of RBC standards.
 
 Reinsurance
     
  To reduce its exposure to large losses under its insurance policies, the
Company enters into reinsurance arrangements with its parent, John Hancock,
and other non-affiliated insurance companies. For further discussion of the
Company's reinsurance arrangements, including business ceded to John Hancock,
see Notes 6 and 8 of the Notes to Financial Statements of JHVLICO.      
 
 Separate Accounts
 
  Under applicable state insurance laws, insurers are permitted to establish
separate investment accounts in which assets backing certain policies or
contracts, including variable life policies and certain individual and group
annuity contracts, are held. The investments in each separate investment
account (which may be pooled or customer specific) are maintained separately
from other separate investment accounts and the general investment account.
The investment results of the separate investment account assets are passed
through directly to separate investment account policyholders and
contractholders, so that an insurer derives certain fees from, but bears no
investment risk on, these assets, except the risk on a small number of
products that the investment results of the separate account assets will not
meet the minimum rate guaranteed on these products. Other than amounts derived
from or otherwise attributable to the Company's general investment account,
assets of separate investment accounts are not available to fund the
liabilities of the general investment account.
 
COMPETITION
 
  JHVLICO is engaged in a highly competitive business due to the large number
of stock and mutual life insurance companies and other entities marketing
insurance products. There are approximately 2,000 stock, mutual, and other
types of insurers in the life insurance business in the United States.
According to the July 1995, issue of Best's Review Life/Health, JHVLICO ranks
154th in terms of net premiums written during 1994. JHVLICO's parent, JHMLICO,
ranks 9th, and ranks as the 6th largest mutual life insurer in the U.S., based
on total admitted assets at December 31, 1995, according to BestWeek
Life/Health Supplement, dated April 15, 1996.
 
                                      45
<PAGE>
 
  Best's Company Report, dated May 25, 1995, affirms JHVLICO's financial
stability rating from A.M. Best Company, Inc. of A++, its highest, based on
the strength of its parent company and the capital guarantee discussed above.
Standard & Poor's Corporation and Duff & Phelps Credit Rating Company have
assigned insurance claims-paying ability ratings to JHVLICO of AA+ and AAA,
respectively, which place JHVLICO in the second highest and highest
categories, respectively, by these rating agencies. Moody's Investors Service,
Inc. has assigned JHVLICO a financial strength rating of Aa2, which is its
third highest rating.
 
EMPLOYEES AND FACILITIES
 
  JHMLICO provides JHVLICO with personnel, property, and facilities for the
performance of certain of JHVLICO's corporate functions. JHMLICO annually
determines a fee for these services and facilities based on a number of
criteria which were revised in 1995, 1994 and 1993 to reflect continuing
changes in JHVLICO's operations. The amount of service fee charged to JHVLICO
was $97.9 million, $117.0 million and $98.2 million in 1995, 1994 and 1993,
respectively.
     
  Approximately 1,200 of JHMLICO's field office employees and agents are
members of a labor union. The agreement with union employees and agents was
ratified in June, 1996.      
 
TRANSACTIONS WITH JHMLICO
     
  As indicated, property, personnel and facilities are provided, at a service
fee, by JHMLICO for purposes of JHVLICO's operations, and the two companies
have entered into certain reinsurance arrangements. In addition, JHMLICO has
contributed all of JHVLICO's capital, of which $1.8 million of paid-in capital
was returned to JHMLICO during 1993. It is expected that arrangements and
transactions such as the foregoing will continue in the future to an
indeterminate extent. See Notes 2 and 6 of the Notes to Financial Statements of 
JHVLICO.      
 
  JHMLICO receives no additional compensation for its services as underwriter
and distributor of the Contracts issued by JHVLICO.
 
REGULATION
 
  JHVLICO is subject to extensive state regulatory oversight in jurisdictions
in which it does business. This regulatory oversight, increasing scrutiny upon
the insurance regulatory framework and proposals to adopt a federal regulatory
framework may in the future adversely affect JHVLICO's ability to sustain
adequate returns. JHVLICO's business also could be adversely affected by
changes in state law relating to asset and reserve valuation requirements,
limitations on investments and risk-based capital requirements, and, at the
federal level, by laws and regulations that may affect certain aspects of the
insurance industry. Assessments also are levied against John Hancock companies
as a result of participation in various types of state guaranty associations,
state insurance pools for the uninsured or other arrangements.
 
  Regulators have the discretionary authority, in connection with the
continual licensing of JHVLICO, to limit or prohibit new issuances of business
to policyholders when, in their judgment, such regulators determine that such
insurer is not maintaining minimum statutory surplus or capital or if further
transaction of business will be hazardous to its policyholders. JHVLICO does
not believe the current or anticipated levels of statutory surplus of JHVLICO
or any member of its affiliated group, and the volume of their sales of new
life and annuity policies, present a material risk that the amount of new
insurance that JHVLICO or any of such insurance affiliates may issue will be
limited.
 
  Although the federal government does not directly regulate the business of
insurance, federal initiatives often have an impact on the business in a
variety of ways. Current and proposed federal
 
                                      46
<PAGE>
 
measures which may significantly affect the insurance business include removal
of barriers preventing banks from engaging in the insurance business, limits
to medical testing for insurability, tax law changes affecting the taxation of
insurance companies, the tax treatment of insurance products and its impact on
the relative desirability of various personal investment vehicles and proposed
legislation to prohibit the use of gender in determining insurance and pension
rates and benefits.
 
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
 
  The directors and executive officers of JHVLICO are as follows:
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                  POSITION                 OTHER BUSINESS
          NAME           AGE    WITH JHVLICO            WITHIN PAST 5 YEARS
          ----           ---    ------------            -------------------
<S>                      <C>    <C>                     <C>
David F. D'Alessandro,    45     Chairman            Senior Executive Vice President--
 Director...............                              Retail Sector, John Hancock

Henry D. Shaw,
 Director...............  62     Vice Chairman &     Senior Vice President, Retail
                                  President           Products & Markets, John Hancock
 
Robert S. Paster,
 Director...............  44     Vice President &    Second Vice President, Valuation
                                  Actuary             & Financial Systems, John Hancock
 
Michele G. Van Leer,
 Director...............  38     Vice President      Vice President, Life & Annuity
                                                      Products, John Hancock
 
Joseph A. Tomlinson,
 Director...............  49     Vice President      Vice President, Alternative
                                                      Distribution, John Hancock
 
Robert R. Reitano,
 Director...............  46     Vice President      Vice President, Investment
                                                      Policy & Research, John Hancock
Barbara L. Luddy,
 Director..............   44     Vice President      Second Vice President, Financial
                                                       Reporting & Analysis, John Hancock

Daniel L. Ouellette....   47     Vice President      Vice President, Marketing & Sales
                                  Marketing           Support, John Hancock

Thomas J. Lee..........   41     Vice President      Vice President, Life & Annuity
                                  Claims              Services, John Hancock 
                                  Policyholder
                                  Services

Edward P. Dowd.........   53     Vice President      Senior Vice President, Real
                                  Investments         Estate Investment Group, John
                                                      Hancock

Roger G. Nastou........   53     Vice President      Vice President, Bond & Corporate
                                  Investments         Finance, John Hancock

Laura L. Mangan........   33     Vice President &    Assistant Regulatory/Compliance
                                  Secretary           Officer, Staff & Corporate
                                                      Secretarial, John Hancock
   
Patrick F. Smith.......   53     Controller          Senior Associate Controller,
                                                      Controller's Department, John
                                                      Hancock

Leonard C. Bassett.....   58     Treasurer           Financial Officer, Financial
                                                      Sector Management, John Hancock
</TABLE>      
 
 
                                      47
<PAGE>
 
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
    
     Executive officers of JHVLICO also serve one or more of the affiliated
companies of JHVLICO. Allocations have been made as to each individual's time
devoted to his or her duties as an executive officer of JHVLICO. The following
table provides information on the allocated compensation paid to the chief
executive officer for 1995. There were no executive officers of JHVLICO whose
allocated compensation exceeded $100,000 during 1995. Directors of JHVLICO
receive no compensation in addition to their compensation as employees of
JHVLICO.      

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION>                                                                                   LONG TERM
                                                                    ANNUAL COMPENSATION    COMPENSATION
                                                                  ----------------------- --------------
        NAME                                             TITLE    SALARY  BONUS   OTHER   LTIP  ALL OTHER
        ----                                            -------   ------- ------- ------- ----- ---------
<S>                                                     <C>       <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>   <C> 
David F. D'Alessandro.................................  Chairman  $69,460 $50,809 $4,425  $937     $ 0                       
</TABLE> 



                         SEPARATE ACCOUNT PERFORMANCE

     The Subaccounts may include total return in advertisements. When a
Subaccount advertises its total return, it will usually be calculated for one
year, five years, and ten years or for the life of the applicable Fund. Total
return is the percentage change between the value of a hypothetical investment
in the Subaccount at the beginning of the relevant period to the value of the
investment at the end of the period, assuming the deduction of any CDSL which
would be payable if the Contract Owner surrendered the Contract at the end of
the period indicated. Total return at the Separate Account level will reflect
the CDSL, mortality and expense risk charges, administrative charge, and the
annual Contract Fee. The total return figures will not reflect any premium tax
charge or any charges for optional benefits, including the Nursing Home Waiver
of CDSL, One Year Stepped-Up Death Benefit and Accidental Death Benefit riders.
The total return for the Separate Account will be lower than total return at the
Trust level where comparable charges are not deducted.

     The Subaccounts may also advertise total returns in a non-standard format
in conjunction with the standard format described above. The non-standard format
will be the same as the standard format except that it will not reflect any
CDSL.

     The Money Market Subaccount may advertise "current yield" and "effective
yield."  Current yield refers to the income earned by the Subaccount over a
seven-day period and then annualized; i.e., the income earned in the period is
assumed to be earned every seven days over a 52-week period and stated as a
percentage of the investment.  Effective yield is calculated similarly but, when
annualized, the income earned by the investment is assumed to be reinvested in
the Subaccount and thus compounded in the course of a 52-week period.  The
effective yield will be slightly higher than the current yield because of this
compounding effect of the assumed reinvestment.

     The other Subaccounts may also advertise current yield.  For these
Subaccounts, the current yield will be calculated by dividing the annualization
of the income earned by the Subaccount during a recent thirty-day period by the
maximum offering price per unit at the end of such period.  In all cases,
current yield and effective yield will reflect the recurring charges at the
Separate Account level including the annual Contract Fee, but will not reflect
any premium tax charge, any CDSL, or any charges for optional benefit riders.

     Performance information for the Subaccounts may be compared to other
variable annuity separate accounts or other investment products surveyed by
Lipper Analytical Services, Inc., an independent service which monitors and
ranks the performance of investment companies, or tracked by other rating
services, companies, publications, or persons who independently monitor and rank
investment company performance. Performance figures are

                                       48


 
<PAGE>
 
 
calculated in accordance with standardized methods established by each reporting
service.


                                    REPORTS

     The Company intends to deliver to Owners of outstanding Contracts annual
account statements and such other periodic reports as may be required by law,
but it is not anticipated that any such reports will include periodic financial
statements or information concerning the Company.


                               VOTING PRIVILEGES

     All of the assets in the Subaccounts of the Separate Account are invested
in shares of the corresponding Funds of the Trust. The Company will vote the
shares of each Fund which are deemed attributable to the Contracts at meetings
of the Trust's shareholders in accordance with instructions received from Owners
of the Contracts. Units of the Trust held in the Separate Account which are not
attributable to the Contracts and those for which instructions from owners are
not received will be represented by the Company at the meeting and will be voted
for and against each matter in the same proportion as the votes based upon the
instructions received from the owners of all annuity contracts funded through
the Separate Account's corresponding variable Subaccounts.

     The number of shares of a Fund held in each Subaccount deemed attributable
to each Owner is determined by dividing a Contract's Accumulation Unit Value (or
for a Contract under which annuity payments have commenced, the equivalent) in
the Subaccount by the net asset value of one share in the corresponding Fund in
which the assets of that Subaccount are invested. Fractional votes will be
counted. The number of shares as to which the Owner may give instructions will
be determined as of the record date for the Trust's meeting.

     Owners of Contracts may give instructions regarding the election of the
Board of Trustees of the Trust, ratification of the selection of independent
auditors, approval of the Trust investment management agreements and other
matters requiring a vote under the 1940 Act. Owners will be furnished
information and forms by the Company in order that voting instructions may be
given.


                CHANGES IN APPLICABLE LAW-FUNDING AND OTHERWISE

     The voting privileges described in this prospectus are afforded based on
the Company's understanding of applicable Federal securities law requirements.
To the extent that applicable law, regulations or interpretations change to
eliminate or restrict the need for such voting privileges, the Company reserves
the right to proceed in accordance with any such revised requirements. The
Company also reserves the right, subject to compliance with applicable law,
including approval of Owners if so required, to transfer assets determined by
the Company to be associated with the class of contracts to which the Contracts
belong from the Account to another separate account or Subaccount by withdrawing
the same percentage of each investment in the Separate Account with appropriate
adjustments to avoid odd lots and fractions.

                                       49

<PAGE>
 
 
                               LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

     There are no legal proceedings to which the Separate Account or the Company
is a party other than routine litigation which the Company believes is not
relevant or material to the Contracts being offered.


                         DISTRIBUTION OF THE CONTRACTS
    
     JHFI is registered as a broker-dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 and is a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
JHFI acts as principal underwriter and principal distributor of the Contracts.
The Contracts may be purchased through broker-dealers and certain financial
institutions who have entered into selling agreements with JHFI and the
Company, and whose representatives are authorized by applicable law to sell
annuity products. The compensation paid to such broker-dealers and financial
institutions is not expected to exceed 5.5% of premium payments. The offering of
the Contracts is intended to be continuous, but neither the Company nor JHFI is
obligated to sell any particular amount of Contracts.      

     The Company reimburses JHFI for direct and indirect expenses actually
incurred in connection with the marketing and sale of the Contracts.

                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION

     The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the 1934 Act,
and in accordance therewith files reports and other information with the
Commission. Such reports and other information can be inspected and copied at
the public reference facilities of the Commission at Room 1024, 450 Fifth
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C., and at the Commission's Regional Offices located
at 7 World Trade Center, Suite 1300, New York, New York, and Northwestern Atrium
Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois. Copies of such
materials also can be obtained from the Public Reference Section of the
Commission at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed
rates.

     The Company has filed registration statements ("Registration Statements")
with the Commission under the Securities Act of 1933 relating to the Contracts
offered by this prospectus. This prospectus has been filed as a part of the
Registration Statements and does not contain all of the information set forth in
the Registration Statements and exhibits thereto, and reference is hereby made
to such Registration Statements and exhibits for further information relating to
the Company and the Contracts. The Registration Statements and the exhibits
thereto may be inspected and copied, and copies can be obtained at prescribed
rates, in the manner set forth in the preceding paragraph.

                                       50

<PAGE>
 
 
                       EXPERTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
    
     The annual financial statements of the Company that are included in this
prospectus have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, as set
forth in their report thereon appearing elsewhere herein, and are included in
reliance upon such report given upon the authority of such firm as experts in
accounting and auditing.     

     There are no financial statements for the Separate Account, as the Separate
Account has not yet commenced operations and has no assets or liabilities.

                        TABLE OF CONTENTS OF STATEMENT
                           OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION>     
                                                                 CROSS REFERENCE TO
                                                       PAGE      PAGE IN PROSPECTUS
                                                       ----      ------------------
<S>                                                    <C>       <C> 
The Separate Account ...............................     2       15
Services Agreement .................................     2       NA
Calculation of Performance Data ....................     2       48
Calculation of Annuity Payments ....................     3       32
Separate Account Financial Statements ..............     6       F-1
</TABLE>      

                                       51

<PAGE>
 
                        REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
Board of Directors
John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company
 
  We have audited the accompanying statements of financial position of John
Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company as of December 31, 1995 and 1994, and
the related statements of operations and unassigned deficit and cash flows for
each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
 
  We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
 
  In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly,
in all material respects, the financial position of John Hancock Variable Life
Insurance Company at December 31, 1995 and 1994, and the results of its
operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1995 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles
for a stock life insurance company wholly-owned by a mutual life insurance
company and with reporting practices prescribed or permitted by the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Insurance.
 
                                             Ernst & Young LLP
 
February 7, 1996
 
                                      F-1
<PAGE>
 
                  JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                        STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
     
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                (UNAUDITED)    DECEMBER 31
                                                 MARCH 31   ------------------
                                                   1996       1995      1994
                                                ----------- --------  --------
                                                        (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                             <C>         <C>       <C>
ASSETS
  Bonds--Note 7................................  $  602.0   $  552.8  $  458.3
  Preferred stocks.............................       5.0        5.0       5.3
  Common stocks................................       1.4        1.7       1.9
  Investment in affiliates.....................      67.5       65.3      59.9
  Mortgage loans on real estate--Note 7........     154.5      146.7     148.5
  Real estate..................................      36.4       36.4      27.8
  Policy loans.................................      65.8       61.8      47.3
  Cash items:
    Cash in banks..............................       0.0       11.6      29.3
    Temporary cash investments.................      48.4       65.0      46.7
                                                 --------   --------  --------
                                                     48.4       76.6      76.0
  Premiums due and deferred....................      37.4       39.6      43.9
  Investment income due and accrued............      18.1       18.6      14.7
  Other general account assets.................      13.6       20.8      22.3
  Assets held in separate accounts.............   2,575.9    2,421.0   1,721.0
                                                 --------   --------  --------
      TOTAL ASSETS.............................  $3,626.0   $3,446.3  $2,626.9
                                                 ========   ========  ========
OBLIGATIONS AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
OBLIGATIONS
  Policy reserves..............................  $  677.4   $  671.1  $  638.6
  Federal income and other taxes payable--Note
   1...........................................      11.0       14.2      17.3
  Other accrued expenses.......................      96.9       79.9      22.8
  Asset valuation reserve--Note 1..............      15.5       15.4      12.6
  Obligations related to separate accounts.....   2,571.8    2,417.0   1,717.7
                                                 --------   --------  --------
      TOTAL OBLIGATIONS........................   3,372.6    3,197.6   2,409.0
STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY--Notes 2 and 6
  Common Stock, $50 par value; authorized
   50,000 shares; issued and outstanding 50,000
   shares--1996 and 1995; 20,000 shares--1994..       2.5        2.5      25.0
  Paid-in capital..............................     377.5      377.5     355.0
  Unassigned deficit...........................    (126.6)    (131.3)   (162.1)
                                                 --------   --------  --------
      TOTAL STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY...............     253.4      248.7     217.9
                                                 --------   --------  --------
TOTAL OBLIGATIONS AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY.....  $3,626.0   $3,446.3  $2,626.9
                                                 ========   ========  ========
</TABLE>
          
    The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
 
                                      F-2
<PAGE>
 
                  JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND UNASSIGNED DEFICIT
     
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                    (UNAUDITED)
                                THREE MONTHS ENDED
                                     MARCH 31         YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                --------------------  -------------------------
                                  1996       1995      1995     1994     1993
                                ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
                                               (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                             <C>        <C>        <C>      <C>      <C>
INCOME
  Premiums....................  $   175.4  $    99.9  $ 570.9  $ 430.5  $ 398.8
  Net investment income--Note
   4..........................       17.8       16.3     62.1     57.6     61.3
  Other, net..................       26.0       23.5     85.7     95.5     (4.0)
                                ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
                                    219.2      139.7    718.7    583.6    456.1
BENEFITS AND EXPENSES
  Payments to policyholders
   and beneficiaries..........       61.0       51.3    213.4    187.5    190.8
  Additions to reserves to
   provide for future payments
   to policyholders and
   beneficiaries..............       97.9       34.0    282.4    185.3    111.5
  Expenses of providing
   service to policyholders
   and obtaining new
   insurance--Note 6..........       45.8       40.4    150.7    168.9    144.5
  Cost of restructuring.......        0.0        0.0      0.0      3.0      0.0
  State and miscellaneous
   taxes......................        2.4        2.9     12.7     11.3      9.8
                                ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
                                    207.1      128.6    659.2    556.0    456.6
                                ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
    GAIN (LOSS) FROM
     OPERATIONS BEFORE FEDERAL
     INCOME TAXES AND NET
     REALIZED CAPITAL GAINS
     (LOSSES).................       12.1       11.1     59.5     27.6     (0.5)
Federal income taxes--Note 1..        8.1        5.7     28.4     15.0      6.5
                                ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
    GAIN (LOSS) FROM
     OPERATIONS BEFORE NET
     REALIZED CAPITAL GAINS
     (LOSSES).................        4.0        5.4     31.1     12.6     (7.0)
Net realized capital gains
 (losses)--Note 5.............        0.0       (0.8)     0.5      0.4     (2.6)
                                ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
    NET GAIN (LOSS)...........        4.0        4.6     31.6     13.0     (9.6)
Unassigned deficit at
 beginning of year............     (131.3)    (162.1)  (162.1)  (177.2)  (142.3)
Net unrealized capital gains
 (losses) and other
 adjustments--Note 5..........        0.4        0.3     (3.0)    (1.5)    (3.2)
Valuation reserve changes--
 Note 1.......................        0.0        0.0      0.0      2.7      2.3
Change in separate account
 surplus......................        0.2       (0.3)     0.7      0.0      0.5
Other reserves and
 adjustments..................        0.1       (0.4)     1.5      0.9    (24.9)
                                ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
    UNASSIGNED DEFICIT AT END
     OF PERIOD................  $  (126.6) $  (157.9) $(131.3) $(162.1) $(177.2)
                                =========  =========  =======  =======  =======
</TABLE>
           
     The accompany notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
 
                                      F-3
<PAGE>
 
                  JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                              
                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                                         
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   (UNAUDITED)
                               THREE MONTHS ENDED
                                    MARCH 31         YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                               --------------------  -------------------------
                                 1996       1995      1995     1994     1993
                               ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
                                              (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                            <C>        <C>        <C>      <C>      <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING
 ACTIVITIES:
  Insurance premiums.......... $   178.2  $   102.8  $ 574.0  $ 436.4  $ 411.4
  Net investment income.......      18.6       15.6     59.2     57.9     63.0
  Benefits to policyholders
   and beneficiaries..........     (55.6)     (50.0)  (198.3)  (175.3)  (176.6)
  Dividends paid to
   policyholders..............      (3.7)      (2.9)   (13.2)   (11.9)   (14.8)
  Insurance expenses and
   taxes......................     (49.4)     (44.4)  (161.5)  (180.6)  (148.4)
  Net transfers to separate
   accounts...................     (96.4)     (26.8)  (257.4)  (146.6)   (91.9)
  Other, net..................      18.3       11.7     40.6     72.8    (22.7)
                               ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
      NET CASH PROVIDED FROM
       OPERATIONS.............      10.0        6.0     43.4     52.7     20.0
                               ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
CASH FLOWS USED IN INVESTING
 ACTIVITIES:
  Bond purchases..............     (72.2)     (19.2)  (172.5)   (94.1)   (92.3)
  Bond sales..................      10.4        4.2     18.9     23.1     74.0
  Bond maturities and
   scheduled redemptions......       6.0       11.6     36.0     22.3     12.6
  Bond prepayments............       7.2        0.0     20.6     24.7     16.4
  Stock purchases.............      (1.5)      (1.7)    (1.7)    (1.5)   (59.8)
  Proceeds from stock sales...       0.0        0.0      1.4      1.2      9.4
  Real estate purchases.......      (0.3)      (2.8)   (16.2)   (18.4)    (0.5)
  Real estate sales...........       0.1        0.0      9.3     22.1      3.6
  Other invested assets
   purchases..................       0.0       (0.1)    (0.4)    (0.9)    (4.2)
  Proceeds from the sale of
   other invested assets......       0.3        0.0      0.3      1.3      0.1
  Mortgage loans issued.......     (12.9)      (3.0)   (19.8)   (37.9)   (32.4)
  Mortgage loan repayments....       5.1        6.9     21.1     35.2     80.1
  Other, net..................      19.6      (11.4)    60.2     22.9    (45.6)
                               ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
      NET CASH USED IN
       INVESTING ACTIVITIES...     (38.2)     (15.5)   (42.8)     0.0    (38.6)
                               ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
      INCREASE (DECREASE) IN
       CASH AND TEMPORARY CASH
       INVESTMENTS............     (28.2)      (9.5)     0.6     52.7    (18.6)
Cash and temporary cash
 investments at beginning of
 year.........................      76.6       76.0     76.0     23.3     41.9
                               ---------  ---------  -------  -------  -------
      CASH AND TEMPORARY CASH
       INVESTMENTS AT THE END
       OF PERIOD.............. $    48.4  $    66.5  $  76.6  $  76.0  $  23.3
                               =========  =========  =======  =======  =======
</TABLE>
 
    The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
 
                                      F-4
<PAGE>
 
                  JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                            
                       STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY 
                                                              
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              COMMON  PAID-IN  UNASSIGNED
                                              STOCK   CAPITAL   DEFICIT   TOTAL
                                              ------  -------  ---------- ------
                                                       (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                           <C>     <C>      <C>        <C>
Balance at January 1, 1993................... $25.0   $356.8    $(142.3)  $239.5
1993 Transactions:
  Net loss...................................                      (9.6)    (9.6)
  Net unrealized capital losses and other
   adjustments...............................                      (3.2)    (3.2)
  Valuation reserve changes..................                       2.3      2.3
  Change in separate account surplus.........                       0.5      0.5
  Other reserves and adjustments.............                     (24.9)   (24.9)
  Return of capital..........................           (1.8)               (1.8)
                                              -----   ------    -------   ------
Balance at December 31, 1993.................  25.0    355.0     (177.2)   202.8
1994 Transactions:
  Net gain...................................                      13.0     13.0
  Net unrealized capital losses and other
   adjustments...............................                      (1.5)    (1.5)
  Valuation reserve changes..................                       2.7      2.7
  Other reserves and adjustments.............                       0.9      0.9
                                              -----   ------    -------   ------
Balance at December 31, 1994.................  25.0    355.0     (162.1)   217.9
1995 Transactions:
  Net gain...................................                      31.6     31.6
  Net unrealized capital losses and other
   adjustments...............................                      (3.0)    (3.0)
  Change in separate account surplus.........                       0.7      0.7
  Other reserves and adjustments.............                       1.5      1.5
  Reclassification of paid-in capital........ (22.5)    22.5                 0.0
                                              -----   ------    -------   ------
Balance at December 31, 1995................. $ 2.5   $377.5    $(131.3)  $248.7
                                              =====   ======    =======   ======
For the three months ended March 31, 1995
 (unaudited)
Balance at January 1, 1995................... $25.0   $355.0    $(162.1)  $217.9
1995 Transactions:
  Net gain...................................                       4.6      4.6
  Net unrealized capital gains and other
   adjustments...............................                       0.3      0.3
  Change in separate account surplus.........                      (0.3)    (0.3)
  Other reserves and adjustments.............                      (0.4)    (0.4)
  Reclassification of paid-in capital........ (22.5)    22.5                 0.0
                                              -----   ------    -------   ------
Balance at March 31, 1995.................... $ 2.5   $377.5    $(157.9)  $222.1
                                              =====   ======    =======   ======
For the three months ended March 31, 1996
 (unaudited)
Balance at January 1, 1996................... $ 2.5   $377.5    $(131.3)  $248.7
1996 Transactions:
  Net gain...................................                       4.0      4.0
  Net unrealized capital gains and other
   adjustments...............................                       0.4      0.4
  Change in separate account surplus.........                       0.2      0.2
  Other reserves and adjustments.............                       0.1      0.1
                                              -----   ------    -------   ------
Balance at March 31, 1996.................... $ 2.5   $377.5    $(126.6)  $253.4
                                              =====   ======    =======   ======
</TABLE>
 
    The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
 
                                      F-5
<PAGE>
 
                         NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
 
NOTE 1--NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING PRACTICES
 
  John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company (the Company) is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company (John Hancock). The
Company principally writes variable and universal life insurance policies.
Those policies primarily are marketed through John Hancock's sales
organization, which includes a career agency system composed of company owned,
unionized branch offices and independent general agencies. Policies also are
sold through various unaffiliated securities broker-dealers and certain other
financial institutions. Currently the Company writes business in all states
except New York.
 
  The preparation of the financial statements of insurance companies requires
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect amounts reported in
the financial statements and accompanying notes. Such estimates and
assumptions could change in the future as more information becomes known,
which could impact the amounts reported and disclosed herein.
 
  The significant accounting practices of the Company are as follows:
 
  Basis of Presentation: The financial statements have been prepared on the
basis of accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Division of Insurance and in conformity with the practices of
the National Association of Insurance Commissioners which are currently
considered generally accepted accounting principles for a stock life insurance
company wholly-owned by a mutual life insurance company. However, in April
1993, the Financial Accounting Standard Board (FASB) issued Interpretation 40,
"Applicability of General Accepted Accounting Principles to Mutual Life
Insurance and Other Enterprises" (Interpretation). The Interpretation, as
amended, is effective for 1996 annual financial statements and thereafter and
no longer will allow statutory-basis financial statements to be described as
being prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles
(GAAP). Upon the effective date of the Interpretation, in order for their
financial statements to be described as being prepared in conformity with
GAAP, mutual life insurance companies will be required to adopt all applicable
authoritative GAAP pronouncements in any general-purpose financial statements
that they may issue. The Company has not quantified the effects of the
application of the Interpretation on its financial statements.
 
  The Company has not yet determined whether for general purposes it will
continue to issue statutory-basis financial statements or statements adopting
all applicable authoritative GAAP pronouncements. If the Company decides that
its general-purpose financial statements will be prepared in accordance with
GAAP rather than statutory accounting practices, the financial statements
included herein would have to be restated to reflect all applicable
authoritative GAAP pronouncements, including Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards (SFAS) Nos. 60, 97, and 113.
 
  Revenues and Expenses: Premium revenues are recognized over the premium-
paying period of the policies whereas expenses, including the acquisition
costs of new business, are charged to operations as incurred and policyholder
dividends are provided as paid or accrued.
 
  Cash and Temporary Cash Investments: Cash includes currency on hand and
demand deposits with financial institutions. Temporary cash investments are
short-term, highly-liquid investments both readily convertible to known
amounts of cash and so near maturity that there is insignificant risk of
changes in value because of changes in interest rates.
 
                                      F-6
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
NOTE 1--NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING PRACTICES--(CONTINUED)
 
  Valuation of Assets: General account investments are carried at amounts
determined on the following bases:
 
    Bonds and stock values are carried as prescribed by the National
  Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC): bonds generally at amortized
  amounts or cost, preferred stocks generally at cost and common stocks at
  market. The discount or premium on bonds is amortized using the interest
  method.
 
    Investments in affiliates are included on the statutory equity method.
 
    Goodwill is amortized on a straight line basis over a ten year period.
 
    Mortgage loans are carried at outstanding principal balance or amortized
  cost.
 
    Investment real estate is carried at depreciated cost, less encumbrances.
  Depreciation on investment real estate is recorded on a straight line
  basis.
 
    Real estate acquired in satisfaction of debt and held for sale is carried
  at the lower of cost or market as of the date of foreclosure.
 
    Policy loans are carried at outstanding principal balance, not in excess
  of policy cash surrender value.
 
  Asset Valuation and Interest Maintenance Reserves: The Asset Valuation
Reserve (AVR) is computed in accordance with the prescribed NAIC formula and
represents a provision for possible fluctuations in the value of bonds, equity
securities, mortgage loans, real estate and other invested assets. Changes to
the AVR are charged or credited directly to the unassigned deficit.
 
  The Company also records the NAIC prescribed Interest Maintenance Reserve
(IMR) that represents that portion of the after tax net accumulated
unamortized realized capital gains and losses on sales of fixed income
securities, principally bonds and mortgage loans attributable to changes in
the general level of interest rates. Such gains and losses are deferred and
amortized into income over the remaining expected lives of the investments
sold. At March 31, 1996, the IMR, net of 1996 amortization of $0.3 million,
amounted to $7.0 million which is included in policy reserves. The
corresponding amounts at March 31, 1995 were $0.3 million and $6.8 million,
respectively. At December 31, 1995, the IMR, net of 1995 amortization of $1.2
million, amounted to $6.9 million, which is included in policy reserves. The
corresponding 1994 amounts were $1.1 million and $7.1 million, respectively.
 
  Separate Accounts: Separate account assets (unit investment trusts valued at
market) and separate account obligations (principally policyholder account
values) are included as separate captions in the statements of financial
position. In 1996, 1995 and 1994, the change in separate account surplus is
recognized through direct charges or credits to unassigned deficit. In 1993
separate account business was combined with the general account under the
appropriate captions in the consolidated summary of operations. The 1993
presentation was reclassified to permit comparison with the corresponding
1996, 1995 and 1994 amounts. The presentation has no effect on unassigned
deficit.
 
  Fair Values of Financial Instruments: SFAS No. 107, "Disclosure about Fair
Value of Financial Instruments," requires disclosure of fair value information
about financial instruments, whether or not recognized in the statement of
financial position, for which it is practicable to
 
                                      F-7
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
NOTE 1--NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING PRACTICES--(CONTINUED)
 
estimate the value. In situations where quoted market prices are not
available, fair values are based on estimates using present value or other
valuation techniques. SFAS No. 107 excludes certain financial instruments and
all nonfinancial instruments from its disclosure requirements. Therefore, the
aggregate fair value amounts presented do not represent the underlying value
of the Company.
 
  The methods and assumptions utilized by the Company in estimating its fair
value disclosures for financial instruments are as follows:
 
    The carrying amounts reported in the statement of financial position for
  cash and temporary cash investments approximate their fair values.
 
    Fair values for public bonds are obtained from an independent pricing
  service. Fair values for private placement securities and publicly traded
  bonds not provided by the independent pricing service are estimated by the
  Company by discounting expected future cash flows using current market
  rates applicable to the yield, credit quality and maturity of the
  investments. The fair values for common and preferred stocks, other than
  its subsidiary investments, which are carried at equity values, are based
  on quoted market prices.
 
    The fair value for mortgage loans is estimated using discounted cash flow
  analyses using interest rates adjusted to reflect the credit
  characteristics of the loans. Mortgage loans with similar characteristics
  and credit risks are aggregated into qualitative categories for purposes of
  the fair value calculations.
 
    The carrying amount in the statement of financial position for policy
  loans approximates their fair value.
 
    The fair value for outstanding commitments to purchase long-term bonds is
  estimated using a discounted cash flow method incorporating adjustments for
  the difference in the level of interest rates between the dates the
  commitments were made and March 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995,
  respectively. The fair value for commitments to purchase real estate
  approximates the amount of the initial commitment.
 
  Capital Gains and Losses: Realized capital gains and losses, net of taxes
and amounts transferred to the IMR, are included in net gain or loss.
Unrealized gains and losses, which consist of market value and book value
adjustments, are shown as adjustments to the unassigned deficit.
 
  Policy Reserves: Reserves for variable life insurance policies are
maintained principally on the modified preliminary term method using the 1958
and 1980 Commissioner's Standard Ordinary (CSO) mortality tables, with an
assumed interest rate of 4% for policies issued prior to May 1, 1983 and 4
1/2% for policies issued on or thereafter. Reserves for single premium
policies are determined by the net single premium method using the 1958 CSO
mortality table, with an assumed interest rate of 4%. Reserves for universal
life policies issued prior to 1985 are equal to the gross account value which
at all times exceeds minimum statutory requirements. Reserves for universal
life policies issued from 1985 through 1988 are maintained at the greater of
the Commissioner's Reserve Valuation Method (CRVM) using the 1958 CSO
mortality table, with 4 1/2% interest or the cash surrender value. Reserves
for universal life policies issued after 1988 and for flexible variable
policies are maintained using the greater of the cash surrender value or the
CRVM method with the 1980 CSO mortality table and 5 1/2% interest for policies
issued from 1988
 
                                      F-8
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
NOTE 1--NOTICE OF OPERATIONS AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING PRACTICES--(CONTINUED)
 
through 1992; 5% interest for policies issued in 1993 and 1994; and 4 1/2%
interest for policies issued in 1995.
 
  Federal Income Taxes: Federal income taxes are provided in the financial
statements based on amounts determined to be payable as a result of operations
within the current accounting period. The operations of the Company are
consolidated with John Hancock, its Parent, in filing a consolidated federal
income tax return for the affiliated group. The federal income taxes of the
Company are allocated on a separate return basis with certain adjustments. The
Company made payments of $10.5 million and $12.1 million for the three months
ended March 31, 1996 and March 31, 1995, respectively. The Company made
payments of $32.2 million in 1995 and $17.0 million in 1993 and received tax
benefits of $7.0 million in 1994.
 
  Income before taxes differs from taxable income principally due to tax-
exempt investment income, the limitation placed on the tax deductibility of
policyholder dividends, accelerated depreciation, differences in policy
reserves for tax return and financial statement purposes, capitalization of
policy acquisition expenses for tax purposes and other adjustments prescribed
by the Internal Revenue Code.
 
  No provision is generally recognized for timing differences that may exist
between financial reporting and taxable income or loss.
 
  Adjustments to Policy Reserves: From time to time, the Company finds it
appropriate to modify certain required policy reserves because of changes in
actuarial assumptions or increased benefits. Reserve modifications resulting
from such determinations are recorded directly to the unassigned deficit.
During 1994, the Company refined certain actuarial assumptions inherent in the
calculation of preconversion yearly renewable term and gross premium
deficiency reserves, resulting in a $2.7 million decrease in the unassigned
deficit at December 31, 1994. Similar refinements to the actuarial assumptions
inherent in the calculation of active life waiver of premium disability
reserves were made during 1993 resulting in a $2.3 million decrease in the
unassigned deficit at December 31, 1993. During 1995 and the three months
ended March 31, 1996, there were no refinements in actuarial assumptions
inherent in the calculation of policy reserves.
 
  Reinsurance: Premiums, commissions, expense reimbursements, benefits and
reserves related to reinsured business are accounted for on bases consistent
with those used in accounting for the original policies issued and the terms
of the reinsurance contracts. Premiums ceded to other companies have been
reported as a reduction of premium income. Amounts applicable to reinsurance
ceded for future policy benefits, unearned premium reserves and claim
liabilities have been reported as reductions of these items.
 
  Reclassifications: Certain 1994 and 1993 amounts have been reclassified to
permit comparison with the corresponding 1996 and 1995 amounts.
 
NOTE 2--CAPITALIZATION
 
  In prior years, the Company received capital contributions from John
Hancock, with a portion of the contributed capital being credited to common
stock, although no additional shares
 
                                      F-9
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
 
NOTE 2--CAPITALIZATION--(CONTINUED)
 
were issued. This practice, which is acceptable to statutory authorities, has
the effect of stating the carrying value of issued shares of common stock at
amounts other than $50 per share par value with the offset reflected in paid-
in capital.
 
  At December 31, 1994, the Company had 50,000 shares authorized with 20,000
shares issued and outstanding. On February 16, 1995, the Company issued the
remaining 30,000 shares to John Hancock and transferred $22.5 million from
common stock to paid-in capital. The par value per share is $50.
 
  During 1993, the Company returned $1.8 million of paid-in capital to John
Hancock.
 
NOTE 3--ACQUISITION
 
  On June 23, 1993, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of
stock of Colonial Penn Annuity and Life Insurance Company (CPAL) from Colonial
Penn Life Insurance Company, for an aggregate purchase price of approximately
$42.5 million. At the date of acquisition, assets of CPAL were approximately
$648.5 million, consisting principally of cash and temporary cash investments
and liabilities were approximately $635.2 million, consisting principally of
reserves related to a block of interest sensitive single-premium whole life
insurance business assumed by CPAL from Charter National Life Insurance
Company (Charter). The purchase price includes contingent payments of up to
approximately $7.3 million payable between 1994 and 1998 based on the actual
lapse experience of the business in force on June 23, 1993. The Company made
contingent payments to CPAL of $1.5 million for the three months ended March
31, 1996 and during 1995 and 1994. Unamortized goodwill of $17.8 and $17.1
million at March 31, 1996 and December 31, 1995, respectively and is being
amortized over ten years on a straight-line basis.
 
  On June 24, 1993, the Company contributed $24.6 million in additional
capital to CPAL. CPAL was renamed John Hancock Life Insurance Company of
America (JHLICOA) on July 7, 1993. JHLICOA manages the business assumed from
Charter and does not currently issue new business.
 
NOTE 4--NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
  Investment income has been reduced by the following amounts:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    THREE MONTHS
                                                        ENDED       YEAR ENDED
                                                      MARCH 31     DECEMBER 31
                                                    ------------- --------------
                                                     1996   1995  1995 1994 1993
                                                    ------ ------ ---- ---- ----
                                                           (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                                              <C>    <C>    <C>  <C>  <C>
   Investment expenses............................. $  0.9 $  0.7 $5.1 $3.4 $2.9
   Interest expense................................    0.0    0.0  0.0  0.2  0.0
   Depreciation expense............................    0.2    0.3  1.0  0.6  0.6
   Investment taxes................................    0.2    0.2  0.5  0.2  0.3
                                                    ------ ------ ---- ---- ----
                                                    $  1.3 $  1.2 $6.6 $4.4 $3.8
                                                    ====== ====== ==== ==== ====
</TABLE>
 
                                     F-10
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
 
NOTE 5--NET CAPITAL GAINS (LOSSES) AND OTHER ADJUSTMENTS
 
  Net realized capital gains (losses) consist of the following items:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           THREE MONTHS
                                              ENDED           YEAR ENDED
                                             MARCH 31         DECEMBER 31
                                           --------------  -------------------
                                            1996    1995   1995   1994   1993
                                           ------  ------  -----  -----  -----
                                                    (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                                     <C>     <C>     <C>    <C>    <C>
   Gains (losses) from asset sales.......  $  0.6  $ (0.8) $ 4.0  $(1.6) $ 9.6
   Capital gains (tax) credit............    (0.2)    0.0   (2.5)   2.5   (4.2)
   Net capital gains transferred to IMR..    (0.4)    0.0   (1.0)  (0.5)  (8.0)
                                           ------  ------  -----  -----  -----
     Net Realized Capital Gains
      (Losses)...........................  $  0.0  $ (0.8) $ 0.5  $ 0.4  $(2.6)
                                           ======  ======  =====  =====  =====
</TABLE>
 
  Net unrealized capital gains (losses) and other adjustments consist of the
following items:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          THREE MONTHS
                                             ENDED           YEAR ENDED
                                            MARCH 31         DECEMBER 31
                                          --------------  -------------------
                                           1996    1995   1995   1994   1993
                                          ------  ------  -----  -----  -----
                                                   (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                                    <C>     <C>     <C>    <C>    <C>
   Gains (losses) from changes in
    security values and book value
    adjustments.......................... $  0.5  $  0.8  $(0.2) $ 0.7  $(1.4)
   Increase in asset valuation reserve...   (0.1)   (0.5)  (2.8)  (2.2)  (1.8)
                                          ------  ------  -----  -----  -----
     Net Unrealized Capital Gains
      (Losses) and Other Adjustments..... $  0.4  $  0.3  $(3.0) $(1.5) $(3.2)
                                          ======  ======  =====  =====  =====
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 6--TRANSACTIONS WITH PARENT
 
  The Company's Parent provides the Company with personnel, property and
facilities in carrying out certain of its corporate functions. The Parent
annually determines a fee for these services and facilities based on a number
of criteria which were revised in 1996, 1995, 1994, and 1993 to reflect
continuing changes in the Company's operations. The amount of the service fee
charged to the Company was $27.1 million, $27.4 million, $97.9 million, $117.0
million and $98.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and March
31, 1995, in 1995, 1994, and 1993, respectively, which has been included in
insurance and investment expenses. The Parent has guaranteed that, if
necessary, it will make additional capital contributions to prevent the
Company's stockholder's equity from declining below $1.0 million.
 
  The service fee charged to the Company by the Parent includes $0.0 million,
$0.0 million, $1.8 million, $6.0 million, and $1.4 million for the three
months ended March 31, 1996 and March 31, 1995 and the years ended December
31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, respectively, representing the portion of the
provision for retiree benefit plans determined under the accrual method,
including a provision for the 1993 transition liability which is being
amortized over twenty years, that was allocated to the Company.
 
                                     F-11
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
 
NOTE 6--TRANSACTIONS WITH PARENT--(CONTINUED)
 
  Effective January 1, 1994, the Company entered into a modified coinsurance
agreement with John Hancock to reinsure 50% of 1994 issues of flexible premium
variable life insurance and scheduled premium variable life insurance
policies. In connection with this agreement, John Hancock transferred $11.7
million of cash for tax, commission, and expense allowances to the Company,
which increased the Company's net gain from operations by $3.4 million for the
three months ended March 31, 1996. The corresponding amounts for the three
months ended March 31, 1995 were $13.6 million and $6.6 million, respectively.
The corresponding amounts for the year ended December 31, 1995 were $32.7
million and $20.3 million, respectively. The corresponding amounts for the
year ended December 31, 1994 were $29.5 million and $26.9 million,
respectively.
 
NOTE 7--INVESTMENTS
 
  The statement value and fair value of bonds are shown below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996
                                         --------------------------------------
                                                     GROSS      GROSS
                                         STATEMENT UNREALIZED UNREALIZED  FAIR
                                           VALUE     GAINS      LOSSES   VALUE
                                         --------- ---------- ---------- ------
                                                     (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                                   <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
   U.S. treasury securities and
    obligations of U.S. government
    corporations and agencies...........  $ 98.2     $ 0.0       $1.3    $ 96.9
   Obligations of states and political
    subdivisions........................    12.3       1.0        0.0      13.3
   Debt securities issued by foreign
    governments.........................     0.3       0.0        0.0       0.3
   Corporate securities.................   473.8      33.3        8.3     498.8
   Mortgage-backed securities...........    17.4       0.2        0.3      17.3
                                          ------     -----       ----    ------
     Totals.............................  $602.0     $34.5       $9.9    $626.6
                                          ======     =====       ====    ======
<CAPTION>
                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
                                         --------------------------------------
                                                     GROSS      GROSS
                                         STATEMENT UNREALIZED UNREALIZED  FAIR
                                           VALUE     GAINS      LOSSES   VALUE
                                         --------- ---------- ---------- ------
                                                     (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                                   <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
   U.S. treasury securities and
    obligations of U.S. government
    corporations and agencies...........  $ 89.0     $ 0.5       $0.0    $ 89.5
   Obligations of states and political
    subdivisions........................    11.4       1.1        0.0      12.5
   Debt securities issued by foreign
    governments.........................     1.3       0.2        0.0       1.5
   Corporate securities.................   445.6      44.1        1.6     488.1
   Mortgage-backed securities...........     5.5       0.3        0.1       5.7
                                          ------     -----       ----    ------
     Totals.............................  $552.8     $46.2       $1.7    $597.3
                                          ======     =====       ====    ======
</TABLE>
 
 
                                     F-12
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
NOTE 7--INVESTMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
                                         --------------------------------------
                                                     GROSS      GROSS
                                         STATEMENT UNREALIZED UNREALIZED  FAIR
                                           VALUE     GAINS      LOSSES   VALUE
                                         --------- ---------- ---------- ------
                                                     (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                                   <C>       <C>        <C>        <C>
   U.S. treasury securities and
    obligations of U.S. government
    corporations and agencies...........  $ 10.4     $ 0.0      $ 0.5    $  9.9
   Obligations of states and political
    subdivisions........................    11.6       0.2        0.1      11.7
   Debt securities issued by foreign
    governments.........................     1.3       0.0        0.0       1.3
   Corporate securities.................   431.9      10.5        9.9     432.5
   Mortgage-backed securities...........     3.1       0.1        0.1       3.1
                                          ------     -----      -----    ------
     Totals.............................  $458.3     $10.8      $10.6    $458.5
                                          ======     =====      =====    ======
</TABLE>
 
  The statement value and fair value of bonds by contractual maturity, are
shown below. Maturities will differ from contractual maturities because
eligible borrowers may exercise their right to call or prepay obligations with
or without call or prepayment penalties.
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                           MARCH 31, 1996  DECEMBER 31, 1995
                                          ---------------- -------------------
                                          STATEMENT  FAIR  STATEMENT   FAIR
                                            VALUE   VALUE    VALUE     VALUE
                                          --------- ------ ---------- --------
                                                     (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                                    <C>       <C>    <C>        <C>
   Due in one year or less...............  $  5.6   $  5.7  $   18.7  $   19.8
   Due after one year through five
    years................................   244.9    249.4     266.8     278.6
   Due after five years through ten
    years................................   182.2    189.4     153.1     167.4
   Due after ten years...................   151.9    164.8     108.7     125.8
                                           ------   ------  --------  --------
                                            584.6    609.3     547.3     591.6
   Mortgage-backed securities............    17.4     17.3       5.5       5.7
                                           ------   ------  --------  --------
                                           $602.0   $626.6  $  552.8  $  597.3
                                           ======   ======  ========  ========
</TABLE>      
 
  Proceeds from sales of bonds during the three months ended March 31, 1996
and March 31, 1995 were $10.4 million and $4.2 million, respectively. Gross
gains of $0.5 million and $0.0 million and gross losses of $0.1 million and
$0.0 million were realized on these transactions during the three months ended
March 31, 1996 and March 31, 1995, respectively.
 
  Proceeds from sales of bonds during 1995, 1994 and 1993 were $18.9 million,
$23.1 million, and $74.0 million, respectively. Gross gains of $0.2 million in
1995, $0.0 million in 1994, and $8.5 million in 1993 and gross losses of $0.1
million in 1995, $0.1 million in 1994, and $0.0 million in 1993 were realized
on these transactions.
 
  The cost of common stocks was $0.0 million, $0.1 million and $1.4 million at
March 31, 1996, December 31, 1995 and December 31, 1994, respectively. Gross
unrealized appreciation on common stocks totaled $1.4 million at March 31,
1996 and $1.7 million at December 31, 1995 and gross unrealized depreciation
totaled $0.0 million at March 31, 1996 and $0.1 million at December 31, 1995.
The fair value of preferred stock totaled $5.0 million at March 31, 1996, $5.2
million at December 31, 1995, and $5.0 million at December 31, 1994.
 
                                     F-13
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
NOTE 7--INVESTMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  Mortgage loans with outstanding principal balances of $1.1 million and bonds
with amortized cost of $6.0 million were nonincome producing for the three
months ended March 31, 1996. The corresponding amounts for the twelve months
ended December 31, 1995 were $1.1 million and $4.0 million, respectively.
 
  The mortgage loan portfolio was diversified by geographic region and
specific collateral property type as displayed below. The Company controls
credit risk through credit approvals, limits and monitoring procedures.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                MARCH 31, 1996
                              --------------------------------------------------
                                STATEMENT       GEOGRAPHIC       STATEMENT
         PROPERTY TYPE            VALUE       CONCENTRATION        VALUE
         -------------        ------------- ------------------ -------------
                              (IN MILLIONS)                    (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                        <C>           <C>                <C>           <C>
   Apartments................    $ 57.4     East North Central    $ 27.4
   Hotels....................       0.0     East South Central       0.0
   Industrial................      29.8     Middle Atlantic         10.5
   Office buildings..........      12.5     Mountain                11.6
   Retail....................      20.2     New England             19.7
   1-4 Family................       0.0     Pacific                 41.5
   Agricultural..............      22.6     South Atlantic          35.4
   Other.....................      12.0     West South Central       8.4
                                 ------                           ------
                                 $154.5                           $154.5
                                 ======                           ======
</TABLE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              DECEMBER 31, 1995
                              --------------------------------------------------
                                STATEMENT       GEOGRAPHIC       STATEMENT
         PROPERTY TYPE            VALUE       CONCENTRATION        VALUE
         -------------        ------------- ------------------ -------------
                              (IN MILLIONS)                    (IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                        <C>           <C>                <C>           <C>
   Apartments................    $ 52.1     East North Central    $ 30.1
   Hotels....................       4.5     East South Central       1.9
   Industrial................      25.4     Middle Atlantic         10.5
   Office buildings..........      12.6     Mountain                11.8
   Retail....................      20.3     New England             19.8
   Agricultural..............      19.8     Pacific                 41.6
   Other.....................      12.0     South Atlantic          31.0
                                 ------                           ------
                                 $146.7                           $146.7
                                 ======                           ======
</TABLE>
 
  At March 31, 1996, the fair values of the commercial and agricultural
mortgage loans portfolios were $133.7 million and $29.3 million, respectively.
The corresponding amounts as of December 31, 1995 were $132.1 million and
$22.2 million, respectively. The corresponding amounts as of December 31, 1994
were $118.8 million and $27.3 million, respectively.
 
NOTE 8--REINSURANCE
 
  The Company cedes business to reinsurers to share risks under variable life,
universal life and flexible variable life insurance policies for the purpose
of reducing exposure to large losses. Premiums, benefits and reserves ceded to
reinsurers during the three months ended March 31, 1996 were $24.6 million,
$1.5 million, and $12.0 million, respectively. The corresponding
 
                                     F-14
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
NOTE 8--REINSURANCE--(CONTINUED)
 
amounts during the three months ended March 31, 1995 were $15.6 million, $1.2
million, and $15.3 million, respectively. The corresponding amounts in 1995
were $72.4 million, $8.7 million, and $12.1 million, respectively. The
corresponding amounts in 1994 were $67.5 million, $12.3 million, and $16.3
million, respectively. The corresponding amounts in 1993 were $74.9 million,
$9.8 million, and $14.4 million, respectively.
 
  To the extent that an assuming reinsurance company is unable to meet its
obligations under a reinsurance agreement, the Company remains liable as the
direct insurer on all risks reinsured.
 
NOTE 9--POLICYHOLDERS' RESERVES AND BENEFICIARIES' FUND
 
  The Company's annuity reserves and deposit fund liabilities that are subject
to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment), subject to discretionary
withdrawal (without adjustment), and not subject to discretionary withdrawal
provisions are summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            MARCH 31,
                                                               1996     PERCENT
                                                          ------------- -------
                                                          (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                       <C>           <C>
Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment):
  With market value adjustment...........................    $  0.0        0.0%
  At book value less surrender charge....................     174.5       99.4
                                                             ------      -----
  Total with adjustment..................................     174.5       99.4
  Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without
   adjustment) at book value.............................       1.1        0.6
Not to discretionary withdrawal..........................       0.0        0.0
                                                             ------      -----
Total annuity reserves and deposit liabilities...........    $175.6      100.0%
                                                             ======      =====
<CAPTION>
                                                          DECEMBER 31,
                                                               1995     PERCENT
                                                          ------------- -------
                                                          (IN MILLIONS)
<S>                                                       <C>           <C>
Subject to discretionary withdrawal (with adjustment):
  With market value adjustment...........................    $  0.0        0.0%
  At book value less surrender charge....................     115.4       99.1
                                                             ------      -----
  Total with adjustment..................................     115.4       99.1
  Subject to discretionary withdrawal (without
   adjustment) at book value.............................       1.0        0.9
Not subject to discretionary withdrawal..................       0.0        0.0
                                                             ------      -----
Total annuity reserves and deposit liabilities...........    $116.4      100.0%
                                                             ======      =====
</TABLE>
 
NOTE 10--COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
  The Company has extended commitments to purchase long-term bonds and issue
real estate mortgages totalling $9.4 million and $0.0 million, respectively,
at March 31, 1996. The corresponding amounts at December 31, 1995 were $16.6
million and $5.4 million, respectively. The Company monitors the
creditworthiness of borrowers under long-term bond commitments and requires
collateral as deemed necessary. If funded, loans related to real estate
mortgages
 
                                     F-15
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
                  NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   (INFORMATION AS OF, AND FOR THE PERIODS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 AND 1995 IS
                                  UNAUDITED.)
NOTE 10--COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES--(CONTINUED)
 
would be fully collateralized by the related properties. The fair values of
the commitments described above were $9.5 million at March 31, 1996 and $23.8
million at December 31, 1995. The majority of these commitments expire in
1996.
 
  In the normal course of its business operations, the Company is involved in
litigation from time to time with claimants, beneficiaries and others, and a
number of litigation matters were pending as of March 31, 1996 and December
31, 1995. It is the opinion of management, after consultation with counsel,
that the ultimate liability with respect to these claims, if any, will not
materially affect the financial position of the Company.
 
                                     F-16
<PAGE>
 
           APPENDIX A - SAMPLE MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT CALCULATIONS


The formula which will be used to determine the Market Value Adjustment is:

    
                                            n/12
                                    1 + g            
                               (-----------)        -1
                                1 + c +.005                  

Sample Calculation 1:  Positive Adjustment  

<TABLE> 
<S>                                    <S> 
Amount withdrawn or transferred                $10,000
Guarantee Period                               7 years
Time of withdrawal or transfer         beginning of 3rd year of Guarantee Period
Guaranteed Rate (g)                            8%*
Guaranteed Rate for                  
  new 5-year guarantee (c)                     7%*
Remaining Guarantee Period (n)                 60 months
Market Value Adjustment:
</TABLE> 
                                                       
                                60/12                  
                  1 + .08                              
   $10,000 x [(--------------)          - 1] = $234.73 
               1 + .07 + .005                           

       Amount transferred or withdrawn (adjusted for Market Value Adjustment):
       $10,234.73

Sample Calculation 2:  Negative Adjustment

<TABLE> 
<S>                                     <C> 
Amount withdrawn or transferred                 $10,000
Guarantee Period                                7 years
Time of withdrawal or transfer          beginning of 3rd year of Guarantee Period
Guaranteed Rate (g)                             8%*
Guaranteed Rate for
  new 5-year guarantee (c)                      9%*
Remaining Guarantee Period (n)                  60 months
Market Value Adjustment:
</TABLE> 

                                 60/12                   
                  1 + .08                                
   $10,000 x [(--------------)          - 1] = $-666.42 
               1 + .09 + .005                             

       Amount transferred or withdrawn (adjusted for Market Value Adjustment):
       $9,333.58

<PAGE>
 
Sample Calculation 3:  Negative Adjustment

<TABLE> 
<S>                                     <C> 
Amount withdrawn or transferred                 $10,000
Guarantee Period                                7 years
Time of withdrawal or transfer          beginning of 3rd year of Guarantee Period
Guaranteed Rate (g)                             8%*
Guaranteed Rate for
  new 5-year guarantee (c)                      7.75%*
Remaining Guarantee Period (n)                  60 months
Market Value Adjustment:
</TABLE> 
    
                                60/12   
                 1 + .08   
 $10,000 x [(----------------)         - 1] = $-114.94
             1 + .0775 + .005                          

       Amount transferred or withdrawn (adjusted for Market Value Adjustment):
       $9,885.06

__________________________

 . Assumed for illustrative purposes only.
<PAGE>
 
                   APPENDIX B - VARIABLE ANNUITY INFORMATION
                     FOR INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITIES 
                                                    
     To help you understand your purchase of this Contract as an Individual
Retirement Annuity (IRA), we are providing the following summary.

  I. Accumulation Units and the MVA Fixed Account. Each net premium payment you
  make into your Contract is allocated to the Subaccounts and/or Guarantee
  Periods you select. Accumulation Units are acquired under the Contract with
  amounts you allocate to the Subaccounts. This is the unit of measurement used
  to determine the value of the variable portion of your Contract. The number of
  units acquired in any Subaccount is based on the unit value of that Subaccount
  next determined after receipt of the payment at JHISC. The values of
  Accumulation Units fluctuate with the daily investment performance of the
  corresponding Subaccount. The growth in the value of your Contract, to the
  extent invested in the Separate Account, is neither guaranteed nor projected
  and varies with the investment performance of the Fund underlying the
  Subaccount you have selected. Each net premium payment allocated to a
  Guarantee Period in the MVA Fixed Account will be credited interest, as
  determined by the Company. A minimum guaranteed interest rate of 3% applies to
  Contracts where required under state law. Amounts withdrawn or surrendered
  from a Guarantee Period may be increased or decreased by a Market Value
  Adjustment. More details appear under "Accumulation Period" and "The MVA Fixed
  Account" in this prospectus.

  II. Separate Account and Trust Charges. The assets of the Separate Account are
  charged for services and certain expense guarantees. The annualized charge
  equals a maximum of 1.25%. Trust fees varying by Fund are charged against the
  Funds for investment management and advisory services, and other expenses.
  Details appear under "Charges Under the Contracts" in this prospectus and in
  the accompanying prospectus of the Trust.

  III. Deductions from the Contract. The full amount of each premium payment,
  net of any premium taxes deducted, is applied to the Contract. At or after the
  payment dates, one or more of the following charges may be made, depending on
  circumstances.

        1. CDSL. In each Contract Year you may withdraw as much as 10% of the
    Accumulated Value of your Contract as of the beginning of the Contract Year
    without charge. Withdrawals in excess of this amount will be subject to the
    following charges:

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION>                 
                Years from Date                                        
                of Premium Payment to                                  CDSL  
                Date of Surrender or Withdrawal                        Charge 
                -------------------------------                        ------
                <S>                                                    <C> 
                7 or more .............................................0%

                6 but less than 7......................................2%

                5 but less than 6......................................3%

                4 but less than 5......................................4%

                3 but less than 4......................................5%

                2 but less than 3......................................5%

                less than 2............................................6%
</TABLE> 

    For the purpose of calculating the CDSL, deposits are considered to be
    withdrawn on a "first-in first-out" basis. Earnings are considered to be
    withdrawn last, and are withdrawn without charge. Under certain
    circumstances the CDSL is not assessed. This is described in more detail
    under "Contingent Deferred Sales Load" under "Charges Under the Contracts"
    in this prospectus.

         2. Contract Fee.  The Company currently deducts $30 from the
    Accumulated Value as a Contract Fee if the Accumulated Value is less than
    $10,000. This occurs annually or at the time of surrender. Please refer to
    "Charges for Administrative Services" under "Charges Under the Contracts" in
    this prospectus.
<PAGE>
 
   3.  STATE PREMIUM TAX.  Some states and local governments impose a premium or
similar tax on annuities. The Company only deducts this tax when required to do
so. Please refer to "Premium or Similar Taxes" under "Changes Under Contracts"
in this prospectus.

   4.  OPTIONAL BENEFIT RIDERS.  Three optional benefit riders are available
under the Contracts, including the One Year Stepped-Up Death Benefit, Accidental
Death Benefit and Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL riders. The charges for these
riders are 0.15%, 0.10% and 0.05% (annual percentage rates), respectively, of
Accumulated Value. Please refer to "Nursing Home Waiver of CDSL" and "Optional
Death Benefit Charges" under "Charges Under the Contracts."
<PAGE>
 
                 JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY 

          DEFERRED COMBINATION FIXED AND VARIABLE ANNUITY CONTRACTS 

                   JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE ANNUITY ACCOUNT JF 

                     STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

                             ___________________

     This statement of additional information ("SAI"), dated ________, 1996, is
not a prospectus. It is intended that this SAI be read in conjunction with the
prospectus of John Hancock Variable Annuity Account JF, dated ________, 1996,
for the Contracts being offered. Capitalized terms used in this SAI that are not
otherwise defined herein have the same meanings given to them in the prospectus.
A copy of the prospectus may be obtained from John Hancock Investor Services
Corporation, P.O. Box 9298, Boston Massachusetts, 02205-9298, telephone number
(800) 824-0335.


<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                               -----------------
                                                              Cross Reference to
                                      Page                   Pages in Prospectus
                                      ----                   -------------------
<S>                                   <C>                    <C> 
The Separate Account....................2                            15
Services Agreement......................2                            NA 
Calculation of Performance Data.........2                            48
Calculation of Annuity Payments.........3                            32
Separate Account Financial Statements...6                            F-1 
</TABLE> 

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
                             THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT 

     John Hancock Variable Annuity Account JF ("Separate Account") is a separate
account of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company ("Company"), established
under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Separate Account is
organized as a unit investment trust and registered with the Securities and
Exchange Commission ("Commission") under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended ("1940 Act"). The Separate Account has ten separate subaccounts
("Subaccounts") that fund the variable portion of the Company's deferred
combination fixed and variable annuity contracts ("Contracts"). The individual
Contract owner ("Owner") may choose among the V.A. International, V.A. Emerging
Growth, V.A. Discovery, V.A. Independence Equity, V.A Sovereign Investors, V.A.
500 Index, V.A. Sovereign Bond, V.A. Strategic Income, V.A. World Bond, and V.A.
Money Market Subaccounts. The assets of each Subaccount are, in turn, invested
in a corresponding Fund of John Hancock Declaration Trust ("Trust"), a
registered open-end management investment company advised by John Hancock
Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser") and affiliated sub-advisers. The Owner may also
choose to fund the Contracts through the MVA Fixed Account, providing Guaranteed
Rates for various Guarantee Periods.

                              SERVICES AGREEMENT
    
     John Hancock, on behalf of itself and the Company, and JHFI have entered 
into a Responsibility and Cost Allocation Agreement ("Agreement") for the 
allocation of services and related costs with respect to various functions, 
duties and responsibilities associated with the Contracts and other variable 
annuity contracts that may be offered by the Company or John Hancock. The 
Agreement provides for the allocation of such matters as regulatory compliance, 
insurance underwriting and issuance, pricing and unit valuation, accounting, 
record maintenance, surrenders, benefit payments, commissions payments, reports 
to annuity contract owners, and distribution and marketing.  The cost of 
performing the duties allocated will be borne by the party responsible for 
discharging the function, unless agreed upon otherwise.  John Hancock and JHFI 
may delegate any of their respective duties to their susidiaries or affiliates.
     

                        CALCULATION OF PERFORMANCE DATA
                                                    
     The Separate Account may, from time to time, include in advertisements,
sales literature and reports to Owners or prospective investors information
relating to the performance of its Subaccounts. The performance information that
may be presented is not an estimate or a guarantee of future investment
performance, and does not represent the actual experience of amounts invested by
a particular Owner. Set out below is a description of the methods used in
calculating the performance information for the Subaccounts.

     The Separate Account will calculate the average annual total return for
each Subaccount (other than the Money Market Subaccount), according to the
following formula prescribed by the Commission:

                          P(1+T) circumflex n = ERV 
                                                    
                                                    

     where:      P  =a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
                 T  =average annual total return
                 n  =number of years
               ERV  =ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000 payment,
                     made at the beginning of a period (or fractional portion
                     thereof)

     Average annual total return is the annual compounded rate of return that
would have produced the cash redemption value under a Contract had the
Subaccount been invested in a specified Fund of the Trust over the stated period
and had the performance remained constant throughout. The calculation assumes a
single $1,000 payment made at the beginning of the period and full redemption at
the end of the period. It reflects adjustments for all Trust and Contract level
charges except any premium tax charge or charges for optional benefits described
in the prospectus.

     The Separate Account will calculate current yield for each Subaccount
(other than the Money Market Subaccount) according to the following formula
prescribed by the Commission:

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
                Yield  = 2[((a - b)/(cd) + 1) circumflex 6 - 1]



      where:  a = net investment income earned during the period by the Fund
                  whose shares are owned by the Subaccount

              b = expenses accrued for the period (net of any reimbursements)

              c = the average daily number of Accumulation Units outstanding
                  during the period

              d = the maximum offering price per Accumulation Unit on the last
                  day of the period.

     According to this formula, yield is determined by dividing the net
investment income per Accumulation Unit earned during the period (minus the
deduction for mortality and expense risk charge, administration charge and
Contract Fee) by the Accumulation Unit Value on the last day of the period and
annualizing the resulting figure. The calculation is based on specified 30-day
periods identified in the advertisement. Neither the CDSL nor any charges for
premium taxes or optional benefits are reflected in the calculation.

     The Separate Account may calculate current yield and effective yield
figures for the Money Market Subaccount. The current yield of the Money Market
Subaccount for a seven-day period ("base period") will be computed by
determining the "net change in value" (calculated as set forth below) of a
hypothetical Owner account having a balance of one Unit at the beginning of the
period, dividing the net change in account value by the value of the account at
the beginning of the base period to obtain the base period return, and
multiplying the base period return by 365/7 with the resulting yield figure
carried to the nearest hundredth of one percent. Net changes in value of the
hypothetical Owner account will include net investment income of that account
(accrued daily dividends as declared by the Money Market Fund, less daily
expense charges of the Separate Account) for the period, but will not include
realized gains or losses or unrealized appreciation or depreciation on the
underlying Money Market Fund shares. The mortality and expense risk charges,
administration charge and Contract Fee are reflected, but the CDSL and any
charge for premium taxes and optional benefits are not.

     The effective yield reflects the effects of compounding and represents an
annualization of the current return with all dividends reinvested. The formula
for effective yield, as prescribed by the Commission, is:
                       
     Effective yield = [(Base period return + 1) circumflex (365/7)] - 1 


                       CALCULATION OF ANNUITY PAYMENTS 
                                                    
     The variable monthly annuity payment to an Annuitant under a Contract is
equal to the sum of the products of the number of each Subaccount's Annuity
Units credited to the Contract multiplied by the applicable Annuity Unit Value,
as these terms are defined under "Special Terms" and "Variable Account Valuation
Procedures," respectively, in the Account's prospectus. The number of each
Subaccount's Annuity Units credited to the Contract is multiplied by the
applicable Annuity Unit Value as of ten calendar days prior to the date the
payment is due. The value of the Annuity Units varies from day to day, depending
on the investment performance of the Subaccount, the deductions made against the
Subaccount, and the assumed investment rate used in computing Annuity Unit
Values. Thus, the variable monthly annuity payments vary in amount from month to
month.

     The amount of the initial variable monthly payment is determined on the
assumption that the actual net investment rate of each Subaccount used in
calculating the Net Investment Factor (as described under "Variable Account
Valuation Procedures" in the Account's prospectus) will be equal on an annual
basis to the assumed investment rate. If the actual net investment rate between
the dates for determining two monthly annuity 

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
payments is greater than the assumed investment rate, the latter monthly payment
will be larger in amount than the former. On the other hand, if the actual net
investment rate between the dates for determining two monthly annuity payments
is less than the assumed investment rate, the latter monthly payment will be
smaller in amount than the former.

     The mortality tables used as a basis for both variable and fixed annuity
purchase rates are the 1983a Mortality Tables, with projections of mortality
improvements and with certain age adjustments based on the Contract Year of
annuitization. The mortality table used in a Contract purchased in connection
with certain employer-related plans and used in all Contracts issued in Montana
will be the Female Annuity Table of the 1983a Mortality Tables. The impact of
this change will be lower benefits (5% to 15%) from a male's viewpoint than
would otherwise be the case.

     An illustration of the method of calculation of variable monthly annuity
payments and the number of Annuity Units under the Contracts is shown below.

GENERAL FORMULAE TO DETERMINE ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES AND ANNUITY UNIT VALUES


Net Investment Rate =

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                      Subaccount Charges (0.003425% per      
Investment        Capital      Capital      Taxes                    Day of the Value of the Subaccount at   
Income       +    Gains     -  Losses    -   (if any)   -            the Beginning of the Valuation Period)*  
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    Value of the Subaccount at the Beginning of the Valuation Period
<S>               <C>          <C>          <C>                      <C> 
Net Investment
Factor           =      1.00000000 + Net Investment Rate


Accumulation            Accumulation Unit Value on                  Net Investment
Unit Value      =       Preceding Valuation Date              X     Factor

                        Annuity Unit              Net
Annuity Unit            Value on Preceding        Investment        Factor to Neutralize
Value            =      Valuation Date       X    Factor      X     Assumed Investment Rate
</TABLE> 


_________________________

/*/  The 0.003425% daily charge is based on charges for mortality and expense
     risk and administration at the annual rate of 1.25%. A lower decimal amount
     of daily charge would apply under the 1.00% annual rate. See "Charges Under
     the Contracts" in the prospectus.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATING THE CALCULATION OF ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES
AND ANNUITY UNIT VALUES

     Assume at the beginning of the Valuation Period being considered, the value
of a particular Subaccount was $4,000,000. Investment income during the
Valuation Period totaled $2000 while capital gains were $3000 and capital losses
were $1000. No taxes accrued. Charges against the beginning value of the
Subaccount amount to [$137.00] assuming a one day Valuation Period. The
[$137.00] was computed by multiplying the beginnings Subaccount value of
$4,000,000 by the factor [0.00003425]. By substituting in the first formula
above, the net investment rate is equal to [$3863.00 ($2000 + $3000 - $1000 -
$137.00)] divided by $4,000,000 or [0.0009658.] The Net Investment Factor would
then be [1.0009658].

     Assume further that each Accumulation Unit had a value of $11.250000 on the
previous Valuation Date, and the value of an Annuity Unit on such date was
$1.0850000. Based upon the experience of the Subaccount during the Valuation
Period, the value of an Accumulation Unit at the end of the Valuation Period
would be [$11.260865 ($11.250000 x 1.0009658)]. The value of an Annuity Unit at
the end of the Valuation Period would be [$1.085946 ($1.0850000 x 1.0009658 x
 .99990575)]. The final figure, [.99990575], neutralizes the effect of a 3 1/2%
assumed investment rate so that the Annuity Unit recognizes only the actual
investment experience.


GENERAL FORMULAE TO DETERMINE AMOUNT OF MONTHLY VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENTS AND
NUMBER OF ANNUITY UNITS


Amount of First Variable Annuity Payment =

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                       First
Number of                                                                                             Monthly       
Accumulation                   Accumulation Unit Value                                                Annuity
Shares Applied        X        10 Days Before Maturity Date                            X              Payment
- -----------------------------------------------------------                                  
<S>                   <C>      <C>                                                     <C>            <C> 
                               $1000                                                                  Factor


Number of
Annuity Units         =        Amount of First Variable Annuity Payment
                               ------------------------------------------------
                               Annuity Unit Value 10 Days Before Maturity Date

Amount of                                                                                    Annuity Unit
Subsequent Variable                                                                         Value 10 Days
Annuity Payment      =         Number of Annuity Units                          X            Before Date
</TABLE> 

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATING THE CALCULATION OF THE AMOUNT OF MONTHLY
VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENT

     Assume that 10 days before the date of maturity a Contract has credited to
it 4000.000 Accumulation Units each having a value of $12.000000. The
appropriate annuity purchase rate in the Contract for an assumed investment rate
of 3 1/2% is $5.47 per $1000 of proceeds for the Annuity Option elected. The
Annuitant's first monthly payment would then be $262.56.

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
                          4000.000 x $12.000000 x 5.47
                          ----------------------      
                                     $1000

     If the value of an Annuity Unit 10 days before the date of maturity was
$1.4000000, the number of Annuity Units represented by the first and subsequent
payments would be $187.543 ($262.56/$1.4000000). If the Annuity Unit Value 10
days before the due date of the second monthly payment was $1.405000, the amount
of the second payment would be $263.50 (187.543 x $1.405000).


                     SEPARATE ACCOUNT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     There are presently no financial statements for the Separate Account, as
the Separate Account has not yet commenced operations and therefore has no
assets or liabilities.

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART II

                    INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

ITEM 13.   OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION

     The estimated expenses of issuance and distribution of the Contracts are as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            AMOUNT*
                                                            -------
     <S>                                                    <C>
     Securities and Exchange Commission Registration Fee  .  $
     Printing Expenses ....................................  $
         Accounting Fees ..................................  $
     Legal Fees and Miscellaneous Expenses ................  $
                                                            -------
         Total expenses ...................................  $
                                                            =======
</TABLE>

- --------------
* To be completed by amendment.


ITEM 14.   INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

     Pursuant to Section X of the Company's By-Laws and Section 67 of the
Massachusetts Business Corporation Law, the Company indemnifies each director,
former director, officer, and former officer, and his or her heirs and legal
representatives from liability incurred or imposed in connection with any legal
action in which he or she may be involved by reason of any alleged act or
omission as an officer or a director of the Company. No indemnification shall be
paid if a director or officer is finally adjudicated not to have acted in good
faith in the reasonable belief that his or her action was in the best interest
of the Company. The Company may pay expenses incurred in defending an action or
claim in advance of its final disposition, but only upon receipt of an
undertaking by the person indemnified to repay such amounts if he or she should
be determined not to be entitled to indemnification.


ITEM 15.   RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES

     Not Applicable


ITEM 16.   EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
 
 1(a).  Distribution Agreement by and between John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance
        Company and John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company, dated August
        26, 1993, incorporated by reference from Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1
        to initial Form S-6 Registration Statement for John Hancock Variable
        Life Account S (File No. 33-64366) filed October 29, 1993.

                                      II-1
<PAGE>
 
 1(b).  Amendment dated August 1, 1994, to Distribution Agreement by and between
        John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company and John Hancock Variable
        Life Insurance Company, dated August 26, 1993, incorporated by reference
        from Form N-4 Registration Statement for John Hancock Variable Annuity
        Account I (File No. 33-82648), filed August 10, 1994.

 1(c).  Form of Variable Annuity Marketing and Distribution Agreement Between
        John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company, and John Hancock Funds, Inc.

 1(d).  Form of Soliciting Dealer Agreement between John Hancock Funds, Inc.,
        and soliciting broker-dealers or financial institutions participating in
        distribution of Contracts. (Included as Appendix B to Exhibit 3(c).)

 3(a).  Articles of Organization of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance
        Company, incorporated by reference from Form S-1 Registration Statement
        of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company (File No. 33-62895)
        filed electronically on September 22, 1995.

 3(b).  By-Laws of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company, incorporated by
        reference from Form S-1 Registration Statement of John Hancock Variable
        Life Insurance Company (File No. 33-62895) filed electronically on
        September 22, 1995.

 4(a).  Form of group deferred combination fixed and variable annuity contract.

 4(b).  Form of group deferred combination fixed and variable annuity
        certificate.

 4(d).  Form of nursing home waiver of CDSL rider filed electronically on 
        December 2, 1995.

 4(e).  Form of one year stepped-up death benefit rider filed electronically on 
        December 2, 1995.

                                      II-2
<PAGE>
 
 4(f).  Form of accidental death benefit rider filed electronically on December 
        2, 1995.

 4(g).  Form of contract application filed electronically on December 2, 1995.

 5.     Opinion and consent of counsel.  

10.     Form of Responsibility and Cost Allocation Agreement Between John
        Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company and John Hancock Funds, Inc.

23(a).  Consent of independent auditors.  

23(b).  Consent of counsel.  (See Exhibit 5.)

24.     Powers of Attorney. (Incorporated by reference from Form S-1 
        Registration Statement for John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company,
        filed September 25, 1995 (File No. 33-62895).

27.     Financial Data Schedule with respect to Unaudited Financial Statements
        of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company for the Period Ended
        September 30, 1995.


ITEM 17.   UNDERTAKINGS

     (a) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:

     (1) To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a
post-effective amendment to this registration statement:

         i. To include any Prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the
Securities Act of 1933;

         ii. To reflect in the Prospectus any facts or events arising after the
effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective
amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a
fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement;

         iii. To include any material information with respect to the plan of
distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any
material change to such information in the registration statement;

     (2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities
Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new
registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the
offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
fide offering thereof.

                                      II-3
<PAGE>
 
     (3) To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any
of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the
offering.

     (b) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers, and controlling persons of
the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the
registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act
and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification
against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses
incurred or paid by a director, officer, or controlling person of the registrant
in the successful defense of any action, suit, or proceeding) is asserted by
such director, officer, or controlling person in connection with the securities
being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion or its counsel the
matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of
appropriate jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it is
against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final
adjudication of such issue.

                                      II-4
<PAGE>
 
                                  SIGNATURES


     PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, THE REGISTRANT
HAS DULY CAUSED THIS AMENDMENT TO THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT TO BE SIGNED ON ITS
BEHALF BY THE UNDERSIGNED, THEREUNTO DULY AUTHORIZED, IN THE CITY OF BOSTON,
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, ON THE 8th DAY OF JULY 1996.


                                             JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE
                                             INSURANCE COMPANY (REGISTRANT)


                                             By /s/HENRY D. SHAW          
                                               -------------------------------
                                                    Henry D. Shaw
                                                    Vice Chairman of the Board
                                                    and President


     AS REQUIRED BY THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, THIS AMENDMENT TO THE
REGISTRATION STATEMENT HAS BEEN SIGNED BY THE FOLLOWING PERSONS IN THEIR
CAPACITIES WITH JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND ON THE DATES
INDICATED.

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
Signature                     Title                                   Date
- ---------                     -----                                   ----

<S>                           <C>                                <C> 
/s/PATRICK F. SMITH           Controller (Principal              July 8, 1996
- -------------------                                                  
Patrick F. Smith              Financial Officer and
                              Principal Accounting Officer)


/s/HENRY D. SHAW              Vice Chairman                      July 8, 1996
- ------------------                                                   
Henry D. Shaw                 and President
for himself and as            (Acting Principal
Attorney-in-Fact              Executive Officer)


FOR: David F. D'Alessandro    Chairman of the Board
     Robert S. Paster         Director
     Michelle G. Van Leer     Director
     Joseph A. Tomlinson      Director
     Robert R. Reitano        Director
     Barbara L. Luddy         Director
</TABLE> 

                                      II-5

<PAGE>

                                                           
                                                        EXHIBIT 1(c) TO FORM S-1
                                                        EXHIBIT 3(c) TO FORM N-4
                                                                                
                              
                      FORM OF VARIABLE ANNUITY CONTRACTS      
                  MARKETING AND DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT BETWEEN
                  JOHN HANCOCK MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY,
                          AND JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS, INC.


          This Agreement is executed and effective on __________, 1996, between
John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company a Massachusetts company, (hereinafter
referred to as "Hancock"), and John Hancock Funds, Inc. ("JHFI"), a Delaware
corporation.  This Agreement establishes the relationship between Hancock and
JHFI for the marketing and distribution of variable annuity contracts
("Contracts").

WHEREAS, Hancock and its wholly-owned subsidiary, John Hancock Variable Life
Insurance Company ("JHVLICO"), a Massachusetts company are  engaged in the
issuance of variable annuity contracts in accordance with both the Federal
securities laws and the laws of the states in which the Contracts have been
qualified for sale.  For the purposes of this Agreement, Hancock shall act on
behalf of JHVLICO in the distribution of the Contracts.

WHEREAS, JHFI is a registered broker/dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 and a member in good standing of the National Association of Securities
Dealers Inc.("NASD"); and

WHEREAS, Hancock desires to retain JHFI as principal distributor for
distribution and marketing of the Contracts and JHFI desires to provide such
services, the parties agree as follows:

1.        Authorization
          -------------

          1.1 Hancock, as principal underwriter of the Contracts under the State
Insurance Laws, hereby authorizes JHFI, as the underwriter for the purposes of
Federal and State Securities Laws, to solicit independent broker/dealers who are
affiliated with, or are themselves, independent life insurance agencies and who
will distribute and sell the Contracts.  JHFI agrees to abide by all rules and
regulations of the NASD, including its Rules of Fair Practice, and to comply
with all applicable state and Federal laws and the rules and regulations of
authorized regulatory agencies affecting the sale of the Contracts.

          1.2 JHFI shall market and distribute the Contracts through
broker/dealers it has selected at its sole discretion.  The broker/dealers shall
offer the Contracts for sale to persons for whom the Contracts are suitable.
All applications are subject to the acceptance or rejection by Hancock or JHFI
in their discretion.

          1.3 Hancock, in its sole discretion, may at any time and upon written
notice withhold or withdraw the authority of JHFI and/or any broker/dealer to
solicit applications for the Contracts.  Upon such notice, JHFI agrees to
immediately cease all

                                     1 of 8
<PAGE>
 
such solicitations and to notify the broker/dealer(s) of
the withdrawal(s) of such authority.  It is understood that Hancock retains the
right to reject or terminate the authorization of any broker/dealer.

2.        Independence of Corporate Identities
          ------------------------------------

          This Agreement and the relationship established hereby do not
constitute an agency, partnership, association or other merging of corporate
identities between Hancock and JHFI.  JHFI is an independent contractor and
shall maintain SIPC coverage at all times during which this Agreement, or any
provision hereof, is in effect.

3.        Duties of JHFI
          --------------

          3.1 Distribution of the Contracts
          ---------------------------------

          (a) JHFI shall use its best efforts to introduce and successfully sell
John Hancock Contracts through national broker/dealers, regional broker/dealers,
financial institution (bank) broker/dealers, and other broker/dealer firms.

          (b) Distribution is to occur only through qualified broker/dealers
selected by JHFI and with whom JHFI has a properly executed Soliciting Dealer
Agreement, the form of which is attached hereto as Appendix B.  JHFI shall
ensure that each broker/dealer is expressly advised that it will assume full
responsibility for compliance with the NASD Rules of Fair Practice, applicable
federal and state securities laws and regulations, and state insurance laws and
regulations in connection with its offer, sale and servicing of the Contracts.

          (c) JHFI warrants that each broker/dealer, and each Registered
Representative thereof, (hereinafter "Representatives") is (or at all times when
legally required will be) licensed by the NASD and that all such Representatives
are (or at all times when legally required will be) licensed as insurance
agents, and appointed as such by JHVLICO or Hancock in the appropriate
jurisdiction.  Each broker/dealer shall be appointed by Hancock as an insurance
broker only for the purposes contemplated by this Agreement.  JHFI shall assume
the initial expense where appropriate (subject to JHFI's sole discretion) of
appointment of the representative as life insurance agents of Hancock.  JHFI
shall provide a copy of any existing life agent's insurance license and NASD
registration to Hancock for each Representative.

          (d) JHFI is responsible for instructing each broker/dealer to offer
the Contracts for sale in accordance with the prospectus describing the
Contract.

          (e) JHFI, on behalf of the broker/dealer through whom a Contract is
sold, will confirm in accordance with Rule 10b-10 under the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 (the "1934 Act") the initial allocation of a premium payment under
the Contract and such other transactions as are required by Rule 10b-10 or
applicable administrative interpretations thereof.

                                     2 of 8
<PAGE>
 
          3.2 Services
          ------------

          JHFI, at its expense, shall provide the following services to
broker/dealers. (JHFI may delegate certain servicing functions required under
this Agreement to John Hancock Investor Services Corporation).

          (a) Initial and ongoing due diligence with respect to the Contracts
and to provide broker/dealers with current due diligence reports upon request;

          (b) Provide assistance to the broker/dealers in arranging for the
insurance appointment of the broker/dealer's licensed sales force;

          (c) Provide an 800 number customer service unit to render pre and post
sales and servicing assistance to the broker/dealer and its staff with respect
to Contracts;

          (d) Supply all prospectuses, any current supplements thereto, and
product brochures as well as the relevant administrative forms for the
processing of applications.  Provide assistance and advice to the broker/dealers
regarding the preparation of any other sales and marketing material, provided
however, that the cost of any other such marketing material, including direct
mail literature, special signage, or approved changes in the material supply,
will be the broker/dealer's responsibility.

          (e) Notify broker/dealers of the issuance of any stop order or any
Federal or state judicial or regulatory proceeding which would prevent the sale
of Contracts in any state or jurisdiction.

          3.3 Accounting
          --------------


          (a) JHFI shall be responsible to Hancock for the collection of
premiums by representatives.  JHFI shall instruct the representatives to remit
all premiums to Hancock, through JHFI or its designee, John Hancock Investor
Services Corporation, immediately upon receipt, in such manner as shall be
mutually agreed upon in writing by JHFI and Hancock, together with all
applications and related information.  All premiums shall be in the form of
checks, money orders or electronic funds transfers payable to Hancock and shall
be accompanied by listings identifying the applications to which they relate.

4.        Duties of Hancock
          -----------------

          4.1 Hancock, at its expense, shall be responsible for obtaining the
approval of the forms of the applications and Contracts which are the subject of
this Agreement from the applicable regulatory authorities.

          4.2 Hancock shall, at its expense, provide JHFI with all necessary
Contract related forms, except those prepared and provided by JHFI, (including,
but not limited to, applications, Contracts, prospectuses, administrative forms
and due diligence materials.)  In consultation with JHFI, Hancock shall
determine the supply needed.

                                     3 of 8
<PAGE>
 
          4.3 Hancock reserves the right to withdraw, change or modify any of
the Contracts and/or applications covered by this Agreement and to withdraw
wholly or in part from the marketing of Contracts in any state without incurring
any liability or obligation to JHFI.

5.        Compensation
          ------------

          5.1 Hancock shall pay or shall cause JHVLICO to pay to JHFI, through
John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc., its wholly owned subsidiary and
Massachusetts Corporation, duly licensed as an insurance agency in the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the compensation in accordance with the schedule
in Appendix A to this Agreement (attached hereto and specifically incorporated
herein by this reference).  Such payment shall constitute the sole and exclusive
compensation payable by Hancock with respect to the Contracts issued hereunder
and all services rendered under or in contemplation of this Agreement
(Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, however, the parties may enter into one
or more agreements that allocate among themselves differently the costs and
expenses of performing their obligations under the Agreement).  John Hancock
Insurance Agency, Inc. shall, in turn, compensate JHFI, for performing its
obligations hereunder.

          5.2 JHFI represents and warrants to Hancock that John Hancock
Insurance Agency, Inc. will have and maintain all governmental approvals,
licenses, authorizations, orders and consents that are necessary for it to
receive the payments described in this Section 5.

          5.3 JHFI shall enter into selling agreements or Soliciting Dealer
Agreements with qualified broker/dealers which require JHFI to pay commissions
or other compensation to each broker/dealer.  In such event, JHFI agrees that
the payment of any such commissions or other compensation shall be the sole
responsibility of JHFI upon transfer of such funds from Hancock.

          5.4 Compensation will be paid by JHFI to the independent
broker/dealers through John Hancock Funds Insurance Agency, Inc.

6.        Indemnification
          ---------------

          6.1 JHFI agrees to indemnify and hold Hancock harmless from and
against any loss, cost, expense, liability, claim or damage incurred by them
(including, but no limited to, fines, penalties, and reasonable attorneys' fees)
arising as a result of any action or inaction of JHFI or its officers or
employees, or of any broker/dealer in connection with the marketing, sale, and
distribution of the Contracts as contemplated by this Agreement and the related
Selling Agreements.

          6.2 Hancock agrees to indemnify and hold JHFI harmless from and
against any loss, cost, expense, liability, claim, or damage incurred by JHFI
(including but not limited to, fines, penalties, and reasonably attorneys' fees)
arising as a result of the form of the Contracts, applications, prospectuses,
and Statements of Additional Information (but not including the Fund's
Prospectus or Statement of Additional Information) or marketing materials
created by Hancock related thereto.

                                     4 of 8
<PAGE>
 
7.        Cooperation
          -----------

          7.1 Hancock and JHFI agree to cooperate with respect to investigating
and settling all claims which may be made against Hancock, JHFI, or any
broker/dealer involving the solicitation of applications for, sale or the
servicing of the Contracts.  JHFI shall promptly forward to Hancock any notices
of claim or relevant information concerning a potential claim which may come
into its possession, and shall promptly forward to Hancock any legal papers
served involving such claim.

          7.2 JHFI shall immediately notify Hancock, and Hancock shall
immediately notify JHFI, of the issuance by any regulatory body of any order
with respect to its operation or business, or the initiation of any proceeding
for any purpose relating to the sale of the Contracts, and of any other actions
or circumstances that may prevent the lawful offer or sale of any of the
Contracts in any state or jurisdiction.  In addition, JHFI shall promptly advise
Hancock if JHFI or John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc. is or becomes subject to
any proceedings or is sanctioned or suspended (i) by the Securities and Exchange
Commission, or NASD, (ii) by any court, or (iii) by any regulatory authority.

          7.3 Hancock and JHVLICO, acting through Hancock, and JHFI agree to
keep all records required by federal and state laws and regulations, to maintain
books, accounts and records so as to clearly and accurately disclose the precise
nature and details of the transactions, and to assist one another in the timely
preparation of records.  To the extent that such records maintained by JHVLICO,
Hancock or JHFI (the "Maintaining Party") are necessary to satisfy the
recordkeeping requirements imposed by federal securities laws and regulations on
any other party to this Agreement (the "Responsible Party"), the Responsible
Party hereby appoints the Maintaining Party as its agent for the purpose of
keeping and maintaining such records.  As required by Rule 31a-3 under the
Investment Company Act of 1940 and Rule 17a-4(i) under the 1934 Act, such
records will be the exclusive property of the Responsible Party, but that shall
not preclude the Maintaining Party from having access to such data or records or
keeping copies thereof for its own files; and, as the Responsible Party may
request, the Maintaining Party shall, as soon as practicable, deliver to the
Responsible Party or provide the responsible party with reasonable access to,
data or records held by it for the Responsible party pursuant to this Agreement
in a form mutually agreed to by such.  Parties in order to comply with 1934 Act
Rule 17a-4(i), with respect to books and records maintained or preserved subject
thereto, the Maintaining Party hereby undertakes to permit examination of such
books and records at any time or from time to time during business hours by
Representatives or designees of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"),
and to promptly furnish to the SEC or its designee true, correct, complete and
current hard copy of any or all of any part of such books and records.

8.        Assignment and Delegation
          -------------------------

          No assignment of this Agreement or any commissions hereunder or any
interest herein shall be valid unless authorized in advance in writing by an
authorized officer of Hancock.  Hancock may allocate or delegate any of its
duties or obligations under this Agreement to any of its subsidiaries or
affiliates.

                                     5 of 8
<PAGE>
 
9.        Termination
          -----------

          9.1 Either party may terminate this Agreement with or without cause,
by giving sixty (60) days written notice to the other party.

          9.2 This Agreement shall terminate automatically in the event the 
other party

          (a) ceases doing business and elects to be dissolved;

          (b) becomes insolvent or admits in writing its inability to pay its
debts as they come due;

          (c) files a voluntary petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization 
or is adjudicated as a bankrupt or insolvent; or

          (d) has a liquidator, or trustee, or receiver appointed over it's
affairs or a substantial portion of its assets, and such appointment shall not
have been terminated and discharged within thirty (30) days.

          9.3 This Agreement shall automatically terminate when required by any
governmental authority or court of law.  If any law, regulation, or order or
ruling of any governmental authority or court of law prohibits or makes illegal
compliance by either party with any obligation hereunder, then this Agreement
may be terminated by either party immediately upon written notice to the other
party.

          9.4 This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event the
General Responsibility Agreement between John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance
Company and John Hancock Funds, Inc. is terminated.

          9.5 Notwithstanding the foregoing, all conditions, duties, and
obligations of this Agreement will remain in effect with respect to additional
premium payments made under Contracts issued prior to the termination of this
Agreement, including the payment of additional premiums under those Contracts.

10.       Notice
          ------

          All notices shall be deemed to have been given three (3) days after
the date mailed in a United States Post Office, enclosed in a certified pre-paid
envelope addressed to the respective parties at the addresses below or at such
other addresses as may have been required in writing by either party to whom
such notice is directed.

Hancock :                                     JHFI:
John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company    John Hancock Funds, Inc.
John Hancock Place                            101 Huntington Avenue
P.O. Box 111                                  Boston, MA  02119
Boston, MA  02117                             Attention:  Steve Blair
Attention:  Joseph Thomlinson

                                     6 of 8
<PAGE>
 
11.       Waiver
          ------

          The failure to any party to insist, in any one or more instances, on
performance of any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall not be
construed as a waiver or relinquishment of any rights granted hereunder or of
the future performance of any term, covenant, or condition, but the obligations
of the parties with respect thereto shall continue in full force and effect.

12.       Entire Contract
          ---------------

          This Agreement, together with any other agreements referred to in
Sections 5.1 and 9.4 above, constitutes the entire agreement between the
parties.  The headings of the paragraphs of this Agreement are inserted for
convenience only and shall not constitute a part thereof or effect in any way
the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

          No amendments of or other changes to this Agreement shall be valid
unless signed by an authorized officer of each of the parties hereto.

13.       Choice of Law
          -------------

          The laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts shall govern all matters
concerning validity, performance and interpretation of this Agreement.

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement in
duplicate on the day and year first written above.

                                      John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company

                                      BY: 
                                           ------------------------------------ 
                                      Title
                                           ------------------------------------ 
                                      John Hancock Funds, Inc.

                                      BY: 
                                           ------------------------------------
                                      Title 
                                           ------------------------------------




                                     7 of 8
<PAGE>
 
                                   APPENDIX A

               Compensation Schedule for John Hancock Mutual Life
    Insurance Company Individual and Group Combination MVA/Variable Annuity
                                   Contracts

          1.  JHFI, through John Hancock Funds Insurance Agency, Inc., shall be
paid compensation at the rate of 100 basis points of the premiums received and
accepted by Hancock with respect to any issued Contract subject to the Agreement
of which this Appendix A forms a part, the application for which was solicited
by a Registered Representative of a broker/dealer with whom JHFI has executed a
Soliciting Agreement, the form of which is attached hereto as Appendix B.  The
compensation owed to JHFI hereunder shall be reduced by the amount of any
compensation that has been deducted by the broker/dealer from any Hancock
Individual Variable Annuity Premium Account or paid by Hancock directly to the
broker/dealer pursuant to Schedule D of Appendix B hereto.

          2.  In the event that any Contract is not issued or is fully canceled
within any "Right to Cancel" provision in the Contract, or is fully surrendered
within one year after issuance, Hancock will deduct from any future payments due
under this Appendix A all compensation paid to the broker/dealer and JHFI with
respect to such Contract.  If the amount of any charge back under this paragraph
2 exceeds payments due under this Appendix A, then JHFI shall promptly pay
Hancock the amount of the excess following Hancock's written request.  JHFI is
solely and ultimately responsible for collection and payment of the charge back
to Hancock.  If JHFI does not pay the charge back or excess in question to
Hancock, then Hancock may deduct such charge back or excess from any payments
otherwise due JHFI under any other agreement it may have with Hancock and seek
any remedies available by law to collect any such charge back where payment
cannot be collected under this Agreement.

          3.  No compensation shall be payable to JHFI with respect to any
issued Contract purchased with funds withdrawn from any Hancock annuity, life,
long term care, disability or mutual fund product.  In the event that any
compensation is paid by Hancock for such a purchase, JHFI shall promptly pay
Hancock the excess amount or John Hancock shall have the right to deduct said
amount paid from any future payments due JHFI.

          4.  If the Agreement to which this Appendix A forms a part terminates,
no further payments of any kind will be made to JHFI except with respect to
Contracts issued prior to the date of such termination.  The obligations of
Hancock with respect to compensation payable under paragraph one (1) of this
Appendix A shall continue only with respect to additional premiums received and
accepted by Hancock after the termination of the Agreement to which this
Appendix A forms a part.


<PAGE>
 
                            JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS INC.
                             101 HUNTINGTON AVENUE
                            BOSTON, MA  02199-7603

                          SOLICITING DEALER AGREEMENT

                                         Date________________


     John Hancock Funds, Inc. ("the Distributor" or "Distributor") is the
principal distributor of the shares of beneficial interest (the "securities") of
each of the John Hancock Funds, ("We" or "us"), (the "Funds").  Such Funds are
those listed on Schedule A hereto which may be amended or supplemented from time
to time by the Distributor to include additional Funds for which the Distributor
is the principal distributor.  You represent that you are a member of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., (the "NASD") and, accordingly,
we invite you to become a non-exclusive soliciting dealer to distribute the
securities of the Funds and you agree to solicit orders for the purchase of the
securities on the following terms.  Securities are offered pursuant to each
Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information, as such prospectus
and statement of additional information may be amended from time to time.  To
the extent that the prospectus or statement of additional information contains
provisions that are inconsistent with the terms of this Agreement, the terms of
the prospectus or statement of additional information shall be controlling.

OFFERINGS
- ---------

1. You agree to abide by the Rules of Fair Practice of the NASD and to all other
rules and regulations that are now or may become applicable to transactions
hereunder.

2. As principal distributor of the Funds, we shall have full authority to take
action as we deem advisable in respect  of all matters pertaining to the
distribution.  This offer of shares of the Funds to you is made only in such
jurisdictions in which we may lawfully sell such shares of the Funds.

3. You shall not make any representation concerning the Funds or their
securities except those contained in the then-current prospectus or statement of
additional information for each Fund.

4. With the exception of listings of product offerings, you agree not to furnish
or cause to be furnished to any person or display, or publish any information or
materials relating to any Fund (including, without limitation, promotional
materials, sales literature, advertisements, press releases, announcements,
posters, signs and other similar materials), except such information and
materials as may be furnished to you by the 
<PAGE>
 
Distributor or the Fund. All other materials must receive written approval by
the Distributor before distribution or display to the public. Use of all
approved advertising and sales literature materials is restricted to appropriate
distribution channels.

5. You are not authorized to act as our agent.  Nothing shall constitute you as
a syndicate, association, joint venture, partnership, unincorporated business,
or other separate entity or otherwise partners with us, but you shall be liable
for your proportionate share of any tax, liability or expense based on any claim
arising from the sale of shares of the Funds under this Agreement.  We shall not
be under any liability to you, except for obligations expressly assumed by us in
this Agreement and liabilities under Section 11(f) of the Securities Act of
1933, and no obligations on our part shall be implied or inferred herefrom.

6. DEALER COMPLIANCE/SUITABILITY STANDARDS (CLASS A AND CLASS B SHARES) -
Certain mutual funds distributed by the Distributor are being offered with two
or more classes of shares of the same investment portfolio ("Fund") - refer to
each Fund prospectus for availability and details.  It is essential that the
following minimum compliance/suitability standards be adhered to in offering and
selling shares of these Funds to investors.  All dealers offering shares of the
Funds and their associated persons agree to comply with these general
suitability and compliance standards.

SUITABILITY
- -----------

   With two classes of shares of certain funds available to individual
investors, (Class A and Class B), it is important that each investor purchases
not only the fund that best suits his or her investment objective but also the
class of shares that offers the most beneficial distribution financing method
for the investor based upon his or her particular situation and preferences.
Fund share recommendations and orders must be carefully reviewed by you and your
registered representatives in light of all the facts and circumstances, to
ascertain that the class of shares to be purchased by each investor is
appropriate and suitable.  These recommendations should be based on several
factors, including but not limited to:

   (a) the amount of money to be invested initially and over a period of time;
   (b) the current level of front-end sales load or back-end sales load imposed
by the  Fund;
   (c) the period of time over which the client expects to retain the
investment;
   (d) the anticipated level of yield from fixed income funds' Class A and Class
B shares;
   (e) any other relevant circumstances such as the availability of reduced
sales charges under letters of intent and/or rights of accumulation.

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
   There are instances when one distribution financing method may be more
appropriate than another.  For example, shares subject to a front-end sales
charge may be more appropriate than shares subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge for large investors who qualify for a significant quantity discount
on the front-end sales charge.  In addition, shares subject to a contingent
deferred sales charge may be more appropriate for investors whose orders would
not qualify for quantity discounts and who, therefore, may prefer to defer sales
charges and also for investors who determine it to be advantageous to have all
of their funds invested without deduction of a front-end sales commission.
However, if it is anticipated that an investor may redeem his or her shares
within a short period of time, the investor may, depending on the amount of his
or her purchase, bear higher distribution expenses by purchasing contingent
deferred sales charge shares than if he or she had purchased shares subject to a
front-end sales charge.

COMPLIANCE
- ------------

   Your supervisory procedures should be adequate to assure that an appropriate
person reviews and approves transactions entered into pursuant to this
Soliciting Dealer Agreement for compliance with the foregoing standards.  In
certain instances, it may be appropriate to discuss the purchase with the
registered representatives involved or to review the advantages and
disadvantages of selecting one class of shares over another with the client.
The Distributor will not accept orders for Class B Shares in any Fund from you
for accounts maintained in street name.  Trades for Class B Shares will only be
accepted in the name of the shareholder.

7. CLASS C SHARES - Certain mutual funds distributed by the Distributor may be
offered with Class C shares.  Refer to each Fund prospectus for availability and
details.  Class C shares are designed for institutional investors and qualified
benefit plans, including pension funds, and are sold without a sales charge or
12b-1 fee.  If a commission is paid to you for transactions in Class C shares,
it will be paid by the Distributor out of its own resources.

SALES
- -----

8.   Orders for securities received by you from investors will be for the sale
of the securities at the public offering price, which will be the net asset
value per share as determined in the manner provided in the relevant Fund's
prospectus, as now in effect or as amended from time to time, next after receipt
by us (or the relevant Fund's transfer agent) of the purchase application and
payment for the securities, plus the relevant sales charges set forth in the
relevant Fund's then-current prospectus (the "Public Offering Price").  The
procedures relating to the handling of orders shall be subject to our
instructions which we will forward from time to time to you.  All orders are
subject to acceptance by us, and we reserve the right in our sole discretion to
reject any order.
                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
   In addition to the foregoing, you acknowledge and agree to the initial and
subsequent investment minimums, which may vary from year to year, as described
in the then-current prospectus for each Fund.

9.   You agree to sell the securities only (a) to your customers at the public
offering price then in effect, or (b) back to the Funds at the currently quoted
net asset value.

10.   The amount of sales charge to be reallowed to you (the "Reallowance") as a
percentage of the offering price is set forth in the then-current prospectus of
each Fund.

   If a sales charge on the purchase is reduced in accordance with the
provisions of the relevant Fund's then-current prospectus pertaining to "Methods
of Obtaining Reduced Sales Charges," the Reallowance shall be reduced pro rata.

11.  We shall pay a Reallowance subject to the provisions of this agreement as
set forth in Schedule B hereto on all purchases made by your customers pursuant
to orders accepted by us (a) where an order for the purchase of securities is
obtained by a registered representative in your employ and remitted to us
promptly by you, (b) where a subsequent investment is made to an account
established by a registered representative in your employ or (c) where a
subsequent investment is made to an account established by a broker/dealer other
than you and is accompanied by a signed request from the account shareholder
that your registered representative receive the Reallowance for that investment
and/or for subsequent investments made in such account.  If for any reason, a
purchase transaction is reversed, you shall not be entitled to receive or retain
any part of the Reallowance on such purchase and shall pay to us on demand in
full the amount of the Reallowance received by you in connection with any such
purchase.  We may withhold and retain from the amount of the Reallowance due you
a sum sufficient to discharge any amount due and payable by you to us.

12.  Certain of the Funds have adopted a plan under Investment Company Act Rule
12b-1 ("Distribution Plan" as described in the prospectus).  To the extent you
provide distribution and marketing services in the promotion of the sale of
shares of these Funds, including furnishing services and assistance to your
customers who invest in and own shares of such Funds and including, but not
limited to, answering routine inquiries regarding such Funds and assisting in
changing distribution options, account designations and addresses, you may be
entitled to receive compensation from us as set forth in Schedule C hereto.  All
compensation, including 12b-1 fees, shall be payable to you only to the extent
that funds are received and in the possession of the Distributor.

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
13.  We will advise you as to the jurisdictions in which we believe the shares
have been qualified for sale under the respective securities or "blue sky" laws
of such jurisdictions, but we assume no responsibility or obligations as to your
right to sell the shares of the Funds in any state or jurisdiction.


14.  Orders may be placed through:
     John Hancock Funds, Inc.
     101 Huntington Avenue
     Boston, MA  02199-7603
     1-800-338-4265

SETTLEMENT
- ----------

15.  Settlements for wire orders shall be made within five business days after
our acceptance of your order to purchase shares of the Funds.  Certificates,
when requested, will be delivered to you upon payment in full of the sum due for
the sale of the shares of the Funds.  If payment is not so received or made, we
reserve the right forthwith to cancel the sale, or, at our option, to liquidate
the shares of the Fund subject to such sale at the then prevailing net asset
value, in which latter case you will agree to be responsible for any loss
resulting to the Funds or to us from your failure to make payments as aforesaid.

INDEMNIFICATION
- ---------------

16.  The parties to this agreement hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless
each other, their officers and directors, and any person who is or may be deemed
to be a controlling person of each other, from and against any losses, claims,
damages, liabilities or expenses (including reasonable fees of counsel), whether
joint or several, to which any such person or entity may become subject insofar
as such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (or actions in respect
thereof) arise out of or are based upon, (a) any untrue statement or alleged
untrue statement of material fact, or any omission or alleged omission to state
a material fact made or omitted by it herein, or, (b) any willful misfeasance or
gross misconduct by it in the performance of its duties and obligations
hereunder.

17.  NSCC INDEMNITY - SHAREHOLDER AND HOUSE ACCOUNTS - In consideration of the
Distributor and John Hancock Investor Services Corporation ("Investor Services")
liquidating, exchanging, and/or transferring unissued shares of the Funds for
your customers without the use of original or underlying documentation
supporting such instructions (e.g., a signed stock power or signature
guarantee), you hereby agree to indemnify the Distributor, Investor Services and
each respective Fund against any losses, including reasonable attorney's fees,
that may arise from such liquidation,

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
exchange, and/or transfer of unissued shares upon your direction.  This
indemnification shall apply only to the liquidation, exchange and/or transfer of
unissued shares in shareholder and house accounts executed as wire orders
transmitted via NSCC's Fund/SERV system.  You represent and warrant to the
Funds, the Distributor and Investor Services that all such transactions shall be
properly authorized by your customers.

   The indemnification in this Section 16 shall not apply to any losses
(including attorney's fees) caused by a failure of the Distributor, Investor
Services or a Fund to comply with any of your instructions governing any of the
above transactions, or any negligent act or omission of the Distributor,
Investor Services or a Fund, or any of their directors, officers, employees or
agents.  All transactions shall be settled upon your confirmation through NSCC
transmission to Investor Services.

MISCELLANEOUS
- --------------

18.  We will supply to you at our expense additional copies of the prospectus
and statement of additional information for each of the Funds and any printed
information supplemental to such material in reasonable quantities upon request.

19.  Any notice to you shall be duly given if mailed or telegraphed to you at
your address as registered from time to time with the NASD.

20.  Miscellaneous provisions, if any, are attached hereto and incorporated
herein by reference.

21.  This agreement, which shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, may be terminated by any party hereto at any time
upon written notice.  This agreement may not be assigned except by written
consent of all the parties.

22.  In the event your firm is appointed or selected by us to sell insurance
related securities products, this agreement will be supplemented by Schedule D,
which will enumerate the terms, including additional terms, and conditions of
the distribution by you of such products, and such schedule is hereby
incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this Soliciting Dealer
Agreement.

   In the case of any conflict between this Soliciting Dealer Agreement and
Schedule D with respect to insurance related securities products, Schedule D
shall control.



                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
                            JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS, INC.
                            ------------------------

                                   SCHEDULE B

                          DATED JANUARY 1, 1995 TO THE
               SOLICITING DEALER AGREEMENT RELATING TO SHARES OF
                               JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS


I. REALLOWANCE
   -----------


   The Reallowance paid to the selling Brokers for sales of John Hancock Funds
is set forth in each Fund's then-current prospectus.  No Commission will be paid
on sales of John Hancock Cash Management Fund or any John Hancock Fund that is
without a sales charge.  Purchases of Class A shares of $1 million or more, or
purchases into an account or accounts whose aggregate value of fund shares if $1
million or more will be made at net asset value with no initial sales charge.
On purchases of this type, John Hancock Funds, Inc. will pay a commission as set
forth in each Fund's then-current prospectus.  John Hancock Funds, Inc. will pay
Brokers for sales of Class B shares of the Funds a marketing fee as set forth in
each Fund's then-current prospectus.
<PAGE>
 
                            JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS, INC.
                            ------------------------

                                   SCHEDULE C

                         DATED SEPTEMBER 8, 1995 TO THE
    FINANCIAL INSTITUTION SALES AND SERVICE AGREEMENT RELATING TO SHARES OF
                               JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS


   FIRST YEAR SERVICE FEES
   -----------------------

   Pursuant to the Distribution Plan applicable to each of the Funds listed in
Schedule A, John Hancock Funds, Inc. will advance to you a First Year Service
Fee related to the purchase of Class A shares (only if subject to sales charge)
or Class B shares of any of the Funds, as the case may be, sold by your firm.
This Service Fee will be compensation for your personal service and/or the
maintenance of shareholder accounts ("Customer Servicing") during the twelve-
month period immediately following the purchase of such shares, in the amount
not to exceed .25 of 1% of net assets invested in Class A shares or Class B
shares of the Fund, as the case may be, purchased by your customers.

   SERVICE FEE SUBSEQUENT TO THE FIRST YEAR
   ----------------------------------------

   Pursuant to the Distribution Plan applicable to each of the Funds listed in
Schedule A, the Distributor will pay you quarterly, in arrears, a Service Fee
commencing at the end of the twelve-month period immediately following the
purchase of Class A shares (only if subject to sales charge) or Class B shares,
as the case may be, sold by your firm, for Customer Servicing, in an amount not
to exceed .25 of 1% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Class A
shares or Class B shares of the Fund, as the case may be, purchased by your
customers, provided your firm has under management with the Fund combined
average daily net assets for the preceding quarter of no less than $1 million,
or an individual representative of your firm has under management with the Funds
combined average daily net assets for the preceding quarter of no less than
$250,000 (an "Eligible Firm").

===================

   Effective October 1, 1995 for Financial Institutions that have entered into a
   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wrap Fee Agreement with the Distributor, the following provisions shall apply
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
with respect to the payment of service fees:
- ------------------------------------------- 

   Pursuant to the Distribution Plan applicable to each of the Funds listed in
Schedule A, the Distributor will pay you quarterly, in arrears, a Service Fee
commencing immediately following the purchase of Class A shares at net asset
value 
<PAGE>
 
sold by your firm, for Customer Servicing, in an amount not to exceed .25
of 1% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Class A shares of the
Fund purchased by your customers, provided your firm has under management with
John Hancock Funds combined average daily net assets (in any class of shares of
funds listed on Schedule A plus assets in wrap (fee-based) accounts) for the
preceding quarter of no less than $1 million, or an individual representative of
your firm has under management with the Funds combined average daily net assets
for the preceding quarter of no less than $250,000 (an "Eligible Firm").  This
section is only applicable to firms which have executed the SUPPLEMENT TO THE
FINANCIAL INSTITUTION SALES AND SERVICE AGREEMENT specifically applicable to
fee-based arrangements.
<PAGE>
 
SOLICITING DEALER

               __________________________________________
                            Name of Organization

          By:  __________________________________________
               *Authorized Signature of Soliciting Dealer

               __________________________________________
                      Please Print or Type Name

               __________________________________________
                                 Title

               __________________________________________
                        Print or Type Address

               __________________________________________
                           Telephone Number


      Date:    __________________________________________ 

   In order to service you efficiently, please provide the following information
on your Mutual Funds Operations Department:

   Operations Manager:______________________________________

   Order Room Manager:______________________________________

   Operations Address:_______________________________________

                      _______________________________________

Telephone:___________________                 Fax:________________________
 

   TO BE COMPLETED BY:                              TO BE COMPLETED BY:
  JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS, INC.                         JOHN HANCOCK INVESTOR
                                                   SERVICES CORPORATION

 
By:_________________________                  By:______________________

____________________________                     ______________________
            Title                                          Title


     DEALER NUMBER:_________________________________

*If Schedule D is part of this Soliciting Dealer Agreement, a separate execution
                                      provided on Schedule D will be applicable.
<PAGE>
 
                           JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS , INC.

                                   SCHEDULE D
                         TO SOLICITING DEALER AGREEMENT

              Related to Individual and Group Variable Annuity and
          Combination MVA/Variable Annuity Contracts (the "Contracts")
             issued by John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company

                             Dated August __, 1996


1.  General Authorization
    ---------------------

     John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company ("John Hancock") has entered
into a Marketing and Distribution Agreement with John Hancock Funds, Inc.
("Distributors") authorizing Funds to distribute the Contracts (which term, when
used herein, includes certificates under Group Contracts) through selected
dealers who have current Soliciting Dealer Agreements executed between
Distributor and such Soliciting Broker Dealer.  Compensation will be paid to the
Soliciting Dealer through John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc., a wholly-owned
subsidiary of John Hancock Funds, Inc. (see "Compensation" below).

     Subject to the terms and conditions contained in this Schedule D, John
Hancock, as principal underwriter of the Contracts, and Distributors, as the
principal distributor of the Contracts appoint Broker/Dealer (including its
Associated Insurance Agency) as a non-exclusive Broker/Dealer for soliciting
applications for the Contracts and Broker/Dealer accepts such appointment.

     For the purpose of compliance with any applicable federal or state
securities laws or regulations, Broker/Dealer acknowledges and agrees that in
performing the services covered by the Agreement, it is acting in the capacity
of an independent "broker" or "dealer" as defined by the By-Laws of the NASD and
neither it nor any associated agency is an agent or employee of John Hancock or
John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company (collectively "Hancock").  In
furtherance of its responsibilities as a broker or dealer, the Broker/Dealer
acknowledges that it is responsible for statutory and regulatory compliance in
securities transactions involving all business activity and business produced by
its Registered Representatives (as defined below) concerning the Contracts.
Broker/Dealer shall maintain errors and omissions coverage in an amount
acceptable to Hancock and Distributor at all times during which this Agreement,
or any provision hereof, is in effect.
<PAGE>
 
     For the purpose of compliance with any applicable state insurance laws or
regulations, the Broker/Dealer acknowledges and agrees that persons selected by
it to distribute and sell the Contracts must be properly licensed to represent
Hancock in accordance with securities laws and the state insurance laws of those
jurisdictions in which the Contracts may be lawfully distributed and in which
they solicit applications for the Contracts.  Broker/Dealer and its Registered
Representatives shall strictly comply with all applicable securities and
insurance laws and regulations, including all applicable rules of the NASD, in
soliciting applications for Contracts, and in performing all of their other
obligations and functions under this agreement.

2.  Scope of Authority
    ------------------

     The Broker/Dealer shall be authorized to: (a) receive applications for
Contracts; (b) receive for forwarding to Hancock the premiums paid in connection
with any such application; (c) deliver the Contract issued to the applicant by
Hancock; and (d) collect premiums for forwarding to Hancock via applicants
brokerage accounts as specifically directed by any such applicant who has
authorized the Broker/Dealer to act on their behalf.  Broker/Dealer agrees to
indemnify Hancock and the Distributor for any claim arising from or connected to
such client brokerage account, including claims related to misappropriation of
funds and the failure to act in accordance with the related brokerage account
agreement.

     Neither the Broker/Dealer nor any of its "Related Persons" (defined to
include its Registered Representatives, Associated Agencies, employees or
agents) is authorized (a) to alter any application or Contract; (b) to collect
or in any manner receive premiums from applicants in the form of checks, money
orders or electronic funds transfers payable to any person or entity other than
Hancock; (c) to waive any forfeiture; (d) to make any settlement of any claim or
claims; (e) to rebate any portion of a payment to any party either directly or
indirectly; or (f) to perform any function other than as expressly authorized in
the preceding paragraph.

     The Broker/Dealer agrees that it and its related persons will sell
Contracts and process all transactions with respect to the Contracts in
accordance with the insurance and securities laws of the state or states in
which they are licensed to transact business and all applicable federal laws.

     Neither the Broker/Dealer nor any of its related persons shall publish,
circulate or use any advertising material with respect to Hancock, John Hancock
Declaration Trust (the "Series Fund") or Hancock's insurance products without
express written authorization from an authorized officer of the Distributor.  As
used herein, the term "advertising" means any material designed to create
interest in Hancock's products or to induce any person to purchase Hancock's
products including, without limitation, any of the following: (a) printed and
published material, descriptive literature used in direct mail, newspapers,
magazines, radio, telephone and television scripts, billboards, computer
displays and similar displays; (b) descriptive literature and sales aids of all
<PAGE>
 
kinds, including but not limited to circulars, leaflets, booklets, depiction's,
illustrations and form letters; (c) material used for recruitment, training and
education of agents and Registered Representatives which is designed to be used
or is used to induce the public to purchase Hancock's products; (d) prepared
sales talks, presentations and material for use by agents and Representatives in
private or public seminars or any other setting; and (e) the use of the Hancock
name or logo or any other identifiers referring directly or indirectly to
Hancock, the Distributor or any of their affiliates or the Series Fund.

     Neither the Broker/Dealer nor any of its related persons shall alter,
obliterate, deface or remove any trade name, brand, trademark or service mark of
Hancock.  The Broker/Dealer may use Hancock's name and trademark (i) as
expressly contemplated by this Schedule D, or (ii) otherwise only upon prior
written approval by us.  The Broker/Dealer and its related persons shall
immediately cease the use of Hancock's name and all trademarks, service marks or
other proprietary rights of Hancock upon termination of this Agreement.

3.  Duties of the Broker/Dealer
    ---------------------------

     The Broker/Dealer will select persons to be employed and supervised by it
who will be trained and are qualified to solicit applications for the Contracts
in conformance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations
("Registered Representatives").  The Broker/Dealer shall also be charged with
sole responsibility to perform background reviews of all agents appointed to
sell the contracts.  Registered Representatives will be registered
representatives of the Broker/Dealer in accordance with the rules of the NASD
and they will be properly licensed to represent Hancock in accordance with the
state insurance laws of those jurisdictions in which the Contracts may lawfully
be distributed and in which they solicit applications for such Contracts.
Hancock shall be responsible for the initial appointment fee, with the sole
discretion to pay renewal fees as Hancock may determine from time to time.

     The Broker/Dealer will ensure that its Registered Representatives shall not
make recommendations to applicants to purchase Contracts in the absence of
reasonable grounds to believe the purchase of each Contract is suitable for the
applicant.  The procedure will include, but is not limited to, review of all
proposals and applications for Contracts for suitability and completeness and
correctness as to form; as well as review and endorsement on an internal record
of the Broker/Dealer of the transactions.  The Broker/Dealer will promptly
forward to Distributor, or its designee, all applications found suitable,
together with any payments received with the applications, without deduction or
reduction not expressly permitted by this Agreement.  Hancock reserves the right
to reject any Contract application and return any payment made in connection
with an application which is rejected  The Broker/Dealer shall ensure delivery
of the current prospectus for the Contracts and the Series Fund, together with
all current supplements thereto, to every applicant  for a Contract at or prior
to the time that an application form or other sales literature or advertising
material, as defined above, is submitted to the 
<PAGE>
 
applicant (other than materials submitted in compliance with Rules 134 or 482
under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act"). JHFI shall at all times keep
the Broker/Dealer informed of the dates of the appropriate current prospectuses
and any supplements thereto.

     The Broker/Dealer and its related persons will perform the selling
functions required by this Agreement only in accordance with the terms and
conditions of the then current prospectus applicable to the Contracts and will
make no representations not included in the current prospectus or Statement of
Additional Information ("SAI") for the Contracts, the current prospectus for the
Series Fund, any current supplements to such prospectus and SAI's or in any
"advertising" material used in compliance with Section 2 above or any other
supplemental material approved in writing by the Distributor and Hancock.
Material prepared or used by the Broker/Dealer or its related persons, which
describes or must describe the Contracts, or uses the name Hancock or the logos
or Service Marks of Hancock must be approved by Hancock and the Distributor in
writing prior to any such use.

4.  Duties of the Distributor
    -------------------------

     Hancock has appointed Distributor as its Wholesaler/Marketing Administrator
to provide the following services to Broker/Dealers.  Distributor reserves the
right to assign a portion or portions of its responsibilities herein, including
but not limited to the servicing of the Contracts, to an affiliate, John Hancock
Investor Services Corporation.  Certain other responsibilities include the
distribution of Commission payments to the Broker Dealer may be delegated to
John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc.

     (a)  Initial and ongoing due diligence with respect to the Contracts and to
          provide Broker/Dealers with current due diligence reports upon
          request;

     (b)  obtain certifications from the Broker Dealers that they have the
          appropriate state insurance licenses to solicit sales of the Contract;

     (c)  Provide an 800 number customer service unit to render pre and post
          sales and servicing assistance to the Broker/Dealer and its staff with
          respect to Contracts;

     (d)  Supply all standard Contracts and Series Fund prospectuses, any
          current supplements thereto and product brochures as well as the
          relevant administrative forms for the processing of applications;

     (e)  Provide assistance and advice to the Broker/Dealers regarding the
          preparation of any other sales and marketing material, provided
          however, that the cost of any other such marketing material, including
          direct mail literature, special signage, or approved changes in the
          material supply, will be the Broker/Dealer's responsibility;
<PAGE>
 
     (f)  Notify Broker/Dealers of the jurisdiction in which the Contracts are
          available for sale and the issuance of any stop order or any Federal
          or state judicial or regulatory proceeding which would prevent the
          sale of Contracts in any jurisdiction.

5.  Duties of Hancock
    -----------------

     Hancock shall be responsible for obtaining the approval of the forms
of contracts and applications which are the subject of this Agreement from the
applicable regulatory authorities.

     Hancock reserves the right to withdraw, change or modify any Contracts
and applications covered by this Agreement or to withdraw wholly or in part from
the marketing of Contracts in any jurisdiction without incurring any liability
or obligation to the Broker/Dealer or any Registered Representative.  Upon
notice of such termination, the Broker/Dealer agrees to immediately cease all
offers and sales of Contracts, and to notify its Registered Representatives of
the withdrawal of such authority.  It is understood that Hancock retains the
right to reject or terminate the authorization of any Registered Representative
with or without the agreement of the Broker/Dealer.

     Hancock reserves the right to revise all Contract related forms and
the design of the features of the Contracts at any time in any manner it deems
necessary.

6.  Accounting
    ----------

     All premiums received for Hancock by the Broker/Dealer by reason of
this Agreement, shall belong to Hancock and shall be received and held by the
Broker/Dealer in a fiduciary capacity only.  All such premiums (together with
all applications and related information) shall be delivered promptly to
Hancock, through the Distributor, and/or John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc.

7.  Compensation
    ------------

     As full and sole compensation for Broker/Dealer's faithful performance, the
Distributor, through John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc., shall pay, and
Broker/Dealer shall be entitled to receive, commissions on premiums collected by
Hancock according to the applicable rate of commission stated herein below. In
the event of any return of a Contract within any "Right to Cancel" period, or in
the event that Hancock rejects an application, any related compensation paid to
the Broker/Dealer will be refunded by the Broker/Dealer directly to Distributor
without Distributor or Hancock incurring any liability or offset for any
compensation payable to the Broker/Dealer. If for any reason during the first
policy year, a purchase transaction is reversed, you shall not be entitled to
receive or retain any part of the Reallowance on such purchase and shall pay to
us on 
<PAGE>
 
demand in full the amount of the Re-allowance due you a sum sufficient to
discharge any amount due and payable by you to us.

     Broker/Dealer shall be paid or entitled to commission calculated on
the basis of gross written premium received and forwarded to Hancock, through
the Distributors subsidiary, John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc., in accordance
with Hancock's requirements.  John Hancock reserves the right to change or amend
the terms of the commission rates at any time upon written notice to the
Broker/Dealer.  The Broker/Dealer agrees that neither Hancock nor the
Distributor shall have any liability with respect to any compensation payable to
any Registered Representatives.

     No compensation shall be payable to the Broker/Dealer with respect to
any issued Contract purchased with funds withdrawn from any Hancock annuity,
life, long term care, disability or mutual fund product.  In the event that any
compensation is paid to the Broker/Dealer for such a purchase, the Broker/Dealer
shall promptly pay the Distributor [through John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc.]
the excess amount or the Distributor shall have the right to deduct said amount
paid from any future payment due the Broker/Dealer.

     If this Agreement terminates, no further payments of any kind will be
made to the Broker/Dealer except with respect to Contracts issued prior to the
date of such termination.  The obligations of Hancock with respect to
compensation payable under Section 7 shall continue only with respect to
additional premiums received and accepted by Hancock after the termination of
the Agreement to which this Schedule D forms a part.

Commissions:

          There are three alternatives that a broker may choose from:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                    Ages 0-80    Ages 81-85
- -------------------------------------------
<S>                 <C>          <C>
No Trail                 5.50%         2.75%
- -------------------------------------------
25 B.P. Trails           4.75%         2/37%
- -------------------------------------------
75 B.P. Trails           2.00%         1.00%
- -------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     Trails will be payable beginning at the end of the first contract year.
There will be a commission chargeback of 100% on amounts withdrawn in the first
contract year including the 10% free amount.


8.  Indemnification
    ---------------

     (1) Broker/Dealer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Series
Fund, Hancock, its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliates, including
(without limitation)
<PAGE>
 
the Distributor, and each their directors, trustees and officers, against any
losses, claims, damages or liabilities to which the Series Fund, Hancock, or its
subsidiaries, or affiliates, the Distributor or any such director Trustee or
officer may become subject under the 1933 Act, any state insurance laws or
otherwise insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities (or actions in
respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon:

     (a)  any unauthorized use of advertising (see Section 2 hereof) materials
          or any verbal or written misrepresentations or any unlawful sales
          practices concerning a Contract by Broker/Dealer or any of its related
          persons; or

     (b)  claims by agents or Registered Representatives or employees of
          Broker/Dealer  or any affiliated Agency. for commissions or other
          compensation or remuneration of any type; or

     (c)  failure by the Broker/Dealer or any of its related persons to comply
          with all applicable state insurance laws and regulations including but
          not limited to state licensing requirements, rebate laws and
          replacement regulations, as well as all requirements of state and
          federal securities laws; or

     (d)  failure by the Broker/Dealer or any of its related persons to comply
          with the provisions of this agreement, and any Agreement made to
          receive and process any premiums collected from applicants.

Broker/Dealer will reimburse the Series Fund, Hancock and Distributor, and each
of their direct or indirect subsidiaries or affiliates, and each of their
directors, trustees or officers for any legal or other expenses they reasonably
incur in connection with investigating or defending any such loss, claim,
damage, liability, or action.

     (2) Hancock and Distributor agree to indemnify and hold harmless
Broker/Dealer and each person who controls or is associated with Broker/Dealer
against any losses, claims, damages or liabilities, joint or several, to which
Broker/Dealer or such controlling or associated person may become subject under
the 1933 Act or otherwise insofar as such losses, claims, damages or liabilities
(or actions in respect thereof) arise out of or are based upon any untrue
statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact required to be stated
therein, or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, contained
(i) in any registration statement or other document executed by Hancock
specifically for the purpose of qualifying a Contract for sale under the laws of
any jurisdiction or (ii) in any prospectus or SAI (or any supplement thereto) or
any other written information or sales material authorized and supplied or
furnished by Hancock or the Distributor in connection with the offer and sale of
the Contracts.

     (3) The provisions of this Section 8 shall survive the termination of this
Agreement.
<PAGE>
 
9.  Cooperation
    -----------

     The Broker/Dealer and Distributor jointly agree to fully cooperate with
each other and Hancock in any insurance or securities regulatory investigation
or proceeding or judicial proceeding arising in connection with any Contact.
The Broker/Dealer shall promptly forward to Distributor any notice of claim or
relevant information concerning a potential claim which may come into its
possession, and shall promptly forward to Distributor any legal papers served
involving such claim.

     The Broker/Dealer shall immediately notify Distributor of the issuance by
any regulatory body of any order with respect to the operation or business of
the Broker/Dealer, or the initiation of any proceeding for any purpose relating
to the sale of the Contracts, and of any other actions or circumstances that may
prevent the lawful offer or sale of any of the Contracts in any state or
jurisdiction.  In addition, the Broker-Dealer shall promptly adviser Distributor
if the Broker-Dealer or any of its Associated Agencies or a Registered
Representative is or becomes subject to any proceedings or is sanctioned or
suspended (i) by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") or NASD, (ii) by
any court, or (iii) by any state regulatory authority.

10.  Assignment
     ----------

     The Broker/Dealer may assign rights or obligations under this Agreement to
any insurance agency that is an deemed an associated person of the
Broker/Dealer, within the meaning of Section 3(a)(18) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, to the extent necessary of appropriate in order to comply with
applicable insurance laws or regulations.  If obligations under this Agreement
are assigned to such an Associated Agency as permitted herein, the Broker/Dealer
shall not be relieved of any such obligations.  The Broker/Dealer agrees that it
and any of its Associated Agencies will conduct any such networking arrangements
in compliance with any such Associated Agency as a broker/dealer.  No other
assignment of this Agreement by the Broker/Dealer or any commission hereunder or
any interest herein shall be valid unless authorized in advance in writing by,
authorized officers, respectively, of Hancock and Distributor.

11.  Termination
     -----------

     Notwithstanding the termination of the Soliciting Dealer Agreement, all the
conditions, duties and obligations of the parties under this Schedule D shall
remain in effect with respect to any outstanding Contracts issued prior to such
termination.

John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company

BY: ____________________________________

Title: _________________________________
<PAGE>
 
John Hancock Funds, Inc.

BY: ____________________________________

Title: _________________________________

John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc.

BY: ____________________________________

Title: _________________________________

Broker/Dealer (including its Associated Insurance Agency)

BY: ____________________________________

Title: _________________________________

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    Exhibit 4(a)

                                                    John Hancock Place      
[LOGO OF JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE                      PO Box 717         
LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY APPEARS HERE]                Boston, Massachusetts 02117 
                                   
                                   
                                   
                  JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                (the "Company")
                               John Hancock Place
                                   PO Box 717
                          Boston, Massachusetts  02117

CONTRACT HOLDER:  [Declaration Insurance and Investors Trust]

ANNUITY CONTRACT NUMBER:  [12345]

COMBINATION VARIABLE/MODIFIED GUARANTEED GROUP ANNUITY:  [00000]

John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company agrees to provide the benefits,
rights and privileges as stated in this contract.  This contract is issued in
consideration of the master application for this contract and payment of the
premium.  A certificate evidencing participation under this contract will be
issued to each member of the eligible group from which we receive a fully
completed enrollment application and the required premium contribution.

If a certificate is in force under this contract on such certificate's Date of
Maturity, we will pay an Annuity to the Annuitant under such certificate, unless
otherwise directed by the Participant.  The variable and fixed portions of each
Annuity payment will be determined in accordance with Section 15.  The variable
portion may increase or decrease depending upon the investment experience of the
Subaccounts in which the Net Premiums are invested.  Unless another option
offered in Section 16 is elected by the Participant, Annuity payments will be
payable for a guaranteed period of 10 years and as long thereafter as the
Annuitant lives.

By written notice, the Participant may elect the Date of Maturity at any time
before the Provisional Date of Maturity, provided the Date elected is:  (i) not
later than the Annuitant's 85th birthday without our prior approval; (ii) at
least 31 days after the written notice; and (iii) at least six months after the
date the first premium is applied to the certificate.  If no other election is
made, the Date of Maturity will be the Provisional Date of Maturity.


A Death Benefit, as stated in Section 9, will be payable if the Annuitant's
death occurs before the Date of Maturity and before the Surrender Date. The Date
of Issue of this group annuity contract is [December 1, 1995].

Signed for the Company at Boston, Massachusetts.



             President                               Secretary


Combination Variable/Modified Guarantee Annuity - Annuity payable to the
Annuitant beginning on the Date of Maturity for a guaranteed period of 10 years
and as long thereafter as the Annuitant lives.

Nonparticipating - not eligible for dividends

All benefits, payments and values under the certificate which are based on the
investment experience of a Separate Account are variable and not guaranteed as
to fixed dollar amount.


                         John Hancock Servicing Office
                                 P.O. Box 9298
                       Boston, Massachusetts  02205-9298
                           Telephone  [800-225-5291]
                              Fax  [800-225-0000]

Form JHF195                                                     VO195A
<PAGE>
 
                              CONTRACT PROVISIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Numerical Guide                                  Alphabetical Guide


Section                                          Section
- -------                                          -------
<C>  <S>                                         <C>  <C>
 1.  Definitions                                  7.  Accumulations
 2.  Interpretation of Contract Provisions       22.  Annual Statement
 3.  Participant, Beneficiary                    19.  Assignment
 4.  The Contract                                10.  Certificate Fee and Rider Charges
 5.  Premiums                                    20.  Claims of Creditors
 6.  Investment/Transfer Options                 12.  Contingent Deferred Sales Load
 7.  Accumulations                                4.  The Contract
 8.  Valuation Procedures                        15.  Conversion
 9.  Death Benefit                                9.  Death Benefit
10.  Certificate Fee and Rider Charges            1.  Definitions
11.  Partial Withdrawals                          2.  Interpretation of Contract Provisions
12.  Contingent Deferred Sales Load               6.  Investment/Transfer Options
13.  Market Value Adjustment                     13.  Market Value Adjustment
14.  Surrender Provision                         23.  Miscellaneous
15.  Conversion                                  18.  Misstatements
16.  Settlement Provisions                       11.  Partial Withdrawals
17.  Proof Required for Payment                   3.  Participant, Beneficiary
18.  Misstatements                                5.  Premiums
19.  Assignment                                  17.  Proof Required for Payment
20.  Claims of Creditors                         21.  Right to Make Changes
21.  Right to Make Changes                       16.  Settlement Provisions
22.  Annual Statement                            14.  Surrender Provision
23.  Miscellaneous                                8.  Valuation Procedures
 
</TABLE>



2                                                                         V0295A
<PAGE>
 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.  DEFINITIONS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following terms are commonly used throughout this annuity contract:

The term "Account", unmodified, means a Subaccount or a Guarantee Period.

The term "Accumulated Value" means the value of the certificate on any date
prior to the commencement of annuity payments.  This value equals the sum of (i)
the Accumulated Values for all Subaccounts and (ii) the Accumulated Value of the
certificate in the MVA Fixed Account.  The Accumulated Value for each Subaccount
as of any date will equal the number of Accumulation Units for that Subaccount
then credited to the certificate multiplied by the Accumulation Unit Value for
that Subaccount on that date.  Accumulated Value for the MVA Fixed Account is
defined in Section 7.

The term "Accumulation Unit" means a unit of measurement used in determining the
value of the certificate prior to the commencement of annuity payments.  The
Accumulation Unit Value for each Subaccount will reflect the investment
experience of that Subaccount.  It will vary in dollar amount.

The term "Annuitant" means, for any given annuity certificate, the individual
designated as such in the application for the certificate.

The term "Annuity Unit" means a unit of measurement used in determining the
amount of the variable portion of each Annuity payment.  The value of an Annuity
Unit for each Subaccount will depend on the assumed investment rate and the
investment experience of that Subaccount.  It will vary in dollar amount.

The term "Beneficiary" is defined in Section 3.

The term "Certificate Year" means, for any given certificate, the 12 month
period beginning on the Date of Issue and each 12 month period thereafter.

The term "Contingent Deferred Sales Load" ("CDSL") is defined in Section 12.

The term "Date of Issue" means, the date shown in Section 1 of the certificate.

The term "Date of Maturity" is the date annuity payments under the certificate
begin, in accordance with Section 15.

The term "Free Withdrawal Value" means, for any Certificate Year, an amount
totaling 10% of the Accumulated Value calculated as of the first day of the
Certificate Year, reduced by any prior withdrawals made during the Certificate
Year.

The term "Fund" means each division of a Series Fund which has a specific
investment objective.

The term "In force" means that the Annuitant is living, Surrender Value of the
certificate has not become payable, and the certificate has not been terminated
in accordance with the "Premiums" provision in Section 5.

The term "Guarantee Period" refers to  the Guarantee Period elected under the
Market Value Adjusted Fixed Account.

The term "Last Valuation Date" means the earliest of the Date of Maturity, the
Surrender Date, and the date of the Annuitant's death.

The term "Market Value Adjustment" is defined in Section 13.

The term "Market Value Adjustment Factor" is defined in Section 13.

The term "MVA Value Adjusted ("MVA") Fixed Account" means, unmodified, a
separate investment account established by us pursuant to applicable law in
which you are eligible to invest under the certificate.

The term "Measuring Person" means the person on whose life annuity payments will
be based.



3
<PAGE>
 
The term "Net Premium" means the premium paid less any applicable taxes based on
the amount of premium payment.

The term "Partial Withdrawal" is defined in Section 11.

The term "Participant" is defined in Section 3.

The term "Payment" means, unless otherwise stated, payment at our Servicing
Office in Boston, Massachusetts.

The term "Separate Account", unmodified, means a separate investment account
established by us pursuant to applicable law in which the Participant is
eligible to invest under the certificate.

The term "Series Fund" means a series type mutual fund registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the Act) as an open-end diversified management
investment company.

The term "Subaccount", means each division of a Separate Account.  The assets of
each Subaccount are invested solely in shares of the corresponding Fund of a
Series Fund.

The term "Surrender Date" means the date of receipt of written notice of
surrender under Section 14.

The term "Surrender Value" means the Accumulated Value of the certificate,
adjusted by any Market Value Adjustment, less, if applicable, any certificate
fees, any income taxes withheld, any rider charges, any deduction for premium
taxes or similar taxes, and any CDSL.

The term "Valuation Date" means any date on which the New York Stock Exchange is
open for trading and on which the Fund values its shares.

The term "Valuation Period" means that period of time from the beginning of the
day following a Valuation Date to the end of the next following Valuation Date.

The terms "we", "us", "our" refer only to the Company.

The term "withdrawal" means, unless otherwise specified, the amount withdrawn
prior to any deductions but after any Market Value Adjustment.

The term "written notice" means, unless otherwise stated, a notice in writing
satisfactory to us which is received at our Servicing Office in Boston,
Massachusetts.



4
<PAGE>
 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.  INTERPRETATION OF CONTRACT PROVISIONS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All section references appearing in this contract refer to sections of this
group annuity contract only.

Each of the provisions shall apply to each certificate issued by us under this
group annuity contract as if it were the only certificate issued.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.  PARTICIPANT, BENEFICIARY
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Participant and the Beneficiary will be as shown in the application unless
the Participant changes them or they are changed by the terms of this provision.
With regard to joint Participants, at the first death of a joint Participant
prior to the Date of Maturity and prior to the Surrender Date, the Beneficiary
will be the surviving Participant notwithstanding that the designated
Beneficiary may be different.

If the Annuitant dies and there is no surviving Beneficiary, the Participant
will be the Beneficiary, but if the Participant was the Annuitant, the
Participant's estate will be the Beneficiary.

The Participant has the sole and absolute power to exercise all rights and
privileges without the consent of any other person except as provided by the
certificate or unless the Participant provides otherwise by written notice.

While the Annuitant is alive, the Participant may change the Participant by
written notice.  The Participant may change the Beneficiary by written notice no
later than our receipt of the required proof of the Annuitant's death.  A change
will take effect when the notice is signed if we acknowledge receipt of the
notice at our Servicing Office.  The change will take effect whether or not the
Participant or the Annuitant is then alive.  A change shall be subject to the
rights of any assignee of record with us and subject to any payment made or
other action taken by us before we acknowledge receipt.  Regarding joint
Participants, signatures of both joint Participants are required for any
transactions requiring written notification from a Participant.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.  THE CONTRACT
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The contract is an agreement between the contract owner and the Company.  The
certificate is a summary of the Group Annuity Contract.  The entire contract
consists of the Group Annuity Contract, the certificate, any riders, and the
application, a copy of which is attached.

Certificate years, certificate months, and certificate anniversaries are
measured from the Date of Issue of the certificate.

Only the President, a Vice President, the Secretary, or an Assistant Secretary
of the Company has authority to waive or modify any of the provisions of the
contract.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.  PREMIUMS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAYMENT OF PREMIUMS

All premium payments shall be made to us at our Servicing Office.  Premium
payments are subject to the following conditions:

(a) Each premium payment must be at least $500.
(b) The maximum premium that may be deposited to the certificate in any
    certificate year is $1,000,000.
(c) No premium payments may be made to the certificate within six months prior
  to the Annuitant's 85th birthday or thereafter.

Upon request we will consider waiving any of the above conditions.

PREMIUM TAXES

A deduction for a premium tax or a similar tax will be made from the Accumulated
Value at the time of annuitization.  If we pay a tax on the premium at the time
such premium is paid, then we will deduct a charge for these taxes from the
Accumulated Value for the amount withdrawn or surrendered, at the time of
annuitization, death, surrender, or withdrawal.



5
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.  INVESTMENT / TRANSFER OPTIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTMENT OPTION

The Net Premium will be allocated to the Accounts according to the investment
option then in effect.  The initial investment option is that elected by the
Participant in the application.  The Participant may elect to change the
investment option.  The change will be effective as to the application of any
Net Premium made on or after the date of receipt at our Servicing Office of
notice satisfactory to us.  The minimum percentage that may be allocated to any
Account and the maximum number of Accounts in which amounts may be held will be
subject to our administrative rules in effect at the time of the election.  All
percentages you elect must be whole numbers.

If allocation is made to the MVA Fixed Account, the Participant may select from
the Guarantee Periods then available.  The period selected will determine the
guaranteed interest rate applicable, which will be payable for a Guarantee
Period.  A Guarantee Period begins on the date premium is credited, or in the
case of transfer, on the effective date of transfer.

   
We reserve the right to change the duration of Guarantee Periods offered.
The effective date of a new Guarantee Period will be the first day following the
expiry of the immediately preceding Guarantee Period. Except as otherwise
provided, a Guarantee Period is not available if it extends beyond the Date of
Maturity.  Also, except as otherwise provided, if a new Guarantee Period becomes
effective that causes this certificate to continue beyond the Provisional Date
of Maturity, then the Provisional Date of Maturity will become the Date of
Maturity.     
    
ACCOUNT TRANSFER OPTION     
    
The Participant may elect to reallocate amounts among the Accounts up to
twelve times in a certificate year.  Transfers between the Accounts will be
effective on the date of receipt at our Servicing Office of notice satisfactory
to us.  No transfer will be permitted on or within 30 days of the Date of
Maturity.     
    
The number of Accumulation Units or Annuity Units and the amount of Accumulated
Value of the MVA Fixed Account transferred to or from each Account will reflect
the respective values in each Account.  The maximum number of Accounts in which
Accumulated Value may be held will be subject to our rules in effect at the time
of election.     
    
The maximum amount which may be transferred or paid into an Account in any
certificate year is $1,000,000 without our prior approval.  Any transfer made
out of a Guarantee Period of the MVA Fixed Account may be subject to a Market
Value Adjustment.     
    
TRANSFER OPTION AT EXPIRATION OF GUARANTEE PERIOD     

    
At least 30 days prior to the end of any Guarantee Period, we will provide the
Participant with written notice of the expiry of any such Guarantee Period.
We must receive within 30 days prior to the expiry of such Guarantee Period,
a written request to transfer the amount in such Guarantee Period to any
Account from among those that are then available without incurring a Market
Value Adjustment.  The transfer elected will be effective on the last day of the
expiring Guarantee Period.      

If we do not receive written notice within 30 days prior to the expiry of any
Guarantee Period to elect a new Guarantee Period, then amounts available under
such Guarantee Period will be transferred to the Money Market Account.  The
effective date of the transfer will be the first day following the expiry of
such Guarantee Period.
          
         
         
         

ALLOCATION AT ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT AND BEFORE CONVERSION

If the Accumulated Value is invested in more than four Accounts on the Date of
Maturity or other date elected for commencement of annuity payments and before
conversion in accordance with Section 15, we will allocate the Accumulated Value
to the four Accounts then having the largest portions of the Accumulated Value.
To determine the number of Accounts in which the Accumulated Value is invested,
each Subaccount is counted separately as one Account while all Guarantee Periods
are counted together as one Account.  The Accumulated Value in Accounts other
than such four Accounts will be allocated to the four Accounts in proportion to
the amounts in the four Accounts.  Upon commencement of annuity payments,
transfers are only permitted between Subaccounts.  Such allocation will be made
notwithstanding any transfer restrictions specified in this subsection.  The
rules that will be applied as of any date will be those in effect on that date.


6
<PAGE>
 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7.  ACCUMULATIONS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PURCHASE OF ACCUMULATION UNITS

The portion of the Net Premium not allocated to the MVA Fixed Account will be
allocated to each elected -Subaccount for investment with other funds in each
such Subaccount and applied to the purchase of Accumulation Units.  The number
of Accumulation Units in each Subaccount purchased by each premium payment will
be determined by dividing the applicable portion of the Net Premium by the
applicable Accumulation Unit Value on the first Valuation Date which is the same
as or next follows the receipt of the premium payment at our Servicing Office.

ACCUMULATED VALUE IN THE MVA FIXED ACCOUNT
    
We will accumulate (i) the portion of any Net Premium allocated to the MVA Fixed
Account and (ii) any amount transferred to the MVA Fixed Account from a
Subaccount, from the date the premium is received or the transfer is made.  The
Accumulated Value of the certificate's share of the MVA Fixed Account on any
date prior to the date annuity payments commence is equal to A minus B.    
    
A is the sum of (i), (ii), and (iii) below accumulated with interest to
that date, where:     
    
        (i)     is any premiums allocated to the MVA Fixed Account;     
    
        (ii)    is any amounts transferred to the MVA Fixed Account; and     
    
        (iii)   is the amount of any positive Market Value Adjustments.     
    
B is the sum of (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) below accumulated with interest to 
that date, where:    
     
        (i)     is any partial withdrawals (including any CDSLs) from the MVA
                Fixed Account;     
    
        (ii)    is any amounts transferred from the MVA Fixed Account;     
    
        (iii)   is any certificate fees, rider charges, premium taxes or similar
                taxes; and     
    
        (iv)    is the amount of any negative Market Value Adjustments.     

INTEREST ON PREMIUM ALLOCATED TO MVA FIXED ACCOUNT

Premium earns interest for as long as it remains in the certificate beginning on
the date it is credited.  Interest will be credited daily and will then earn
interest from such date.  During a Guarantee Period, the interest rate credited
will be based upon our declared interest rate then in effect and will apply
throughout such Guarantee Period.  Such declared interest rate will be expressed
on an annual effective basis.  The interest credited on any given day will be at
a rate which, if compounded daily for one year, would equal the applicable
declared interest rate.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.     VALUATION PROCEDURES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUE

The Accumulation Unit Value is calculated separately for each Subaccount.  The
value of one Accumulation Unit was set at $10 on the date assets were first
allocated to each Subaccount.  The value of one Accumulation Unit on any
Valuation Date thereafter will be determined for each Subaccount by multiplying
the immediately preceding Accumulation Unit Value by the applicable Net
Investment Factor for the Valuation Period ending on that Valuation Date.  On
any date other than a Valuation Date, the Accumulation Unit Value will be the
same as that on the next following Valuation Date.

7
<PAGE>
 
ANNUITY UNIT VALUE

The Annuity Unit Value is calculated separately for each Subaccount.  The value
of one Annuity Unit was set at $1 on the date assets were first allocated to
each Subaccount.  The value of one Annuity Unit on any Valuation Date thereafter
will be determined for each Subaccount by multiplying (1) the immediately
preceding Annuity Unit Value by (2) the applicable Net Investment Factor for the
Valuation Period ending on the Valuation Date reduced by .00009425 times the
applicable Net Investment Factor for each calendar day in the Valuation Period.
On any date other than a Valuation Date, the Annuity Unit Value will be the same
as that on the next following Valuation Date.

NET INVESTMENT FACTOR

The Net Investment Factor for each Subaccount for any Valuation Period is equal
to one plus the applicable net investment rate for such period.  A Net
Investment Factor may be more or less than one.  The net investment rate for
each Subaccount for any Valuation Period will be determined by:  (1) taking the
sum of the accrued investment income and capital gains and losses, realized or
unrealized, of the Subaccount for the Valuation Period; (2) subtracting the sum
of (i) an amount for any applicable income taxes and (ii) an amount for
mortality and expense risks and administrative expenses computed by multiplying
 .00003425 times the number of calendar days in the Valuation Period; and (3)
dividing the result by the value of the Subaccount at the beginning of the
Valuation Period.

VALUATION OF ASSETS

The values of the assets in the Subaccounts shall be determined at a fair value
in accordance with applicable law.  Liabilities attributable to the Subaccount
will be deducted to determine the value of the Subaccount.

ADJUSTMENT OF UNITS AND VALUES

We reserve the right to change the number and value of the Accumulation Units or
Annuity Units or both without the Participant's consent or the consent of any
other person, provided strict equity is preserved and the change does not affect
the benefits, provisions or investment return of the certificate.

- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9.  DEATH BENEFIT
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If the Annuitant dies before the Date of Maturity, we will pay the Death Benefit
to the Beneficiary.  The Death Benefit will equal the greatest of:  (i) the
Accumulated Value of the certificate, adjusted by any Market Value Adjustment,
as of the date of receipt of due proof of the Annuitant's death; and ii) the
amount of the premiums paid less the amount of all partial withdrawals made and
applicable CDSL.

Notwithstanding any of the above, the following will apply upon the death of the
Participant, if the certificate value has not already been converted into an
annuity:

(i) If the Beneficiary is the spouse of the Participant, the Beneficiary may
continue the certificate in force as the Participant.

(ii) If the Beneficiary is not the spouse of the Participant, or if the
Beneficiary is the spouse of the Participant but does not choose to continue the
certificate, we will pay the death benefit (or the Surrender Value if the
Participant is not the Annuitant) in full to the Beneficiary within five years
of the Participant's death or apply the Accumulated Value in full towards the
purchase of a life annuity on the Beneficiary with payments beginning within one
year of the Participant's death.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10.    CERTIFICATE FEE AND RIDER CHARGES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We will deduct a certificate fee of $30 on each certificate anniversary prior to
the Date of Maturity and on the date of surrender of the certificate if the
Accumulated Value is then less than $10,000.  No certificate fee will be
deducted if the Accumulated Value is $10,000 or more.  The fee will be deducted
from the Accumulated Value of all Accounts according to the proportion the
Accumulated Value of each account bears to the total Accumulated Value of the
certificate.  We reserve the right to increase the certificate fee up to $50,
subject to applicable state regulations.

8
<PAGE>
 
We will deduct separate monthly charges for each optional rider that the
Participant may elect at the time of application for the certificate.  The
charges, made at the beginning of each month, are equal to the Accumulated Value
at the beginning of such month, multiplied by 1/12th of the applicable annual
percentage rate, as specified on page 3 of the certificate, for each rider
elected.  The charge for each rider elected will be deducted from the
Accumulated Value of all Accounts according to the proportion the Accumulated
Value of each Account bears to the total Accumulated Value of the certificate.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11.    PARTIAL WITHDRAWALS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subject to the limits described in this Section, the Participant may request a
withdrawal of less than the Surrender Value.  The total of the requested amount
and any CDSL made is called a partial withdrawal.  We will pay the requested
amount on receipt of written notice before the Annuitant's death and before the
commencement of annuity payments.  The amount of the partial withdrawal will
then be deducted from the Accumulated Value.  Without our prior approval, we
will not permit a partial withdrawal of less than $100 nor will we permit a
partial withdrawal if the Accumulated Value after such requested partial
withdrawal would be less than $1000.

Unless specified in writing otherwise, withdrawals will be removed
proportionately from the values in all Accounts.  Withdrawal amounts removed
from the MVA Fixed Account will be subject to a Market Value Adjustment as
described in Section 13.  Prior to payment, the amount of any withdrawal will be
reduced by any applicable income taxes, premium taxes, and similar taxes, and
any applicable CDSL.

Upon written request, at any time during each Certificate Year, the Participant
may make a withdrawal of the Free Withdrawal Value, as described in Section 12.
If the Free Withdrawal Value is less than $100, then any written request for the
Free Withdrawal Value must be for the entire Free Withdrawal Value.

Any withdrawal, other than one on the last day of a Guarantee Period, will be
effective on the date we receive the Participant's  written notice.  To make a
withdrawal that is to be effective on the last day of any Guarantee Period, we
must receive written notice from the Participant within 30 days prior to the
expiry of such Guarantee Period.

We may defer payment of a withdrawal in the same manner as we may defer payment
of the Surrender Value, described in Section 14.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12.    CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES LOAD
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A Contingent Deferred Sales Load ("CDSL") will be computed upon surrender of the
certificate and upon each partial withdrawal.  To determine the CDSL, we will
first deduct the following amounts from the premium payments made to date in the
order that such payments were received:

(a) The sum of all certificate fees deducted to date;

(b) The sum of all prior partial withdrawals;

(c) The Free Withdrawal Value.

The Free Withdrawal Value is an amount equal to 10% of the Accumulated Value of
the certificate on the first day of the current certificate year less the sum of
all prior partial withdrawals made during the current certificate year.  This
amount may be withdrawn without incurring a CDSL.

We will then continue to withdraw the remaining premium payments in the order
that they were received and will apply a CDSL to these premiums in accordance
with the following table, until all remaining premium payments have been
withdrawn, or until the total amount withdrawn (including the CDSL) reaches (i)
the Accumulated Value, adjusted by any MVA in the case of a full surrender, or
(ii) the amount of the partial withdrawal.

9
<PAGE>
 
During each Certificate Year the Participant may make withdrawals in an amount
not to exceed the Free Withdrawal Value without incurring a CDSL.  Withdrawals
in excess of the Free Withdrawal Value will be subject to a CDSL in accordance
with the table shown below.

The charge (expressed as a percentage of the amount subject to the charge) 
is shown below.
        -----------------------------------------------------
           Years From Date of Premium               CDSL
               Payment to Date of                    
             Surrender or Withdrawal
        -----------------------------------------------------
               7 or more                          No Charge
        -----------------------------------------------------

           at least 6, but less than 7               2%
        -----------------------------------------------------
           at least 5, but less than 6               3%
        -----------------------------------------------------
           at least 4, but less than 5               4%
        -----------------------------------------------------
           at least 3, but less than 4               5%
        -----------------------------------------------------
           at least 2, but less than 3               5%
        -----------------------------------------------------
               Less than 2 Years                     6%
        -----------------------------------------------------


A withdrawal will be deemed to have been "made" on the date we receive written
notice.  For purposes of determining the CDSL, payment of the Surrender Value
will be deemed a withdrawal.

10
<PAGE>
 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Prior to the last day of any Guarantee Period, amounts withdrawn or transferred
from the MVA Fixed Account will be adjusted up or down by the application of a
Market Value Adjustment.

FORMULA

The market value adjustment is equal to A times (B minus 1) where:

A is (i) the amount subject to a market value adjustment, and

B is the market value adjustment factor below:
                  n
         1+g     ---
     [-------- ]  12 
      1+c+.005
 
Where:

g = The guaranteed rate in effect for the current Guarantee Period (in decimal
    form).

c = The current rate (in decimal form) in effect for durations equal to the
    number of years remaining in the current Guarantee Period (years rounded up
    to the nearest whole number). If not available, we will declare a rate
    solely for this purpose that is consistent with rates for durations that are
    currently available.

n = The number of complete months from the date of withdrawal to the end of the
    current Guarantee Period. (Where less than one complete month remains, n
    will equal one unless a withdrawal is made on the last day of the Guarantee
    Period at which time no adjustment will apply.)

The Market Value Adjustment may be positive or negative.

11
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. SURRENDER PROVISION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Upon receipt of written notice from the Participant before the Annuitant's death
and the Date of Maturity, we will pay the Surrender Value. To make a surrender
that is to be effective on the last day of any Guarantee Period, we must receive
written notice from the Participant within 30 days prior to the expiry of such
Guarantee Period.

The Surrender Value will be determined by us as of the date of receipt of
written notice.  We may defer payment of a Surrender Value for the period
provided by law.  With respect to the MVA Fixed Account, we will not defer
payment more than six months beyond the date we receive written notice.  If we
defer payment for more than 30 days, we will pay interest on the Surrender Value
at a rate equal to the greater of (i) the rate required by law; and (ii) the
rate declared by us.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.    CONVERSION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

By written notice, the Participant may elect the Date of Maturity at any time
before the Provisional Date of Maturity, provided that the Date elected is (i)
no later than the Annuitant's 85th birthday, without our prior approval; (ii) at
least 31 days after our receipt of the written notice; and (iii) at least six
months after the date the premium was applied to the certificate.  If no other
election is made, the Date of Maturity will be the Provisional Date of Maturity
shown in Section 1, except to the extent provided in Section 6.

CONVERSION OF ACCUMULATION UNITS TO ANNUITY UNITS

On the Date of Maturity or other date elected under Section 16 for commencement
of Annuity payments, the Accumulation Units credited to the certificate will be
converted into Annuity Units.  Annuity payments will then commence subject to
the limitations specified in Section 16 and all other applicable provisions.
The number of Annuity Units credited to each Subaccount will be determined by:
(1) multiplying the number of Accumulation Units credited to the Subaccount on
the date of conversion by the Accumulation Unit Value for the Subaccount as of
ten days prior to the date the first Annuity payment is due; (2) deducting any
applicable premium tax; (3) dividing the resulting value by 1000; (4)
multiplying the value from (3) by the applicable factor from the Table of First
Variable Annuity Payment Factors for the option elected, or if no option is
elected the applicable factor for the Option A (Variable) with a guaranteed
period of ten years, to determine that Subaccount's portion of the variable
portion of the first monthly annuity payment, and (5) dividing the value from
(4) by the Annuity Unit Value for the Subaccount as of ten days prior to the
date the first Annuity payment is due.

VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENTS

The amount of the variable portion of the monthly annuity payment due on the
first payment date is equal to the sum of the portions for each Subaccount
determined as described in the preceding paragraph.  The amount of the variable
portion of any monthly annuity payment subsequent to the first will be
determined by adding together for each Subaccount the product of the number of
Annuity Units credited to the Subaccount and the Annuity Unit Value for the
Subaccount 10 days prior to the date the payment is due.  We guarantee that the
Annuity Unit Values used in determining annuity payments will not be affected by
variations in our actual mortality experience or our actual expenses from those
assumed.

CONVERSION OF ACCUMULATED VALUE IN MVA FIXED ACCOUNT

On the Date of Maturity or other date elected to begin annuity payments, we will
convert the Accumulated Value of the certificate adjusted by any Market Value
Adjustment, if applicable, into annuity payments.

We will determine the annuity payments by: (i) dividing the adjusted Accumulated
Value by $1,000; and (ii) multiplying the result by the annuity payment rate
then in effect for the option elected in Section 16.

The annuity payment will never be less than that available by applying the
adjusted Accumulated Value to buy an immediate annuity offered by us.  If the
annuity payments are made monthly, the annuity payment rate is guaranteed to be
at least that provided in the Monthly Annuity Payment Rate Table in Section 16.

12
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. SETTLEMENT PROVISIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANNUITY ON DATE OF MATURITY

We shall make the annuity payments provided on the first page of the certificate
automatically as a Life  Annuity with Payments for a Guaranteed Period of 10
Years in accordance with the provisions of Option A unless another option is
elected.  We shall determine the amounts of the annuity payments in accordance
with the provisions of this section and of the "Conversion" provision in Section
15.  Amounts in the Subaccounts will be used to provide variable benefits.
Amounts in the MVA Fixed Account will be used to provide fixed benefits.

If the amount of the first monthly annuity payment would be less than $20, we
will make a single payment equal to the Surrender Value on the Date of Maturity.
This single payment shall be in place of all other benefits provided by the
certificate.  If the amount of the first monthly annuity payment would be at
least $20 but less than $50, we may make payments at quarterly, semi-annual or
annual intervals.

OPTIONAL METHODS OF SETTLEMENT

In place of (i) the Annuity on the Date of Maturity provided on the first page
of the certificate or (ii) a single payment in case of death prior to the date
annuity payments commence or (iii) a single payment in case of surrender which
occurs at least 6 months after the date the first premium is applied to the
certificate, proceeds payable under the certificate may be left with us in
accordance with one of the options set forth below and the terms of a
supplementary agreement to be issued when the option becomes effective, but only
if (i) such proceeds are in an amount of $5000 or more and (ii) the amount of
the first monthly Annuity payment would be $50 or more.

Option A
- --------

A(Variable) - Life Annuity on a Variable Basis with Payments for a Guaranteed
Period.

If the Measuring Person's death occurs within the Guaranteed Period, payments
will be made for the remainder of the Guaranteed Period in accordance with the
terms of the supplementary agreement.

A(Fixed) - Life Annuity with Payments for a Guaranteed Period.

If the Measuring Person's death occurs within the Guaranteed Period, payments
will be made for the remainder of the Guaranteed Period in accordance with the
terms of the supplementary agreement.

A five year Guaranteed Period cannot be elected if the Measuring Person is age
85 at the time of annuitization.

The range of Guaranteed Periods available for election is 3 to 30 years if the
certificate has been in effect for five years or more.  The range of Guaranteed
Periods available for election is 10 to 30 years if the certificate has been in
force at least six months but less than five years.

Option B
- --------

B(Variable) - Life Annuity on a Variable Basis Without Further Payment on Death
of the Measuring Person.

B(Fixed) - Life Annuity Without Further Payment on Death of the Measuring
Person.

13
<PAGE>
 
Option B is not available if the Measuring Person is age 85 at the time of
annuitization.

The Participant may elect an option by written notice before the death of the
Annuitant and before the commencement of annuity payments.  If the Participant
has made no election before the death of the Annuitant, the Beneficiary may make
an election by written notice before the proceeds become payable.

ANNUITY PAYMENT AND OPTION LIMITATIONS

While the Annuitant is living (i) the Measuring Person will be the Annuitant;
(ii) the Payee will be the Annuitant unless otherwise directed by the
Participant; and (iii) the Contingent Payee will be the Beneficiary unless
otherwise provided by written notice.

If the Annuitant dies and Death Benefit proceeds are left with us in accordance
with a settlement option election (i) the Measuring Person will be the
Beneficiary, (ii) the Payee will be the Beneficiary unless otherwise designated
in the election, and (iii) the Contingent Payee will be the person or persons so
designated in the election and in accordance with the terms of the supplementary
agreement.

Optional methods of settlement are not available without our consent if the
proceeds are payable to an executor, administrator, trustee, corporation,
partnership or association.

If the Participant of the certificate dies on or after annuity payments have
begun, any remaining benefit under such annuity on the date of the Participant's
death must be paid out at least as rapidly as under the method of making annuity
payments then in effect.

FIRST VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENT FACTORS

The Table of First Variable Annuity Payment Factors shows the amount of the
variable portion of the first monthly annuity payment provided on the first page
of the certificate and under Option A(Variable) and Option B(Variable) for each
$1,000 applied.  The factors in this table are based on the 1983a Individual
Annuity Mortality Table for males and females with mortality and age adjustments
and interest at the rate of 3 1/2% a year.  If permitted by state law, the
Participant may choose 5% or 6% in place of the 3 1/2% rate.  The amount of the
variable portion of the first payment will depend on the sex and adjusted age of
the Measuring Person.  The adjusted age is determined from the actual age on the
Measuring Person's birthday nearest the date the first Annuity payment is due,
by subtracting one year for each complete 10 year period elapsed since the Date
of Issue.

FIXED ANNUITY PAYMENTS

The Table of Fixed Annuity Payment Factors shows the guaranteed amount of the
fixed portion of the monthly annuity payments for each $1,000 applied.  The
factors in this table are based on the 1983a Individual Annuity Mortality Table
for females with interest at the rate of 3% a year.  The guaranteed amount of
the fixed portion of the annuity payments will depend on the adjusted age of the
Measuring Person.  The adjusted age is determined from the actual age on the
Measuring Person's birthday nearest the date the first annuity payment is due,
by subtracting one year for each complete 10 year period elapsed since the Date
of Issue.

14
<PAGE>
 
TABLE OF FIRST VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENT FACTORS

Monthly life annuity with payments on a variable basis for each $1,000 applied.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
 
                                                  Option A(Variable)                          Option B (Variable)
    Adjusted                                                                                  Life Annuity Without
Age of Measuring                             Life Annuity with Payments                       Further Payment on
                                                                                                     Death     
                                               for a Guaranteed Period                        of Measuring Person
                          ---------------------------------------------------------------   --------------------------
Person on Birthday            5 Years                  10 Years             20 Years
  Nearest Date                -------                  --------             --------   
 of First Payment          Male    Female           Male     Female      Male     Female         Male       Female
- ------------------        -----    ------           ----     ------      ----     ------         ----       ------   
<S>                       <C>      <C>              <C>      <C>         <C>      <C>            <C>        <C>  
                                                                                    
       55                 4.50     4.13             4.46      4.11       4.32     4.05            4.51       4.13
       56                 4.58     4.19             4.54      4.18       4.38     4.10            4.59       4.20
       57                 4.67     4.26             4.62      4.24       4.44     4.16            4.68       4.27
       58                 4.76     4.33             4.71      4.31       4.50     4.22            4.78       4.34
       59                 4.86     4.41             4.80      4.39       4.57     4.28            4.88       4.42
       60                 4.96     4.49             4.90      4.46       4.63     4.35            4.98       4.50
       61                 5.08     4.58             5.00      4.55       4.70     4.41            5.10       4.59
       62                 5.20     4.67             5.11      4.64       4.77     4.48            5.22       4.69
       63                 5.32     4.77             5.23      4.73       4.84     4.55            5.36       4.79
       64                 5.46     4.88             5.35      4.83       4.91     4.62            5.50       4.89
       65                 5.61     4.99             5.47      4.94       4.97     4.69            5.65       5.01
       66                 5.76     5.11             5.61      5.05       5.04     4.77            5.81       5.13
       67                 5.93     5.24             5.74      5.17       5.11     4.84            5.99       5.27
       68                 6.10     5.38             5.89      5.29       5.17     4.92            6.17       5.41
       69                 6.29     5.53             6.04      5.43       5.24     5.00            6.37       5.56
       70                 6.49     5.69             6.20      5.57       5.30     5.07            6.59       5.73
       71                 6.69     5.86             6.36      5.72       5.35     5.15            6.81       5.91
       72                 6.91     6.05             6.52      5.88       5.41     5.22            7.05       6.10
       73                 7.14     6.25             6.69      6.04       5.46     5.29            7.31       6.32
       74                 7.39     6.46             6.87      6.22       5.50     5.35            7.58       6.55
       75                 7.65     6.70             7.05      6.40       5.54     5.41            7.88       6.79
       76                 7.92     6.94             7.23      6.59       5.58     5.47            8.19       7.06
       77                 8.21     7.20             7.41      6.78       5.61     5.52            8.53       7.35
       78                 8.52     7.48             7.59      6.98       5.64     5.56            8.90       7.66
       79                 8.84     7.78             7.78      7.19       5.67     5.61            9.29       8.00
       80                 9.17     8.10             7.96      7.40       5.69     5.64            9.71       8.36
       81                 9.52     8.44             8.14      7.61       5.71     5.67           10.16       8.76
       82                 9.88     8.81             8.31      7.82       5.73     5.70           10.64       9.20
       83                10.26     9.19             8.48      8.03       5.74     5.72           11.16       9.67
       84                10.65     9.59             8.64      8.23       5.74     5.73           11.71      10.18
       85 and over       11.05    10.02             8.79      8.42       5.75     5.74           12.30      10.74
                                                                                   
</TABLE>
                                                            

15
<PAGE>
 
TABLE OF FIXED ANNUITY PAYMENT FACTORS

Monthly life annuity with payments on a fixed basis for each $1,000 applied.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
 
                                                  Option A(Variable)                          Option B (Variable)
    Adjusted                                                                                  Life Annuity Without
Age of Measuring                             Life Annuity with Payments                       Further Payment on
                                                                                                     Death     
                                               for a Guaranteed Period                        of Measuring Person
                          ---------------------------------------------------------------   --------------------------
Person on Birthday            5 Years                  10 Years             20 Years
  Nearest Date                -------                  --------             --------   
 of First Payment          Male    Female           Male     Female      Male     Female         Male       Female
- ------------------        -----    ------           ----     ------      ----     ------         ----       ------   
<S>                       <C>      <C>              <C>      <C>         <C>      <C>            <C>        <C>  
     
       55                 3.55     3.55             3.54     3.54        3.48     3.48           3.55        3.55
       56                 3.62     3.62             3.60     3.60        3.54     3.54           3.62        3.62
       57                 3.69     3.69             3.67     3.67        3.60     3.60           3.69        3.69
       58                 3.76     3.76             3.74     3.74        3.66     3.66           3.77        3.77
       59                 3.84     3.84             3.82     3.82        3.73     3.73           3.85        3.85
       60                 3.92     3.92             3.90     3.90        3.79     3.79           3.93        3.93
       61                 4.01     4.01             3.99     3.99        3.86     3.86           4.02        4.02
       62                 4.11     4.11             4.08     4.08        3.94     3.94           4.12        4.12
       63                 4.21     4.21             4.17     4.17        4.01     4.01           4.22        4.22
       64                 4.32     4.32             4.28     4.28        4.08     4.08           4.33        4.33
       65                 4.43     4.43             4.38     4.38        4.16     4.16           4.45        4.45
       66                 4.55     4.55             4.50     4.50        4.24     4.24           4.57        4.57
       67                 4.68     4.68             4.62     4.62        4.32     4.32           4.70        4.70
       68                 4.82     4.82             4.75     4.75        4.40     4.40           4.85        4.85
       69                 4.97     4.97             4.88     4.88        4.48     4.48           5.00        5.00
       70                 5.14     5.14             5.03     5.03        4.56     4.56           5.17        5.17
       71                 5.31     5.31             5.18     5.18        4.64     4.64           5.35        5.35
       72                 5.50     5.50             5.34     5.34        4.71     4.71           5.54        5.54
       73                 5.70     5.70             5.51     5.51        4.78     4.78           5.75        5.75
       74                 5.91     5.91             5.69     5.69        4.85     4.85           5.98        5.98
       75                 6.14     6.14             5.87     5.87        4.92     4.92           6.23        6.23
       76                 6.39     6.39             6.07     6.07        4.97     4.97           6.49        6.49
       77                 6.65     6.65             6.27     6.27        5.03     5.03           6.78        6.78
       78                 6.93     6.93             6.47     6.47        5.08     5.08           7.09        7.09
       79                 7.23     7.23             6.68     6.68        5.12     5.12           7.42        7.42
       80                 7.55     7.55             6.90     6.90        5.16     5.16           7.79        7.79
       81                 7.90     7.90             7.11     7.11        5.19     5.19           8.18        8.18
       82                 8.26     8.26             7.33     7.33        5.22     5.22           8.62        8.62
       83                 8.65     8.65             7.54     7.54        5.23     5.23           9.08        9.08
       84                 9.05     9.05             7.74     7.74        5.25     5.25           9.59        9.59
       85 and over        9.48     9.48             7.94     7.94        5.26     5.26          10.15       10.15
 
</TABLE>



16
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. PROOF REQUIRED FOR PAYMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Before making the first annuity payment, we shall have the right to require
proof of the correct age of the Measuring Person.  We shall also have the right
to require proof that the Measuring Person is living on the date each annuity
payment is due.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18.    MISSTATEMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If the age or sex of the Measuring Person has been misstated, we will adjust the
amount of each annuity payment to reflect the correct age and sex.  Any
overpayment will be repaid to us.  If it is not repaid, we will deduct the
overpayment from future payments we make under the certificate.  Any
underpayment will be added to future payments we make under the certificate.
Interest on any overpayment will be accrued at an annual rate of 6% to the date
or dates of settlement.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19.    ASSIGNMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Participant may assign an interest in the certificate, except as otherwise
provided, without the consent of any revocable Beneficiary.  The Participant's
interest, any interest of the Annuitant and of any revocable Beneficiary shall
be subject to the terms of the assignment.

We will not be on notice of any assignment unless it is in writing; nor will we
be on notice until a duplicate of the original assignment has been filed at our
Servicing Office.  We assume no responsibility for the validity or sufficiency
of any assignment.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20.    CLAIMS OF CREDITORS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The proceeds and all other payments under the certificate will be exempt from
the claims of creditors to the extent permitted by law.  The proceeds and
payments may not be assigned or withdrawn before becoming payable without our
agreement.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21.    RIGHT TO MAKE CHANGES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We reserve the right to make certain changes if, in our judgment, they would
best serve the interest of the participants of certificates or would be
appropriate in carrying out the purposes of such certificates.  Any changes will
be made only to the extent and in the manner permitted by applicable laws.
Also, when required by law, we will obtain your approval of the changes and
approval from any appropriate regulatory authority.

If any changes result in a material change in the underlying investment of
Subaccounts to which the reserves for the certificate are allocated, we will
notify the Participant of such change.  The Participant may then make a new
election under the Investment / Transfer Option provision.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22.    ANNUAL STATEMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We will furnish the Participant with reports annually, or more frequently, as
required by applicable law.  They will include:  (i) a statement of the
investments held in each Fund; and (ii) a statement of the condition and value
of the certificate which will show the number of Accumulation Units, if any,
credited to each Subaccount, the value of each Accumulation Unit, and the
Accumulated Value of the certificate.



17
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23. MISCELLANEOUS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If the Accumulated Value of the certificate becomes zero, we reserve the right
to terminate the certificate.

Under Massachusetts law, all income, gains and losses, realized or unrealized,
of the Separate Accounts shall be credited to or charged against the amounts
placed in the Separate Accounts without regard to our other income, gains and
losses.  The assets of the Separate Accounts are owned solely by us.  We are not
a trustee with respect to any part or the whole of those assets.  The portion of
the assets in the Separate Accounts equal  to the reserves and other liabilities
under the certificate with respect to the Separate Accounts shall not be
chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other business we may conduct.

In place of operating each Separate Account as a unit investment trust, we
reserve the right to make investments directly, operating the Separate Account
as a "management-type investment company" under the Act, or in any other form
permitted by law, the investment adviser of which would be us or an affiliate.
The Separate Account assets would be invested as provided with respect to the
investment objectives of the Separate Account.



18
<PAGE>
 
Communications about this group annuity contract should be sent to the Company
at its Servicing Office, Boston, Massachusetts may be sent to:



Combination Variable/Modified Guarantee Annuity -- Annuity payable to the
Annuitant beginning on the Date of Maturity for a guaranteed period of 10 years
and as long thereafter as the Annuitant lives.

Nonparticipating - not eligible for dividends



All benefits, payments and values under the certificate which are based on the
investment experience of a Separate Account are variable and not guaranteed as
to fixed dollar amount.



                                       BP

<PAGE>
 
[LOGO OF JOHN HANCOCK  Variable Life Insurance Company    John Hancock Place
        APPEARS HERE]                                     PO Box 717
                                                          Boston, Massachusetts
                                                          02117


PARTICIPANT AT ISSUE    [JOHN DOE]          ANNUITY CERTIFICATE NUMBER  [000000]

ANNUITANT               [JOHN DOE]          GROUP CONTRACT NUMBER       [12345]


John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company ("the Company") agrees to provide
the benefits, rights and privileges as stated in this certificate.

If this certificate is in force on the Date of Maturity, we will pay an annuity
to the Annuitant, unless otherwise directed by the Participant.  The variable
and fixed portions of each annuity payment will be determined in accordance with
Section 15 of this certificate.  The variable portion may increase or decrease
depending upon the investment experience of the Subaccounts in which the Net
Premiums are invested.  Unless another option offered in Section 16 is elected,
annuity payments will be payable for a guaranteed period of 10 years and as long
thereafter as the Annuitant lives.

By written notice, the Participant may elect the Date of Maturity at any time
before the Provisional Date of Maturity, provided the Date elected is:  (i) not
later than the Annuitant's 85th birthday without our prior approval; (ii) at
least 31 days after the written notice; and (iii) at least six months after the
date the first premium is applied to this certificate.  If no other election is
made, the Date of Maturity will be the Provisional Date of Maturity.

We are issuing this certificate in consideration of the application and the
payment of premiums.


GROUP ANNUITY CERTIFICATE
Combination Variable/Modified Guarantee Annuity
Nonparticipating - not eligible for dividends
Initial Premium shown on page 3

All benefits, payments and values under this certificate which are based on the
investment experience of a Separate Account are variable and not guaranteed as
to fixed dollar amount.



                         John Hancock Servicing Office
                         -----------------------------


                  John Hancock Investors Services Corporation
                                 P.O. Box 9298
                       Boston, Massachusetts  02205-9298
                           Telephone  [800-225-5291]
                              Fax  [800-225-0000]



JHFI95                                                                 V0195A
<PAGE>
 
                            CERTIFICATE PROVISIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Numerical Guide                       Alphabetical Guide


Section                                   Section
- -------                                   -------

 <S>                                       <C>
 1.  Certificate Specifications             7.  Accumulations
 2.  Definitions                           22.  Annual Statement
 3.  Participant, Beneficiary              19.  Assignment
 4.  The Contract                          10.  Certificate Fee and Rider 
                                                Charges
 5.  Premiums                               1.  Certificate Specifications
 6.  Investment/Transfer Options           20.  Claims of Creditors
 7.  Accumulations                         12.  Contingent Deferred Sales Load
 8.  Valuation Procedures                   4.  The Contract
 9.  Death Benefit                         15.  Conversion
10.  Certificate Fee and Rider Charges      9.  Death Benefit
11.  Partial Withdrawals                    2.  Definitions
12.  Contingent Deferred Sales Load         6.  Investment/Transfer Options 
13.  Market Value Adjustment               13.  Market Value Adjustment
14.  Surrender Provision                   23.  Miscellaneous
15.  Conversion                            18.  Misstatements
16.  Settlement Provisions                 11.  Partial Withdrawals
17.  Proof Required for Payment             3.  Participant, Beneficiary
18.  Misstatements                          5.  Premiums
19.  Assignment                            17.  Proof Required for Payment
20.  Claims of Creditors                   21.  Right to Make Changes
21.  Right to Make Changes                 16.  Settlement Provisions
22.  Annual Statement                      14.  Surrender Provision
23.  Miscellaneous                          8.  Valuation Procedures
 
</TABLE>



2
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. CERTIFICATE SPECIFICATIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PARTICIPANT(S)                       [John Doe]

ANNUITANT                            [John Doe]

ANNUITY CERTIFICATE NUMBER           [0000000]

AGE OF ANNUITANT AT ISSUE            [35]

DATE OF ISSUE                        [January 1, 1996]

PROVISIONAL DATE OF MATURITY         [January 1, 2036]



INITIAL PREMIUM PAYMENT              [$1,000.00]



                            ANNUAL PERCENTAGE
RIDERS ELECTED                 RATE (APR)               ANNUAL RIDER CHARGE
- --------------              -----------------           -------------------


One Year Stepped-Up
Death Benefit Rider               [.15%]                APR x Accumulated Value


Accidental Death Benefit Rider    [.10%]                APR x Accumulated Value


Nursing Home Waiver of
Contingent Deferred
Sales Load Rider                  [.05%]                APR x Accumulated Value




*For an explanation of rider charges, see Section 10 of this certificate.



3                                                                  V0395A
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. DEFINITIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The following terms are commonly used throughout this annuity certificate:

The term "Account", unmodified, means a Subaccount or a Guarantee Period.

The term "Accumulated Value" means the value of this certificate on any date
prior to the commencement of annuity payments.  This value equals the sum of (i)
the Accumulated Values for all Subaccounts and (ii) the Accumulated Value of
this certificate in the MVA Fixed Account.  The Accumulated Value for each
Subaccount as of any date will equal the number of Accumulation Units for that
Subaccount then credited to this certificate multiplied by the Accumulation Unit
Value for that Subaccount on that date.  Accumulated Value for the MVA Fixed
Account is defined in Section 7.

The term "Accumulation Unit" means a unit of measurement used in determining the
value of this certificate prior to the commencement of annuity payments.  The
Accumulation Unit Value for each Subaccount will reflect the investment
experience of that Subaccount.  It will vary in dollar amount.

The term "Annuitant" means the individual designated as such in the application
for this certificate.

The term "Annuity Unit" means a unit of measurement used in determining the
amount of the variable portion of each annuity payment.  The value of an Annuity
Unit for each Subaccount will depend on the assumed investment rate and the
investment experience of that Subaccount.  It will vary in dollar amount.

The term "Beneficiary" is defined in Section 3.

The term "Certificate Year" means the 12 month period beginning on the Date of
Issue and each 12 month period thereafter.

The term "Contingent Deferred Sales Load" ("CDSL") is defined in Section 12.

The term "Date of Issue" means, the date shown in Section 1.

The term "Date of Maturity" is the date annuity payments under this certificate
begin, in accordance with Section 15.

The term "Free Withdrawal Value" means, for any Certificate Year, an amount
totaling 10% of the Accumulated Value calculated as of the first day of the
Certificate Year, reduced by any prior withdrawals made during the Certificate
Year.

The term "Fund" means each division of a Series Fund which has a specific
investment objective.

The term "In force" means that the Annuitant is living, Surrender Value of this
certificate has not become payable, and this certificate has not been terminated
in accordance with the "Premiums" provision in Section 5.

The term "Guarantee Period" refers to a Guarantee Period elected under  the
Market Value Adjusted Fixed Account.

The term "Last Valuation Date" means the earliest of the Date of Maturity, the
Surrender Date, and the date of the Annuitant's death.

The term "Market Value Adjustment" is defined in Section 13.

The term "Market Value Adjustment Factor" is defined in Section 13.

The term "Market Value Adjusted ("MVA") Fixed Account" means, unmodified, a
separate investment account established by us pursuant to applicable law in
which you are eligible to invest under this certificate.

The term "Measuring Person" means the person on whose life annuity payments will
be based.



4                                                                        V0495A
<PAGE>
 
The term "Net Premium" means the premium paid less any applicable taxes based on
the amount of premium payment.

The term "Partial Withdrawal" is defined in Section 11.

The term "Participant" is defined in Section 3.

The term "Payment" means, unless otherwise stated, payment at our Servicing
Office in Boston, Massachusetts.

The term "Separate Account", unmodified, means a separate investment account
established by us pursuant to applicable law in which you are eligible to invest
under this certificate.

The term "Series Fund" means a series type mutual fund registered under the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the Act) as an open-end diversified management
investment company.

The term "Subaccount", means each division of a Separate Account.  The assets of
each Subaccount are invested solely in shares of the corresponding Fund of a
Series Fund.

The term "Surrender Date" means the date of receipt of written notice of
surrender under Section 14.

The term "Surrender Value" means the Accumulated Value of your certificate,
adjusted by any Market Value Adjustment, less, if applicable, any certificate
fees, any income taxes withheld, any rider charges, any deduction for premium
taxes or similar taxes, and any CDSL.

The term "Valuation Date" means any date on which the New York Stock Exchange is
open for trading and on which the Fund values its shares.

The term "Valuation Period" means that period of time from the beginning of the
day following a Valuation Date to the end of the next following Valuation Date.

The terms "we", "us" , "our" refer only to the Company.

The term "withdrawal" means, unless otherwise specified, the amount withdrawn
prior to any deductions but after any Market Value Adjustment.

The term "written notice" means, unless otherwise stated, a notice in writing
satisfactory to us which is received at our Servicing Office in Boston,
Massachusetts.

The terms "you" and "your" refer to the Participant of this certificate.



5
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. PARTICIPANT, BENEFICIARY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Participant and the Beneficiary will be as shown in the application unless
you change them or they are changed by the terms of this provision.  With regard
to joint Participants, at the first death of a joint Participant prior to the
Date of Maturity and prior to the Surrender Date, the Beneficiary will be the
surviving Participant notwithstanding that the designated Beneficiary may be
different.

If the Annuitant dies and there is no surviving Beneficiary, you will be the
Beneficiary, but if you were the Annuitant, your estate will be the Beneficiary.

You have the sole and absolute power to exercise all rights and privileges
without the consent of any other person except as provided by this certificate
or unless you provide otherwise by written notice.

While the Annuitant is alive, you may change the Participant by written notice.
You may change the Beneficiary by written notice no later than our receipt of
the required proof of the Annuitant's death.  A change will take effect when the
notice is signed if we acknowledge receipt of the notice at our Servicing
Office.  The change will take effect whether or not you or the Annuitant is then
alive.  A change shall be subject to the rights of any assignee of record with
us and subject to any payment made or other action taken by us before we
acknowledge receipt.  Regarding joint Participants, signatures of both joint
Participants are required for any transactions requiring written notification
from a Participant.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. THE CONTRACT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The contract is an agreement between the contract owner and the Company.  This
certificate is a summary of the Group Annuity Contract.  The entire contract
consists of the Group Annuity Contract, this certificate, any riders, and the
application, a copy of which is attached.

Certificate years, certificate months, and certificate anniversaries are
measured from the Date of Issue of this certificate.

Only the President, a Vice President, the Secretary, or an Assistant Secretary
of the Company has authority to waive or modify any of the provisions of the
contract.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. PREMIUMS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PAYMENT OF PREMIUMS

All premium payments shall be made to us at our Servicing Office.  Premium
payments are subject to the following conditions:

(a) Each premium payment must be at least $500.
(b) The maximum premium that may be deposited to this certificate in any
    certificate year is $1,000,000.
(c) No premium payments may be made to this certificate within six months
    prior to the Annuitant's 85th birthday or thereafter.

Upon request we will consider waiving any of the above conditions.

PREMIUM TAXES

A deduction for a premium tax or a similar tax will be made from the Accumulated
Value at the time of annuitization.  If we pay a tax on the premium at the time
such premium is paid, then we will deduct a charge for these taxes from the
Accumulated Value for the amount withdrawn or surrendered, at the time of
annuitization, death, surrender, or withdrawal.



6                                                                       V0695A
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6. INVESTMENT / TRANSFER OPTIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

INVESTMENT OPTION

The Net Premium will be allocated to the Accounts according to the investment
option then in effect.  The initial investment option is that elected by you in
the application.  You may elect to change the investment option.  The change
will be effective as to the application of any Net Premium made on or after the
date of receipt at our Servicing Office of notice satisfactory to us.  The
minimum percentage that may be allocated to any Account and the maximum number
of Accounts in which amounts may be held will be subject to our administrative
rules in effect at the time of the election.  All percentages you elect must be
whole numbers.

If allocation is made to the MVA Fixed Account, the Participant may select from
the Guarantee Periods then available.  The period selected will determine the
guaranteed interest rate applicable, which will be payable for a Guarantee
Period.  A Guarantee Period begins on the date premium is credited, or in the
case of transfer, on the effective date of transfer.

We reserve the right to change the duration of Guarantee Periods offered.  The
effective date of a new Guarantee Period will be the first day following the
expiry of the immediately preceding Guarantee Period. Except as otherwise
provided, a Guarantee Period is not available if it extends beyond the Date of
Maturity.  Also, except as otherwise provided, if a new Guarantee Period becomes
effective that causes this certificate to continue beyond the Provisional Date
of Maturity, then the Provisional Date of Maturity will become the Date of
Maturity.

ACCOUNT TRANSFER OPTION

You may elect to reallocate amounts among the Accounts up to twelve times in a
certificate year.  Transfers between the Accounts will be effective on the date
of receipt at our Servicing Office of notice satisfactory to us.  No transfer
will be permitted on or within 30 days of the Date of Maturity.

The number of Accumulation Units or Annuity Units and the amount of Accumulated
Value of the MVA Fixed Account transferred to or from each Account will reflect
the respective values in each Account.  The maximum number of Accounts in which
Accumulated Value may be held will be subject to our rules in effect at the time
of election.

The maximum amount which may be transferred or paid into an Account in any
certificate year is $1,000,000 without our prior approval.  Any transfer made
out of a Guarantee Period of the MVA Fixed Account may be subject to a Market
Value Adjustment.

TRANSFER OPTION AT EXPIRATION OF GUARANTEE PERIOD


At least 30 days prior to the end of any Guarantee Period, we will provide you
with written notice of the expiry of any such Guarantee Period.  We must receive
within 30 days prior to the expiry of such Guarantee Period, a written request
to transfer the amount in such Guarantee Period to any Account from among those
that are then available without incurring a Market Value Adjustment.  The
transfer elected will be effective on the last day of the expiring Guarantee
Period.

If we do not receive written notice within 30 days prior to the expiry of any
Guarantee Period to elect a new Guarantee Period, then amounts available under
such Guarantee Period will be transferred to the Money Market Account.  The
effective date of the transfer will be the first day following the expiry of
such Guarantee Period.

ALLOCATION AT ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT AND BEFORE CONVERSION


If the Accumulated Value is invested in more than four Accounts on the Date of
Maturity or other date elected for commencement of annuity payments and before
conversion in accordance with Section 15, we will allocate the Accumulated Value
to the four Accounts then having the largest portions of the Accumulated Value.
To determine the number of Accounts in which the Accumulated Value is invested,
each Subaccount is counted separately as one Account while all Guarantee Periods
are counted together as one Account.  The Accumulated Value in Accounts other
than such four Accounts will be allocated to the four Accounts in proportion to
the amounts in the four Accounts.  Upon commencement of annuity payments,
transfers are only permitted between Subaccounts.  Such allocation will be made
notwithstanding any transfer restrictions specified in this subsection.  The
rules that will be applied as of any date will be those in effect on that date.



7
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. ACCUMULATIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PURCHASE OF ACCUMULATION UNITS

The portion of the Net Premium not allocated to the MVA Fixed Account will be
allocated to each elected Subaccount for investment with other funds in each
such Subaccount and applied to the purchase of Accumulation Units.  The number
of Accumulation Units in each Subaccount purchased by each premium payment will
be determined by dividing the applicable portion of the Net Premium by the
applicable Accumulation Unit Value on the first Valuation Date which is the same
as or next follows the receipt of the premium payment at our Servicing Office.

ACCUMULATED VALUE IN THE MVA FIXED ACCOUNT

We will accumulate (i) the portion of any Net Premium allocated to the MVA Fixed
Account and (ii) any amount transferred to the MVA Fixed Account from a
Subaccount, from the date the premium is received or the transfer is made.  The
Accumulated Value of this certificate's share of the MVA Fixed Account on any
date prior to the date annuity payments commence is equal to A minus B.

A is the sum of (i), (ii) and (iii) below accumulated with interest to that
date, where:

     (i)    is any premiums allocated to the MVA Fixed Account;

     (ii)   is any amounts transferred to the MVA Fixed Account; and

     (iii)  is the amount of any positive Market Value Adjustments.

B is the sum of (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) below accumulated with interest to
that date, where:

     (i)    is any partial withdrawals (including any CDSLs) from the MVA Fixed
            Account;

     (ii)   is any amounts transferred from the MVA Fixed Account;

     (iii)  is any certificate fees, rider charges, premium taxes or similar
            taxes; and

     (iv)   is the amount of any negative Market Value Adjustments.


INTEREST ON PREMIUM ALLOCATED TO MVA FIXED ACCOUNT

Premium earns interest for as long as it remains in this certificate beginning
on the date it is credited. Interest will be credited daily and will then earn
interest from such date.  During a Guarantee Period, the interest rate credited
will be based upon our declared interest rate then in effect and will apply
throughout such Guarantee Period. Such declared interest rate will be expressed
on an annual effective basis.  The interest credited on any given day will be at
a rate which, if compounded daily for one year, would equal the applicable
declared interest rate.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. VALUATION PROCEDURES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUE

The Accumulation Unit Value is calculated separately for each Subaccount.  The
value of one Accumulation Unit was set at $10 on the date assets were first
allocated to each Subaccount.  The value of one Accumulation Unit on any
Valuation Date thereafter will be determined for each Subaccount by multiplying
the immediately preceding Accumulation Unit Value by the applicable Net
Investment Factor for the Valuation Period ending on that Valuation Date.  On
any date other than a Valuation Date, the Accumulation Unit Value will be the
same as that on the next following Valuation Date.

ANNUITY UNIT VALUE

The Annuity Unit Value is calculated separately for each Subaccount.  The value
of one Annuity Unit was set at $1 on the date assets were first allocated to
each Subaccount.  The value of one Annuity Unit on any Valuation Date thereafter
will be determined for each Subaccount by multiplying (1) the immediately
preceding Annuity Unit Value by (2) the applicable Net Investment Factor for the
Valuation Period ending on the Valuation Date reduced by .00009425 times the
applicable Net Investment Factor for each calendar day in the Valuation Period.
On any date other than a Valuation Date, the Annuity Unit Value will be the same
as that on the next following Valuation Date.

8
<PAGE>
 
NET INVESTMENT FACTOR

The Net Investment Factor for each Subaccount for any Valuation Period is equal
to one plus the applicable net investment rate for such period.  A Net
Investment Factor may be more or less than one.  The net investment rate for
each Subaccount for any Valuation Period will be determined by:  (1) taking the
sum of the accrued investment income and capital gains and losses, realized or
unrealized, of the Subaccount for the Valuation Period; (2) subtracting the sum
of (i) an amount for any applicable income taxes and (ii) an amount for
mortality and expense risks and administrative expenses computed by multiplying
an amount not to exceed .00003425 times the number of calendar days in the
Valuation Period and multiplying the result by the value of the Subaccount at
the beginning of the Valuation Period; and (3) dividing the result by the value
of the Subaccount at the beginning of the Valuation Period.

VALUATION OF ASSETS

The values of the assets in the Subaccounts shall be determined at a fair value
in accordance with applicable law.  Liabilities attributable to the Subaccount
will be deducted to determine the value of the Subaccount.

ADJUSTMENT OF UNITS AND VALUES

We reserve the right to change the number and value of the Accumulation Units or
Annuity Units or both without your consent or the consent of any other person,
provided strict equity is preserved and the change does not affect the benefits,
provisions or investment return of this certificate.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9.  DEATH BENEFIT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If the Annuitant dies before the Date of Maturity, we will pay the Death Benefit
to the Beneficiary.  The Death Benefit will equal the greatest of:  (i) the
Accumulated Value of this certificate, adjusted by any Market Value Adjustment,
as of the date of receipt of due proof of the Annuitant's death; and (ii) the
amount of the premiums paid less the amount of all partial withdrawals made,
including any applicable CDSL.

Notwithstanding any of the above, the following will apply upon the death of the
Participant, if the certificate value has not already been converted into an
annuity:

(i) If the Beneficiary is the spouse of the Participant, the Beneficiary may
continue this certificate in force as the Participant.

(ii) If the Beneficiary is not the spouse of the Participant, or if the
Beneficiary is the spouse of the Participant but does not choose to continue
this certificate, we will pay the death benefit (or the Surrender Value if the
Participant is not the Annuitant) in full to the Beneficiary within five years
of the Participant's death or apply the Accumulated Value in full towards the
purchase of a life annuity on the Beneficiary with payments beginning within one
year of the Participant's death.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. CERTIFICATE FEE AND RIDER CHARGES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We will deduct a certificate fee of $30 on each certificate anniversary prior to
the Date of Maturity and on the date of surrender of this certificate if the
Accumulated Value is then less than $10,000.  No certificate fee will be
deducted if the Accumulated Value is $10,000 or more.  The fee will be deducted
from the Accumulated Value of all Accounts according to the proportion the
Accumulated Value of each account bears to the total Accumulated Value of this
certificate.  We reserve the right to increase the certificate fee up to $50,
subject to applicable state regulations.


We will deduct separate monthly charges for each optional rider that you may
elect at the time of application for this certificate.  The charges, made at the
beginning of each month, are equal to the Accumulated Value at the beginning of
such month, multiplied by 1/12th of the applicable annual percentage rate, as
specified on page 3 of this certificate, for each rider elected.  The charge for
each rider elected will be deducted from the Accumulated Value of all Accounts
according to the proportion the Accumulated Value of each Account bears to the
total Accumulated Value of this certificate.


9
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11. PARTIAL WITHDRAWALS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subject to the limits described in this Section, you may request a withdrawal of
less than the Surrender Value.  The total of the requested amount and any CDSL
made is called a partial withdrawal.  We will pay the requested amount on
receipt of written notice before the Annuitant's death and before the
commencement of annuity payments.  The amount of the partial withdrawal will
then be deducted from the Accumulated Value.  Without our prior approval, we
will not permit a partial withdrawal of less than $100 nor will we permit a
partial withdrawal if the Accumulated Value after such requested partial
withdrawal would be less than $1000.

Unless specified in writing otherwise, withdrawals will be removed
proportionately from the values in all Accounts.  Withdrawal amounts removed
from the MVA Fixed Account will be subject to a Market Value Adjustment as
described in Section 13.  Prior to payment, the amount of any withdrawal will be
reduced by any applicable income taxes, premium taxes, and similar taxes, and
any applicable CDSL.

Upon written request, at any time during each Certificate Year, you may make a
withdrawal of the Free Withdrawal Value, as described in Section 12.  If the
Free Withdrawal Value is less than $100, then any written request for the Free
Withdrawal Value must be for the entire Free Withdrawal Value.

Any withdrawal, other than one on the last day of a Guarantee Period, will be
effective on the date we receive your written notice.  To make a withdrawal that
is to be effective on the last day of any Guarantee Period, we must receive
written notice from you within 30 days prior to the expiry of such Guarantee
Period.

We may defer payment of a withdrawal in the same manner as we may defer payment
of the Surrender Value, described in Section 14.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES LOAD
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Contingent Deferred Sales Load ("CDSL") will be computed upon surrender of
this certificate and upon each partial withdrawal.  To determine the CDSL, we
will first deduct the following amounts from the premium payments made to date
in the order that such payments were received:

(a) The sum of all certificate fees deducted to date;

(b) The sum of all prior partial withdrawals;

(c) The Free Withdrawal Value.

The Free Withdrawal Value is an amount equal to 10% of the Accumulated Value of
this certificate on the first day of the current certificate year less the sum
of all prior partial withdrawals made during the current certificate year.  This
amount may be withdrawn without incurring a CDSL.

We will then continue to withdraw the remaining premium payments in the order
that they were received and will apply a CDSL to these premiums in accordance
with the following table, until all remaining premium payments have been
withdrawn, or until the total amount withdrawn (including the CDSL) reaches (i)
the Accumulated Value, adjusted by any MVA in the case of a full surrender, or
(ii) the amount of the partial withdrawal.



10
<PAGE>
 
During each Certificate Year you may make withdrawals in an amount not to exceed
the Free Withdrawal Value without incurring a CDSL.  Withdrawals in excess of
the Free Withdrawal Value will be subject to a CDSL in accordance with the table
shown below.

The charge (expressed as a percentage of the amount subject to the charge) is 
shown below.

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
    ------------------------------------------------------
       Years From Date of Premium 
           Payment to Date of 
         Surrender or Withdrawal               CDSL
    ------------------------------------------------------
               7 or more                     No Charge
    ------------------------------------------------------
      <S>                                        <C>
      at least 6, but less than 7                2%
    ------------------------------------------------------
      at least 5, but less than 6                3%
    ------------------------------------------------------
      at least 4, but less than 5                4%
    ------------------------------------------------------
      at least 3, but less than 4                5%
    ------------------------------------------------------
      at least 2, but less than 3                5%
    ------------------------------------------------------
      Less than 2 Years                          6%
    ------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

A withdrawal will be deemed to have been "made" on the date we receive written
notice.  For purposes of determining the CDSL, payment of the Surrender Value
will be deemed a withdrawal.



11
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13. MARKET VALUE ADJUSTMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Prior to the last day of any Guarantee Period, amounts withdrawn or transferred
from the MVA Fixed Account will be adjusted up or down by the application of a
Market Value Adjustment.

FORMULA

The Market Value Adjustment is equal to A times (B minus 1) where:


A is the amount subject to a market value adjustment, and

B is the market value adjustment factor below:


         [   1 + g  ] 12/n/
          ----------
         [ 1+c+.005 ]  

Where:

g = The guaranteed rate in effect for the current Guarantee Period (in decimal
    form).

c = The current rate (in decimal form) in effect for durations equal to the
    number of years remaining in the current Guarantee Period (years rounded up
    to the nearest whole number). If not available, we will declare a rate
    solely for this purpose that is consistent with rates for durations that are
    currently available.

n = The number of complete months from the date of withdrawal to the end of the
    current Guarantee Period. (Where less than one complete month remains, n
    will equal one unless a withdrawal is made on the last day of the Guarantee
    Period at which time no adjustment will apply.)


The Market Value Adjustment may be positive or negative.



12
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. SURRENDER PROVISION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Upon receipt of written notice from you before the Annuitant's death and the
Date of Maturity, we will pay the Surrender Value. To make a surrender that is
to be effective on the last day of any Guarantee Period, we must receive written
notice from you within 30 days prior to the expiry of such Guarantee Period.

The Surrender Value will be determined by us as of the date of receipt of
written notice.  We may defer payment of a Surrender Value for the period
provided by law.  With respect to the MVA Fixed Account, we will not defer
payment more than six months beyond the date we receive written notice.  If we
defer payment for more than 30 days, we will pay interest on the Surrender Value
at a rate equal to the greater of (i) the rate required by law; and (ii) the
rate declared by us.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. CONVERSION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

By written notice, you may elect the Date of Maturity at any time before the
Provisional Date of Maturity, provided that the Date elected is (i) no later
than the Annuitant's 85th birthday, without our prior approval; (ii) at least 31
days after our receipt of the written notice; and (iii) at least six months
after the date the premium was applied to this certificate.  If no other
election is made, the Date of Maturity will be the Provisional Date of Maturity
shown in Section 1, except to the extent provided in Section 6.

CONVERSION OF ACCUMULATION UNITS TO ANNUITY UNITS

On the Date of Maturity or other date elected under Section 16 for commencement
of annuity payments, the Accumulation Units credited to this certificate will be
converted into Annuity Units.  Annuity payments will then commence subject to
the limitations specified in Section 16 and all other applicable provisions.
The number of Annuity Units credited to each Subaccount will be determined by:
(1) multiplying the number of Accumulation Units credited to the Subaccount on
the date of conversion by the Accumulation Unit Value for the Subaccount as of
ten days prior to the date the first annuity payment is due; (2) deducting any
applicable premium tax; (3) dividing the resulting value by 1000; (4)
multiplying the value from (3) by the applicable factor from the Table of First
Variable Annuity Payment Factors for the option elected, or if no option is
elected the applicable factor for the Option A (Variable) with a guaranteed
period of ten years, to determine that Subaccount's portion of the variable
portion of the first monthly annuity payment, and (5) dividing the value from
(4) by the Annuity Unit Value for the Subaccount as of ten days prior to the
date the first annuity payment is due.

VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENTS

The amount of the variable portion of the monthly annuity payment due on the
first payment date is equal to the sum of the portions for each Subaccount
determined as described in the preceding paragraph.  The amount of the variable
portion of any monthly annuity payment subsequent to the first will be
determined by adding together for each Subaccount the product of the number of
Annuity Units credited to the Subaccount and the Annuity Unit Value for the
Subaccount 10 days prior to the date the payment is due.  We guarantee that the
Annuity Unit Values used in determining annuity payments will not be affected by
variations in our actual mortality experience or our actual expenses from those
assumed.

CONVERSION OF ACCUMULATED VALUE IN MVA FIXED ACCOUNT

On the Date of Maturity or other date elected to begin annuity payments, we will
convert the Accumulated Value of this certificate adjusted by a Market Value
Adjustment, if applicable, into annuity payments.

We will determine the annuity payments by: (i) dividing the adjusted Accumulated
Value by $1,000; and (ii) multiplying the result by the annuity payment rate
then in effect for the option elected in Section 16.

The annuity payment will never be less than that available by applying the
adjusted Accumulated Value to buy an immediate annuity offered by us.  If the
annuity payments are made monthly, the annuity payment rate is guaranteed to be
at least that provided in the Monthly Annuity Payment Rate Table in Section 16.


13
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16. SETTLEMENT PROVISIONS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANNUITY ON DATE OF MATURITY

We shall make the annuity payments provided on the first page of this
certificate automatically as a Life  Annuity with Payments for a Guaranteed
Period of 10 Years in accordance with the provisions of Option A unless another
option is elected.  We shall determine the amounts of the annuity payments in
accordance with the provisions of this section and of the "Conversion" provision
in Section 15.  Amounts in the Subaccounts will be used to provide variable
benefits.  Amounts in the MVA Fixed Account will be used to provide fixed
benefits.

If the amount of the first monthly annuity payment would be less than $20, we
will make a single payment equal to the Surrender Value on the Date of Maturity.
This single payment shall be in place of all other benefits provided by this
certificate.  If the amount of the first monthly annuity payment would be at
least $20 but less than $50, we may make payments at quarterly, semi-annual or
annual intervals.

OPTIONAL METHODS OF SETTLEMENT

In place of (i) the Annuity on the Date of Maturity provided on the first page
of this certificate or (ii) a single payment in case of death prior to the date
annuity payments commence or (iii) a single payment in case of surrender which
occurs at least 6 months after the date the first premium is applied to this
certificate, proceeds payable under this certificate may be left with us in
accordance with one of the options set forth below and the terms of a
supplementary agreement to be issued when the option becomes effective, but only
if (i) such proceeds are in an amount of $5000 or more and (ii) the amount of
the first monthly annuity payment would be $50 or more.

Option A
- --------

A(Variable) - Life Annuity on a Variable Basis with Payments for a Guaranteed
Period.

If the Measuring Person's death occurs within the Guaranteed Period, payments
will be made for the remainder of the Guaranteed Period in accordance with the
terms of the supplementary agreement.

A(Fixed) - Life Annuity with Payments for a Guaranteed Period.

If the Measuring Person's death occurs within the Guaranteed Period, payments
will be made for the remainder of the Guaranteed Period in accordance with the
terms of the supplementary agreement.

A five year Guaranteed Period cannot be elected if the Measuring Person is age
85 at the time of annuitization.

The range of Guaranteed Periods available for election is 3 to 30 years if this
certificate has been in effect for five years or more.  The range of Guaranteed
Periods available for election is 10 to 30 years if this certificate has been in
force at least six months but less than five years.

Option B
- --------

B(Variable) - Life Annuity on a Variable Basis Without Further Payment on Death
of the Measuring Person.

B(Fixed) - Life Annuity Without Further Payment on Death of the Measuring
Person.


14
<PAGE>
 
Option B is not available if the Measuring Person is age 85 at the time of
annuitization.

You may elect an option by written notice before the death of the Annuitant and
before the commencement of annuity payments.  If you have made no election
before the death of the Annuitant, the Beneficiary may make an election by
written notice before the proceeds become payable.

ANNUITY PAYMENT AND OPTION LIMITATIONS

While the Annuitant is living (i) the Measuring Person will be the Annuitant;
(ii) the Payee will be the Annuitant unless otherwise directed by you; and (iii)
the Contingent Payee will be the Beneficiary unless otherwise provided by
written notice.

If the Annuitant dies and Death Benefit proceeds are left with us in accordance
with a settlement option election (i) the Measuring Person will be the
Beneficiary, (ii) the Payee will be the Beneficiary unless otherwise designated
in the election, and (iii) the Contingent Payee will be the person or persons so
designated in the election and in accordance with the terms of the supplementary
agreement.

Optional methods of settlement are not available without our consent if the
proceeds are payable to an executor, administrator, trustee, corporation,
partnership or association.

If the Participant of this certificate dies on or after annuity payments have
begun, any remaining benefit under such annuity on the date of the Participant's
death must be paid out at least as rapidly as under the method of making annuity
payments then in effect.

FIRST VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENT FACTORS

The Table of First Variable Annuity Payment Factors shows the amount of the
variable portion of the first monthly annuity payment provided on the first page
of this certificate and under Option A(Variable) and Option B(Variable) for each
$1,000 applied.  The factors in this table are based on the 1983a Individual
Annuity Mortality Table for males and females with mortality and age adjustments
and interest at the rate of 3 1/2% a year.  If permitted by state law, the
Participant may choose 5% or 6% in place of the 3 1/2% rate.  The amount of the
variable portion of the first payment will depend on the sex and adjusted age of
the Measuring Person.  The adjusted age is determined from the actual age on the
Measuring Person's birthday nearest the date the first annuity payment is due,
by subtracting one year for each complete 10 year period elapsed since the Date
of Issue.

FIXED ANNUITY PAYMENTS

The Table of Fixed Annuity Payment Factors shows the guaranteed amount of the
fixed portion of the monthly annuity payments for each $1,000 applied.  The
factors in this table are based on the 1983a Individual Annuity Mortality Table
for females with interest at the rate of 3% a year.  The guaranteed amount of
the fixed portion of the annuity payments will depend on the adjusted age of the
Measuring Person.  The adjusted age is determined from the actual age on the
Measuring Person's birthday nearest the date the first annuity payment is due,
by subtracting one year for each complete 10 year period elapsed since the Date
of Issue.



15
<PAGE>
 
        TABLE OF FIRST VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENT FACTORS

        Monthly life annuity with payments on a variable basis for each $1,000
        applied.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
 
                                                         Option A(Variable)                            Option B (Variable)
             Adjusted                                                                                 Life Annuity Without
         Age of Measuring                            Life Annuity with Payments                        Further Payment on 
                                                                                                              Death
        Person on Birthday                            for a Guaranteed Period                          of Measuring Person
                                 -------------------------------------------------------------      ------------------------
           Nearest Date               5 Years             10 Years             20 Years
                                      -------             --------             --------
         of First Payment          Male      Female    Male      Female     Male      Female            Male      Female
         ----------------          ----      ------    ----      ------     ----      ------            ----      ------
                <S>                <C>        <C>      <C>        <C>       <C>        <C>              <C>        <C>    
                 55                4.50       4.13     4.46       4.11      4.32       4.05             4.51       4.13
                 56                4.58       4.19     4.54       4.18      4.38       4.10             4.59       4.20       
                 57                4.67       4.26     4.62       4.24      4.44       4.16             4.68       4.27       
                 58                4.76       4.33     4.71       4.31      4.50       4.22             4.78       4.34       
                 59                4.86       4.41     4.80       4.39      4.57       4.28             4.88       4.42       
                 60                4.96       4.49     4.90       4.46      4.63       4.35             4.98       4.50       
                 61                5.08       4.58     5.00       4.55      4.70       4.41             5.10       4.59       
                 62                5.20       4.67     5.11       4.64      4.77       4.48             5.22       4.69       
                 63                5.32       4.77     5.23       4.73      4.84       4.55             5.36       4.79       
                 64                5.46       4.88     5.35       4.83      4.91       4.62             5.50       4.89       
                 65                5.61       4.99     5.47       4.94      4.97       4.69             5.65       5.01       
                 66                5.76       5.11     5.61       5.05      5.04       4.77             5.81       5.13       
                 67                5.93       5.24     5.74       5.17      5.11       4.84             5.99       5.27       
                 68                6.10       5.38     5.89       5.29      5.17       4.92             6.17       5.41       
                 69                6.29       5.53     6.04       5.43      5.24       5.00             6.37       5.56       
                 70                6.49       5.69     6.20       5.57      5.30       5.07             6.59       5.73       
                 71                6.69       5.86     6.36       5.72      5.35       5.15             6.81       5.91       
                 72                6.91       6.05     6.52       5.88      5.41       5.22             7.05       6.10       
                 73                7.14       6.25     6.69       6.04      5.46       5.29             7.31       6.32       
                 74                7.39       6.46     6.87       6.22      5.50       5.35             7.58       6.55       
                 75                7.65       6.70     7.05       6.40      5.54       5.41             7.88       6.79       
                 76                7.92       6.94     7.23       6.59      5.58       5.47             8.19       7.06       
                 77                8.21       7.20     7.41       6.78      5.61       5.52             8.53       7.35       
                 78                8.52       7.48     7.59       6.98      5.64       5.56             8.90       7.66       
                 79                8.84       7.78     7.78       7.19      5.67       5.61             9.29       8.00       
                 80                9.17       8.10     7.96       7.40      5.69       5.64             9.71       8.36       
                 81                9.52       8.44     8.14       7.61      5.71       5.67            10.16       8.76       
                 82                9.88       8.81     8.31       7.82      5.73       5.70            10.64       9.20       
                 83               10.26       9.19     8.48       8.03      5.74       5.72            11.16       9.67       
                 84               10.65       9.59     8.64       8.23      5.74       5.73            11.71      10.18       
                 85 and over      11.05      10.02     8.79       8.42      5.75       5.74            12.30      10.74        
 
</TABLE>


16
<PAGE>
 
TABLE OF FIXED ANNUITY PAYMENT FACTORS

Monthly life annuity with payments on a fixed basis for each $1,000 applied.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
 
                                                            Option A(Fixed)                              Option B (Fixed)
              Adjusted                                                                                 Life Annuity Without
          Age of Measuring                              Life Annuity with Payments                      Further Payment on 
                                                                                                               Death
         Person on Birthday                              for a Guaranteed Period                       of Measuring Person
                                 -------------------------------------------------------------      --------------------------
            Nearest Date                5 Years            10 Years             20 Years
                                        -------            --------             --------  
          of First Payment          Male      Female    Male      Female     Male      Female            Male      Female
          ----------------          ----      ------    ----      ------     ----      ------            ----      ------
                 <S>                <C>        <C>      <C>        <C>       <C>        <C>              <C>        <C>
                 55                 3.55       3.55     3.54       3.54      3.48       3.48             3.55       3.55
                 56                 3.62       3.62     3.60       3.60      3.54       3.54             3.62       3.62     
                 57                 3.69       3.69     3.67       3.67      3.60       3.60             3.69       3.69     
                 58                 3.76       3.76     3.74       3.74      3.66       3.66             3.77       3.77     
                 59                 3.84       3.84     3.82       3.82      3.73       3.73             3.85       3.85     
                 60                 3.92       3.92     3.90       3.90      3.79       3.79             3.93       3.93     
                 61                 4.01       4.01     3.99       3.99      3.86       3.86             4.02       4.02     
                 62                 4.11       4.11     4.08       4.08      3.94       3.94             4.12       4.12     
                 63                 4.21       4.21     4.17       4.17      4.01       4.01             4.22       4.22     
                 64                 4.32       4.32     4.28       4.28      4.08       4.08             4.33       4.33     
                 65                 4.43       4.43     4.38       4.38      4.16       4.16             4.45       4.45     
                 66                 4.55       4.55     4.50       4.50      4.24       4.24             4.57       4.57     
                 67                 4.68       4.68     4.62       4.62      4.32       4.32             4.70       4.70     
                 68                 4.82       4.82     4.75       4.75      4.40       4.40             4.85       4.85     
                 69                 4.97       4.97     4.88       4.88      4.48       4.48             5.00       5.00     
                 70                 5.14       5.14     5.03       5.03      4.56       4.56             5.17       5.17     
                 71                 5.31       5.31     5.18       5.18      4.64       4.64             5.35       5.35     
                 72                 5.50       5.50     5.34       5.34      4.71       4.71             5.54       5.54     
                 73                 5.70       5.70     5.51       5.51      4.78       4.78             5.75       5.75     
                 74                 5.91       5.91     5.69       5.69      4.85       4.85             5.98       5.98     
                 75                 6.14       6.14     5.87       5.87      4.92       4.92             6.23       6.23     
                 76                 6.39       6.39     6.07       6.07      4.97       4.97             6.49       6.49     
                 77                 6.65       6.65     6.27       6.27      5.03       5.03             6.78       6.78     
                 78                 6.93       6.93     6.47       6.47      5.08       5.08             7.09       7.09     
                 79                 7.23       7.23     6.68       6.68      5.12       5.12             7.42       7.42     
                 80                 7.55       7.55     6.90       6.90      5.16       5.16             7.79       7.79     
                 81                 7.90       7.90     7.11       7.11      5.19       5.19             8.18       8.18     
                 82                 8.26       8.26     7.33       7.33      5.22       5.22             8.62       8.62     
                 83                 8.65       8.65     7.54       7.54      5.23       5.23             9.08       9.08     
                 84                 9.05       9.05     7.74       7.74      5.25       5.25             9.59       9.59     
                 85 and over        9.48       9.48     7.94       7.94      5.26       5.26            10.15      10.15      
 
</TABLE>

17
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17. PROOF REQUIRED FOR PAYMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Before making the first annuity payment, we shall have the right to require
proof of the correct age of the Measuring Person.  We shall also have the right
to require proof that the Measuring Person is living on the date each annuity
payment is due.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. MISSTATEMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If the age or sex of the Measuring Person has been misstated, we will adjust the
amount of each annuity payment to reflect the correct age and sex.  Any
overpayment will be repaid to us.  If it is not repaid, we will deduct the
overpayment from future payments we make under this certificate.  Any
underpayment will be added to future payments we make under this certificate.
Interest on any overpayment will be accrued at an annual rate of 6% to the date
or dates of settlement.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19. ASSIGNMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You may assign your interest in this certificate, except as otherwise provided,
without the consent of any revocable Beneficiary.  Your interest, any interest
of the Annuitant and of any revocable Beneficiary shall be subject to the terms
of the assignment.

We will not be on notice of any assignment unless it is in writing; nor will we
be on notice until a duplicate of the original assignment has been filed at our
Servicing Office.  We assume no responsibility for the validity or sufficiency
of any assignment.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20. CLAIMS OF CREDITORS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The proceeds and all other payments under this certificate will be exempt from
the claims of creditors to the extent permitted by law.  The proceeds and
payments may not be assigned or withdrawn before becoming payable without our
agreement.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21.    RIGHT TO MAKE CHANGES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We reserve the right to make certain changes if, in our judgment, they would
best serve the interest of the participants of certificates such as this or
would be appropriate in carrying out the purposes of such certificates.  Any
changes will be made only to the extent and in the manner permitted by
applicable laws.  Also, when required by law, we will obtain your approval of
the changes and approval from any appropriate regulatory authority.

If any changes result in a material change in the underlying investment of
Accounts to which the reserves for this certificate are allocated, we will
notify you of such change.  You may then make a new election under the
Investment / Transfer Option provision.

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22. ANNUAL STATEMENT
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We will furnish you with reports annually, or more frequently, as required by
applicable law.  They will include:  (i) a statement of the investments held in
each Fund; and (ii) a statement of the condition and value of this certificate
which will show the number of Accumulation Units, if any, credited to each
Subaccount, the value of each Accumulation Unit, and the Accumulated Value of
this certificate.


18                                                                       V1895A
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23. MISCELLANEOUS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If the Accumulated Value of this certificate becomes zero, we reserve the right
to terminate this certificate.

Under Massachusetts law, all income, gains and losses, realized or unrealized,
of the Separate Accounts shall be credited to or charged against the amounts
placed in the Separate Accounts without regard to our other income, gains and
losses.  The assets of the Separate Accounts are owned solely by us.  We are not
a trustee with respect to any part or the whole of those assets.  The portion of
the assets in the Separate Accounts equal  to the reserves and other liabilities
under this certificate with respect to the Separate Accounts shall not be
chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other business we may conduct.

In place of operating each Separate Account as a unit investment trust, we
reserve the right to make investments directly, operating the Separate Account
as a "management-type investment company" under the Act, or in any other form
permitted by law, the investment adviser of which would be us or an affiliate.
The Separate Account assets would be invested as provided with respect to the
investment objectives of the Separate Account.



19
<PAGE>
 
Communications about this certificate should be sent to the Company at its
Servicing Office, Boston, Massachusetts  02117.

GROUP ANNUITY CERTIFICATE
Combination Variable/Modified Guarantee Annuity
Nonparticipating - not eligible for dividends
Initial Premium shown on page 3

All benefits, payments and values under this certificate which are based on the
investment experience of a Separate Account are variable and not guaranteed as
to fixed dollar amount.



JHFI95                         VBP95A                      Printed in U.S.A.

<PAGE>
 
                                                EXHIBIT 5 to Form S-1
                                                EXHIBIT 9 to Form N-4

[John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company Letterhead]



                                                        July 10, 1996


Board of Directors
John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company


               Re: John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company
                 Registration Statements on Forms S-1 and N-4
                 --------------------------------------------


Dear Directors:

      In my capacity as Counsel of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company
(the "Company"), I have represented the Company in connection with its
development of deferred annuities of a type which contemplates both variable
benefits and, subject to a market value adjustment, fixed benefits.  I have
participated in the preparation of the Registration Statements on Forms S-1 and
N-4 to be filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission under
the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940 for the
registration of interests in these deferred annuity contracts to be issued by
the Company on an individual and group basis (the "Registration Statements").

      I am of the following opinion: the Company is a corporation duly organized
and validly existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the
interests in the deferred annuity contracts, when issued as contemplated in the
Registration Statement, will be legal and binding obligations of the Company in
accordance with the terms of the deferred annuity contracts.

      In arriving at the foregoing opinion, I have reviewed the Registration
Statements on Forms S-1 and N-4, including the prospectus, and relevant
proceedings of the Board of Directors.

      I hereby consent to the filing of my opinion as an exhibit to the
Registration Statement.


                                 Very truly yours,

                                 /s/ Sandra M. DaDalt, Esq.
                                 -----------------------------
                                 Sandra M. DaDalt,Esq.
                                 Counsel


<PAGE>

                                                                                
                                                          EXHIBIT 10 TO FORM S-1
                                                                                
                                                           EXHIBIT 8 TO FORM N-4
                       
                  FORM OF RESPONSIBILITY AND COST ALLOCATION      

                               AGREEMENT BETWEEN

                   JOHN HANCOCK MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                      AND
                            JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS, INC.

       This Agreement is executed and effective on this ______ day of
__________, 1996, between John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company
("Hancock"), whose principal place of business is John Hancock Place, Boston,
MA, 02117, and John Hancock Funds, Inc. ("Funds, Inc."), whose principal place
of business is 101 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02199.  Hancock shall act on
behalf of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company ("JHVLICO") for all
matters arising under this Agreement.
       The purpose of this Agreement is to formalize the relationship between
Hancock and Funds, Inc. and to set forth the respective rights, duties,
obligations and privileges of the parties with respect to the development,
introduction, registration, monitoring, distribution, administration and service
of certain variable annuity contracts to be issued by John Hancock Mutual Life
Insurance Company and supported by one or more of its segregated assets accounts
("Contracts").  The Contracts may be issued on a group or individual basis, and
the terms "Annuity Contracts" or "Contracts" when used herein shall include
certificates issued under group Contracts.  The Contracts may be issued as
combination contracts having a fixed account, as well as conventional variable
account investment options.  Such fixed account investment options may
incorporate market value adjustment features.
       This Agreement is supplemental to any other agreements between or among
any of the parties that concern any of the same matters.  In case of any
inconsistency between this Agreement and any other such agreement, or on matters
as to which any such other agreement is silent, the provisions of this Agreement
shall control.

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
       If this Agreement, or any other agreement between or among any of the
parties assigns a function, duty or responsibility to any party, said party
shall bear the expense of discharging and performing that function, duty or
responsibility, except to the extent that this Agreement or any other agreement
between the parties concerned provides otherwise.  In particular, and without
limitation, any expenses or fees allocated to the "Trust" (defined below) under
any of its management or sub-management, distribution, transfer agency or
custodian agreements shall be borne by the Trust rather than by any party to
this Agreement.
       Hancock may allocate or delegate any duties or obligations under this
Contract to any of its subsidiaries or affiliates, but no such allocation or
delegation will relieve Hancock of its responsibility to Funds, Inc. for the
performance of such duties or obligations.  Funds, Inc. may delegate any duties
or obligations under this Agreement to any of its affiliates including, but not
limited to, John Hancock Investor Services Corporation ("JHISC"), John Hancock
Advisers, Inc. ("Advisers"), and John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc. ("Funds
Insurance Agency"), but no such delegation will relieve Funds, Inc. of its
responsibility to Hancock for the performance of such duties or obligations.
       Hancock warrants and represents that it is organized as a mutual life
insurance company under the laws of Massachusetts and is in good standing under
the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  It represents that it is
empowered to take the actions necessary to fulfill the covenants it has made
under this Agreement.  Funds, Inc. warrants and represents that it is a
corporation in good standing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
and is registered as a Broker Dealer with the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc., and that it is empowered to take the actions necessary to fulfill
the covenants it has made under this Agreement.


                        ARTICLE I.  FILINGS & APPROVALS


       Contract assets are invested, at the discretion of the Contract owner, in
any one or more of the Subaccounts of a segregated asset account of JHVLICO or
Hancock as the case may be, and in an unregistered separate account supporting
fixed-dollar benefits.  The assets of each of the Subaccounts will be held in a
corresponding Fund of John Hancock Declaration Trust ("Trust"), an open-end
diversified investment management company of the series type.

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
This Article addresses certain regulatory aspects of the establishment of the
Account, the unregistered separate account, and the Trust.


       Hancock will be responsible for the registration of the Account and the
Contracts under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Securities Act of
1933, respectively, and for using its best efforts to maintain those
registrations continuously in effect in accordance with all applicable legal
requirements and to prepare and file any supplements to the prospectuses and
statements of additional information contained therein.  Hancock shall also be
responsible for all other compliance by the Account with the Investment Company
Act of 1940, including, without limitations, filing required periodic reports on
Form N-SAR.  Funds, Inc. will provide to Hancock all necessary information
regarding additions to or modifications of the Trust and all other information
necessary to aid Hancock in meeting its aforesaid obligations.

       
       Funds, Inc. has designated Advisers to be responsible for the
registration of the Trust and its shares under the Investment Company Act of
1940 and the Securities Act of 1933, respectively, and for using its best
efforts to maintain those registrations continuously in effect in accordance
with all applicable legal requirements and to prepare and file any supplements
to the prospectuses and statements of additional information contained therein.
Funds, Inc. shall also be responsible for all other compliance by the Trust with
the Investment Company Act of 1940, including, without limitations, filing
required periodic reports on Form N-SAR.  Hancock will provide to Advisers all
necessary information regarding additions to or modifications of the Account and
the Contracts and all other information necessary to aid Advisers in meeting its
aforesaid obligations.

       
       Hancock will be responsible for determining whether registrations,
approvals or other filings under "blue sky" laws are necessary in each
jurisdiction in order to permit the offer and sale of the Contracts therein and
will effect and maintain compliance therewith so long as legally required, to
the extent that Contracts are authorized for sale in said jurisdiction. Funds,
Inc. will have the analogous "blue sky" responsibilities with respect the Trust.

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
       Hancock will be responsible for the filing and approval of the Contracts
under the applicable laws and regulations of the several states and will not
authorize the Contracts for sale in any jurisdiction, unless all such required
filings have been made, and approvals obtained, with respect to the Contracts
and any riders and endorsements thereto in the form to be used in such
jurisdiction and any related application forms.  Hancock will advise Funds, Inc.
of any variations required in particular jurisdictions (e.g., minimum guaranteed
interest rate, non-availability of market value adjustment feature, contract to
be issued on an individual (rather than a group) basis, unavailability of any
riders, requirements for unisex contracts, unavailability of specific investment
options in certain states, availability of alternate assumed interest rates,
"free look" requirements).

       Compliance with regulatory requirements involves task allocations as
summarized in Exhibit A.*


                    ARTICLE II.  ADMINISTRATION OF PRODUCTS


Allocation of Tasks
- -------------------
       Exhibit B summarizes the allocation of tasks between Hancock and Funds,
Inc. for the administration of the products.  Funds, Inc. has designated John
Hancock Investor Services Corporation ("JHISC") to be responsible for certain of
the administrative tasks.


                          ARTICLE III.  DISTRIBUTION


1.     National Distributor
       --------------------
       Funds, Inc. shall be the National Distributor of the Contracts developed
and marketed pursuant to this Agreement.  Funds, Inc. shall be considered the
underwriter of the products for the purposes of the principal distribution of
the products pursuant to the securities laws.  Hancock shall be considered the
underwriter for the purposes of the insurance laws and regulatory compliance.
This distribution right shall be exclusive to Funds, Inc. and Funds, Inc. shall
perform its responsibilities pursuant to and in conformity with one or more
Marketing and Distribution Agreements that it shall enter into with John
Hancock.

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
2.     Distribution of Products
       ------------------------
       Funds, Inc. shall distribute the Contracts through the network of broker-
dealer firms with whom Funds, Inc. has or will develop relationships.  Funds,
Inc. shall select the broker-dealers licensed, or whose associated persons are
licensed, to sell insurance products, and shall submit to Hancock applications
from brokers to enter into Soliciting Dealer Agreements with Funds, Inc. and
John Hancock for the offer and sale of the Contracts.  Funds, Inc. will monitor
compliance by the broker-dealers and their associated persons with the various
state licensing requirements and with their other contractual obligations to
Hancock.

       Funds, Inc. shall be solely responsible for the selection of those firms
which will participate in the offering of the Contracts.  Hancock is under no
obligation whatsoever to provide any assistance to Funds, Inc. in the search for
such distribution channels.

3.     Task Allocation
       ---------------
       Exhibit C summarizes the allocation of tasks between the Hancock and
Funds, Inc. in the distribution of the Contracts.

4.     Sales Plan
       ----------
       The parties shall cooperate in establishing sales objectives and
determining anticipated resource requirements for the promotion of the
Contracts.  Resource requirements include estimation by the parties of the need
for prospectuses, sales and promotion materials, licensing guides, etc., to
achieve sales objectives.  Funds, Inc. shall have the primary responsibility for
developing any sales plan necessary to market the product.


                      ARTICLE IV.  INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT


1.     Funds, Inc. has designated Advisers to be responsible for the investment
management of the Trust in which the assets of the Account will be invested.
Advisers shall perform investment management services in accordance with
Investment Management Agreements approved in accordance with the Investment
Company Act of 1940.  The Product is best described as follows:  A variable
annuity issued by John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company and John Hancock
Mutual Life Insurance Company and will be known as the

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
Deferred Combination Fixed and Variable Annuity Contracts.  The Contract owner
will have a fixed or general account investment option and Ten separate 
account investment options.



* The Exhibits form an integral part of this agreement, and further define the
rights and obligations of the parties as if set forth in the body of the
agreement.

Each separate account investment option will correspond to a separate mutual
fund which will be a series of John Hancock Declaration Trust.  The separate
account options will invest in shares of the John Hancock Declaration Series
Trust which will be organized and managed by John Hancock Advisers, Inc.

2.     Advisers shall provide to Hancock regular semi-annual and annual reports
on the Trust, and such other reports and information requested by Hancock, as
required by Hancock for statutory or internal reporting on the status of the
Separate Account.

3.     Advisers may introduce additional Funds to the Trust, with the approval
of Hancock.

4.     Advisers shall be responsible for ensuring that each Fund of the Trust is
operated in conformity with the diversification requirements as in effect under
Section 817(h) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.


                        ARTICLE V.  GENERAL PROVISIONS


1.     Waiver
       ------

       Failure of Hancock or Funds, Inc. to insist upon strict compliance with
any of the conditions of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of
any of the conditions, but the same shall remain in full force and effect.  No
waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed, or shall
constitute a waiver of any other provisions, whether or not similar, nor shall
any waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

2.     Binding Effect
       -------------- 

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
       This Agreement shall be binding on and shall inure to the benefit of the
parties to it and their respective successors and assigns, provided that no
party shall assign or sub-contract this Agreement, except as specifically
permitted herein, or in the course of corporate reorganization or restructuring,
or any rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of each
of the others.



3.     Notices
       -------
       All notices, request, demands and other communications under this
Agreement shall be in writing unless otherwise agreed and shall be deemed to
have been given on the date of service if served personally on the party to whom
notice is to be given at the then currently designated principal office of the
party served.

4.     Confidentiality
       ---------------
       All parties agree to maintain the confidentiality of any non-public
proprietary information provided to them.

5.     Information Availability; Records
       ---------------------------------
       Except with respect to information expressly designated as proprietary
information of a trade nature, the books, records and reports maintained by each
party pursuant to the Agreement shall be made available to the other party of
the Agreement at reasonable notices and reasonable times.  It is expressly
understood by each party that these records will be made available to internal,
statutory or GAAP auditors of either party, or any regulatory authority over
either party.


       Hancock and Funds, Inc. agree to keep all records required by federal and
state laws and regulation, to maintain books, accounts and records so as to
clearly and accurately disclose the precise nature and details of the
transactions, and to assist one another in the timely preparation of records.
To the extent that such records maintained by Hancock or Funds, Inc. (the
"Maintaining Party") are necessary to satisfy the recordkeeping requirements
imposed by federal securities laws and regulation on any other party to this
Agreement (the

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
"responsible Party"), the Responsible Party hereby appoints the Maintaining
Party as its agent for the purpose of keeping and maintaining such records. As
required by Rule 31a-3 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and Rule 17a-
4(i) under the 1934 Act, such records will be the exclusive property of the
Responsible Party, but this shall not preclude the Maintaining Party from having
access to such data or records or keeping copies thereof for it's own files;
and, as the Responsible Party may request, the Maintaining Party shall, as soon
as practicable, deliver to the Responsible Party or provide the responsible
party with reasonable access to data or records held by it for the Responsible
Party pursuant to this Agreement in a form mutually agreed to by such parties.
In order to comply with 1934 Act Rule 17a-4(i), with respect to books and
records maintained or preserved subject thereto, the Maintaining Party hereby
undertakes to permit examination of such books and records at any time or from
time to time during business hours by Representatives or designees of the
Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and to promptly furnish any part of
such books and records.


6.     Independence of Corporate Identities
       ------------------------------------
       This Agreement and the relationship established hereby do not constitute
an agency, partnership, association or other merging of corporate identities.
This Agreement exists for the sole purpose of developing, marketing and
administering the products described herein.


7.     Governing Law
       -------------
       This Agreement will be construed in accordance with the laws of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

8.     Amendment
       ---------
       This Agreement may be amended in a writing signed by both parties.

9.     Severability
       ------------
       If any court of competent jurisdiction declares that any portion of this
Agreement is not enforceable by operation of law, or if any portion otherwise
becomes incapable of performance, there shall be no impact whatsoever on the
remaining provision of this Agreement.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
                          ARTICLE VI.     TERMINATION


1.     Any party may terminate this Agreement with or without cause, by giving
sixty (60) days written notice to the other parties.


2.     This Agreement shall terminate automatically in the event a party

       (a)  ceases doing business and elects to be dissolved;
       (b)  becomes insolvent or admits in writing its inability to pay its
debts as they come due;
       (c)  files a voluntary petition in bankruptcy or for reorganization or is
adjudicated as bankrupt or insolvent; or
       (d)  has a liquidator, trustee, or receiver appointed over its affairs or
a substantial portion of its assets, and such appointment shall not have been
terminated and discharged within thirty (30) days.


3.     This Agreement shall automatically terminate when required by any
governmental authority or court of law.  If any law, regulation, or order or
ruling of any governmental authority or court of law prohibits or makes illegal
compliance by either party with any obligation hereunder, then this Agreement
may be terminated by any party immediately upon written notice to the other
parties.


4.     Notwithstanding the foregoing, all conditions, duties and obligations of
this agreement will remain in effect with respect to Contracts issued prior to
the termination of this Agreement, including the payment of additional premiums
under those Contracts.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be duly executed
as of the day and year first above written.


John Hancock Mutual Life             John Hancock Funds, Inc.
Insurance Company

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
By:                                        By:
   ------------------------                   -----------------------



                                       10
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT A
                          REGULATORY RESPONSIBILITIES
                          ---------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                          FUNDS, INC.                         
- -------                                          -----------                           
<S>                                                <C>                                                     
                                                                                                           
              Joint development of product 
              specifications and pricing.  Internal costs 
              to be borne by respective parties as 
              incurred.
 
 .  Prepare filing drafts of                        .  Prepare filing drafts of 
   Account prospectus and                             Trust prospectus and                               
   statement of additional                            statement of additional 
   information (including                             information and provide 
   possible request for                               Hancock with copies for 
   exemptive relief) and                              review. 
   contract/application. Provide
   copies to Funds, Inc. for                                
   review.                                                  
                                                             
              Exchange of comments on drafts and                     
              preparations of redrafts for filing.             
                                                                                                                             
 .  File Contract registration                      .  File Trust registration 
   statements including any                           statement simultaneously    
   request for exemptive relief                       with Account Filing 
   of mortality and expense changes.                  including mixed and shared  
                                                      funding exemption. 

 .  File, contract form, riders                     .  Respond to any additional 
   and Contract application                           information requested by
   with all state insurance                           SEC and/or states, and
   departments as appropriate.                        prepare final prospectus 
                                                      drafts for printing.  Outside 
                                                      Legal fees charged to John  
                                                      Hancock Advisers, Inc. cc # 
                                                      5058; directly related inside        
                                                      Legal fees charged to client 
                                                      #053, matter #9282                           

 .  File pre-effective                              .  Print both 
   amendments of registration                         prospectuses.
   statements.
</TABLE>

                                       A1
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT A
                      REGULATORY RESPONSIBILITIES  (cont.)
                      ------------------------------------               
<TABLE>                                                                         
<CAPTION>                                                                                        
                                                                          
<S>                                                <C>                            
 .  See Exhibit B. Section A.                       .  Costs of typesetting, 
   Contract                                           printing in volume and 
   Underwriting/Issue.)                               disseminating prospectuses 
                                                      and SAIs, and supplements 
                                                      thereto, net of expenses 
                                                      chargeable to the Trust 
                                                      under its management and 
                                                      distribution agreement, will 
                                                      be borne by Funds, Inc. 

 .  File forms 10-K and 10-Q                        .  Obtain NASD approval of           
   annually.                                          sales material (see Exhibit                              
                                                      C Section B).                           
                                                                                             
                                                                                                                       
 .  File annual post-effective                      .  Determine supply needed of 
   amendments to prospectuses                         Trust's statement of 
   for the Contract registration                      additional information, and 
   statements (including rule                         print. 
   24f-2 notice)
                                                   .  Print service forms. (This 
                                                      service may be 
                                                      accomplished with 
                                                      assistance by Hancock or an 
                                                      independent vendor). 
                                             
                                                   .  File annual post-effective
                                                      amendments to prospectuses for the Trust
                                                      Registration Statement
                                                      (including rule 24f-2 notice 
                                                      excluding fees).
</TABLE>
                                       A2
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT B

                        A.   CONTRACT UNDERWRITING/ISSUE
                        --------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                          FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                          -----------
<S>                                              <C>
 
 .  Establish underwriting                        .  Funds, Inc. may delegate a 
   criteria for application                         portion or portions of its
   processing and rejections.                       responsibility under this
                                                    Exhibit B to John Hancock
                                                    Investor Services
                                                    Corporation.

 .  Periodically review                           .  Approve underwriting 
   compliance.                                      criteria for application
                                                    processing and rejections.

 .  Review and adjudicate                         .  Review completed 
   exception requests.                              application for compliance.

 .  Print contracts.                              .  Notify broker and/or     
                                                    customer of any error or 
                                                    missing data necessary for
                                                    underwriting.             

                                                 .  Match contract with 
                                                    application for delivery to
                                                    owners.
                        
                                                 .  Establish and maintain all 
                                                    records required for each 
                                                    Contract owner.

                                                 .  Mail confirmation and other 
                                                    statements to Contract 
                                                    owner.

                                                 .  Mail contracts-according to 
                                                    sales agreement.
</TABLE>
                                      B1
<PAGE>
 
                            B.   PREMIUM COLLECTIONS
                            ------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Approve criteria for                            .  Establish policy and 
   procedures to be followed in                       procedures for premium 
   premium processing (removed                        processing.
   by Benson, reinserted by
   Cleary).

                                                  .  Receive and verify 
                                                     premium/purchase payment 
                                                     and reconcile amount 
                                                     received with remittance 
                                                     media.

                                                 .  Update Contract owner 
                                                    records to reflect receipt of 
                                                    premium/purchase payment.

 .  Perform accounting and investment             .  Deposit all cash received in 
   allocation of monies received                    accordance with the terms of       
   including commission dollars into                the contracts and established                    
   funds of the separate account (see "G.           procedures (see C. 
   Commissions").                                   Banking").
</TABLE>

                                      B2
<PAGE>
 
                                  C.   BANKING
                                  ------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
                                                   .  Funds, Inc. may delegate a 
                                                      portion or portions of its 
                                                      responsibility under this 
                                                      Exhibit C to John Hancock 
                                                      Investor Services 
                                                      Corporation.

                                                   .  Balance, edit, endorse and 
                                                      prepare daily deposit.

                                                   .  Place deposits in depository 
                                                      account.

                                                   .  Transfer funds in depository 
                                                      account to selected
                                                      investments within the 
                                                      separate account.

                                                   .  Prepare daily cash journal 
                                                      summary reports and 
                                                      maintain same for review by 
                                                      John Hancock.

                                                   .  Reconcile daily deposit and 
                                                      disbursement accounts.

                                                   .  Transfer funds from separate 
                                                      account and unregistered 
                                                      separate account to 
                                                      disbursement account for all 
                                                      partial withdrawals and 
                                                      surrenders.
</TABLE>

                                       B3
<PAGE>
 
                       D.   PRICING/VALUATION/ACCOUNTING
                       ---------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Determine daily the "net                        .  Determine daily the "net       
   amount available for                               amount available for  
   investment" to/from the                            investment" to/from the 
   Account in Trust shares, and                       Account, and place share
   place share purchases or                           purchase or redemption 
   redemption orders with the                         orders with the account.   
   Trust.

 .  Maintain and make available to                  .  Maintain and make available 
   Funds, Inc. records used in                        to Hancock records used in 
   determining "net amount                            determining "net amount 
   available for investment.                          available for investment".

 .  Coordinate audits of Account                    .  Provide to Hancock 
   financials conducted for                           information needed in 
   purposes of financial statement                    determining Account unit 
   certification and publication to                   values from the Trust, 
   owners.                                            including daily net asset value, 
                                                      capital gains or dividend 
 .  Perform daily unit valuation                       distributions, and the number 
   calculation of the Account and                     of Trust shares acquired or 
   input into the Vantage System.                     sold during the immediately 
                                                      preceding valuation period.  
 .  Perform all other accounting                       Funds, Inc. may delegate a 
   functions for Account including                    portion of its responsibility in 
   preparation of financial reports                   this section to the Trust 
   and coordinating the audit of                      custodian bank(s).
   such reports as necessary by             
   independents auditors.      
                            
 .  Perform daily calculation of 
   balancing assets to liabilities of 
   the Account to the Trust.

 .  Maintain records of all Trust shares 
   owned by the Account, including
   purchase and sale dates, cost and other
   information.
</TABLE>

                                       B4
<PAGE>
 
                              E.   CONTRACT OWNER
                              -------------------
                           SERVICE/RECORD MAINTENANCE
                           --------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Consult as necessary on                         .  Funds, Inc. may delegate a 
   inquiries to or from regulatory                    portion or portions of its 
   agencies.                                          responsibility under this 
                                                      Exhibit E to John Hancock 
 .  Maintain appropriate records.                      Investor Services 
                                                      Corporation.                
           
                                                   .  Receive and process all 
                                                      owner service requests such
                                                      as information requests, 
                                                      change of beneficiary, 
                                                      transfers among Funds, etc.

                                                   .  Maintain daily records of all 
                                                      changes made to Contract 
                                                      owner accounts.

                                                   .  Research and respond to all 
                                                      owner/broker inquires on 
                                                      policies.

                                                   .  Coordinate responses to any 
                                                      inquiries to or from 
                                                      regulatory agencies.

                                                   .  Keep all required Contract 
                                                      owner records.

                                                   .  Maintain adequate toll-free 
                                                      lines to service inquiries.

                                                   .  Provide copies of, and or 
                                                      access to, Contract owner 
                                                      records to John Hancock 
                                                      upon request.
</TABLE>

                                       B5
<PAGE>
 
                          F.   SURRENDERS/DEATH CLAIMS
                          ----------------------------

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- ---------                                          -----------


                                 1. Surrenders
                                 -------------
<S>                                                <C>  
 .  Print checks for all surrender                  .  Receive and process requests 
   requests.                                          for partial or full surrenders
                                                      from Contract owners.      
                                                   
                                                   .  Process all surrender requests
                                                      against the Contract master
                                                      records.
                                                   
                                                   .  Forward checks for surrenders
                                                      to Contract owner, institution
                                                      or person designated by 
                                                      owner.
 .  Print confirmation statements of                
   disbursement transactions to Contract           .  Mail confirmation statements 
   owners with copies to broker/dealers.              of disbursement transactions 
                                                      to Contract owners with                                      
                                                      copies to  broker/dealers.    
                                                   
                                                   .  Prepare report on surrenders.
                             
                                                   .  For Contracts that annuitize,
                                                      calculate and pay periodic
                                                      annuity benefits.
  
                               2.  Death Claims
                               ----------------


 .  Investigate all accidental death                   Receive and process requests
   benefit claims.                                    from beneficiaries and 
                                                      certified copies of death
                                                      certificates.      
        

                           3.  Nursing Home Waivers
                           ------------------------


                                                   .  Receive and process requests
                                                      from owners for waiver of 
                                                      surrender charges due to 
                                                      nursing home admittance 
                                                      evaluate and honor or deny.
</TABLE>

                                       B6
<PAGE>
 
                     F.   SURRENDERS/DEATH CLAIMS (cont.)
                     ------------------------------------

<TABLE>  
<CAPTION> 
                            4.  Suicide Provisions
                            ----------------------


<S>                                                <C>    
 .  Establish rules as to when                      .  Inform John Hancock when a
   death claims require suicide                       death claim requires a suicide 
   investigation.                                     investigation under the John 
                                                      Hancock rules.                         
            
 .  Perform suicide investigation.                  .  Inform beneficiary that a 
                                                      suicide investigation will be 
                                                      performed.                                  

 .  Determine whether claim is to                   .  Inform beneficiary of the 
   be denied due to suicide                           acceptability or the  denial of 
   exclusion and inform Funds,                        the claim as the result of the 
   Inc. or JHISC.                                     investigation.                                       
</TABLE>

                                       B7
<PAGE>
 
                                G.   COMMISSIONS
                                ----------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC. AND
- --------                                           INSURANCE AGENCY
                                                   -----------------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Fund commission payments                        .  Direct overall commission  
   into commission operating                          payments for approved 
   account.                                           business to appropriate 
                                                      individuals.    

 .  Fund commission operating                       .  Create and maintain detailed 
   account for all net                                commission transaction 
   commissions.                                       records for each financial 
                                                      transaction processed. 

                                                   .  Create commission adjustment 
                                                      transactions as necessary due 
                                                      to surrender, free look, and the
                                                      like.

                                                   .  Prepare commission 
                                                      statements and checks for
                                                      broker/dealers.

                                                   .  Prepare commission and net 
                                                      commission accounting 
                                                      interface with Hancock as 
                                                      required.

                                                   .  Maintain commission account.
</TABLE>

                                       B8
<PAGE>
 
                             H.   PROXY PROCESSING
                             ---------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Preparation and filing of any                   .  Establish record date 
   Account solicitation materials                     information and file             
   (apart from Trust solicitation                     appropriate Trust proxy
   material), and printing in                         materials.
   volume and mailing of any                         
   such materials.                                  .  Receive record date 
                                                       information and proxy 
                                                       solicitation materials from 
                                                       Trust.           

 .  Vote all Trust shares                            .  Prepare voting instruction 
   proportionally to vote count                        cards, print all Trust 
   received from Contract                              solicitation material in 
   Owners by Funds, Inc.                               sufficient volumes, and mail
                                                       solicitation to Contract owners.

                                                    .  Tabulate votes in accordance 
                                                       with SEC requirements.

                                                    .  Maintain all proxy registers 
                                                       and other required material.

                                                    .  Provide vote tabulation to John 
                                                       Hancock for vote by the 
                                                       Account. 
</TABLE>

                                       B9
<PAGE>
 
                    I.   PERIODIC REPORTS TO CONTRACT OWNERS
                    ----------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Review and approve annual                       .  Prepare and mail quarterly 
   statement language.                                account statements to owners 
                                                      and brokers.  This may be 
                                                      deligated to John Hancock 
                                                      Investor Services Corporation.        

 .  Print quarterly account statements to           .  Prepare and mail 
   owners and brokers.  This may be                   annual Account 
   deligated to John Hancock Investor                 Statements to Contract 
   Services Corporation.                              owners and brokers.  

 .  Print annual Account                            .  Prepare, and print in volume, 
   Statements to Contract owners                      all required  semi-annual and 
   and brokers.                                       annual reports of the Trust.  

                                                   .  Mail Trust reports to Contract 
                                                      owners and brokers.
</TABLE>

                                       B10
<PAGE>
 
                            J.   REGULATORY REPORTS
                            -----------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
                            1.  Account Statements
                            ----------------------
 
 .  Prepare Hancock and Account                     .  Provide relevant financial 
   financial statements.                              information for preparation of 
                                                      Account financial statements. 

 .  File required reports as to                     .  File required reports as to the
   Hancock and the account with                       Trust with Regulatory agencies
   regulatory agencies (IRS, etc.).                   (IRS, etc).
 
                           2.  Financial Statements
                           ------------------------
 
                                                   .  Prepare Trust financial 
                                                      statements with copies to John Hancock.
 
                        3.  Reports to Contract Owners
                        ------------------------------
 
 .  Prepare and mail appropriate IRS 
   reports to Contract owners (1099R, 
   5498 IRAs, W-2P partials, etc.).
</TABLE>

                                       B11
<PAGE>
 
                               K.   PREMIUM TAXES
                               ------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>   
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Provide schedule of                             .  Provide gross purchase dollars
   withholding by state.                              by state.    


 .  Submit premium taxes to
   appropriate states.                              .  Calculate premium tax for
                                                       states requiring payment up
                                                       front and provide to John
                                                       Hancock.
                                                          
                                                   .  Calculate, withhold, and send 
                                                      to John Hancock the applicable 
                                                      premium taxes at time 
                                                      annuitization.
</TABLE>

                                       B12
<PAGE>
 
                         L.   LICENSING RECORD KEEPING
                         -----------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Final approval of appointments                  .  Ensure that each selling agent
   and update agent records.                          is appropriately Licensed and 
                                                      appointed by Hancock.                  
 .  Receive and process appointment                   
   paperwork.                                      .  Pay for Licensing. 

 .  Charge fees to appropriate broker-              .  Train agents. 
   dealers.

 .  Establish initial agent records.                .  Access to data base as 
                                                      required. 

 .  Maintain records for transfers between           .  Maintain records for transfers
   broker-dealers, and changes of                      between broker-dealers, and
   address.                                            changes of address.     
</TABLE>

                                       B13
<PAGE>
 
                                   EXHIBIT C

                                  DISTRIBUTION
                                  ------------

                       A.   Appointment of Broker/Dealers
                       ----------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Hancock shall prepare and                       .  Funds, Inc. shall recommend
   forward all appointment forms                      NASD-registered broker-dealers,
   and applications to the                            with emphasis on VA and/or       
   appropriate states and shall                       VL-Licensed broker-dealers, to 
   maintain all contacts with the                     Hancock for appointment to sell 
   states.                                            the Contracts. Funds, Inc. shall 
                                                      act as liaison between Hancock 
                                                      and Broker-dealers regarding 
                                                      forms completion, fees, and 
                                                      appointment questions.                          

 .  Hancock shall designate a                       .  Funds, Inc. shall ensure that              
   contact through whom all                           executed appointment 
   recommendations of registered                      documentation (including a 
   representatives for appointment                    properly executed Soliciting 
   as life insurance agents can be                    Dealer Agreement covering the  
   processed, and shall supply                        offer and sale of the Contracts) is 
   Funds, Inc. with appointment                       on hand at Hancock before any 
   forms as needed.                                   broker-dealer serves as an    
                                                      underwriter or selling group 
                                                      member.                              


 .  Hancock shall maintain current 
   files of appointed registered
   representatives broker-dealers, 
   and Funds, Inc. shall have
   ongoing access, without prior 
   notice during regular business 
   hours, to such files for 
   compliance verification.
</TABLE>

                                       C1
<PAGE>
 
                               EXHIBIT C (cont.)

                               B.  Sales Material
                               ------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
HANCOCK                                            FUNDS, INC.
- -------                                            -----------
<S>                                                <C>
 
 .  Hancock shall consult with                      .  Funds, Inc. shall develop, print, 
   Funds, Inc. in the development                     and bear the expenses of all 
   of sales material.  Hancock shall                  promotional material to be used 
   have the right to review and                       in the distribution of the 
   approve such sales material and                    Contracts, in consultation with 
   to require any modification that                   and subject to the approval of the 
   may be mandated by regulatory                      Hancock (for prospectuses, see 
   requirements or conflicts                          Article I).                    
   materially with other Hancock
   advertising material.

 .  Hancock shall be responsible for                .  Funds, Inc. shall be responsible 
   obtaining approval of sales                        for obtaining NASD clearance 
   material by state insurance                        wherever required for 
   regulators wherever required,                      promotional material.                                         
   and shall inform Funds, Inc. of 
   such approval 

                                                   .  Funds, Inc. shall maintain a 
                                                      complete file of all sales 
                                                      material, including approval 
                                                      documentation, and make the file 
                                                      available to the Hancock as 
                                                      needed.  
</TABLE>

                                       C2

<PAGE>
 
                                                      Exhibit 23 (a) to Form S-1
                                                      Exhibit 10 (a) to Form N-4



                        Consent of Independent Auditors
    
We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts and Financial
Statements" and to the use of our report dated February 7, 1996, with respect to
the financial statements of John Hancock Variable Life Insurance Company
included in this Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statements (Form S-1 
No. 33-64945, and Form N-4 No. 33-64947) and related Prospectus of John Hancock
Variable Annuity Account JF.         



                              /s/ Ernst & Young LLP
                              ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Boston, Massachusetts
July 11, 1996

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
 
<ARTICLE> 7
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM STATEMENTS
OF FINANCIAL POSITION STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND UNASSIGNED DEFICIT AND IS
QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
       
<S>                             <C>                     <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   3-MOS                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996             DEC-31-1995
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1996             JAN-01-1995
<PERIOD-END>                               MAR-31-1996             DEC-31-1995
<DEBT-HELD-FOR-SALE>                       601,955,739             552,783,491
<DEBT-CARRYING-VALUE>                                0                       0
<DEBT-MARKET-VALUE>                                  0                       0
<EQUITIES>                                   6,436,330               6,692,979
<MORTGAGE>                                 154,500,550             146,730,102
<REAL-ESTATE>                               36,433,160              36,381,549
<TOTAL-INVEST>                             799,325,779             742,588,121
<CASH>                                      48,439,623              76,623,174
<RECOVER-REINSURE>                                   0                       0
<DEFERRED-ACQUISITION>                               0                       0
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                           3,626,030,209           3,446,285,957
<POLICY-LOSSES>                                      0                       0
<UNEARNED-PREMIUMS>                                  0                       0
<POLICY-OTHER>                             678,507,978             671,135,547
<POLICY-HOLDER-FUNDS>                                0                       0
<NOTES-PAYABLE>                                      0                       0
                                0                       0
                                  5,030,000               5,030,000
<COMMON>                                     1,406,330               1,662,979
<OTHER-SE>                                           0                       0
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>             3,626,030,209           3,446,285,957
                                 113,823,714             453,853,570
<INVESTMENT-INCOME>                         17,821,652              62,111,216
<INVESTMENT-GAINS>                             (2,368)                 561,845
<OTHER-INCOME>                              87,650,044             202,905,077
<BENEFITS>                                 204,828,153             646,890,183
<UNDERWRITING-AMORTIZATION>                          0                       0
<UNDERWRITING-OTHER>                                 0                       0
<INCOME-PRETAX>                             12,026,843              60,023,019
<INCOME-TAX>                                 8,069,665              28,397,605
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                          3,957,178              31,625,414
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0                       0
<CHANGES>                                            0                       0
<NET-INCOME>                                 3,957,178              31,625,414
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                        0                       0
<EPS-DILUTED>                                        0                       0
<RESERVE-OPEN>                                       0                       0
<PROVISION-CURRENT>                                  0                       0
<PROVISION-PRIOR>                                    0                       0
<PAYMENTS-CURRENT>                                   0                       0
<PAYMENTS-PRIOR>                                     0                       0
<RESERVE-CLOSE>                                      0                       0
<CUMULATIVE-DEFICIENCY>                              0                       0
        


</TABLE>


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