HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
485BPOS, 1997-06-03
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<PAGE>
   
   As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 3, 1997.
    
                                                            File No. 33-73570
                                                                     811-4372

                  SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                      Washington, D. C. 20549

                             FORM N-4

          REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

     Pre-Effective Amendment No.                                    [ ]
   
     Post-Effective Amendment No. 20                                [X]
    

      REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
   
     Amendment No. 80                                               [X]
    
                    HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                        SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
                     (Exact Name of Registrant)

                    HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                         (Name of Depositor)

                            P.O. BOX 2999
                       HARTFORD, CT  06104-2999
              (Address of Depositor's Principal Offices)

                           (860) 843-7563
          (Depositor's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

   
                        MARIANNE O'DOHERTY, ESQ.
                   HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANIES
                             P.O. BOX 2999
                       HARTFORD, CT  06104-2999
               (Name and Address of Agent for Service)
    

It is proposed that this filing will become effective:

   
/X/  immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485
/ /  on May 1, 1997 pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485
/ /  60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485
/ /  on May 1, 1997 pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485
/ /  this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a
     previously filed post-effective amendment.
    

PURSUANT TO RULE 24F-2(a)(1)[nb]UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940, THE
REGISTRANT HAS REGISTERED AN INDEFINITE AMOUNT OF SECURITIES. THE RULE 24F-2
NOTICE FOR THE REGISTRANT'S MOST RECENT FISCAL YEAR WAS FILED ON OR ABOUT
FEBRUARY 28, 1997.

<PAGE>

                            CROSS REFERENCE SHEET
                           PURSUANT TO RULE 495(a)


    N-4 Item No.                         Prospectus Heading
   --------------                        ------------------

1.   Cover Page                       Hartford Life Insurance Company -
                                      Separate Account Two

2.   Definitions                      Glossary of Special Terms

3.   Synopsis or Highlights           Introduction

4.   Condensed Financial              Yield Information
     Information

5.   General Description of           Hartford, Separate Account Two,
     Registrant                       the Fixed Account, and the Funds

6.   Deductions                       Charges Under the Contract

7.   General Description of           The Contracts, Separate Account, the
     Annuity Contracts                Fixed Account, and Surrender Benefits

8.   Annuity Period                   Annuity Benefits

9.   Death Benefit                    Death Benefits

10.  Purchases and Contract Value     The Contract, Contracts Offered, Premium
                                      Payments and Initial Allocations and
                                      Contract Value

11.  Redemptions                      Surrender Benefits

12.  Taxes                            Federal Tax Considerations

13.  Legal Proceedings                Legal Matters & Experts

14.  Table of Contents of the         Table of Contents to
     Statement of Additional          Statement of Additional
     Information                      Information Hartford

15.  Cover Page                       Part B; Statement of Additional
                                      Information

<PAGE>

16.  Table of Contents                Table of Contents

17.  General Information and History  Introduction

18.  Services                         None

19.  Purchase of Securities           Distribution of Contracts
     being Offered

20.  Underwriters                     Distribution of Contracts

21.  Calculation of Performance Data  Calculation of Yield and Return

22.  Annuity Payments                 Annuity Benefits

23.  Financial Statements             Financial Statements

24.  Financial Statements and         Financial Statements and
     Exhibits                         Exhibits

25.  Directors and Officers of the    Directors and Officers of the
     Depositor                        Depositor

26.  Persons Controlled by or Under   Persons Controlled by or Under
     Common Control with the          Common Control with the Depositor
     Depositor or Registrant          or Registrant

27.  Number of Contract Owners        Number of Contract Owners

28.  Indemnification                  Indemnification

29.  Principal Underwriters           Principal Underwriters

30.  Location of Accounts and         Location of Accounts and
     Records                          Records

31.  Management Services              Management Services

32.  Undertakings                     Undertakings

<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<S>                               <C>                                                     <C>
                                  THIS PROFILE IS A SUMMARY OF SOME OF THE MORE
                                  IMPORTANT POINTS THAT YOU SHOULD KNOW AND CONSIDER
                                  BEFORE PURCHASING THE DIRECTOR VARIABLE ANNUITY. THE
                                  DIRECTOR IS DESCRIBED IN GREATER DETAIL IN THE
                                  PROSPECTUS ACCOMPANYING THIS PROFILE. PLEASE READ THE
PROFILE                           PROSPECTUS CAREFULLY.                                   [LOGO]
</TABLE>
 
THE DIRECTOR VARIABLE ANNUITY
Hartford Life Insurance Company    May 1, 1997
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 1. WHAT IS THE DIRECTOR?
 
The Director is a variable annuity contract designed to help you save for
retirement. The Director lets you accumulate any earnings tax-deferred over a
period of time (called the "accumulation phase") after which you may choose to
receive scheduled income (called the "annuity phase") or take a lump sum
distribution (also available during the accumulation phase). You decide the
length of your accumulation phase. The annuity phase begins when you select an
annuity option to receive scheduled income. Of course, the more money you
accumulate during the accumulation phase will increase the amount of money
available for your annuity payments during the annuity phase.
 
With The Director, you select your own investment options. These investment
options participate in equity or fixed-income securities. The Director is
"variable," because the value of your Director contract will fluctuate daily to
reflect the performance of the underlying investment options. You bear the
investment risk of the investment options you choose.
 
The Director also offers a Fixed Account that locks in a rate of return,
guaranteed by Hartford Life Insurance Company, for at least one year from the
date of premium receipt.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 2. HOW CAN I RECEIVE ANNUITY PAYMENTS FROM MY DIRECTOR CONTRACT?
 
You may choose one of the following annuity options, or receive income in a lump
sum or partial withdrawal (see Question 7).
 
    / /  A life annuity provides scheduled payments for the rest of your life;
 
    / /  A life annuity with 10, 15 or 20 years certain provides payments for
         the rest of your life. However, if you should die before the end of the
         certain period, payments continue to your designated beneficiary for
         the remainder of the period;
 
    / /  An annuity payable during the joint lifetime of you and another
         designated individual, and thereafter during the remaining lifetime of
         the survivor;
 
    / /  An amount payable monthly which may be from 5 to 30 years. If you
         should die before the end of the period you select, the present value
         of the remaining payments will be paid to your designated beneficiary.
 
The amount of each annuity payment you receive depends on the type and frequency
of the annuity payment you choose. Your payments may be variable, fixed or a
combination of both and paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually.
 
    / /  If you choose a variable payment, the variable investment options you
         selected during the accumulation phase become the underlying assets of
         your annuity option. Therefore, your annuity payments will fluctuate to
         reflect the variable nature of the investment options.
 
    / /  If you choose a fixed payment, the annuity payments will be the same
         amount , and will not vary.
 
    / /  If you choose a combination, the percent allocated to the variable
         investment options will fluctuate to reflect the performance of those
         investment options, and the percent allocated to the fixed option will
         remain constant.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 3. HOW CAN I PURCHASE THE DIRECTOR?
 
You must be age 85 or younger (in most states) to purchase The Director. An
initial minimum investment of $1,000 is required. You may make additional
investments of at least $500 each ($100 each if you enroll in The Director's
automatic investment program, InvestEase) to your Director at any time.
 
The Director is also available as an IRA, and may be used with other types of
qualified retirement plans. Minimum investments may vary.
 
After purchasing your Director contract, you have 10 days (or longer in some
states) to examine your contract. If you are not satisfied, you may cancel it
without early surrender penalties, according to the laws of your state.
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 4. WHAT ARE MY INVESTMENT OPTIONS?
 
The Director offers a diversified selection of investment options designed to
accommodate different risk tolerances, investment horizons and financial
objectives.
 
<TABLE>
<S>           <C>                                     <C>
[LOGO]        Funds managed by                        Narrative description: The investment options are listed in a
              Wellington Management                   pyramid. The pyramid is divided into three sectors. The top sector
              Company, LLP.                           lists the 'Growth' investment options: Small Company Fund, Capital
                                                      Appreciation Fund, International Opportunities Fund, and Stock
                                                      Fund. The middle sector lists the 'Growth & Income' investment
                                                      options: Index Fund, Dividend and Growth Fund, International
                                                      Advisers Fund, and Advisers Fund. The bottom sector lists the
                                                      'Income' investment options: Bond Fund, Mortgage Securities Fund,
                                                      Money Market Fund, and Fixed Account. To the left of the pyramid,
                                                      two logos are shown, one for each of the management companies that
                                                      manage the Funds. The first logo is of the Wellington Management
                                                      Company, and the second is of the Hartford Investment Management
                                                      Company. Within the pyramid, to the left of each investment option
                                                      listing, the appropriate logo is shown to represent the management
                                                      company that manages each Fund.
 
[LOGO]        Funds managed by
              Hartford Investment
              Management Company.
 
</TABLE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 5. WHAT ARE THE EXPENSES FOR THE DIRECTOR?
 
The following chart is designed to help you understand the charges in the
Contract.
 
A.  The first column "Annual Insurance Charges" has two components:
 
    / /  "M&E" represents the 1.25% mortality and expense risk charge per year
         against all contract values held in a variable investment option.
 
    / /  "Annual Fee" describes the annual contract maintenance fee of $30.00
         (which is represented as 0.06% based on an average contract size of
         $50,200). The annual maintenance fee is waived if the contract value is
         greater than or equal to $50,000 on the anniversary date.
 
B.  The second column, "Annual Fund Charges", shows the fees charged for the
    underlying investment options. These fees range from 0.39% to 0.96% of the
    average daily value of the investment option. Please note, HIMCO will waive
    its advisory fee for the Small Company Fund until Fund assets reach $20
    million. Total Fund charges without the waiver would have been 0.88%.
 
C.  The third column entitled "Total Annual Charges" represents the sum of the
    charges in the first two columns.
 
There are no sales charges when you purchase The Director, however a sales
charge may apply to early surrenders.
<PAGE>
DIRECTOR EXPENSES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                    If you surrender your Director at the end of
                                          (A)                 (B)        (A)+(B)    the time period listed below, you will incur
                                    Annual Insurance        Annual        Total     the following expenses on a $1,000
                                        Charges              Fund        Annual     investment (assumes 5% annual return).
Investment Option                  M&E      Annual Fee      Charges      Charges           1 Year                 10 Year
<S>                             <C>        <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>                    <C>
INVESTING FOR GROWTH
Small Company                       1.25%        0.06%         0.73%        2.04%            $81                    N/A
Capital Appreciation                1.25%        0.06%         0.65%        1.96%            $80                   $230
International Opportunities         1.25%        0.06%         0.79%        2.10%            $81                   $245
Stock                               1.25%        0.06%         0.46%        1.77%            $78                   $209
INVESTING FOR GROWTH & INCOME
Index                               1.25%        0.06%         0.39%        1.70%            $77                   $202
Dividend & Growth                   1.25%        0.06%         0.73%        2.04%            $81                   $238
International Advisers              1.25%        0.06%         0.96%        2.27%            $83                   $263
Advisers                            1.25%        0.06%         0.63%        1.94%            $80                   $228
INVESTING FOR INCOME
Bond                                1.25%        0.06%         0.52%        1.83%            $79                   $216
Mortgage Securities                 1.25%        0.06%         0.45%        1.76%            $78                   $209
Money Market                        1.25%        0.06%         0.44%        1.75%            $78                   $208
</TABLE>
 
Please see the Section entitled "Charges Under the Contract" of the Prospectus
for more information.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 6. WHAT ABOUT TAXES?
 
Because The Director variable annuity is a long-term investment product, where
all interest, dividends and capital gains compound tax deferred, liquidation of
earnings are subject to ordinary income tax, and, if made prior to age 59 1/2
may be subject to a 10% penalty. There is a deduction for premium taxes in some
states. You should consult with your tax adviser for specific tax information.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 7. DO I HAVE ACCESS TO MY MONEY?
 
Yes. You have access to your money in the following ways:
 
    / /  Automatic Income allows you to receive income from The Director on a
         monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual basis.
 
    / /  Each year you may take an "Annual Withdrawal Amount" without a sales
         charge. Your Annual Withdrawal Amount is up to 10% of premiums that
         have been invested in The Director for less than 7 years. Any amount
         invested for more than 7 years may be withdrawn without a sales charge.
         Distributions due to death, annuity payments under most options, and
         full surrenders after age 90 (in most states) are not subject to the
         charge.
 
         For IRAs and other qualified plans, the Annual Withdrawal Amount is
         expanded to accommodate IRS required minimum distributions.
 
    / /  Distributions over and above your Annual Withdrawal Amount are subject
         to a sales charge. This charge is a percentage of the amount taken.
         During the first two years, the charge is 6%; in years three and four,
         5%; in year five, 4%; in year six, 3%; in year seven, 2%; in year eight
         and beyond, 0%.
 
You should consult with a tax adviser before taking a distribution. Liquidation
of earnings are subject to ordinary income tax and may be subject to a 10%
federal tax penalty if you are under age 59 1/2.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 8. HOW HAS THE DIRECTOR PERFORMED IN THE PAST?
 
The following table shows past performance data for The Director's investment
options. The figures include the 1.25% annual mortality and expense risk charge,
and fund charges. The data does not include the contingent deferred sales
charge. If it did, performance figures would be less than those shown. Of
course, past performance does not guarantee future results. No partial year
performance figures are shown.
<PAGE>
THE DIRECTOR'S PAST PERFORMANCE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               INCEPT.
FUND OPTION                     DATE       1996       1995       1994       1993       1992       1991       1990       1989
<S>                           <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
INVESTING FOR GROWTH
Small Company                    8/9/96         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --
Capital Appreciation             4/2/84      19.20      28.63       1.26      19.30      15.55      52.16     (12.02)     22.60
International Opportunities      7/2/90      11.53      12.51      (3.15)     32.07      (5.62)     11.60         --         --
Stock                           8/31/77      22.83      32.43      (3.11)     12.92       8.68      23.07      (5.07)     24.49
INVESTING FOR GROWTH & INCOME
Index                            5/1/87      20.58      34.85      (0.31)      7.76       5.49      27.93      (5.24)     28.73
Dividend & Growth                3/8/94      21.39      34.68         --         --         --         --         --         --
International Advisers           3/1/95      10.41         --         --         --         --         --         --         --
Advisers                        3/31/83      15.14      26.74      (3.94)     10.86       6.96      18.88       0.01      20.24
INVESTING FOR INCOME
Bond                            8/31/77       2.24      17.01      (5.14)      8.86       4.23      15.02       7.06      10.73
Mortgage Securities              1/1/85       3.77      14.73      (2.83)      4.99       3.35      13.31       8.35      11.74
Money Market                    6/30/80       3.86       4.45       2.67       1.66       2.35       4.72       6.76       7.77
 
<CAPTION>
 
FUND OPTION                     1988       1987
<S>                           <C>        <C>
INVESTING FOR GROWTH
Small Company                        --         --
Capital Appreciation              24.67      (5.55)
International Opportunities          --         --
Stock                             17.51       4.09
INVESTING FOR GROWTH & INCOM
Index                             14.75         --
Dividend & Growth                    --         --
International Advisers               --         --
Advisers                          12.71       4.66
INVESTING FOR INCOME
Bond                               6.25      (1.26)
Mortgage Securities                7.03       1.36
Money Market                       6.06       5.17
</TABLE>
 
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 9. IS MY BENEFICIARY PROTECTED IF I SHOULD DIE?
 
The Director has a guaranteed death benefit. It protects your beneficiaries with
one of the finest annuity features in the industry. Should you die during the
accumulation phase, your beneficiaries will receive one of the following --
whichever is greatest:
 
    / /  the total amount of your premium payments minus any prior surrenders;
 
    / /  your then-current contract value; or
 
    / /  your "MAXIMUM ANNIVERSARY VALUE".
 
To determine your MAXIMUM ANNIVERSARY VALUE, we record the value of your
Director on each contract anniversary until you reach age 81. The highest of
these values, adjusted for any additional payments and prior surrenders since
each anniversary, becomes your Maximum Anniversary Value.
 
Once the contract owner or annuitant attains age 81, the Maximum Anniversary
Value established at age 80 applies, reduced by prior surrenders and increased
by premiums.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 10. OTHER FEATURES AND INFORMATION?
 
Since 1810, The Hartford has been a symbol of quality and stability, protecting
clients from financial loss and hardship. The Hartford had $108.8 billion in
assets and $104.3 billion in liabilities as of December 31, 1996. The Hartford
is the 8th largest domestic life insurance group based on assets as of December
31, 1995 and has more than quadrupled its asset base over the past five years.
 
As previously mentioned, The Director's equity funds are managed by Wellington
Management Company, LLP, which traces its origins to 1928. Entrusted with more
than $133 billion in client assets as of December 31, 1996, the firm focuses
exclusively on money management. This focus enables Wellington Management to
direct its extensive resources towards fulfillment of a single goal: the pursuit
of superior investment returns for its clients.
 
With the Director, you also get the convenience of these optional services:
 
    / /  AUTOMATIC INCOME allows you to receive Director withdrawals by check
         through the mail monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually.
 
    / /  The Director's ASSET ALLOCATION PROGRAM allows you to choose from four
         portfolio models designed to meet your specific investment goals, from
         moderate growth to maximum accumulation. Diversifying your investments
         through this program can help lower the overall volatility of your
         portfolio while enhancing returns over time.
 
    / /  INTEREST AVERAGING automatically sweeps interest earnings from the
         Money Market Fund or Fixed Account into any other Director investment
         option.
 
    / /  DOLLAR COST AVERAGING lets you automatically transfer funds from any
         Director investment option into any other option on a regular basis.
         While Dollar Cost Averaging does not assure a profit or protect against
         loss in a declining market, it does provide an easy, disciplined way to
         build your Director contract.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 11. INQUIRIES
 
To obtain more information about The Director, please write or call:
 
<TABLE>
<S>                              <C>                         <C>
BY REGULAR MAIL:                 BY E-MAIL ON THE INTERNET:
Hartford Life Insurance Company  [email protected]
P.O. Box 5085
Hartford, Connecticut            ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB:
06102-5085                       http://www.thehartford.com
1-800-862-6668
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                                 THE DIRECTOR
                             SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
                        HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                 P.O. BOX 5085
                       HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT 06102-5085
                      TELEPHONE: 1-800-862-6668 (CONTRACT
                                    OWNERS)
   [LOGO]         1-800-862-7155 (INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVES)
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
This Prospectus describes The Director, an individual and group tax deferred
variable annuity contract designed for retirement planning purposes
("Contracts").
 
The Contracts are issued by Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford").
Payments for the Contracts will be held in a series of Hartford Life Insurance
Company Sepa-
 
rate Account Two (the "Separate Account") or in the Fixed Account of Hartford.
Allocations to and transfers to and from the Fixed Account are not permitted in
certain states.
 
The following Sub-Accounts are available under the Contracts. Opposite each
Sub-Account is the name of the underlying investment for that Sub-Account.
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                           <C>  <C>
Advisers Fund Sub-Account                     --   shares of Hartford Advisers Fund, Inc. ("Advisers Fund")
Bond Fund Sub-Account                         --   shares of Hartford Bond Fund, Inc. ("Bond Fund")
Capital Appreciation Fund Sub-Account         --   shares of Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Capital Appreciation Fund")
Dividend and Growth Fund Sub-Account          --   shares of Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Dividend and Growth Fund")
Index Fund Sub-Account                        --   shares of Hartford Index Fund, Inc. ("Index Fund")
International Advisers Fund Sub-Account       --   shares of Hartford International Advisers Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("International Advisers Fund")
International Opportunities Fund Sub-Account  --   shares of Hartford International Opportunities Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("International Opportunities Fund")
Money Market Fund Sub-Account                 --   shares of HVA Money Market Fund, Inc. ("Money Market
                                                   Fund")
Mortgage Securities Fund Sub-Account          --   shares of Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Mortgage Securities Fund")
Small Company Fund Sub-Account                --   shares of Hartford Small Company Fund, Inc. ("Small
                                                   Company Fund")
Stock Fund Sub-Account                        --   shares of Hartford Stock Fund, Inc. ("Stock Fund")
</TABLE>
 
This Prospectus sets forth the information concerning the Separate Account and
the Fixed Account, where available, that investors should know before investing.
This Prospectus should be kept for future reference. Additional information
about the Separate Account and the Fixed Account has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission and is available without charge upon request.
To obtain the Statement of Additional Information send a written request to, or
call Hartford Life Insurance Company, Attn: Annuity Marketing Services, P.O. Box
5085, Hartford, CT 06102-5085. The Table of Contents for the Statement of
Additional Information may be found on page 27 of this Prospectus. The Statement
of Additional Information is incorporated by reference to this Prospectus.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
VARIABLE ANNUITY CONTRACTS ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR ENDORSED OR
GUARANTEED BY, ANY BANK, NOR ARE THEY FEDERALLY INSURED OR OTHERWISE PROTECTED
BY THE FDIC, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY; THEY ARE SUBJECT TO
INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT INVESTED.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES
 AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE
   ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY   OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
                        CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROSPECTUS DATED: MAY 1, 1997
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION DATED: MAY 1, 1997
<PAGE>
2                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         PAGE
                                                                         ----
 <S>                                                                     <C>
 GLOSSARY OF SPECIAL TERMS.............................................    3
 FEE TABLE.............................................................    5
 ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES..............................................    6
 INTRODUCTION..........................................................    7
 HARTFORD, SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO, THE FIXED ACCOUNT AND THE FUNDS.......    7
   Hartford Life Insurance Company.....................................    7
   Separate Account Two................................................    8
   The Funds...........................................................    8
   The Fixed Account...................................................   10
   Performance Related Information.....................................   10
 THE CONTRACTS.........................................................   11
   Contracts Offered...................................................   11
   Premium Payments and Initial Allocations............................   11
   Contract Value......................................................   12
   Transfers Between the Sub-Accounts/Fixed Account....................   12
   Charges Under the Contracts.........................................   13
   Death Benefits......................................................   15
   Surrender Benefits..................................................   16
   Annuity Benefits....................................................   17
   Other Information...................................................   18
 FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS............................................   19
   A. General..........................................................   19
   B. Taxation of Hartford and the Separate Account....................   19
   C. Taxation of Annuities -- General Provisions Affecting Purchasers
 other than Qualified Retirement Plans.................................   19
   D. Federal Income Tax Withholding...................................   22
   E. General Provisions Affecting Qualified Retirement Plans..........   22
   F. Annuity Purchases by Nonresident Aliens and Foreign
 Corporations..........................................................   22
 MISCELLANEOUS.........................................................   23
   How Contracts Are Sold..............................................   23
   Legal Matters and Experts...........................................   23
   Additional Information..............................................   23
 APPENDIX I INFORMATION REGARDING TAX QUALIFIED PLANS..................   24
 TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.............   27
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           GLOSSARY OF SPECIAL TERMS
 
ACCUMULATION UNIT: An accounting unit of measure used to calculate values before
Annuity payments begin.
 
ANNUAL WITHDRAWAL AMOUNT: The amount which can be withdrawn in any Contract Year
prior to incurring surrender charges.
 
ANNUITANT: The person or Participant upon whose life the Contract is issued.
 
ANNUITY: A series of payments for life, or for life with a minimum number of
payments or a determinable sum guaranteed, or for a joint lifetime and
thereafter during the lifetime of the survivor, or for a designated period.
 
ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT DATE: The date on which Annuity payments are to commence.
Under a group unallocated Contract, the date for each Participant is determined
by the Contract Owner in accordance with the terms of the Plan.
 
ANNUITY UNIT: An accounting unit of measure used to calculate the value of
Annuity payments.
 
BENEFICIARY: The person(s) who receive Contract Values in the event of the
Annuitant's or Contract Owner's death under certain conditions. Under a group
unallocated Contract, the person named by the Participant within the Plan
documents/enrollment forms who is entitled to receive benefits in case of the
death of the Participant.
 
CODE: The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
 
COMMISSION: Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
CONTINGENT ANNUITANT: The person so designated by the Contract Owner, who upon
the Annuitant's death, prior to the Annuity Commencement Date, becomes the
Annuitant.
 
CONTRACT ANNIVERSARY: The anniversary of the Contract Date.
 
CONTRACT OWNER(S): The owner(s) of the Contract, trustee or other entity,
sometimes herein referred to as "you".
 
CONTRACT VALUE: The aggregate value of any Sub-Account Accumulation Units held
under the Contract plus the value of the Fixed Account.
 
CONTRACT YEAR: A period of 12 months commencing with the Contract Date or any
anniversary thereof.
 
DEATH BENEFIT: The amount payable upon the death of a Contract Owner, Annuitant
or Participant, in the case of group Contracts, before annuity payments have
commenced.
 
FIXED ACCOUNT: Part of the General Account of Hartford to which a Contract Owner
may allocate all or a portion of his Premium Payment or Contract Value.
 
FIXED ANNUITY: An Annuity providing for guaranteed payments which remain fixed
in amount throughout the payment period and which do not vary with the
investment experience of a separate account.
 
FUNDS: The Funds described commencing on page 8 of this Prospectus and any
additional Funds which may be made available from time to time.
 
GENERAL ACCOUNT: The General Account of Hartford which consists of all assets of
the Hartford other than those allocated to the separate accounts of the
Hartford.
 
HARTFORD: Hartford Life Insurance Company.
 
HOME OFFICE OF THE COMPANY: Currently located at 200 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury,
CT. All correspondence concerning this Contract should be sent to P.O. Box 5085,
Hartford, CT 06102-5085, Attn: Individual Annuity Services.
 
MAXIMUM ANNIVERSARY VALUE: Value used in determining the Death Benefit. It is
based on a series of calculations of Account Values on Contract Anniversaries,
premium payments and partial surrenders, as described on page 15.
 
NON-QUALIFIED CONTRACT: A Contract which is not part of a tax-qualified
retirement plan or arrangement which qualifies for special tax treatment under
the Code.
 
PARTICIPANT -- (For Group Unallocated Contracts Only) -- Any eligible employee
of an Employer/Contract Owner participating in the Plan.
 
PLAN: A voluntary plan of an employer or other person which qualifies for
special tax treatment under the Code.
 
PREMIUM PAYMENT: The payment made to Hartford pursuant to the terms of the
Contract.
 
PREMIUM TAX: A tax on premiums charged by a state or municipality on Premium
Payments or Contract Values.
 
QUALIFIED CONTRACT: A Contract which is part of a tax-qualified retirement plan
or arrangement which qualifies for special tax treatment under the Code, such as
an employer-sponsored Section401(k) plan or an Individual Retirement Annuity
(IRA).
 
SEPARATE ACCOUNT: The Hartford separate account entitled "Hartford Life
Insurance Company Separate Account Two".
 
SUB-ACCOUNT: Accounts established within the Separate Account with respect to a
Fund.
 
TERMINATION VALUE: The Contract Value upon termination of the Contract prior to
the Annuity Commencement Date, less any applicable Premium Taxes, the Annual
Maintenance Fee and any applicable contingent deferred sales charges.
 
UNALLOCATED CONTRACTS: Contracts issued to employers, or other entity, as
Contract Owner under which no allocation
<PAGE>
4                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
of Contract Values is made for a specific Participant. The Plans will be
responsible for the individual allocations.
 
VALUATION DAY: Every day the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. The
value of the Separate Account is determined at the close of the New York Stock
Exchange (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on such days.
 
VALUATION PERIOD: The period between the close of business on successive
Valuation Days.
 
VARIABLE ANNUITY: An Annuity providing for payments varying in amount in
accordance with the investment experience of the assets of the Separate Account.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                5
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   FEE TABLE
                                    SUMMARY
 
                        Contract Owner Transaction Expenses
                               (All Sub-Accounts)
 
<TABLE>
 <S>                                                                 <C>
 Sales Load Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of premium
    payments)......................................................    None
 Exchange Fee......................................................  $    0
 Deferred Sales Load (as a percentage of amounts withdrawn)
     First Year (1)................................................       6%
     Second Year...................................................       6%
     Third Year....................................................       5%
     Fourth Year...................................................       5%
     Fifth Year....................................................       4%
     Sixth Year....................................................       3%
     Seventh Year..................................................       2%
     Eighth Year...................................................       0%
 Annual Contract Fee (2)...........................................  $   30
 Annual Expenses-Separate Account (as percentage of average account
    value)
     Mortality and Expense Risk....................................   1.250%
</TABLE>
 
                         Annual Fund Operating Expenses
                        (as a percentage of net assets)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        TOTAL FUND
                                                  MANAGEMENT   OTHER    OPERATING
                                                     FEES     EXPENSES   EXPENSES
                                                  ----------  --------  ----------
 <S>                                              <C>         <C>       <C>
 Hartford Bond Fund..............................   0.490%     0.030%     0.520%
 Hartford Stock Fund.............................   0.441%     0.016%     0.457%
 HVA Money Market Fund...........................   0.423%     0.021%     0.444%
 Hartford Advisers Fund..........................   0.615%     0.017%     0.632%
 Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund..............   0.629%     0.017%     0.646%
 Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund...............   0.424%     0.029%     0.453%
 Hartford Index Fund.............................   0.374%     0.019%     0.393%
 Hartford International Opportunities Fund.......   0.691%     0.095%     0.786%
 Hartford Dividend & Growth Fund.................   0.709%     0.017%     0.726%
 Hartford International Advisers Fund............   0.746%     0.214%     0.960%
 Hartford Small Company Fund (3).................   0.577%     0.150%     0.727%
</TABLE>
 
- ------------------------------
 
(1) Length of time from premium payment.
(2) The annual contract fee is a single $30 charge on a Contract. It is deducted
    proportionally from the investment options in use at the time of the charge.
    Pursuant to requirements of the 1940 Act, the policy fees has been reflected
    in the Examples by a method intended to show the "average" impact of the
    policy fee on an investment in the Separate Account. The Policy Fee is
    deducted only when the accumulated value is $50,000 or less. In the Example,
    the annual contract fee is approximately as a 0.06% annual asset charge
    based on the experience of the Contracts.
(3) In 1996 management fees were waived for the Hartford Small Company Fund. In
    the absence of this waiver, the 1996 total expense ratio would have been
    .880% (annualized).
 
EXAMPLE
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               If you surrender your Contract    If you annuitize your Contract    If you do not surrender your
                               at the end of the applicable      at the end of the applicable      Contract, you would pay the
                               time period you would pay the     time period you would pay the     following expenses on a $1,000
                               following expenses on a $1,000    following expenses on a $1,000    investment, assuming a 5%
                               investment, assuming a 5%         investment, assuming a 5%         annual return on assets:
                               annual return on assets:          annual return on assets:
 
 SUB-ACCOUNT                   1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS   1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS   1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
                               ------ ------- ------- --------   ------ ------- ------- --------   ------ ------- ------- --------
 <S>                           <C>    <C>     <C>     <C>        <C>    <C>     <C>     <C>        <C>    <C>     <C>     <C>
 Hartford Bond Fund...........  $ 79   $ 108   $ 140    $ 216     $ 18   $  57   $  99    $ 215     $ 19   $  58   $ 100    $ 216
 Hartford Stock Fund..........    78     106     137      209       17      55      96      209       18      56      97      209
 HVA Money Market Fund........    78     106     136      208       17      55      95      207       18      56      96      208
 Hartford Advisers Fund.......    80     112     146      228       19      61     105      227       20      62     106      228
 Hartford Capital Appreciation
   Fund.......................    80     112     146      230       19      61     106      229       20      62     106      230
 Hartford Mortgage Securities
   Fund.......................    78     106     136      209       17      55      96      208       18      56      96      209
 Hartford Index Fund..........    77     104     133      202       17      53      92      202       17      54      93      202
 Hartford International
   Opportunities Fund.........    81     116     154      245       21      66     113      244       21      66     114      245
 Hartford Dividend & Growth
   Fund.......................    81     114     151      238       20      64     110      237       21      64     111      238
 Hartford International
   Advisers Fund..............    83     122     163      263       23      71     122      262       23      72     123      263
 Hartford Small Company
   Fund.......................    81     114     N/A      N/A       20      64     N/A      N/A       21      64     N/A      N/A
</TABLE>
 
    The purpose of this table is to assist the Contract Owner in understanding
various costs and expenses that a Contract Owner will bear directly or
indirectly. The table reflects expenses of the Separate Account and underlying
Funds. Premium taxes may also be applicable.
 
    This EXAMPLE should not be considered a representation of past or future
expenses and actual expenses may be greater or less than those shown.
<PAGE>
6                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                            ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES
          (FOR AN ACCUMULATION UNIT OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
    The following information has been examined by Arthur Andersen LLP,
independent public accountants, whose report thereon is included in the
Statement of Additional information, which is incorporated by reference to this
Prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                            -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             1996     1995        1994        1993     1992     1991     1990
                                                            -------  -------     -------     -------  -------  -------  -------
<S>                                                         <C>      <C>         <C>         <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>
BOND FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.880   $1.607      $1.694      $1.556   $1.493   $1.298   $1.212
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.922   $1.880      $1.607      $1.694   $1.556   $1.493   $1.298
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   96,857   99,377      85,397      79,080   41,204   25,267   14,753
STOCK FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $2.887   $2.180      $2.250      $1.993   $1.834   $1.490   $1.569
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $3.546   $2.887      $2.180      $2.250   $1.993   $1.834   $1.490
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  333,176  285,640     248,563     203,873  121,100   72,780   31,149
MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.528   $1.462      $1.424      $1.401   $1.369   $1.307   $1.225
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.587   $1.528      $1.462      $1.424   $1.401   $1.369   $1.307
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  151,978  102,635     138,396     102,328   78,664   60,774   67,059
ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $2.523   $1.991      $2.072      $1.870   $1.748   $1.470   $1.470
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $2.905   $2.523      $1.991      $2.072   $1.870   $1.748   $1.470
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  953,998  888,803     858,014     688,865  295,387  166,408  101,758
U.S. GOVERNMENT MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.468   $1.409      $1.376      $1.357   $1.331   $1.276   $1.202
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.521   $1.468      $1.409      $1.376   $1.357   $1.331   $1.276
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................       46       48          48          52      161      213      243
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $3.364   $2.615      $2.583      $2.165   $1.874   $1.231   $1.400
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $4.010   $3.364      $2.615      $2.583   $2.165   $1.874   $1.231
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  330,580  292,671     220,936     160,934   75,653   39,031   10,501
MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.878   $1.637      $1.685      $1.604   $1.552   $1.370   $1.264
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.949   $1.878      $1.637      $1.685   $1.604   $1.552   $1.370
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   89,098  101,881     112,417     138,666   98,494   46,464   18,632
INDEX FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $2.359   $1.750      $1.755      $1.629   $1.544   $1.207   $1.274
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $2.845   $2.359      $1.750      $1.755   $1.629   $1.544   $1.207
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of (in
 thousands)...............................................   87,611   65,954      50,799      46,504   29,723   15,975   10,015
INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.329   $1.181      $1.220      $0.924   $0.979   $0.877   $1.000(c)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1,482   $1.329      $1.181      $1.220   $0.924   $0.979   $0.877
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  266,962  238,086     246,259     132,795   32,597   13,109    2,892
DIVIDEND & GROWTH FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.359   $1.009      $1.000(d)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.650   $1.359      $1.009
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  190,958   83,506      29,146
INTERNATIONAL ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.146   $1,000(e)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.266   $1.146
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   23,174    6,577
SMALL COMPANY FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $0.000   $0.000(f)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.066   $0.000
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   12,563        0
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                1989     1988     1987        1986
                                                               -------  -------  -------     -------
<S>                                                         <C>         <C>      <C>         <C>
BOND FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.095   $1.031   $1.044      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.212   $1.095   $1.031      $1.044
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................       9,267    5,786    3,576         802
STOCK FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.261   $1.073   $1.031      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.569   $1.261   $1.073      $1.031
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      30,096    9.158    9,229       1,250
MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.136   $1.071   $1.019      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.225   $1.136   $1.071      $1.019
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      28,291   29,043   11,633         243
ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.223   $1.085   $1.036      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.470   $1.223   $1.085      $1.036
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      79,738   56.584   56,332       9,405
U.S. GOVERNMENT MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.122   $1.062   $1.018      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.202   $1.122   $1.062      $1.018
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................         297      281      187          10
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.142   $0.916   $0.969      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.400   $1.142   $0.916      $0.969
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................       8,041    3,606    2,989         431
MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.132   $1.057   $1.043      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.264   $1.132   $1.057      $1.043
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      12,248   11,061    9,397       3,773
INDEX FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $0.989   $0.862   $1.000(b)       --
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.274   $0.989   $0.862          --
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of (in
 thousands)...............................................       6,306    2,868    1,758          --
INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................          --       --       --          --
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................          --       --       --          --
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................          --       --       --          --
DIVIDEND & GROWTH FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................
INTERNATIONAL ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................
SMALL COMPANY FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................
</TABLE>
 
(a) Inception date August 1, 1986.
 
(b) Inception date May 1, 1987.
 
(c) Inception date July 2, 1990.
 
(d) Inception date March 8, 1994.
 
(e) Inception date March 1, 1995.
 
(f) Inception date August 9, 1996.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                7
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- -------------------------------------------
                                  INTRODUCTION
 
    This Prospectus has been designed to provide you with the necessary
information to make a decision on purchasing an individual or group tax deferred
Variable Annuity Contract offered by Hartford Life Insurance Company
("Hartford") in the Fixed Account and/or a series of Separate Account Two. (See
"Hartford Life Insurance Company," page 7; "The Contracts," page 11; and "The
Separate Account," page 8.) Please read the Glossary of Special Terms on pages 3
and 4 prior to reading this Prospectus to familiarize yourself with the terms
being used.
 
    The Contracts are available for purchase by individuals and groups on both a
non-qualified and qualified basis. The maximum issue age for the Contract is 85
years old. (See "The Contracts," page 11.) Generally, the minimum initial
Premium Payment is $1,000. Thereafter, the minimum payment is $500. There is no
deduction for sales expenses from Premium Payments when made. A deduction will
be made for state Premium Taxes for Contracts sold in certain states. (See
"Charges Under the Contracts," page 13.)
 
    Generally, the Contracts are purchased by completing and submitting an
application or an order to purchase, along with the initial Premium Payment, to
Hartford for its approval. Generally, a Contract Owner may exercise his right to
cancel the Contract within ten days of delivery of the Contract by returning the
Contract to Hartford at its Home Office. If the Contract Owner exercises his
right to cancel, Hartford will return either the Contract Value or the original
Premium Payments to the Contract Owner. The duration of the right to cancel
period and Hartford's obligation to either return the Contract Value of the
original Premium Payment will depend on state law.
 
    The investment options for the Contracts are the Hartford Advisers Fund,
Inc., Hartford Bond Fund, Inc., Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Inc.,
Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund, Inc., Hartford Index Fund, Inc., Hartford
International Advisers Fund, Inc., Hartford International Opportunities Fund,
Inc., Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Inc., Hartford Small Company Fund,
Inc., Hartford Stock Fund, Inc., HVA Money Market Fund, Inc., and such other
funds as shall be offered from time to time (the "Funds"), and the Fixed
Account. (See "The Funds," page 8, and "The Fixed Account," page 10.) With
certain limitations, Contract Owners may allocate their Premium Payments and
Contract Values to one or a combination of these investment options and transfer
among the investment options. (See "Transfers Between Sub-Accounts/ Fixed
Account," page 12.)
 
    An Annual Maintenance Fee in the amount of $30.00 is deducted from Contract
Values each Contract Year (not applicable to Contracts with Account Values of
$50,000 or more or under other circumstances at the sole discretion of Hartford)
and there is a 1.25% per annum mortality and expense risk charge applied against
all Contract Values held in the Separate Account. (See "Charges Under the
Contracts," page 13). Finally, the Funds are subject to certain fees, charges
and expenses (see the Funds' prospectus attached hereto).
 
    The Contracts may be surrendered, or portions of the value of the Contracts
may be withdrawn, at any time prior to the Annuity Commencement Date. (See
"Surrender Benefits," page 16.) However, a contingent deferred sales charge may
be assessed against Contract Values when they are surrendered. Contingent
deferred sales charges will not be assessed in certain instances, including
withdrawals up to the annual withdrawal amount and the payment of Death
Benefits. (See "Charges Under the Contracts," page 13.)
 
    The Contract provides for a minimum Death Benefit in the event of the death
of the Annuitant or Contract Owner before Annuity payments have commenced (see
"Death Benefits," page 15). Various annuity options are available under the
Contract for election by the Contract Owner on either a fixed or variable basis.
In the absence of an annuity option election, the Contract Value (less
applicable Premium Taxes) will be applied on the Annuity Commencement Date to
provide a life annuity with 120 monthly payments certain (see "Annuity
Benefits," page 17).
 
    The Contract may be sold directly to certain individuals under certain
circumstances that do not involve payment of any sales compensation to a
registered representative. In such case, Hartford will credit the Contract with
an additional 5.0% of the premium payment. This additional percentage of premium
payment in no way affects present or future charges, rights, benefits or current
values of other Contract Owners. The following class of individuals are eligible
for this feature: (1) current or retired officers, directors, trustees and
employees (and their families) of the ultimate parent and affiliates of
Hartford; and (2) employees and registered representatives (and their families)
of registered broker-dealers (or financial institutions affiliated therewith)
that have a sales agreement with Hartford and its principal underwriter to sell
the Contracts.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                           HARTFORD, SEPARATE ACCOUNT
                            TWO, THE FIXED ACCOUNT,
                                 AND THE FUNDS
 
- --------------------------------
                        HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
    Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford") is a stock life insurance
company engaged in the business of writing health and life insurance, both
individual and
<PAGE>
8                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
group, in all states of the United States and the District of Columbia. Hartford
was originally incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts on June 5, 1902, and
was subsequently redomiciled to Connecticut. Its offices are located in
Simsbury, Connecticut; however, its mailing address is P.O. Box 2999, Hartford,
CT 06104-2999. Hartford is a subsidiary of Hartford Fire Insurance Company, one
of the largest multiple lines insurance carriers in the United States. Hartford
is ultimately owned by ITT Hartford Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation. Subject
to shareholder approval on May 2, 1997, the name of ITT Hartford Group, Inc.
will change to The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
 
    Hartford is rated A+ (superior) by A.M. Best and Company, Inc., on the basis
of its financial soundness and operating performance. Hartford is rated AA by
Standard & Poor's and AA+ by Duff and Phelps, on the basis of its claims paying
ability. These ratings do not apply to the investment performance of the
Sub-Accounts of the Separate Account. The ratings apply to Hartford's ability to
meet its insurance obligations, including those described in this Prospectus.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                              SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
 
    The Separate Account was established on June 2, 1986. It is the Separate
Account in which Hartford sets aside and invests the assets attributable to
variable annuity Contracts, including the Contracts sold under this Prospectus.
Separate Account assets are held by Hartford under a safekeeping arrangement.
Although the Separate Account is an integral part of Hartford, it is registered
as a unit investment trust under the Investment Company Act of 1940. This
registration does not, however, involve Commission supervision of the management
or the investment practices or policies of the Separate Account or Hartford. The
Separate Account meets the definition of "separate account" under federal
securities law.
 
    Your investment in the Separate Account is allocated to one or more
Sub-Accounts as per your specifications. Each Sub-Account is invested
exclusively in the assets of one underlying Fund. Hartford reserves the right,
subject to compliance with the law, to substitute the shares of any other
registered investment company for the shares of any Fund already purchased or to
be purchased in the future by the Separate Account provided that the
substitution has been approved by the Commission.
 
    Net Premium Payments and proceeds of transfers between Sub-Accounts are
applied to purchase shares in the appropriate Fund at net asset value determined
as of the end of the Valuation Period during which the payments were received or
the transfer made. All distributions from the Fund are reinvested at net asset
value. The value of your investment will therefore vary in accordance with the
net income and fluctuation in the individual investments within the underlying
Fund portfolio or portfolios. During the Variable Annuity payout period, both
your Annuity payments and reserve values will vary in accordance with these
factors.
 
    Under Connecticut law, the assets of the Separate Account attributable to
the Contracts offered under this Prospectus are held for the benefit of the
owners of, and the persons entitled to payments under, those Contracts. 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. Also, the assets in the Separate Account are not
chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other business Hartford may
conduct. Contract Values allocated to the Separate Account is not affected by
the rate of return of Hartford's General Account, nor by the investment
performance of any of Hartford's other separate accounts. The Separate Account
may be subject to liabilities arising from a Sub-Account of the Separate Account
whose assets are attributable to other variable annuity Contracts or variable
life insurance policies offered by the Separate Account which are not described
in this Prospectus. However, all obligations arising under the Contracts are
general corporate obligations of Hartford.
 
    Hartford does not guarantee the investment results of the Separate Accounts
or any of the underlying investments. There is no assurance that the value of a
Contract during the years prior to retirement or the aggregate amount of the
Variable Annuity payments will equal the total of Premium Payments made under
the Contract. Since each underlying Fund has different investment objectives,
each is subject to different risks. These risks are more fully described in the
accompanying Funds' prospectus.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                                   THE FUNDS
 
    All of the Funds are sponsored by Hartford and are incorporated under the
laws of the State of Maryland. HL Investment Advisors, Inc. ("HL Advisors")
serves as the investment adviser to each of the Hartford Funds.
 
    Wellington Management Company, L.L.P. serves as sub-investment adviser for
Hartford Advisers Fund, Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Hartford Dividend
and Growth Fund, Hartford International Advisers Fund, Hartford International
Opportunities Fund, Hartford Small Company Fund and Hartford Stock Fund.
 
    In addition, HL Advisors has entered an investment services agreement with
The Hartford Investment Management Company, Inc. ("HIMCO"), pursuant to which
HIMCO will provide certain investment services to Hartford Bond Fund, Hartford
Index Fund, Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund and HVA Money Market Fund.
 
    A full description of the Funds, their investment policies and restrictions,
risks, charges and expenses and all
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                9
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
other aspects of their operation is contained in the accompanying Funds'
Prospectus which should be read in conjunction with this Prospectus before
investing and in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information which may be
ordered from Hartford. The Funds may not be available in all states.
 
    The investment objectives of each of the Funds are as follows:
 
 HARTFORD ADVISERS FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks maximum long-term total rate of return consistent with prudent
investment risk by investing in common stock and other equity securities, bonds
and other debt securities, and money market instruments.
 
 HARTFORD BOND FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks maximum current income consistent with preservation of capital by
investing primarily in fixed-income securities. Up to 20% of the total assets of
this Fund may be invested in debt securities rated in the highest category below
investment grade ("Ba" by Moody's or "BB" by S&P) or, if unrated, are determined
to be of comparable quality by the Fund's investment adviser. Securities rated
below investment grade are commonly referred to as "high yield-high risk
securities" or "junk bonds." For more information concerning the risks
associated with investing in such securities, please refer to the section in the
accompanying prospectus for the Hartford Funds entitled "Hartford Bond Fund,
Inc. -- Investment Policies."
 
 HARTFORD CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks growth of capital by investing in securities selected solely on the
basis of potential for capital appreciation; income, if any, is an incidental
consideration.
 
 HARTFORD DIVIDEND AND GROWTH FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks a high level of current income consistent with growth of capital and
reasonable investment risk.
 
 HARTFORD INDEX FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks to provide investment results which approximate the price and yield
performance of publicly-traded common stocks in the aggregate, as represented by
the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index.*
 
 HARTFORD INTERNATIONAL ADVISERS FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks maximum long-term total rate of return consistent with prudent
investment risk by investing in a portfolio of equity, debt and money market
securities. Securities in which the Fund invests primarily will be denominated
in non-U.S. currencies and will be traded in non-U.S. markets.
 
 HARTFORD INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks long-term total rate of return consistent with prudent investment risk
through investment primarily in equity securities issued by non-U.S. companies.
 
 HARTFORD MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks maximum current income consistent with safety of principal and
maintenance of liquidity by investing primarily in mortgage-related securities,
including securities issued by the Government National Mortgage Association.
 
 HARTFORD SMALL COMPANY FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks growth of capital by investing primarily in equity securities selected
on the basis of potential for capital appreciation.
 
 HARTFORD STOCK FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks long-term capital growth primarily through capital appreciation, with
income as a secondary consideration, by investing primarily in equity
securities.
 
 HVA MONEY MARKET FUND, INC.
 
    Seeks maximum current income consistent with liquidity and preservation of
capital.
 
    VOTING RIGHTS -- Hartford is the legal owner of all Fund shares held in the
Separate Account. As the owner, Hartford has the right to vote at the Funds'
shareholder meetings. However, to the extent required by federal securities laws
or regulations, Hartford will:
 
1.  Vote all Fund shares attributable to a Contract according to instructions
    received from the Contract Owner, and
 
2.  Vote shares attributable to a Contract for which no voting instructions are
    received in the same proportion as shares for which instructions are
    received.
 
    If any federal securities laws or regulations, or their present
interpretation change to permit Hartford to vote Fund shares in its own right,
Hartford may elect to do so.
 
    Hartford will notify you of any Fund shareholders' meeting if the shares
held for your account may be voted at such meetings. Hartford will send proxy
materials and a form of instruction by means of which you can instruct Hartford
with respect to the voting of the Fund shares held for your account.
 
    In connection with the voting of Fund shares held by it, Hartford will
arrange for the handling and tallying of proxies received from Contract Owners.
Hartford as such, shall have no right, except as hereinafter provided, to vote
 
* "STANDARD & POOR'S-REGISTERED TRADEMARK-," "S&P-REGISTERED TRADEMARK-," "S&P
  500-REGISTERED TRADEMARK-," "STANDARD & POOR'S 500," AND "500" ARE TRADEMARKS
  OF THE MCGRAW-HILL COMPANIES, INC. AND HAVE BEEN LICENSED FOR USE BY HARTFORD.
  THE INDEX FUND IS NOT SPONSORED, ENDORSED, SOLD OR PROMOTED BY STANDARD &
  POOR'S AND STANDARD & POOR'S MAKES NO REPRESENTATION REGARDING THE
  ADVISABILITY OF INVESTING IN THE INDEX FUND.
<PAGE>
10                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
any Fund shares held by it hereunder which may be registered in its name or the
names of its nominees. Hartford will, however, vote the Fund shares held by it
in accordance with the instructions received from the Contract Owners for whose
accounts the Fund shares are held. If a Contract Owner desires to attend any
meeting at which shares held for the Contract Owner's benefit may be voted, the
Contract Owner may request Hartford to furnish a proxy or otherwise arrange for
the exercise of voting rights with respect to the Fund shares held for such
Contract Owner's account. Hartford will vote shares for which no instructions
have been given and shares which are not attributable to Contract Owners (i.e.
shares owned by Hartford) in the same proportion as it votes shares of that Fund
for which it has received instructions. During the Annuity period under a
Contract the number of votes will decrease as the assets held to fund Annuity
benefits decrease.
 
    The Funds are available only to serve as the underlying investment for
variable annuity and variable life insurance Contracts issued by Hartford. It is
conceivable that in the future it may be disadvantageous for variable annuity
separate accounts and variable life insurance separate accounts to invest in the
Funds simultaneously. Although Hartford and the Funds do not currently foresee
any such disadvantages either to variable annuity Contract Owners or to variable
life insurance Policy Owners, the Funds' Board of Directors intends to monitor
events in order to identify any material conflicts between such Contract Owners
and Policy Owners and to determine what action, if any, should be taken in
response thereto. If the Board of Directors of the Funds were to conclude that
separate funds should be established for variable life and variable annuity
separate accounts, the variable annuity Contract Owners would not bear any
expenses attendant to the establishment of such separate funds.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                               THE FIXED ACCOUNT
 
    THAT PORTION OF THE CONTRACT RELATING TO THE FIXED ACCOUNT IS NOT REGISTERED
UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 ("1933 ACT") AND THE FIXED ACCOUNT IS NOT
REGISTERED AS AN INVESTMENT COMPANY UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
("1940 ACT"). ACCORDINGLY, NEITHER THE FIXED ACCOUNT NOR ANY INTERESTS THEREIN
ARE SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OR RESTRICTIONS OF THE 1933 ACT OR THE 1940 ACT,
AND THE DISCLOSURE REGARDING THE FIXED ACCOUNT HAS NOT BEEN REVIEWED BY THE
STAFF OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THE FOLLOWING DISCLOSURE ABOUT
THE FIXED ACCOUNT MAY BE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN GENERALLY APPLICABLE PROVISIONS OF
THE FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS REGARDING THE ACCURACY AND COMPLETENESS OF
DISCLOSURE.
 
    Premium Payments and Contract Values allocated to the Fixed Account become a
part of the general assets of Hartford. Hartford invests the assets of the
General Account in accordance with applicable law governing the investments of
Insurance Company General Accounts.
 
    Currently, Hartford guarantees that it will credit interest at a rate of not
less than 3% per year, compounded annually, to amounts allocated to the Fixed
Account under the Contracts. However, Hartford reserves the right to change the
rate according to state insurance law. Hartford may credit interest at a rate in
excess of 3% per year. There is no specific formula for the determination of
excess interest credits. Some of the factors that the Company may consider in
determining whether to credit excess interest to amounts allocated to the Fixed
Account and the amount thereof, are general economic trends, rates of return
currently available and anticipated on the Company's investments, regulatory and
tax requirements and competitive factors. ANY INTEREST CREDITED TO AMOUNTS
ALLOCATED TO THE FIXED ACCOUNT IN EXCESS OF 3% PER YEAR WILL BE DETERMINED IN
THE SOLE DISCRETION OF THE COMPANY. THE OWNER ASSUMES THE RISK THAT INTEREST
CREDITED TO FIXED ACCOUNT ALLOCATIONS MAY NOT EXCEED THE MINIMUM GUARANTEE OF 3%
FOR ANY GIVEN YEAR.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                        PERFORMANCE RELATED INFORMATION
 
    The Separate Account may advertise certain performance related information
concerning its Sub-Accounts. Performance information about a Sub-Account is
based on the Sub-Account's past performance only and is no indication of future
performance.
 
    The Hartford Advisers Fund, Hartford Bond Fund, Hartford Capital
Appreciation Fund, Inc., Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund, Hartford Index Fund,
Hartford International Advisers Fund, Hartford International Opportunities Fund,
Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Hartford Small Company Fund, Hartford Stock
Fund, and HVA Money Market Fund Sub-Accounts may include total return in
advertisements or other sales material.
 
    When a Sub-Account advertises its standardized total return, it will usually
be calculated for one year, five years, and ten years or some other relevant
periods if the Sub-Account has not been in existence for at least ten years.
Total return is measured by comparing the value of an investment in the
Sub-Account at the beginning of the relevant period to the value of the
investment at the end of the period (assuming the deduction of any contingent
deferred sales charge which would be payable if the investment were redeemed at
the end of the period).
 
    In addition to the standardized total return, the Sub-Account may advertise
a non-standardized total return. This figure will usually be calculated for one
year, five years, and
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               11
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
ten years or other periods. Non-standardized total return is measured in the
same manner as the standardized total return described above, except that the
contingent deferred sales charge and the Annual Maintenance Fee are not
deducted. Therefore, non-standardized total return for a Sub-Account is higher
than standardized total return for a Sub-Account.
 
    The Hartford Bond Fund and Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund Sub-Accounts
may advertise yield in addition to total return. The yield will be computed in
the following manner: The net investment income per unit earned during a recent
one month period, divided by the unit value on the last day of the period. This
figure reflects the recurring charges at the Separate Account level including
the annual maintenance fee.
 
    The HVA Money Market Fund Sub-Account may advertise yield and effective
yield. The yield of a Sub-Account is based upon the income earned by the
Sub-Account 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 Sub-Account units and thus compounded in the course of a
52-week period. Yield and effective yield reflect the recurring charges at the
Separate Account level including the annual maintenance fee.
 
    The Separate Account may also disclose yield, standard total return, and
non-standard total return for periods prior to the date the Separate Account
commenced operations. For periods prior to the date the Separate Account
commenced operations, performance information for the Sub-Accounts will be
calculated based on the performance of the underlying Funds and the assumption
that the Sub-Accounts were in existence for the same periods as those of the
underlying Funds, with a level of charges equal to those currently assessed
against the Sub-Accounts.
 
    Hartford may provide information on various topics to Contract Owners and
prospective Contract Owners in advertising, sales literature or other materials.
These topics may include the relationship between sectors of the economy and the
economy as a whole and its effect on various securities markets, investment
strategies and techniques (such as value investing, dollar cost averaging and
asset allocation), the advantages and disadvantages of investing in tax-
advantaged and taxable instruments, customer profiles and hypothetical purchase
scenarios, financial management and tax and retirement planning, and other
investment alternatives, including comparisons between the Contracts and the
characteristics of and market for such alternatives.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                                 THE CONTRACTS
 
- --------------------------------
                               CONTRACTS OFFERED
 
    The Contracts are individual or group tax-deferred Variable Annuity
Contracts designed for retirement planning purposes and may be purchased by any
individual, group or trust, including any trustee or custodian for a retirement
plan qualified under Sections 401(a) or 403(a) of the Code; annuity purchase
plans adopted by public school systems and certain tax-exempt organizations
according to Section 403(b) of the Code; Individual Retirement Annuities adopted
according to Section 408 of the Code; employee pension plans established for
employees by a state, a political subdivision of a state, or an agency or
instrumentality of either a state or a political subdivision of a state, and
certain eligible deferred compensation plans as defined in Section 457 of the
Code ("Qualified Contracts").
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                    PREMIUM PAYMENTS AND INITIAL ALLOCATIONS
 
    The minimum initial Premium Payment is $1,000. Thereafter, the minimum
Premium Payment is $500. Certain plans may make smaller periodic payments. Each
Premium Payment may be split among the various Sub-Accounts and/or the Fixed
Account subject to minimum amounts then in effect.
 
    REFUND RIGHTS -- If you are not satisfied with your purchase you may cancel
the Contract by returning it within ten days (or longer in some states) after
you receive it. A written request for cancellation must accompany the Contract.
In such event, Hartford will, without deduction for any charges normally
assessed thereunder, pay you an amount equal to the Contract Value on the date
of receipt of the request for cancellation. You bear the investment risk during
the period prior to the Company's receipt of request for cancellation. Hartford
will refund the premium paid only for individual retirement annuities (if
returned within seven days of receipt) and in those states where required by
law.
 
    CREDITING AND VALUATION -- The balance of the initial Premium Payment
remaining after the deduction of any applicable Premium Tax is credited to your
Contract within two business days of receipt of a properly completed application
or an order to purchase a Contract and the initial Premium Payment by Hartford
at its Home Office, P.O. Box 5085, Hartford, CT 06102-5085. It will be credited
to the Sub-Account(s) and/or the Fixed Account in accordance with your election.
If the application or other information is incomplete when received, the balance
of the initial Premium Payment, after deduction of any applicable Premium Tax,
will be credited to the Sub-Account(s) or the Fixed Account within five business
days of receipt. If the initial Premium Payment is not credited within five
business
<PAGE>
12                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
days, the Premium Payment will be immediately returned unless you have been
informed of the delay and request that the Premium Payment not be returned.
 
    The number of Accumulation Units in each Sub-Account to be credited to a
Contract will be determined by dividing the portion of the Premium Payment being
credited to each Sub-Account by the value of an Accumulation Unit in that
Sub-Account on that date.
 
    Subsequent Premium Payments are priced on the Valuation Day received by
Hartford in its Home Office, or other designated administrative offices.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                                 CONTRACT VALUE
 
    The value of the Sub-Account investments under your Contract at any time
prior to the commencement of Annuity payments can be determined by multiplying
the total number of Accumulation Units credited to your Contract in each
Sub-Account by the then current Accumulation Unit values for the applicable
Sub-Account. The value of the Fixed Account under your Contract will be the
amount allocated to the Fixed Account plus interest credited.
 
    You will be advised at least semiannually of the number of Accumulation
Units credited to each Sub-Account, the current Accumulation Unit values, the
Fixed Account value, and the total value of your Contract.
 
    ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES -- The Accumulation Unit value for each Sub-Account
will vary to reflect the investment experience of the applicable Fund and will
be determined on each Valuation Day by multiplying the Accumulation Unit value
of the particular Sub-Account on the preceding Valuation Day by a "Net
Investment Factor" for that Sub-Account for the Valuation Period then ended. The
"Net Investment Factor" for each of the Sub-Accounts is equal to (a) the net
asset value per share of the corresponding Fund at the end of the Valuation
Period (plus the per share amount of any dividends or capital gains distributed
by that Fund if the ex-dividend date occurs in the Valuation Period then ended)
divided by the net asset value per share of the corresponding Fund at the
beginning of the Valuation Period, (b) minus the mortality and expense risk
charge and the administration charge described below. You should refer to the
prospectus for each of the Funds which accompanies this Prospectus for a
description of how the assets of each Fund are valued since each determination
has a direct bearing on the Accumulation Unit value of the Sub-Account and
therefore the value of a Contract. The Accumulation Unit Value is affected by
the performance of the underlying Fund(s), expenses and deduction of the charges
described in this Prospectus.
 
    VALUATION OF FUND SHARES -- The shares of the Fund are valued at net asset
value on each Valuation Day. A complete description of the valuation method used
in valuing Fund shares may be found in the accompanying Funds' prospectus.
 
    VALUATION OF THE FIXED ACCOUNT -- Hartford will determine the value of the
Fixed Account by crediting interest to amounts allocated to the Fixed Account.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                  TRANSFERS BETWEEN SUB-ACCOUNTS/FIXED ACCOUNT
 
    You may transfer the values of your Sub-Account allocations from one or more
Sub-Accounts to another free of charge. However, Hartford reserves the right to
limit the number of transfers to twelve (12) per Contract Year, with no two (2)
transfers occurring on consecutive Valuation Days. Transfers by telephone may be
made by a Contract Owner or by the attorney-in-fact pursuant to a power of
attorney by calling (800) 862-6668 or by the agent of record by calling (800)
862-7155. Telephone transfers may not be permitted by some states for their
residents who purchase variable annuities.
 
    The policy of Hartford and its agents and affiliates is that they will not
be responsible for losses resulting from acting upon telephone requests
reasonably believed to be genuine. Hartford will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that instructions communicated by telephone are genuine; otherwise,
Hartford may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent
instructions. The procedures Hartford follows for transactions initiated by
telephone include requirements that callers provide certain information for
identification purposes. All transfer instructions by telephone are tape
recorded.
 
    Hartford may permit the Contract Owner to preauthorize transfers among
Sub-Accounts and between Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account under certain
circumstances. Transfers between the Sub-Accounts may be made both before and
after Annuity payments commence (limited to once a quarter) provided that the
minimum allocation to any Sub-Account may not be less than $500. No minimum
balance is required in any Sub-Account.
 
    It is the responsibility of the Contract Owner or Participant to verify the
accuracy of all confirmations of transfers and to promptly advise Hartford of
any inaccuracies within one business day of receipt of the confirmation.
Hartford will send the Contract Owner a confirmation of the transfer within five
days from the date of any instruction.
 
    Transfers from the Fixed Account into a Sub-Account may be made at any time
during the Contract Year. The maximum amount which may be transferred from the
Fixed Account during any Contract Year is the greater of 30% of the Fixed
Account balance as of the last Contract Anniversary or the greatest amount of
any prior transfer from the Fixed Account. If Hartford permits preauthorized
transfers from the Fixed Account to the Sub-Accounts, this restriction
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               13
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
is inapplicable. Also, if any interest rate is renewed at a rate of at least one
percentage point less than the previous rate, the Contract Owner may elect to
transfer up to 100% of the funds receiving the reduced rate within 60 days of
notification of the interest rate decrease. Generally, transfers may not be made
from any Sub-Account into the Fixed Account for the six-month period following
any transfer from the Fixed Account into one or more of the Sub-Accounts.
Hartford reserves the right to modify the limitations on transfers from the
Fixed Account and to defer transfers from the Fixed Account for up to six months
from the date of request.
 
    Subject to the exceptions set forth in the following two paragraphs, the
right to reallocate Contract Values is subject to modification if Hartford
determines, in its sole opinion, that the exercise of that right by one or more
Contract Owners is, or would be, to the disadvantage of other Contract Owners.
Any modification could be applied to transfers to or from some or all of the
Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account and could include, but not be limited to, the
requirement of a minimum time period between each transfer, not accepting
transfer requests of an agent acting under a power of attorney on behalf of more
than one Contract Owner, or limiting the dollar amount that may be transferred
between the Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account by a Contract Owner at any one
time. Such restrictions may be applied in any manner reasonably designed to
prevent any use of the transfer right which is considered by Hartford to be to
the disadvantage of other Contract Owners.
 
    For Contracts issued in the State of New York, the reservation of rights set
forth in the preceding paragraph is limited to (i) requiring up to a maximum of
10 Valuation Days between each transfer: (ii) limiting the amount to be
transferred on any one Valuation Day to no more than $2 million; and (iii) upon
30 days prior written notice, to only accepting transfer instructions from the
Contract Owner and not from the Contract Owner's representative, agent or person
acting under a power of attorney for the Contract Owner.
 
    Currently, and with respect to Contracts issued in all states, the only
restriction in effect is that Hartford will not accept instructions from agents
acting under a power of attorney of multiple Contract Owners whose accounts
aggregate more than $2 million, unless the agent has entered into a third party
transfer services agreement with Hartford.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                          CHARGES UNDER THE CONTRACTS
 
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGES
 
    There is no deduction for sales expenses from Premium Payments when made.
However, a contingent deferred sales charge may be assessed against Contract
Values when they are surrendered. The length of time from receipt of a Premium
Payment to the time of surrender determines the contingent deferred sales
charge. Premium payments will be deemed to be surrendered in the order in which
they were received.
 
    A Contract Owner who chooses to surrender a Contract in full who has not yet
withdrawn the Annual Withdrawal Amount during the current Contract Year (as
described at page 14 below under the sub-heading "Payments Not Subject to Sales
Charges") may, depending upon the amount of investment gain experienced under
the Contract, reduce the amount of any contingent deferred sales charge paid by
first withdrawing the Annual Withdrawal Amount and then requesting a full
surrender of the Contract. Currently, regardless of whether a Contract Owner
first requests a partial withdrawal of the Annual Withdrawal Amount, upon
receiving a request for a full surrender of a Contract, Hartford assesses any
applicable contingent deferred sales charge against the surrender proceeds
representing the lesser of: (1) aggregate Premium Payments not previously
withdrawn; and (2) the Contract Value, less the Annual Withdrawal Amount
available at the time of the full surrender, less the Annual Maintenance Fee.
 
PAYMENTS SUBJECT TO SALES CHARGES DURING THE FIRST SEVEN CONTRACT YEARS
 
    During the first seven Contract years, a contingent deferred sales charge
will be assessed against the surrender of the Premium Payments. All surrenders
will be first from Premium Payments and then from other Contract Values.
 
AFTER THE SEVENTH CONTRACT YEAR
 
    After the seventh Contract year, all surrenders will first be from earnings
and then from premium payments. A contingent deferred sales charge will not be
assessed against the surrender of earnings. If an amount equal to all earnings
has been surrendered, a contingent deferred sales charge will not be assessed
against premium payments received more than seven years prior to surrender, but
will be assessed against premium payments received less than seven years prior
to surrender.
 
    The charge is a percentage of the amount withdrawn (not to exceed the
aggregate amount of the Premium Payments made) and equals:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                 LENGTH OF TIME
  CHARGE      FROM PREMIUM PAYMENT
- -----------  -----------------------
<S>          <C>
                (NUMBER OF YEARS)
        6%                  1
        6%                  2
        5%                  3
        5%                  4
        4%                  5
        3%                  6
        2%                  7
        0%          8 or more
</TABLE>
 
<PAGE>
14                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
    PAYMENTS NOT SUBJECT TO SALES CHARGES -- During the first seven Contract
Years, on a non-cumulative basis, a Contract Owner may make a partial surrender
of Contract Values of up to 10% of the aggregate Premium Payments made to the
Contract (as determined on the date of the requested withdrawal) without the
application of the contingent deferred sales charge. After the seventh Contract
year, the Contract Owner may make a partial surrender of 10% of premium payments
made during the seven years prior to the surrender and 100% of the Contract
Value less the premium payments made during the seven years prior to the
surrender. The amount which can be withdrawn in any Contract Year prior to
incurring sales charges is the "Annual Withdrawal Amount." An Extended
Withdrawal Privilege rider allows an Annuitant who attains age 70 1/2 under a
Qualified Plan to withdraw an amount in excess of the Annual Withdrawal Amount
to comply with IRS minimum distribution rules.
 
    Certain plans or programs may have different withdrawal privileges. Any such
withdrawal will be deemed to be from Contract Values other than Premium
Payments. From time to time, Hartford may permit the Contract Owner to
preauthorize partial surrenders subject to certain limitations then in effect.
Additional surrenders or any surrender of the Contract Values in excess of such
amount in any Contract Year during the period when contingent deferred sales
charges are applicable will be subject to the appropriate charge.
 
    No contingent deferred sales charges otherwise applicable will be assessed
in the event of death of the Annuitant, death of the Contract Owner or if
payments are made under an Annuity option (other than a surrender out of Option
4) provided for under the Contract.
 
    PURPOSE OF SALES CHARGES -- The contingent deferred sales charges are used
to cover expenses relating to the sale and distribution of the Contracts,
including commissions paid to any distribution organization and its sales
personnel, the cost of preparing sales literature and other promotional
activities. To the extent that these charges do not cover such distribution
expenses they will be borne by Hartford from its general assets, including
surplus. The surplus might include profits resulting from unused mortality and
expense risk charges.
 
    MORTALITY AND EXPENSE RISK CHARGE -- Although Variable Annuity payments made
under the Contracts will vary in accordance with the investment performance of
the underlying Fund shares held in the Sub-Account(s), the payments will not be
affected by (a) Hartford's actual mortality experience among Annuitants before
or after the Annuity Commencement Date or (b) Hartford's actual expenses, if
greater than the deductions provided for in the Contracts because of the expense
and mortality undertakings by Hartford.
 
    For assuming these risks under the Contracts, Hartford will make a daily
charge at the rate of 1.25% per annum against all Contract Values held in the
Sub-Accounts during the life of the Contract (estimated at .90% for mortality
and .35% for expense).
 
    The mortality undertakings provided by Hartford under the Contracts,
assuming the selection of one of the forms of life Annuities, is to make monthly
Annuity payments (determined in accordance with the 1983a Individual Annuity
Mortality Table and other provisions contained in the Contract) to Annuitants
regardless of how long an Annuitant may live, and regardless of how long all
Annuitants as a group may live. Hartford also assumes the liability for payment
of a minimum Death Benefit under the Contract.
 
    The mortality undertakings are based on Hartford's determination of expected
mortality rates among all Annuitants. If actual experience among Annuitants
during the Annuity payment period deviates from Hartford's actuarial
determination of expected mortality rates among Annuitants because, as a group,
their longevity is longer than anticipated, Hartford must provide amounts from
its general funds to fulfill its Contract obligations. Hartford will bear the
loss in such a situation. Also, in the event of the death of an Annuitant or
Contract Owner before the commencement of Annuity payments, whichever is
earlier, Hartford can, in periods of declining value or in periods where the
contingent deferred sales loads would have been applicable, experience a loss
resulting from the assumption of the mortality risk relative to the guaranteed
Death Benefit.
 
    In providing an expense undertaking, Hartford assumes the risk that the
contingent deferred sales charges and the Annual Maintenance Fee for maintaining
the Contracts prior to the Annuity Commencement Date may be insufficient to
cover the actual cost of providing such items.
 
    ANNUAL MAINTENANCE FEE -- Each year, on each Contract Anniversary on or
before the Annuity Commencement Date, Hartford will deduct an Annual Maintenance
Fee, if applicable, from Contract Values to reimburse it for expenses relating
to the maintenance of the Contract, the Fixed Account, and the Sub-Account(s)
thereunder. If during a Contract Year the Contract is surrendered for its full
value, Hartford will deduct the Annual Maintenance Fee at the time of such
surrender. The fee is a flat fee which will be due in the full amount regardless
of the time of the Contract Year that Contract Values are surrendered. The
Annual Maintenance Fee is $30.00 per Contract Year for Contracts with less than
$50,000 Contract Value on the Contract Anniversary. The deduction will be made
pro rata according to the value in each Sub-Account and the Fixed Account under
a Contract.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               15
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
    PREMIUM TAXES -- A deduction is also made for Premium Tax, if applicable,
imposed by a state or other governmental entity. Certain states impose a Premium
Tax, currently ranging up to 3.5%. Some states assess the tax at the time
purchase payments are made; others assess the tax at the time of annuitization.
Hartford will pay Premium Taxes at the time imposed under applicable law. At its
sole discretion, Hartford may deduct Premium Taxes at the time Hartford pays
such taxes to the applicable taxing authorities, at the time the Contract is
surrendered, or at the time the Contract annuitizes.
 
    EXCEPTIONS -- Hartford may offer, in its discretion, reduced fees and
charges including, but not limited to, the contingent deferred sales charges,
the mortality and expense risk charge and the maintenance fee for certain sales
(including employer sponsored savings plans) under circumstances which may
result in savings of certain costs and expenses. Reductions in these fees and
charges will not be unfairly discriminatory against any Contract Owner.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                                 DEATH BENEFITS
 
    The Contract provides that, in the event the Annuitant dies before the
selected Annuity Commencement Date, the Contingent Annuitant will become the
Annuitant. If (1) the Annuitant dies before the Annuity Commencement Date and
either (a) there is no designated Contingent Annuitant or (b) the Contingent
Annuitant predeceases the Annuitant, or (2) if any Contract Owner dies before
the Annuity Commencement Date, the Beneficiary as determined under the Contract
Control Provisions, will receive the Death Benefit as determined on the date of
receipt of due proof of death by Hartford in its Home Office. With regard to
Joint Contract Owners, at the first death of a joint Contract Owner prior to the
Annuity Commencement Date, the Beneficiary will be the surviving Contract Owner
notwithstanding that the beneficiary designation may be different.
 
    GUARANTEED DEATH BENEFIT -- If the Annuitant dies before the Annuity
Commencement Date and there is no designated Contingent Annuitant surviving, or
if the Contract Owner dies before the Annuity Commencement Date, the Beneficiary
will receive the greatest of (a) the Contract Value determined as of the day
written proof of death of such person is received by Hartford, or (b) 100% of
the total Premium Payments made to such Contract, reduced by the dollar amount
of any partial surrenders since the issue date, or (c) the Maximum Anniversary
Value immediately preceding the date of death. The Maximum Anniversary Value is
equal to the greatest Anniversary Value attained from the following:
 
    As of the date of receipt of due proof of death, the Company will calculate
an Anniversary Value for each Contract Anniversary prior to the deceased's
attained age 81. The Anniversary Value is equal to the Contract Value on a
Contract Anniversary, increased by the dollar amount of any premium payments
made since that anniversary and reduced by the dollar amount of any partial
surrenders since that anniversary. If the Annuitant or Contract Owner, as
applicable, dies after the Annuity Commencement Date, then the Death Benefit
will equal the present value of any remaining payments under the elected Annuity
Option. In computing such present value for the portion of such remaining
payments attributable to the Separate Account, Hartford will assume a net
investment rate of 5.0% per year.
 
    PAYMENT OF DEATH BENEFIT -- Death Benefit proceeds will remain invested in
the Separate Account in accordance with the allocation instructions given by the
Contract Owner until the proceeds are paid or Hartford receives new instructions
from the Beneficiary. The Death Benefit may be taken in one sum, payable within
seven days after the date Due Proof of Death is received, or under any of the
settlement options then being offered by the Company provided, however, that:
(a) in the event of the death of any Contract Owner prior to the Annuity
Commencement Date, the entire interest in the Contract will be distributed
within five years after the death of the Contract Owner and (b) in the event of
the death of any Contract Owner or Annuitant which occurs on or after the
Annuity Commencement Date, any remaining interest in the Contract will be paid
at least as rapidly as under the method of distribution in effect at the time of
death, or, if the benefit is payable over a period not extending beyond the life
expectancy of the Beneficiary or over the life of the Beneficiary, such
distribution must commence within one year of the date of death. The proceeds
due on the death may be applied to provide variable payments, fixed payments, or
a combination of variable and fixed payments. However, in the event of the
Contract Owner's death where the sole Beneficiary is the spouse of the Contract
Owner and the Annuitant or Contingent Annuitant is living, such spouse may
elect, in lieu of receiving the death benefit, to be treated as the Contract
Owner. The Contract Value and the Maximum Anniversary Value of the Contract will
be unaffected by treating the spouse as the Contract Owner.
 
    If the Contract is owned by a corporation or other non-individual, the Death
Benefit payable upon the death of the Annuitant prior to the Annuity
Commencement Date will be payable only as one sum or under the same settlement
options and in the same manner as if an individual Contract Owner died on the
date of the Annuitant's death.
 
    There may be postponement in the payment of Death Benefits whenever (a) the
New York Stock Exchange is closed, except for holidays or weekends, or trading
on the New York Stock Exchange is restricted as determined by the Commission;
(b) the Commission permits postponement and so orders; or (c) the Commission
determines that an emergency exists making valuation of the amounts or disposal
of securities not reasonably practicable.
<PAGE>
16                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
    GROUP UNALLOCATED CONTRACTS -- Hartford requires that detailed accounting of
cumulative purchase payments, cumulative gross surrenders, and current Contract
Value attached to each Plan Participant be submitted on an annual basis by the
Contract Owner. Failure to submit accurate data satisfactory to Hartford will
give Hartford the right to terminate this extension of benefits.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                               SURRENDER BENEFITS
 
    FULL SURRENDERS -- At any time prior to the Annuity Commencement Date (and
after the Annuity Commencement Date with respect to values applied to Option 4
or 5), the Contract Owner has the right to terminate the Contract. In such
event, the Termination Value of the Contract may be taken in the form of a lump
sum cash settlement.
 
    Under any of the Annuity options excluding Options 4 and 5, no surrenders
are permitted after Annuity payments commence. Only full surrenders are allowed
out of Option 4 and any such surrender will be subject to contingent deferred
sales charges, if applicable. Full or partial withdrawals may be made from
Option 5 at any time and contingent deferred sales charges will not be applied.
 
    The Termination Value of the Contract is equal to the Contract Value less
any applicable Premium Taxes, the Annual Maintenance Fee if applicable and any
applicable contingent deferred sales charges. The Termination Value may be more
or less than the amount of the Premium Payments made to a Contract.
 
    PARTIAL SURRENDERS -- The Contract Owner may make a partial surrender of
Contract Values at any time prior to the Annuity Commencement Date so long as
the amount surrendered is at least equal to the minimum amount rules then in
effect. Additionally, if the remaining Contract Value following a surrender is
less than $500 ($1,000 in New York), Hartford will terminate the Contract and
pay the Termination Value. For Contracts issued in Texas, there is an additional
requirement that the Contract will not be terminated when the remaining Contract
Value after a surrender is less than $500 unless there were no Premium Payments
made during the previous two Contract Years.
 
    In requesting a partial withdrawal you should specify the Sub-Account(s)
and/or the Fixed Account from which the partial withdrawal is to be taken.
Otherwise, such withdrawal and any applicable contingent deferred sales charges
will be effected on a pro rata basis according to the value in the Fixed Account
and each Sub-Account under a Contract.
 
    Hartford may permit the Contract Owner to preauthorize partial surrenders
subject to certain limitations then in effect.
 
    PAYMENT OF SURRENDER BENEFITS -- Payment on any request for a full or
partial surrender from the Sub-Accounts will be made as soon as possible and in
any event no later than seven days after the written request is received by
Hartford at its Home Office, Attn: Individual Annuity Services, P.O. Box 5085,
Hartford, CT 06102-5085. Hartford may defer payment of any amounts from the
Fixed Account for up to six months from the date of the request for surrender.
If Hartford defers payment for more than 30 days (10 working days in New York),
Hartford will pay interest of at least 3% per annum on the amount deferred.
 
    There may be postponement in the payment of Surrender Benefits whenever (a)
the New York Stock Exchange is closed, except for holidays or weekends, or
trading on the New York Stock Exchange is restricted as determined by the
Commission; (b) the Commission permits postponement and so orders; or (c) the
Commission determines that an emergency exists making valuation of the amounts
or disposal of securities not reasonably practicable.
 
    CERTAIN QUALIFIED CONTRACT SURRENDERS -- THERE ARE CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON
SECTION 403(B) TAX SHELTERED ANNUITIES. AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1988, ALL SECTION
403(B) ANNUITIES HAVE LIMITS ON FULL AND PARTIAL SURRENDERS. CONTRIBUTIONS TO
THE CONTRACT MADE AFTER DECEMBER 31, 1988 AND ANY INCREASES IN CASH VALUE AFTER
DECEMBER 31, 1988 MAY NOT BE DISTRIBUTED UNLESS THE CONTRACT OWNER/ EMPLOYEE HAS
A) ATTAINED AGE 59 1/2, B) SEPARATED FROM SERVICE, C) DIED, D) BECOME DISABLED
OR E) EXPERIENCED FINANCIAL HARDSHIP. (CASH VALUE INCREASES MAY NOT BE
DISTRIBUTED PRIOR TO AGE 59 1/2 FOR HARDSHIPS.)
 
    DISTRIBUTIONS PRIOR TO AGE 59 1/2 DUE TO FINANCIAL HARDSHIP OR SEPARATION
FROM SERVICE MAY STILL BE SUBJECT TO A PENALTY TAX OF 10%.
 
    HARTFORD WILL NOT ASSUME ANY RESPONSIBILITY IN DETERMINING WHETHER A
WITHDRAWAL IS PERMISSIBLE, WITH OR WITHOUT TAX PENALTY, IN ANY PARTICULAR
SITUATION; OR IN MONITORING WITHDRAWAL REQUESTS REGARDING PRE OR POST JANUARY 1,
1989 ACCOUNT VALUES.
 
    ANY SUCH FULL OR PARTIAL SURRENDER DESCRIBED ABOVE MAY AFFECT THE CONTINUING
TAX QUALIFIED STATUS OF SOME CONTRACTS OR PLANS AND MAY RESULT IN ADVERSE TAX
CONSEQUENCES TO THE CONTRACT OWNER. THE CONTRACT OWNER, THEREFORE, SHOULD
CONSULT WITH HIS TAX ADVISER BEFORE UNDERTAKING ANY SUCH SURRENDER. (SEE
"FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS" COMMENCING ON PAGE 19.)
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               17
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                                ANNUITY BENEFITS
 
    You select an Annuity Commencement Date and an Annuity option which may be
on a fixed or variable basis, or a combination thereof. The Annuity Commencement
Date will not be deferred beyond the Annuitant's 90th birthday (85th birthday in
some states, 100th birthday if sold as part of a Charitable Remainder Trust).
The Annuity Commencement Date and/or the Annuity option may be changed from time
to time, but any change must be at least 30 days prior to the date on which
Annuity payments are scheduled to begin. The Contract allows the Contract Owner
to change the Sub-Accounts on which variable payments are based after payments
have commenced once every three months. Any Fixed Annuity allocation may not be
changed.
 
ANNUITY OPTIONS
 
    The Contract contains the five optional Annuity forms described below.
Options 2, 4, and 5 are available to Qualified Contracts only if the guaranteed
payment period is less than the life expectancy of the Annuitant at the time the
option becomes effective. Such life expectancy shall be computed on the basis of
the mortality table prescribed by the IRS, or if none is prescribed, the
mortality table then in use by Hartford. With respect to Non-Qualified
Contracts, if you do not elect otherwise, payments in most states will
automatically begin at the Annuitant's age 90 (with the exception of states that
do not allow deferral past age 85) under Option 2 with 120 monthly payments
certain. For Qualified Contracts and Contracts issued in Texas, if you do not
elect otherwise, payments will begin automatically at the Annuitant's age 90
under Option 1 to provide a life Annuity. After the Annuity Commencement Date,
the Annuity option elected may not be changed.
 
    Under any of the Annuity options excluding Options 4 and 5, no surrenders
are permitted after Annuity payments commence. Only full surrenders are allowed
out of Option 4 and any such surrender will be subject to contingent deferred
sales charges, if applicable. Full or partial withdrawals may be made from
Option 5 at any time and contingent deferred sales charges will not be applied.
 
    OPTION 1 -- Life Annuity
 
    A life Annuity is an Annuity payable during the lifetime of the Annuitant
and terminating with the last payment due preceding the death of the Annuitant.
This option offers the largest payment amount of any of the life Annuity options
since there is no guarantee of a minimum number of payments nor a provision for
a Death Benefit payable to a Beneficiary.
 
    It would be possible under this option for an Annuitant to receive only one
Annuity payment if he died prior to the due date of the second Annuity payment,
two if he died before the date of the third Annuity payment, etc.
 
    OPTION 2 -- Life Annuity with 120, 180 or 240 Monthly Payments Certain
 
    This Annuity option is an Annuity payable monthly during the lifetime of an
Annuitant with the provision that payments will be made for a minimum of 120,
180 or 240 months, as elected. If, at the death of the Annuitant, payments have
been made for less than the minimum elected number of months, then the present
value as of the date of the Annuitant's death, of any remaining guaranteed
payments will be paid in one sum to the Beneficiary or Beneficiaries designated
unless other provisions have been made and approved by Hartford.
 
    OPTION 3 -- Joint and Last Survivor Annuity
 
    An Annuity payable monthly during the joint lifetime of the Annuitant and a
designated second person, and thereafter during the remaining lifetime of the
survivor, ceasing with the last payment prior to the death of the survivor.
Based on the options currently offered by Hartford, the Annuitant may elect that
the payment to the survivor be less than the payment made during the joint
lifetime of the Annuitant and a designated second person.
 
    It would be possible under this option for an Annuitant and designated
second person to receive only one payment in the event of the common or
simultaneous death of the parties prior to the due date for the second payment
and so on.
 
    OPTION 4 -- Payments for a Designated Period
 
    An amount payable monthly for the number of years selected which may be from
5 to 30 years. Under this option, you may, at any time, surrender the Contract
and receive, within seven days, the Termination Value of the Contract as
determined by Hartford.
 
    In the event of the Annuitant's death prior to the end of the designated
period, the present value as of the date of the Annuitant's death, of any
remaining guaranteed payments will be paid in one sum to the Beneficiary or
Beneficiaries designated unless other provisions have been made and approved by
Hartford.
 
    Option 4 is an option that does not involve life contingencies and thus no
mortality guarantee. Charges made for the mortality undertaking under the
Contracts thus provide no real benefit to a Contract Owner.
 
    OPTION 5 -- Death Benefit Remaining with Hartford
 
    Proceeds from the Death Benefit may be left with Hartford for a period not
to exceed five years from the date of the Contract Owner's death prior to the
Annuity Commencement Date. These proceeds will remain in the Sub-Account(s) to
which they were allocated at the time of
<PAGE>
18                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
death unless the Beneficiary elects to reallocate them. Full or partial
withdrawals may be made at any time. In the event of withdrawals, the remaining
value will equal the Contract Value of the proceeds left with Hartford, minus
any withdrawals.
 
    Hartford may offer other annuity options from time to time.
 
    VARIABLE AND FIXED ANNUITY PAYMENTS -- When an Annuity is effected under a
Contract, unless otherwise specified, Contract Values (less applicable Premium
Taxes) held in the Sub-Accounts will be applied to provide a Variable Annuity
based on the pro rata amount in the various Sub-Accounts. Fixed Account Contract
Values will be applied to provide a Fixed Annuity. YOU SHOULD CONSIDER THE
QUESTION OF ALLOCATION OF CONTRACT VALUES (LESS APPLICABLE PREMIUM TAXES) AMONG
SUB-ACCOUNTS OF THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT AND THE GENERAL ACCOUNT OF HARTFORD TO MAKE
CERTAIN THAT ANNUITY PAYMENTS ARE BASED ON THE INVESTMENT ALTERNATIVE BEST
SUITED TO YOUR NEEDS FOR RETIREMENT.
 
    The minimum monthly Annuity payment is $50.00. No election may be made which
results in a first payment of less than $50.00. If at any time Annuity payments
are or become less than $50.00, Hartford has the right to change the frequency
of payment to intervals that will result in payments of at least $50.00. For New
York Contracts, the minimum monthly Annuity payment is $20.00.
 
    When Annuity payments are to commence, the value of the Contract is
determined as the sum of (1) the value of the Fixed Account no earlier than the
close of business on the fifth Valuation Day preceding the date the first
Annuity payment is due plus (2) the product of (a) the value of the Accumulation
Unit of each Sub-Account on that same day and (b) the number of Accumulation
Units credited to each Sub-Account as of the date the Annuity is to commence.
 
    The first payment under any option should be made on the 15th day of the
month immediately following approval of the claim for settlement. Subsequent
payments shall be made on the 15th day of each subsequent month in accordance
with the manner of payment selected.
 
    VARIABLE ANNUITY -- The Contract contains tables indicating the minimum
dollar amount of the first monthly payment under the optional variable forms of
Annuity for each $1,000 of value of a Sub-Account under a Contract. The first
monthly payment varies according to the form and type of Variable Payment
Annuity selected. The Contract contains Variable Payment Annuity tables derived
from the 1983a Individual Annuity Mortality Table with ages set back one year
and with an assumed investment rate ("A.I.R.") of 5% per annum. The total first
monthly Variable Annuity payment is determined by multiplying the value
(expressed in thousands of dollars) of a Sub-Account (less any applicable
Premium Taxes) by the amount of the first monthly payment per $1,000 of value
obtained from the tables in the Contracts.
 
    The amount of the first monthly Variable Annuity payment is divided by the
value of an Annuity Unit for the appropriate Sub-Account no earlier than the
close of business on the fifth Valuation Day preceding the day on which the
payment is due in order to determine the number of Annuity Units represented by
the first payment. This number of Annuity Units remains fixed during the Annuity
payment period, and in each subsequent month the dollar amount of the Variable
Annuity payment is determined by multiplying this fixed number of Annuity Units
by the then current Annuity Unit value.
 
    The value of the Annuity Unit for each Sub-Account in the Separate Account
for any day is determined by multiplying the value for the preceding day by the
product of (1) the net investment factor for the day for which the Annuity Unit
value is being calculated, and (2) a factor to neutralize the assumed investment
rate of 5.00% per annum. The Annuity Unit value used in calculating the amount
of the Variable Annuity payments will be based on an Annuity Unit value
determined as of the close of business on a day no earlier than the fifth
Valuation Day preceding the date of the Annuity payment.
 
    LEVEL VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENTS WOULD BE PRODUCED IF THE INVESTMENT RATE
REMAINED CONSTANT AND EQUAL TO THE A.I.R. IN FACT, PAYMENTS WILL VARY UP OR DOWN
AS THE INVESTMENT RATE VARIES UP OR DOWN FROM THE A.I.R.
 
    FIXED ANNUITY -- Fixed Annuity payments are determined at annuitization by
multiplying the Contract Value (less applicable Premium Taxes) by a rate to be
determined by Hartford which is no less than the rate specified in the Fixed
Payment Annuity tables in the Contract. The Annuity payment will remain level
for the duration of the Annuity.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                               OTHER INFORMATION
 
    ASSIGNMENT -- Ownership of a Contract described herein is generally
assignable. However, if the Contracts are issued pursuant to some form of
Qualified Plan, it is possible that the ownership of the Contracts may not be
transferred or assigned depending on the type of tax-qualified retirement plan
involved. An assignment of a Non-Qualified Contract may subject the Contract
values or assignment proceeds to income taxes and certain penalty taxes.
 
    CONTRACT MODIFICATION -- The Annuitant may not be changed; however, the
Contingent Annuitant may be changed at any time prior to the Annuity
Commencement Date by written notice to the Company.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               19
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
    Hartford reserves the right to modify the Contract, but only if such
modification: (i) is necessary to make the Contract or the Separate Account
comply with any law or regulation issued by a governmental agency to which
Hartford is subject; or (ii) is necessary to assure continued qualification of
the Contract under the Code or other federal or state laws relating to
retirement annuities or annuity Contracts; or (iii) is necessary to reflect a
change in the operation of the Separate Account or the Sub-Account(s) or (iv)
provides additional Separate Account options or (v) withdraws Separate Account
options. In the event of any such modification Hartford will provide notice to
the Contract Owner or to the payee(s) during the Annuity period. Hartford may
also make appropriate endorsement in the Contract to reflect such modification.
 
    As of December 31, 1996, certain Hartford group pension contracts held
direct interest in shares as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       PERCENT OF
                                           SHARES     TOTAL SHARES
                                         ----------  ---------------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>
Hartford Advisers Fund, Inc.             18,752,510         0.69%
Hartford Bond Fund, Inc.                     47,060         0.01%
Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund,
 Inc.                                    15,519,596         1.79%
Hartford Dividend & Growth Fund, Inc.       443,556         0.08%
Hartford Index Fund, Inc.                16,432,999         6.30%
Hartford International Advisers Fund,
 Inc.                                        27,096         0.03%
Hartford International Opportunities
 Fund, Inc.                               7,835,802         1.11%
Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Inc.  17,408,850         5.65%
Hartford Small Company Fund, Inc.            28,535         0.07%
Hartford Stock Fund, Inc.                    92,167         0.01%
HVA Money Market Fund, Inc.                  31,633         0.01%
</TABLE>
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                           FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS
 
- --------------------------------
  A. GENERAL
 
    SINCE THE TAX LAW IS COMPLEX AND SINCE TAX CONSEQUENCES WILL VARY ACCORDING
TO THE ACTUAL STATUS OF THE CONTRACT OWNER INVOLVED AND THE TYPE OF PLAN UNDER
WHICH THE CONTRACT IS PURCHASED, LEGAL AND TAX ADVICE MAY BE NEEDED BY A PERSON,
TRUSTEE, OR OTHER ENTITY CONTEMPLATING THE PURCHASE OF A CONTRACT DESCRIBED
HEREIN.
 
    It should be understood that any detailed description of the federal income
tax consequences regarding the purchase of these Contracts cannot be made in
this Prospectus and that special tax rules may be applicable with respect to
certain purchase situations not discussed herein. In addition, no attempt is
made here to consider any applicable state or other tax laws. For detailed
information, a qualified tax adviser should always be consulted. The discussion
here and in Appendix I, commencing on page 24, is based on Hartford's
understanding of existing federal income tax laws as they are currently
interpreted.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  B. TAXATION OF HARTFORD AND THE
     SEPARATE ACCOUNT
 
    The Separate Account is taxed as part of Hartford which is taxed as a life
insurance company in accordance with the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the "Code"). Accordingly, the Separate Account will not be taxed as a
"regulated investment company" under subchapter M of Chapter 1 of the Code.
Investment income and any realized capital gains on the assets of the Separate
Account are reinvested and are taken into account in determining the value of
the Accumulation and Annuity Units (See "Value of Accumulation Units" commencing
on page 6). As a result, such investment income and realized capital gains are
automatically applied to increase reserves under the Contract.
 
    No taxes are due on interest, dividends and short-term or long-term capital
gains earned by the Separate Account with respect to Qualified or Non-Qualified
Contracts.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  C. TAXATION OF ANNUITIES -- GENERAL
     PROVISIONS AFFECTING PURCHASERS OTHER
     THAN QUALIFIED RETIREMENT PLANS
 
    Section 72 of the Code governs the taxation of annuities in general.
 
 1. NON-NATURAL PERSONS, CORPORATIONS, ETC.
 
    Section 72 contains provisions for Contract Owners which are non-natural
persons. Non-natural persons include corporations, trusts, and partnerships. The
annual net increase in the value of the Contract is currently includable in the
gross income of a non-natural person unless the non-natural person holds the
Contract as an agent for a natural person. There is an exception from current
inclusion for certain annuities held in tax-qualified retirement arrangements,
certain annuities held by structured settlement companies, certain annuities
held by an employer with respect to a terminated tax-qualified retirement plan
and certain immediate annuities. A non-natural person which is a tax-exempt
entity for federal tax purposes will not be subject to income tax as a result of
this provision.
 
    If the Contract Owner is not an individual, the primary Annuitant shall be
treated as the Contract Owner for purposes of making distributions which are
required to be made upon the death of the Contract Owner. If there is a change
in the primary Annuitant, such change shall be treated as the death of the
Contract Owner.
 
 2. OTHER CONTRACT OWNERS (NATURAL PERSONS).
 
    A Contract Owner is not taxed on increases in the value of the Contract
until an amount is received or deemed received, e.g., in the form of a lump sum
payment (full or partial value of a Contract) or as Annuity payments under the
settlement option elected.
<PAGE>
20                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
    The provisions of Section 72 of the Code concerning distributions are
summarized briefly below. Also summarized are special rules affecting
distributions from Contracts obtained in a tax-free exchange for other annuity
contracts or life insurance contracts which were purchased prior to August 14,
1982.
 
   A. DISTRIBUTIONS PRIOR TO THE ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT DATE.
 
i.  Total premium payments less amounts received which were not includable in
    gross income equal the "investment in the contract" under Section 72 of the
    Code.
 
ii.  To the extent that the value of the Contract (ignoring any surrender
    charges except on a full surrender) exceeds the "investment in the
    contract," such excess constitutes the "income on the contract."
 
iii. Any amount received or deemed received prior to the Annuity Commencement
    Date (e.g., upon a partial surrender) is deemed to come first from any such
    "income on the contract" and then from "investment in the contract," and for
    these purposes such "income on the contract" shall be computed by reference
    to any aggregation rule in subparagraph 2.c., below. As a result, any such
    amount received or deemed received (1) shall be includable in gross income
    to the extent that such amount does not exceed any such "income on the
    contract," and (2) shall not be includable in gross income to the extent
    that such amount does exceed any such "income on the contract." If at the
    time that any amount is received or deemed received there is no "income on
    the contract" (e.g., because the gross value of the Contract does not exceed
    the "investment in the contract" and no aggregation rule applies), then such
    amount received or deemed received will not be includable in gross income,
    and will simply reduce the "investment in the contract."
 
iv.  The receipt of any amount as a loan under the Contract or the assignment or
    pledge of any portion of the value of the Contract shall be treated as an
    amount received for purposes of this subparagraph a. and the next
    subparagraph b.
 
v.  In general, the transfer of the Contract, without full and adequate
    consideration, will be treated as an amount received for purposes of this
    subparagraph a. and the next subparagraph b. This transfer rule does not
    apply, however, to certain transfers of property between spouses or incident
    to divorce.
 
   B. DISTRIBUTIONS AFTER ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT DATE.
 
    Annuity payments made periodically after the Annuity Commencement Date are
includable in gross income to the extent the payments exceed the amount
determined by the application of the ratio of the "investment in the contract"
to the total amount of the payments to be made after the Annuity Commencement
Date (the "exclusion ratio").
 
i.  When the total of amounts excluded from income by application of the
    exclusion ratio is equal to the investment in the contract as of the Annuity
    Commencement Date, any additional payments (including surrenders) will be
    entirely includable in gross income.
 
ii.  If the annuity payments cease by reason of the death of the Annuitant and,
    as of the date of death, the amount of annuity payments excluded from gross
    income by the exclusion ratio does not exceed the investment in the contract
    as of the Annuity Commencement Date, then the remaining portion of
    unrecovered investment shall be allowed as a deduction for the last taxable
    year of the Annuitant.
 
iii. Generally, nonperiodic amounts received or deemed received after the
    Annuity Commencement Date are not entitled to any exclusion ratio and shall
    be fully includable in gross income. However, upon a full surrender after
    such date, only the excess of the amount received (after any surrender
    charge) over the remaining "investment in the contract" shall be includable
    in gross income (except to the extent that the aggregation rule referred to
    in the next subparagraph c. may apply).
 
   C. AGGREGATION OF TWO OR MORE ANNUITY CONTRACTS.
 
    Contracts issued after October 21, 1988 by the same insurer (or affiliated
insurer) to the same Contract Owner within the same calendar year (other than
certain contracts held in connection with a tax-qualified retirement
arrangement) will be treated as one annuity Contract for the purpose of
determining the taxation of distributions prior to the Annuity Commencement
Date. An annuity contract received in a tax-free exchange for another annuity
contract or life insurance contract may be treated as a new Contract for this
purpose. Hartford believes that for any annuity subject to such aggregation, the
values under the Contracts and the investment in the contracts will be added
together to determine the taxation under subparagraph 2.a., above, of amounts
received or deemed received prior to the Annuity Commencement Date. Withdrawals
will first be treated as withdrawals of income until all of the income from all
such Contracts is withdrawn. As of the date of this Prospectus, there are no
regulations interpreting this provision.
 
   D. 10% PENALTY TAX -- APPLICABLE TO CERTAIN WITHDRAWALS AND ANNUITY PAYMENTS.
 
i.  If any amount is received or deemed received on the Contract (before or
    after the Annuity Commencement Date), the Code applies a penalty tax equal
    to ten percent of the portion of the amount includable in gross income,
    unless an exception applies.
 
ii.  The 10% penalty tax will not apply to the following distributions
    (exceptions vary based upon the precise plan involved):
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               21
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
    1.  Distributions made on or after the date the recipient has attained the
        age of 59 1/2.
 
    2.  Distributions made on or after the death of the holder or where the
        holder is not an individual, the death of the primary annuitant.
 
    3.  Distributions attributable to a recipient's becoming disabled.
 
    4.  A distribution that is part of a scheduled series of substantially equal
        periodic payments for the life (or life expectancy) of the recipient (or
        the joint lives or life expectancies of the recipient and the
        recipient's Beneficiary).
 
    5.  Distributions of amounts which are allocable to the "investment in the
        contract" prior to August 14, 1982 (see next subparagraph e.).
 
   E. SPECIAL PROVISIONS AFFECTING CONTRACTS OBTAINED THROUGH A TAX-FREE
      EXCHANGE OF OTHER ANNUITY OR LIFE INSURANCE CONTRACTS PURCHASED PRIOR TO
      AUGUST 14, 1982.
 
    If the Contract was obtained by a tax-free exchange of a life insurance or
annuity contract purchased prior to August 14, 1982, then any amount received or
deemed received prior to the Annuity Commencement Date shall be deemed to come
(1) first from the amount of the "investment in the contract" prior to August
14, 1982 ("pre-8/14/82 investment") carried over from the prior Contract, (2)
then from the portion of the "income on the contract" (carried over to, as well
as accumulating in, the successor Contract) that is attributable to such
pre-8/14/82 investment, (3) then from the remaining "income on the contract" and
(4) last from the remaining "investment in the contract." As a result, to the
extent that such amount received or deemed received does not exceed such
pre-8/14/82 investment, such amount is not includable in gross income. In
addition, to the extent that such amount received or deemed received does not
exceed the sum of (a) such pre-8/14/82 investment and (b) the "income on the
contract" attributable thereto, such amount is not subject to the 10% penalty
tax. In all other respects, amounts received or deemed received from such post-
exchange Contracts are generally subject to the rules described in this
subparagraph 3.
 
   F. REQUIRED DISTRIBUTIONS
 
i.  Death of Contract Owner or Primary Annuitant
 
    Subject to the alternative election or spouse beneficiary provisions in ii
    or iii below:
 
    1.  If any Contract Owner dies on or after the Annuity Commencement Date and
        before the entire interest in the Contract has been distributed, the
        remaining portion of such interest shall be distributed at least as
        rapidly as under the method of distribution being used as of the date of
        such death;
 
    2.  If any Contract Owner dies before the Annuity Commencement Date, the
        entire interest in the Contract will be distributed within 5 years after
        such death; and
 
    3.  If the Contract Owner is not an individual, then for purposes of 1. or
        2. above, the primary annuitant under the Contract shall be treated as
        the Contract Owner, and any change in the primary annuitant shall be
        treated as the death of the Contract Owner. The primary annuitant is the
        individual, the events in the life of whom are of primary importance in
        affecting the timing or amount of the payout under the Contract.
 
ii.  Alternative Election to Satisfy Distribution Requirements
 
    If any portion of the interest of a Contract Owner described in i. above is
    payable to or for the benefit of a designated beneficiary, such beneficiary
    may elect to have the portion distributed over a period that does not extend
    beyond the life or life expectancy of the beneficiary. The election and
    payments must begin within a year of the death.
 
iii. Spouse Beneficiary
 
    If any portion of the interest of a Contract Owner is payable to or for the
    benefit of his or her spouse, and the Annuitant or Contingent Annuitant is
    living, such spouse shall be treated as the Contract Owner of such portion
    for purposes of section i. above.
 
 3. DIVERSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.
 
    Section 817 of the Code provides that a variable annuity contract will not
be treated as an annuity contract for any period during which the investments
made by the separate account or underlying fund are not adequately diversified
in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Treasury Department. If a
Contract is not treated as an annuity contract, the Contract Owner will be
subject to income tax on the annual increases in cash value.
 
    The Treasury Department has issued diversification regulations which
generally require, among other things, that no more than 55% of the value of the
total assets of the segregated asset account underlying a variable contract is
represented by any one investment, no more than 70% is represented by any two
investments, no more than 80% is represented by any three investments, and no
more than 90% is represented by any four investments. In determining whether the
diversification standards are met, all securities of the same issuer, all
interests in the same real property project, and all interests in the same
commodity are each treated as a single investment. In addition, in the case of
<PAGE>
22                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
government securities, each government agency or instrumentality shall be
treated as a separate issuer.
 
    A separate account must be in compliance with the diversification standards
on the last day of each calendar quarter or within 30 days after the quarter
ends. If an insurance company inadvertently fails to meet the diversification
requirements, the company may comply within a reasonable period and avoid the
taxation of contract income on an ongoing basis. However, either the company or
the Contract Owner must agree to pay the tax due for the period during which the
diversification requirements were not met.
 
    Hartford monitors the diversification of investments in the separate
accounts and tests for diversification as required by the Code. Hartford intends
to administer all contracts subject to the diversification requirements in a
manner that will maintain adequate diversification.
 
 4. OWNERSHIP OF THE ASSETS IN THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT.
 
    In order for a variable annuity contract to qualify for tax deferral, assets
in the segregated asset accounts supporting the variable contract must be
considered to be owned by the insurance company and not by the variable contract
owner for tax purposes. The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") has issued several
rulings which discuss investor control. The IRS has ruled that certain incidents
of ownership by the contract owner, such as the ability to select and control
investments in a separate account, could cause the contract owner to be treated
as the owner of the assets for tax purposes.
 
    Further, in the explanation to the temporary Section 817 diversification
regulations, the Treasury Department noted that the temporary regulations "do
not provide guidance concerning the circumstances in which investor control of
the investments of a segregated asset account may cause the investor, rather
than the insurance company, to be treated as the owner of the assets in the
account." The explanation further indicates that "the temporary regulations
provide that in appropriate cases a segregated asset account may include
multiple sub-accounts, but do not specify the extent to which policyholders may
direct their investments to particular sub-accounts without being treated as the
owners of the underlying assets. Guidance on this and other issues will be
provided in regulations or revenue rulings under Section 817(d), relating to the
definition of variable contract." The final regulations issued under Section 817
did not provide guidance regarding investor control, and as of the date of this
Prospectus, no other such guidance has been issued. Further, Hartford does not
know if or in what form such guidance will be issued. In addition, although
regulations are generally issued with prospective effect, it is possible that
regulations may be issued with retroactive effect. Due to the lack of specific
guidance regarding the issue of investor control, there is necessarily some
uncertainty regarding whether a Contract Owner could be considered the owner of
the assets for tax purposes. Hartford reserves the right to modify the
contracts, as necessary, to prevent Contract Owners from being considered the
owners of the assets in the separate accounts.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  D. FEDERAL INCOME TAX WITHHOLDING
 
    The portion of a distribution which is taxable income to the recipient will
be subject to federal income tax withholding, pursuant to Section 3405 of the
Code. The application of this provision is summarized below:
 
 1. NON-PERIODIC DISTRIBUTIONS.
 
    The portion of a non-periodic distribution which constitutes taxable income
will be subject to federal income tax withholding unless the recipient elects
not to have taxes withheld. If an election not to have taxes withheld is not
provided, 10% of the taxable distribution will be withheld as federal income
tax. Election forms will be provided at the time distributions are requested. If
the necessary election forms are not submitted to Hartford, Hartford will
automatically withhold 10% of the taxable distribution.
 
 2. PERIODIC DISTRIBUTIONS (DISTRIBUTIONS PAYABLE OVER A PERIOD GREATER THAN ONE
    YEAR).
 
    The portion of a periodic distribution which constitutes taxable income will
be subject to federal income tax withholding as if the recipient were married
claiming three exemptions, unless the recipient elects otherwise. A recipient
may elect not to have income taxes withheld or to have income taxes withheld at
a different rate by providing a completed election form. Election forms will be
provided at the time distributions are requested.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  E. GENERAL PROVISIONS AFFECTING
     TAX-QUALIFIED RETIREMENT PLANS
 
    The Contract may be used for a number of tax-qualified retirement plans. If
the Contract is being purchased with respect to some form of tax-qualified
retirement plan, please refer to Appendix I commencing on page   for information
relative to the types of plans for which it may be used and the general
explanation of the tax features of such plans.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  F. ANNUITY PURCHASES BY NONRESIDENT
    ALIENS AND FOREIGN CORPORATIONS
 
    The discussion above provides general information regarding U.S. federal
income tax consequences to annuity purchasers that are U.S. citizens or
residents. Purchasers that are not U.S. citizens or residents will generally be
subject to U.S. federal income tax and withholding on annuity distributions at a
30% rate, unless a lower treaty rate applies. In addition, purchasers may be
subject to state premium tax, other state and/or municipal taxes, and taxes
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               23
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
that may be imposed by the purchaser's country of citizenship or residence.
Prospective purchasers are advised to consult with a qualified tax advisor
regarding U.S., state, and foreign taxation with respect to an annuity purchase.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                                 MISCELLANEOUS
 
- --------------------------------
                             HOW CONTRACTS ARE SOLD
 
    Hartford Securities Distribution Company, Inc. ("HSD") serves as Principal
Underwriter for the securities issued with respect to the Separate Account. HSD
is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hartford. The principal business address of HSD
is the same as that of Hartford.
 
    The securities will be sold by salesperson of HSD who represent Hartford as
insurance and variable annuity agents and who are registered representatives of
Broker-Dealers who have entered into distribution agreements with HSD.
 
    HSD is registered with the Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 as a Broker-Dealer and is a member of the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc.
 
    Commissions will be paid by Hartford and will not be more than 6% of Premium
Payments. From time to time, Hartford may pay or permit other promotional
incentives, in cash or credit or other compensation.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                           LEGAL MATTERS AND EXPERTS
 
    There are no material legal proceedings pending to which the Separate
Account is a party.
 
    Counsel with respect to federal laws and regulations applicable to the issue
and sale of the Contracts and with respect to Connecticut law is Lynda Godkin,
General Counsel, Hartford Life Insurance Companies, P.O. Box 2999, Hartford,
Connecticut 06104-2999.
 
    The audited consolidated financial statements and financial statement
schedules included in this Prospectus and elsewhere in the registration
statement have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public
accountants, as indicated in their reports with respect thereto, and are
included herein in reliance upon the authority of said firm as experts in giving
said reports. Reference is made to said report on the consolidated financial
statements of Hartford Life Insurance Company (the Depositor), which includes an
explanatory paragraph with respect to the change in method of accounting for
debt and equity securities as of January 1, 1994, as discussed in Note 2 of
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The principal business address of
Arthur Andersen LLP is One Financial Plaza, Hartford, Connecticut 06103.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
    Inquiries will be answered by calling your representative or by writing:
 
Hartford Life Insurance Company
Attn: Individual Annuity Services
P.O. Box 5085
Hartford, Connecticut 06102-5085.
Telephone: (800) 862-6668 (Contract Owners)
          (800) 862-7155 (Investment Representatives)
<PAGE>
24                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   APPENDIX I
              INFORMATION REGARDING TAX-QUALIFIED RETIREMENT PLANS
 
The tax rules applicable to tax qualified contract owners, including
restrictions on contributions and distributions, taxation of distributions and
tax penalties, vary according to the type of plan as well as the terms and
conditions of the plan itself. Various tax penalties may apply to contributions
in excess of specified limits, to distributions in excess of specified limits,
distributions which do not satisfy certain requirements and certain other
transactions with respect to qualified plans. Accordingly, this summary provides
only general information about the tax rules associated with use of the Contract
by a qualified plan. Contract owners, plan participants and beneficiaries are
cautioned that the rights and benefits of any person to benefits are controlled
by the terms and conditions of the plan regardless of the terms and conditions
of the Contract. Some qualified plans are subject to distribution and other
requirements which are not incorporated into Hartford's administrative
procedures. Owners, participants, and beneficiaries are responsible for
determining that contributions, distributions and other transactions comply with
applicable law. Because of the complexity of these rules, owners, participants
and beneficiaries are encouraged to consult their own tax advisors as to
specific tax consequences.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  A. TAX-QUALIFIED PENSION OR
     PROFIT-SHARING PLANS
 
    Provisions of the Code permit eligible employers to establish tax-qualified
pension or profit sharing plans (described in Section 401(a) and 401(k), if
applicable, and exempt from taxation under Section 501(a) of the Code), and
Simplified Employee Pension Plans (described in Section 408(k)). Such plans are
subject to limitations on the amount that may be contributed, the persons who
may be eligible and the time when distributions must commence. Employers
intending to use these contracts in connection with such plans should seek
competent tax and other legal advice.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  B. TAX SHELTERED ANNUITIES
     UNDER SECTION 403(B)
 
    Section 403(b) of the Code permits public school employees and employees of
certain types of charitable, educational and scientific organizations specified
in Section 501(c)(3) of the Code to purchase annuity contracts, and, subject to
certain limitations, exclude such contributions from gross income. Generally,
such contributions may not exceed the lesser of $9,500 or 20% of the employees
"includable compensation" for his most recent full year of employment, subject
to other adjustments. Special provisions may allow some employees to elect a
different overall limitation.
 
    Tax-sheltered annuity programs under Section 403(b) are subject to a
PROHIBITION AGAINST DISTRIBUTIONS FROM THE CONTRACT ATTRIBUTABLE TO
CONTRIBUTIONS MADE PURSUANT TO A SALARY REDUCTION AGREEMENT unless such
distribution is made:
 
    (1) after the participating employee attains age 59 1/2;
 
    (2) upon separation from service;
 
    (3) upon death or disability; or
 
    (4) in the case of hardship (and in the case of hardship, any income
        attributable to such contributions may not be distributed).
 
    Generally, the above restrictions do not apply to distributions attributable
to cash values or other amounts held under a Section 403(b) contract as of
December 31, 1988.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  C. DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS
     UNDER SECTION 457
 
    Employees and independent contractors performing services for eligible
governmental or other tax-exempt employers may have contributions made to
Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans of their employers in accordance with the
employer's plan and Section 457 of the Code. Section 457 places limitations on
contributions to Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans maintained by a State or
other tax-exempt organization. ("State" means a State, a political sub-division
of a State, and an agency or instrumentality of a State or political
sub-division of a State.) Generally, the limitation is 33 1/3% of includable
compensation (typically 25% of gross compensation) or $7,500 (indexed),
whichever is less. Such a plan may also provide for additional "catch-up"
deferrals during the three taxable years ending before a participant attains
normal retirement age.
 
    An employee electing to participate in an Eligible Deferred Compensation
Plan should understand that his or her rights and benefits are governed strictly
by the terms of the plan and that the employer is the legal owner of any
contract issued with respect to the plan. The employer, as owner of the
contract(s), retains all voting and redemption rights which may accrue to the
contract(s) issued with respect to the plan. The participating employee should
look to the terms of his or her plan for any charges in regard to
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               25
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
participating therein other than those disclosed in this Prospectus.
Participants should also be aware that effective August 20, 1996, the Small
Business Job Protection Act of 1996 requires that all assets and income of an
Eligible Deferred Compensation Plan established by a governmental employer which
is a State, a political subdivision of a State, or any agency or instrumentality
of a State or political subdivision of a State, must be held in trust (or under
certain specified annuity contracts or custodial accounts) for the exclusive
benefit of Participants and their Beneficiaries. Special transition rules apply
to such governmental Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans already in existence
on August 20, 1996, and provide that such plans need not establish a trust
before January 1, 1999. However, this requirement does not apply to amounts
under an Eligible Deferred Compensation Plan of a tax-exempt (non-governmental)
organization and such amounts will be subject to the claims of such tax-exempt
employer's general creditors.
 
    In general, distributions from an Eligible Deferred Compensation Plan are
prohibited under Section 457 of the Code unless made after the participating
employee attains age 70 1/2, separates from service, dies, or suffers an
unforeseeable financial emergency. Present federal tax law does not allow
tax-free transfers or rollovers for amounts accumulated in a Section 457 plan
except for transfers to other Section 457 plans in limited cases.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  D. INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITIES
     UNDER SECTION 408
 
    Section 408 of the Code permits eligible individuals to establish individual
retirement programs through the purchase of Individual Retirement Annuities
("IRAs"). IRAs are subject to limitations on the amount that may be contributed,
the contributions that may be deducted from taxable income, the persons who may
be eligible and the time when distributions may commence. Also, distributions
from certain qualified plans may be "rolled-over" on a tax-deferred basis into
an IRA.
 
    IRAs generally may not invest in life insurance contracts. However, an
annuity that is used as an IRA may provide a death benefit that equals the
greater of the premiums paid and the annuity's cash value. The Contract offers
an enhanced Death Benefit that may exceed the greater of the Contract Value and
total Premium Payments less prior surrenders. For Contracts issued in most
states, Hartford has obtained approval from the Internal Revenue Service to use
the Contract as an IRA. For Contracts issued in New York, Hartford has asked the
Internal Revenue Service to approve use of the Contract as an IRA, but there is
no assurance that approval will be granted.
 
- ---------------------------------------------------
  E. TAX PENALTIES
 
    Distributions from retirement plans are generally taxed under Section 72 of
the Code. Under these rules, a portion of each distribution may be excludable
from income. The excludable amount is the portion of the distribution which
bears the same ratio as the after-tax contributions bear to the expected return.
 
 1. PREMATURE DISTRIBUTION
 
    Distributions from a qualified plan before the Participant attains age
59 1/2 are generally subject to an additional tax equal to 10% of the taxable
portion of the distribution. The 10% penalty does not apply to distributions
made after the employee's death, on account of disability, for eligible medical
expenses and distributions in the form of a life annuity and, except in the case
of an IRA, certain distributions after separation from service after age 55. For
these purposes, "life annuity" means a scheduled series of substantially equal
periodic payments for the life or life expectancy of the Participant (or the
joint lives or life expectancies of the Participant and Beneficiary).
 
 2. MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION TAX
 
    If the amount distributed is less than the minimum required distribution for
the year, the Participant is subject to a 50% tax on the amount that was not
properly distributed.
 
    An individual's interest in a tax-qualified retirement plan must generally
be distributed, or begin to be distributed, not later than April 1 of the
calendar year following the later of (i) the calendar year in which the
individual attains age 70 1/2 or (ii) the calendar year in which the individual
retires from service with the employer sponsoring the plan ("required beginning
date"). However, the required beginning date for an individual who is a five (5)
percent owner (as defined in the Code), or who is the owner of an IRA, is April
1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the individual
attains age 70 1/2. The entire interest of the Participant must be distributed
beginning no later than this required beginning date over a period which may not
extend beyond a maximum of the life expectancy of the Participant and a
designated Beneficiary. Each annual distribution must equal or exceed a "minimum
distribution amount" which is determined by dividing the account balance by the
applicable life expectancy. This account balance is generally based upon the
account value as of the close of business on the last day of the previous
calendar year. In addition, minimum distribution incidental benefit rules may
require a larger annual distribution.
 
    If an individual dies before reaching his or her required beginning date,
the individual's entire interest must generally be distributed within five years
of the individual's death. However, this rule will be deemed satisfied, if
distributions begin before the close of the calendar year
<PAGE>
26                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
following the individual's death to a designated Beneficiary (or over a period
not extending beyond the life expectancy of the beneficiary). If the Beneficiary
is the individual's surviving spouse, distributions may be delayed until the
individual would have attained age 70 1/2.
 
    If an individual dies after reaching his or her required beginning date or
after distributions have commenced, the individual's interest must generally be
distributed at least as rapidly as under the method of distribution in effect at
the time of the individual's death.
 
 3. EXCESS DISTRIBUTION TAX
 
    If the aggregate distributions from all IRAs and certain other tax-qualified
retirement plans in a calendar year exceed the greater of (i) $150,000, or (ii)
$112,500 as indexed for inflation, a penalty tax of 15% is generally imposed on
the excess portion of the distribution.
 
 4. WITHHOLDING
 
    In general, distributions from IRAs and plans described in Section 457 of
the Code are subject to regular wage withholding rules.
 
    Periodic distributions from other tax-qualified retirement plans that are
made for a specified period of ten or more years or for the life or life
expectancy of the Participant (or the joint lives or life expectancies of the
Participant and the Beneficiary) are generally subject to federal income tax
withholding as if the recipient were married claiming three exemptions, unless
the recipient elects otherwise. The recipient of periodic distributions may
generally elect not to have withholding apply or to have income taxes withheld
at a different rate by providing a completed election form.
 
    Other distributions from such other tax-qualified retirement plans are
generally subject to mandatory income tax withholding at the flat rate of 20%,
unless such distributions are:
 
    (a) the non-taxable portion of the distribution;
 
    (b) required minimum distributions; or
 
    (c) direct transfer distributions.
 
    Direct transfer distributions are direct payments to an IRA or to another
eligible retirement plan under Section 401(a)(31) of the Code.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               27
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                       TO
                      STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 SECTION                                                                   PAGE
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------  ----
 <S>                                                                       <C>
 INTRODUCTION............................................................
 DESCRIPTION OF HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY..........................
 SAFEKEEPING OF ASSETS...................................................
 INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS..........................................
 DISTRIBUTION OF CONTRACTS...............................................
 ANNUITY PERIOD..........................................................
   A. Annuity Payments...................................................
   B. Electing the Annuity Commencement Date and Form of Annuity.........
   C. Optional Annuity Forms.............................................
   D. The Annuity Unit and Valuation.....................................
   E. Determination of Amount of First Monthly Annuity Payment -- Fixed
    and Variable.........................................................
   F. Amount of Second and Subsequent Monthly Annuity Payments...........
   G. Date and Time of Annuity Payments..................................
 CALCULATION OF YIELD AND RETURN.........................................
 PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS.................................................
 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS....................................................
</TABLE>
 
<PAGE>
This form must be completed for all tax sheltered annuities.
 
                     SECTION 403(B)(11) ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM
 
    The Hartford variable annuity Contract which you have recently purchased is
subject to certain restrictions imposed by the Tax Reform Act of 1986.
Contributions to the Contract after December 31, 1988 and any increases in cash
value after December 31, 1988 may not be distributed to you unless you have:
 
    a. attained age 59 1/2,
 
    b. separated from service,
 
    c. died, or
 
    d. become disabled.
 
Distributions of post December 31, 1988 contributions (excluding any income
thereon) may also be made if you have experienced a financial hardship.
 
Also, there may be a 10% penalty tax for distributions made prior to age 59 1/2
because of financial hardship or separation from service.
 
Also, please be aware that your 403(b) Plan may also offer other financial
alternatives other than the Hartford variable annuity. Please refer to your
Plan.
 
    Please complete the following and return to:
 
    Hartford Life Insurance Company
    Individual Annuity Services
    P.O. Box 5085
    Hartford, CT 06102-5085
 
Name of Contract Owner/Participant
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Address
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
City or Plan/School District
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Date:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Contract No:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Signature:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
    To Obtain a Statement of Additional Information, please complete the form
below and mail to:
 
    Hartford Life Insurance Company
    Attn: Individual Annuity Services
    P.O. Box 5085
    Hartford, CT 06102-5085
 
    Please send a Statement of Additional Information for the Director to me at
the following address:
 
- ----------------------------------------------------
                            Name
 
- ------------------------------------------------------------
                          Address
 
- ------------------------------------------------------------
    City/State                                        Zip
Code
<PAGE>

                                        PART B
                                           
                         STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
                                           
                           HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                 SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
                                           

This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus.  The information
contained herein should be read in conjunction with the Prospectus.

To obtain a Prospectus, send a written request to Hartford Life Insurance
Company Attn:   Annuity Marketing Services, P.O. Box 5085, Hartford, CT 
06102-5085.





Date of Prospectus:  May 1, 1997

Date of Statement of Additional Information:  May 1, 1997

<PAGE>

                                         -2-


                                  TABLE OF CONTENTS


Section                                                                     Page
- -------                                                                     ----

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    3

DESCRIPTION OF HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    3

SAFEKEEPING OF ASSETS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    4

INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    4

DISTRIBUTION OF CONTRACTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    4

CALCULATION OF YIELD AND RETURN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    5

PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    8

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

<PAGE>

                                         -3-


                                     INTRODUCTION
                                           
The individual and group tax-deferred variable annuity Contracts described in
the Prospectus are designed to provide Annuity benefits to individuals who have
established or wish to establish retirement programs which may or may not
qualify for special federal income tax treatment.  The Annuitant under these
Contracts may receive Annuity benefits in accordance with the Annuity option
selected and the retirement program, if any, under which the Contracts have been
purchased.  Annuity payments under a Contract will begin on a particular future
date which may be selected at any time under the Contract or automatically when
the Annuitant reaches age 90 except in certain states where deferral past age 85
is not permitted.  There are several alternative annuity payment options
available under the Contract (see "Optional Annuity Forms," commencing on 
page ).

The Premium Payments under a Contract, less any applicable Premium Taxes, will
be applied to the Separate Account and/or the Fixed Account.  Accordingly, the
net Premium Payment under the Contract will be applied to purchase interests in
one or more of the Hartford Bond Fund, Hartford Stock Fund,  HVA Money Market
Fund (for qualified Contracts issued prior to May 1, 1987), Hartford Advisers
Fund, Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Inc., Hartford Dividend and Growth,
Hartford Index Fund, Hartford International Advisers Fund, Hartford
International Opportunities Fund, and Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund
Sub-Accounts.

Shares of the Funds are purchased by the Separate Account without the imposition
of a sales charge.  The value of a Contract depends on the value of the shares
of the Fund held by the Separate Account pursuant to that Contract.  As a
result, the Contract Owner bears the investment risk since market value of the
shares may increase or decrease.

There is no assurance that the value of the Contract Owner's Contract at any
time will equal or exceed the Premium Payments made.  However, if the Annuitant
or Contract Owner dies before the Annuity Commencement Date, the Contracts
provide that a death benefit equal to the value of the Contract as of the date
due proof of death is received by Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford")
shall be payable.  This amount is the greater of (a) the Contract Value on the
date of receipt of due proof of death by Hartford, or (b) 100% of the total
Premium Payments made to such Contract, reduced by any prior surrenders, or (c)
the Maximum Anniversary Value (See "Death Benefits" commencing on page ___ of
the Prospectus).

                    DESCRIPTION OF HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                           
Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford") is a stock life insurance company
engaged in the business of writing health and life insurance, both individual
and group, in all states of the United States and the District of Columbia. 
Hartford was originally incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts on June 5,
1902, and was subsequently redomiciled to Connecticut.   Its offices are located
in Simsbury, Connecticut; however, its mailing address is P.O. Box 2999,
Hartford, CT  06104-2999.  Hartford is a subsidiary of Hartford Fire Insurance
Company, one of the largest multiple lines insurance carriers in the United
States.  Hartford is ultimately owned by

<PAGE>

                                         -4-


ITT Hartford Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation.  Subject to shareholder 
approval on May 2, 1997, the name of ITT Hartford Group, Inc. will change to 
The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

Hartford is rated A+ (superior) by A.M. Best and Company, Inc., on the basis of
its financial soundness and operating performance.  Hartford is rated AA by
Standard & Poor's and AA+ by Duff and Phelps on the basis of its claims paying
ability.  These ratings do not apply to the investment performance of the
Sub-Accounts of the Separate Account.  The ratings apply to Hartford's ability
to meet its insurance obligations, including those described in this Prospectus.

                                SAFEKEEPING OF ASSETS
                                           
Title to the assets of the Separate Account is held by Hartford.  The assets are
kept physically segregated and are held separate and apart from Hartford's
general corporate assets.  Records are maintained of all purchases and
redemptions of Fund shares held in each of the Sub-Accounts.

                            INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
                                           
The audited consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules
included in this Statement of Additional Information and elsewhere in the
registration statement have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent
public accountants, as indicated in their reports with respect thereto, and are
included herein in reliance upon the authority of said firm as experts in giving
said reports.  Reference is made to said report on the consolidated financial
statements of Hartford Life Insurance Company (the Depositor), which includes an
explanatory paragraph with respect to the change in method of accounting for
debt and equity securities as of January 1, 1994, as discussed in Note 2 of
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  The principal business address of
Arthur Andersen LLP is One Financial Plaza, Hartford, Connecticut 06103.

                              DISTRIBUTION OF CONTRACTS
                                           
Hartford Securities Distribution Company, Inc. ("HSD") serves as Principal
Underwriter for the securities issued with respect to the Separate Account and
will offer the Contracts on a continous basis.   

HSD is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hartford.  The principal business address of
HSD is the same as Hartford.

The securities will be sold by salespersons of HSD, who represent Hartford as
insurance and Variable Annuity agents and who are registered representatives of
Broker-Dealers who have entered into distribution agreements with HSD.

HSD is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the
Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as a Broker-Dealer and is a member of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD").

<PAGE>

                                         -5-


                           CALCULATION OF YIELD AND RETURN

YIELD OF THE HVA MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT.  As summarized in the Prospectus
under the heading "Performance Related Information," the yield of the HVA Money
Market Fund Sub-Account for a seven day period (the "base period") will be
computed by determining the "net change in value" (calculated as set forth
below) of a hypothetical account having a balance of one share 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 a
hypothetical account will include net investment income of the account (accrued
daily dividends as declared by the underlying funds, less daily expense charges
of the account) for the period, but will not include realized gains or losses or
unrealized appreciation or depreciation on the underlying fund shares.

The HVA Money Market Fund Sub-Account's yield and effective yield will vary in
response to fluctuations in interest rates and in the expenses of the two
Sub-Accounts.

THE CURRENT YIELD AND EFFECTIVE YIELD REFLECT RECURRING CHARGES ON THE SEPARATE
ACCOUNT LEVEL, INCLUDING THE MAXIMUM ANNUAL POLICY FEE.

HVA Money Market Fund Sub-Account

The yield and effective yield for the seven day period ending December 31, 1996
is as follows:

         ($30 annual policy fee)

Yield              3.85%
Effective Yield    3.93%

YIELDS OF BOND FUND AND MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNTS.  As summarized in
the Prospectus under the heading "Performance Related Information," yields of
these two Sub-Accounts will be computed by annualizing a recent month's net
investment income, divided by a Fund share's net asset value on the last trading
day of that month.  Net changes in the value of a hypothetical account will
assume the change in the underlying mutual fund's "net asset value per share"
for the same period in addition to the daily expense charge assessed, at the
sub-account level for the respective period.  The Bond Fund and Mortgage
Securities Fund Sub-Accounts' yields will vary from time to time depending upon
market conditions and, the composition of the underlying funds' portfolios. 
Yield should also be considered relative to changes in the value of the
Sub-Accounts' shares and to the relative risks associated with the investment
objectives and policies of the Bond Fund and Mortgage Securities Fund.

The yield reflects recurring charges on the Separate Account level, including
the annual policy fee.

<PAGE>

                                         -6-


BOND FUND SUB-ACCOUNT

Yield calculations of the Sub-Account used for illustration purposes reflect the
interest earned by the Sub-Account, less applicable asset charges assessed
against a Contract Owner's account over the base period.  The following is the
method used to determine the yield for the 30 day period ended December 31,
1996.

Example:
                                                               6
Current Yield Formula for the Sub-Account  2*[((A-B)/(C*D) + 1)  - 1]

Where    A = Dividends and interest earned during the period.
         B = Expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements).
         C = The average daily number of units outstanding during the period 
                that were entitled to receive dividends.
         D = The maximum offering price per unit on the last day of the period.

Yield =  4.94% 

HARTFORD MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT

Yield calculations of the Sub-Account used for illustration purposes reflect the
interest earned by the Sub-Account, less applicable asset charges assessed
against a Contract Owner's account over the base period.  The following is the
method used to determine the yield for the 30 days period ended December 31,
1996.

Example:
                                                                   6
Current Yield Formula for the Sub-Account      2*[((A-B)/(C*D) + 1)  - 1]

Where    A = Dividends and interest earned during the period.
         B = Expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements).
         C = The average daily number of units outstanding during the period 
                  that were entitled to receive dividends.
         D = The maximum offering price per unit on the last day of the period.

Yield = 5.35%

At any time in the future, yields and total return may be higher or lower than
past yields and there can be no assurance that any historical results will
continue.

The method of calculating yields described above for these Sub-Accounts differs
from the method used by the Sub-Accounts prior to May 1, 1988.  The denominator
of the fraction used to 

<PAGE>

                                         -7-


calculate yield was previously the average unit value for the period calculated.
That denominator will hereafter be the unit value of the Sub-Accounts on the
last trading day of the period calculated.

CALCULATION OF TOTAL RETURN.  As summarized in the Prospectus under the heading
"Performance Related Information", total return is a measure of the change in
value of an investment in a Sub-Account over the period covered.  the formula
for total return used herein includes three steps: (1) calculating the value of
the hypothetical initial investment of $1,000 as of the end of the period by
multiplying the total number of units owned at the end of the period by the unit
value per unit on the last trading day of the period by the unit value per unit
on the last trading day of the period; (2) assuming redemption at the end of the
period and deducting any applicable contingent deferred sales charge and (3)
dividing this account value for the hypothetical investor by the initial $1,000
investment and annualizing the result for periods of less than one year.  Total
return will be calculated for one year, five years and ten years or some other
relevant periods if a Sub-Account has not been in existence for at least ten
years.

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, standardized average annual total
return quotations for the Sub-Accounts listed were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                        Since    
 Sub-Accounts                           Inception         1 Year      5 Year      10 Year
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>                                    <C>               <C>           <C>       <C>    
 Hartford Advisers Fund                     9.12%          6.14%         7.34%      8.62%

 Hartford Bond Fund                         5.57%        (6.76)%         1.55%      3.68%

 Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund        14.42%         10.20%        13.53%     13.14%

 Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund         15.07%         12.39%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Index Fund                        8.88%         11.58%         9.68%        n/a

 Hartford International Advisers Fund       7.57%          1.41%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford International Opportunities Fund  2.68%          2.53%         5.21%        n/a

 Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund          5.60%        (5.23)%         0.93%      3.90%

 Hartford Small Company Fund              (5.58)%            n/a           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Stock Fund                       11.74%         13.83%        10.91%     11.02%


</TABLE>

<PAGE>

                                         -8-


For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, non-standardized annualized total
return quotations for the Sub-Accounts listed were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                        Since    
 Sub-Accounts                           Inception         1 Year        5 Year    10 Year
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>                                    <C>               <C>           <C>       <C>    
 Hartford Advisers Fund                    11.06%         15.14%         10.7%     10.86%

 Hartford Bond Fund                         7.63%          2.24%         5.19%       6.3%

 Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund        15.97%          19.2%        16.44%     15.26%

 Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund         19.33%         21.39%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Index Fund                       11.42%         20.58%        13.01%        n/a

 Hartford International Advisers Fund      13.71%         10.41%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford International Opportunities Fund  6.24%         11.53%         8.66%        n/a

 Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund          7.73%          3.77%         4.65%      6.45%

 Hartford Small Company Fund               16.67%            n/a           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Stock Fund                       13.15%         22.83%         14.1%     13.15%


</TABLE>




                                PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS
                                           
YIELD AND TOTAL RETURN.  Each Sub-Account may from time to time include its
total return in advertisements or in information furnished to present to
prospective shareholders.  Each Sub-Account may from time to time include its
yield and total return in advertisements or information furnished to present to
prospective shareholders.  Each Sub-Account may from time to time include in
advertisements its total return (and yield in the case of certain Sub-Accounts)
the ranking of those performance figures relative to such figures for groups of
other annuities analyzed by Lipper Analytical Services and Morningstar, Inc. as
having the same investment objectives.

The total return and yield may also be used to compare the performance of the
Sub-Accounts against certain widely acknowledged outside standards or indices
for stock and bond market performance.  The Standard & Poor's Composite Index of
500 Stocks (the "S&P 500") is a market value-weighted and unmanaged index
showing the changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks relative to the
base period 1941-43.  The S&P 500 is composed almost entirely of common stocks
of companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange, although the common stocks
of a few companies listed on the American Stock Exchange or traded
over-the-counter are included.  The 500 companies represented include 400
industrial, 60 transportation and 40 financial services concerns.  The S&P 500
represents about 80% of the market value of all issues

<PAGE>

                                         -9-


traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

The NASDAQ-OTC Composite Price Index (The "NASDAQ Index") is a market
value-weighted and unmanaged index showing the changes in the aggregate market
value of approximately 3,500 stocks relative to the base measure of 100.00 on
February 5, 1971.  The NASDAQ Index is composed entirely of common stocks of
companies traded over-the-counter and often through the National Association of
Securities Dealers Automated Quotations ("NASDAQ") system.  Only those
over-the-counter stocks having only one market maker or traded on exchanges are
excluded.

The Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index (the "EAFE Index") is an
unmanaged index, which includes over 1,000 companies representing the stock
markets of Europe,  Australia, New Zealand, and the Far East.  The EAFE Index is
weighted by market capitalization, and therefore, it has a heavy representation
in countries with large stock markets, such as Japan.

The Shearson Lehman Government Bond Index (the "SL Government Index") is a
measure of the market value of all public obligations of the U.S. Treasury; all
publicly issued debt of all agencies of the U.S. Government and all
quasi-federal corporations; and all corporate debt guaranteed by the U.S.
Government.  Mortgage-backed securities, flower bonds and foreign targeted
issued are not included in the SL Government Index.

The Shearson Lehman Government/Corporate Bond Index (the "SL
Government/Corporate Index") is a measure of the market value of approximately
5,300 bonds with a face value currently in excess of $1.3 trillion.  To be
included in the SL Government/Corporate Index, an issue must have amounts
outstanding in excess of $1 million, have at least one year to maturity and be
rated "Baa" or higher ("investment grade") by a nationally recognized rating
agency.

The Composite Index for Hartford Advisers Fund is comprised of the S&P 500
(55%), the Lehman Government/Corporate Bond Index (35%), both mentioned above,
and 90 Day U.S. Treasury Bills (10%).



<PAGE>
 
   
                               THE BB&T DIRECTOR
                             SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
                        HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                 P.O. BOX 5085
                       HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT 06102-5085
                      TELEPHONE: 1-800-862-6668 (CONTRACT
                                    OWNERS)
   [LOGO]         1-800-862-7155 (INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVES)
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
This Prospectus describes The BB&T Director, an individual and group tax
deferred variable annuity contract designed for retirement planning purposes
("Contracts").
    
 
   
    The Contracts are issued by Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford").
Payments for the Contracts will be held in a series of Hartford Life Insurance
Company Sepa-
    
 
   
rate Account Two (the "Separate Account") or in the Fixed Account of Hartford.
Allocations to and transfers to and from the Fixed Account are not permitted in
certain states.
    
 
   
    The following Sub-Accounts are available under the Contracts. Opposite each
Sub-Account is the name of the underlying investment for that Sub-Account.
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<S>                                           <C>  <C>
Advisers Fund Sub-Account                     --   shares of Hartford Advisers Fund, Inc. ("Hartford Advisers
                                                   Fund")
Bond Fund Sub-Account                         --   shares of Hartford Bond Fund, Inc. ("Hartford Bond Fund")
Capital Appreciation Fund Sub-Account         --   shares of Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund")
Dividend and Growth Fund Sub-Account          --   shares of Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund")
Index Fund Sub-Account                        --   shares of Hartford Index Fund, Inc. ("Hartford Index
                                                   Fund")
International Advisers Fund Sub-Account       --   shares of Hartford International Advisers Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Hartford International Advisers Fund")
International Opportunities Fund Sub-Account  --   shares of Hartford International Opportunities Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Hartford International Opportunities Fund")
Money Market Fund Sub-Account                 --   shares of HVA Money Market Fund, Inc. ("HVA Money Market
                                                   Fund")
Mortgage Securities Fund Sub-Account          --   shares of Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Inc.
                                                   ("Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund")
Small Company Fund Sub-Account                --   shares of Hartford Small Company Fund, Inc. ("Hartford
                                                   Small Company Fund")
Stock Fund Sub-Account                        --   shares of Hartford Stock Fund, Inc. ("Hartford Stock
                                                   Fund")
BB&T Growth and Income Fund Sub-Account       --   shares of BB&T Growth and Income Fund of the Variable
                                                   Insurance Funds ("BB&T Growth and Income Fund")
</TABLE>
    
 
   
This Prospectus sets forth the information concerning the Separate Account and
the Fixed Account, where available, that investors should know before investing.
This Prospectus should be kept for future reference. Additional information
about the Separate Account and the Fixed Account has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission and is available without charge upon request.
To obtain the Statement of Additional Information send a written request to, or
call Hartford Life Insurance Company, Attn: Annuity Marketing Services, P.O. Box
5085, Hartford, CT 06102-5085. The Table of Contents for the Statement of
Additional Information may be found on page 27 of this Prospectus. The Statement
of Additional Information is incorporated by reference to this Prospectus.
    
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
VARIABLE ANNUITY CONTRACTS ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR ENDORSED OR
GUARANTEED BY, ANY BANK, NOR ARE THEY FEDERALLY INSURED OR OTHERWISE PROTECTED
BY THE FDIC, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY; THEY ARE SUBJECT TO
INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT INVESTED.
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES
 AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE
   ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY   OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
                        CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
PROSPECTUS DATED: JUNE 3,, 1997
    
   
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION DATED: JUNE 3, 1997
    
<PAGE>
2                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         PAGE
                                                                         ----
 <S>                                                                     <C>
 GLOSSARY OF SPECIAL TERMS.............................................    3
 FEE TABLE.............................................................    5
 ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES..............................................    6
 INTRODUCTION..........................................................    7
 HARTFORD, SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO, THE FIXED ACCOUNT AND THE FUNDS.......    7
   Hartford Life Insurance Company.....................................    7
   Separate Account Two................................................    8
   The Funds...........................................................    8
   The Fixed Account...................................................   10
   Performance Related Information.....................................   10
 THE CONTRACTS.........................................................   11
   Contracts Offered...................................................   11
   Premium Payments and Initial Allocations............................   11
   Contract Value......................................................   12
   Transfers Between the Sub-Accounts/Fixed Account....................   12
   Charges Under the Contracts.........................................   13
   Death Benefits......................................................   15
   Surrender Benefits..................................................   16
   Annuity Benefits....................................................   17
   Other Information...................................................   19
 FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS............................................   19
   A. General..........................................................   19
   B. Taxation of Hartford and the Separate Account....................   19
   C. Taxation of Annuities -- General Provisions Affecting Purchasers
 other than Qualified Retirement Plans.................................   19
   D. Federal Income Tax Withholding...................................   22
   E. General Provisions Affecting Qualified Retirement Plans..........   23
   F. Annuity Purchases by Nonresident Aliens and Foreign
 Corporations..........................................................   23
 MISCELLANEOUS.........................................................   23
   How Contracts Are Sold..............................................   23
   Legal Matters and Experts...........................................   23
   Additional Information..............................................   23
 APPENDIX I INFORMATION REGARDING TAX QUALIFIED PLANS..................   24
 TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.............   27
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                           GLOSSARY OF SPECIAL TERMS
 
   
ACCUMULATION UNIT: An accounting unit of measure used to calculate values before
Annuity payments begin.
    
 
   
ANNUAL WITHDRAWAL AMOUNT: The amount which can be withdrawn in any Contract Year
prior to incurring surrender charges.
    
 
   
ANNUITANT: The person or Participant upon whose life the Contract is issued.
    
 
   
ANNUITY: A series of payments for life, or for life with a minimum number of
payments or a determinable sum guaranteed, or for a joint lifetime and
thereafter during the lifetime of the survivor, or for a designated period.
    
 
   
ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT DATE: The date on which Annuity payments are to commence.
Under a group unallocated Contract, the date for each Participant is determined
by the Contract Owner in accordance with the terms of the Plan.
    
 
   
ANNUITY UNIT: An accounting unit of measure used to calculate the value of
Annuity payments.
    
 
   
BENEFICIARY: The person(s) who receive Contract Values in the event of the
Annuitant's or Contract Owner's death under certain conditions. Under a group
unallocated Contract, the person named by the Participant within the Plan
documents/enrollment forms who is entitled to receive benefits in case of the
death of the Participant.
    
 
   
CODE: The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
    
 
   
COMMISSION: Securities and Exchange Commission.
    
 
   
CONTINGENT ANNUITANT: The person so designated by the Contract Owner, who upon
the Annuitant's death, prior to the Annuity Commencement Date, becomes the
Annuitant.
    
 
   
CONTRACT ANNIVERSARY: The anniversary of the Contract Date.
    
 
   
CONTRACT OWNER(S): The owner(s) of the Contract, trustee or other entity,
sometimes herein referred to as "you".
    
 
   
CONTRACT VALUE: The aggregate value of any Sub-Account Accumulation Units held
under the Contract plus the value of the Fixed Account.
    
 
   
CONTRACT YEAR: A period of 12 months commencing with the Contract Date or any
anniversary thereof.
    
 
   
DEATH BENEFIT: The amount payable upon the death of a Contract Owner, Annuitant
or Participant, in the case of group Contracts, before annuity payments have
commenced.
    
 
   
FIXED ACCOUNT: Part of the General Account of Hartford to which a Contract Owner
may allocate all or a portion of his Premium Payment or Contract Value.
    
 
   
FIXED ANNUITY: An Annuity providing for guaranteed payments which remain fixed
in amount throughout the payment period and which do not vary with the
investment experience of a separate account.
    
 
   
FUNDS: The Funds described commencing on page 8 of this Prospectus and any
additional Funds which may be made available from time to time.
    
 
   
GENERAL ACCOUNT: The General Account of Hartford which consists of all assets of
the Hartford other than those allocated to the separate accounts of the
Hartford.
    
 
   
HARTFORD: Hartford Life Insurance Company.
    
 
   
HOME OFFICE OF THE COMPANY: Currently located at 200 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury,
CT. All correspondence concerning this Contract should be sent to P.O. Box 5085,
Hartford, CT 06102-5085, Attn: Individual Annuity Services.
    
 
   
MAXIMUM ANNIVERSARY VALUE: Value used in determining the Death Benefit. It is
based on a series of calculations of Account Values on Contract Anniversaries,
premium payments and partial surrenders, as described on page 13.
    
 
   
NON-QUALIFIED CONTRACT: A Contract which is not part of a tax-qualified
retirement plan or arrangement which qualifies for special tax treatment under
the Code.
    
 
   
PARTICIPANT -- (For Group Unallocated Contracts Only) -- Any eligible employee
of an Employer/Contract Owner participating in the Plan.
    
 
   
PLAN: A voluntary plan of an employer or other person which qualifies for
special tax treatment under the Code.
    
 
   
PREMIUM PAYMENT: The payment made to Hartford pursuant to the terms of the
Contract.
    
 
   
PREMIUM TAX: A tax on premiums charged by a state or municipality on Premium
Payments or Contract Values.
    
 
   
QUALIFIED CONTRACT: A Contract which is part of a tax-qualified retirement plan
or arrangement which qualifies for special tax treatment under the Code, such as
an employer-sponsored Section401(k) plan or an Individual Retirement Annuity
(IRA).
    
 
   
SEPARATE ACCOUNT: The Hartford separate account entitled "Hartford Life
Insurance Company Separate Account Two".
    
 
   
SUB-ACCOUNT: Accounts established within the Separate Account with respect to a
Fund.
    
 
   
TERMINATION VALUE: The Contract Value upon termination of the Contract prior to
the Annuity Commencement Date, less any applicable Premium Taxes, the Annual
Maintenance Fee and any applicable contingent deferred sales charges.
    
 
   
UNALLOCATED CONTRACTS: Contracts issued to employers, or other entity, as
Contract Owner under which no allocation
    
<PAGE>
4                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
of Contract Values is made for a specific Participant. The Plans will be
responsible for the individual allocations.
    
 
   
VALUATION DAY: Every day the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. The
value of the Separate Account is determined at the close of the New York Stock
Exchange (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on such days.
    
 
   
VALUATION PERIOD: The period between the close of business on successive
Valuation Days.
    
 
   
VARIABLE ANNUITY: An Annuity providing for payments varying in amount in
accordance with the investment experience of the assets of the Separate Account.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                5
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                                   FEE TABLE
                                    SUMMARY
 
   
                        Contract Owner Transaction Expenses
                               (All Sub-Accounts)
    
 
   
<TABLE>
 <S>                                                                 <C>
 Sales Load Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of premium
    payments)......................................................    None
 Exchange Fee......................................................  $    0
 Deferred Sales Load (as a percentage of amounts withdrawn)
     First Year (1)................................................       6%
     Second Year...................................................       6%
     Third Year....................................................       5%
     Fourth Year...................................................       5%
     Fifth Year....................................................       4%
     Sixth Year....................................................       3%
     Seventh Year..................................................       2%
     Eighth Year...................................................       0%
 Annual Contract Fee (2)...........................................  $   30
 Annual Expenses-Separate Account (as percentage of average account
    value)
     Mortality and Expense Risk....................................   1.250%
</TABLE>
    
 
   
                         Annual Fund Operating Expenses
                        (as a percentage of net assets)
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        TOTAL FUND
                                                  MANAGEMENT   OTHER    OPERATING
                                                     FEES     EXPENSES   EXPENSES
                                                  ----------  --------  ----------
 <S>                                              <C>         <C>       <C>
 Hartford Bond Fund..............................   0.490%     0.030%     0.520%
 Hartford Stock Fund.............................   0.441%     0.016%     0.457%
 HVA Money Market Fund...........................   0.423%     0.021%     0.444%
 Hartford Advisers Fund..........................   0.615%     0.017%     0.632%
 Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund..............   0.629%     0.017%     0.646%
 Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund...............   0.424%     0.029%     0.453%
 Hartford Index Fund.............................   0.374%     0.019%     0.393%
 Hartford International Opportunities Fund.......   0.691%     0.095%     0.786%
 Hartford Dividend & Growth Fund.................   0.709%     0.017%     0.726%
 Hartford International Advisers Fund............   0.746%     0.214%     0.960%
 Hartford Small Company Fund (3).................   0.577%     0.150%     0.727%
 BB&T Growth and Income Fund (4).................   0.500%     0.470%     0.970%
</TABLE>
    
 
- ------------------------------
 
   
(1) Length of time from premium payment.
    
   
(2) The annual contract fee is a single $30 charge on a Contract. It is deducted
    proportionally from the investment options in use at the time of the charge.
    Pursuant to requirements of the 1940 Act, the policy fees has been reflected
    in the Examples by a method intended to show the "average" impact of the
    policy fee on an investment in the Separate Account. The Policy Fee is
    deducted only when the accumulated value is $50,000 or less. In the Example,
    the annual contract fee is approximately as a 0.06% annual asset charge
    based on the experience of the Contracts.
    
   
(3) In 1996 management fees were waived for the Hartford Small Company Fund. In
    the absence of this waiver, the 1996 total expense ratio would have been
    .880% (annualized).
    
   
(4) The adviser has agreed to temporarily waive a portion of its management fee
    for the BB&T Growth and Income Fund. In the absence of this waiver,
    management fees would have been 0.740% and the total expense ratio of the
    Fund would be 1.210%.
    
 
   
EXAMPLE
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               If you surrender your Contract    If you annuitize your Contract    If you do not surrender your
                               at the end of the applicable      at the end of the applicable      Contract, you would pay the
                               time period you would pay the     time period you would pay the     following expenses on a $1,000
                               following expenses on a $1,000    following expenses on a $1,000    investment, assuming a 5%
                               investment, assuming a 5%         investment, assuming a 5%         annual return on assets:
                               annual return on assets:          annual return on assets:
 SUB-ACCOUNT                   1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS   1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS   1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
                               ------ ------- ------- --------   ------ ------- ------- --------   ------ ------- ------- --------
 <S>                           <C>    <C>     <C>     <C>        <C>    <C>     <C>     <C>        <C>    <C>     <C>     <C>
 Bond Fund....................  $ 79   $ 108   $ 140    $ 216     $ 18   $  57   $  99    $ 215     $ 19   $  58   $ 100    $ 216
 Stock Fund...................    78     106     137      209       17      55      96      209       18      56      97      209
 Money Market Fund............    78     106     136      208       17      55      95      207       18      56      96      208
 Advisers Fund................    80     112     146      228       19      61     105      227       20      62     106      228
 Capital Appreciation Fund....    80     112     146      230       19      61     106      229       20      62     106      230
 Mortgage Securities Fund.....    78     106     136      209       17      55      96      208       18      56      96      209
 Index Fund...................    77     104     133      202       17      53      92      202       17      54      93      202
 International Opportunities
   Fund.......................    81     116     154      245       21      66     113      244       21      66     114      245
 Dividend and Growth Fund.....    81     114     151      238       20      64     110      237       21      64     111      238
 International Advisers
   Fund.......................    83     122     163      263       23      71     122      262       23      72     123      263
 Small Company Fund...........    81     114     N/A      N/A       20      64     N/A      N/A       21      64     N/A      N/A
 BB&T Growth and Income
   Fund.......................    83     122     N/A      N/A       23      71     N/A      N/A       23      72     N/A      N/A
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    The purpose of this table is to assist the Contract Owner in understanding
various costs and expenses that a Contract Owner will bear directly or
indirectly. The table reflects expenses of the Separate Account and underlying
Funds. Premium taxes may also be applicable.
    
 
   
    This EXAMPLE should not be considered a representation of past or future
expenses and actual expenses may be greater or less than those shown.
    
<PAGE>
6                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                            ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES
          (FOR AN ACCUMULATION UNIT OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIOD)
 
   
    The following information has been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP,
independent public accountants, whose report thereon is included in the
Statement of Additional information, which is incorporated by reference to this
Prospectus. No information is included for the BB&T Growth and Income Fund
Sub-Account because as of December 31, 1996, the Sub-Account had not commenced
operations.
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                            -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             1996     1995        1994        1993     1992     1991     1990
                                                            -------  -------     -------     -------  -------  -------  -------
<S>                                                         <C>      <C>         <C>         <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>
BOND FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.880   $1.607      $1.694      $1.556   $1.493   $1.298   $1.212
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.922   $1.880      $1.607      $1.694   $1.556   $1.493   $1.298
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   96,857   99,377      85,397      79,080   41,204   25,267   14,753
STOCK FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $2.887   $2.180      $2.250      $1.993   $1.834   $1.490   $1.569
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $3.546   $2.887      $2.180      $2.250   $1.993   $1.834   $1.490
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  333,176  285,640     248,563     203,873  121,100   72,780   31,149
MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.528   $1.462      $1.424      $1.401   $1.369   $1.307   $1.225
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.587   $1.528      $1.462      $1.424   $1.401   $1.369   $1.307
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  151,978  102,635     138,396     102,328   78,664   60,774   67,059
ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $2.523   $1.991      $2.072      $1.870   $1.748   $1.470   $1.470
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $2.905   $2.523      $1.991      $2.072   $1.870   $1.748   $1.470
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  953,998  888,803     858,014     688,865  295,387  166,408  101,758
U.S. GOVERNMENT MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.468   $1.409      $1.376      $1.357   $1.331   $1.276   $1.202
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.521   $1.468      $1.409      $1.376   $1.357   $1.331   $1.276
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................       46       48          48          52      161      213      243
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $3.364   $2.615      $2.583      $2.165   $1.874   $1.231   $1.400
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $4.010   $3.364      $2.615      $2.583   $2.165   $1.874   $1.231
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  330,580  292,671     220,936     160,934   75,653   39,031   10,501
MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.878   $1.637      $1.685      $1.604   $1.552   $1.370   $1.264
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.949   $1.878      $1.637      $1.685   $1.604   $1.552   $1.370
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   89,098  101,881     112,417     138,666   98,494   46,464   18,632
INDEX FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $2.359   $1.750      $1.755      $1.629   $1.544   $1.207   $1.274
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $2.845   $2.359      $1.750      $1.755   $1.629   $1.544   $1.207
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of (in
 thousands)...............................................   87,611   65,954      50,799      46,504   29,723   15,975   10,015
INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.329   $1.181      $1.220      $0.924   $0.979   $0.877   $1.000(c)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1,482   $1.329      $1.181      $1.220   $0.924   $0.979   $0.877
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  266,962  238,086     246,259     132,795   32,597   13,109    2,892
DIVIDEND & GROWTH FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.359   $1.009      $1.000(d)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.650   $1.359      $1.009
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................  190,958   83,506      29,146
INTERNATIONAL ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $1.146   $1,000(e)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.266   $1.146
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   23,174    6,577
SMALL COMPANY FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............   $0.000   $0.000(f)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................   $1.066   $0.000
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................   12,563        0
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                1989     1988     1987        1986
                                                               -------  -------  -------     -------
<S>                                                         <C>         <C>      <C>         <C>
BOND FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.095   $1.031   $1.044      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.212   $1.095   $1.031      $1.044
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................       9,267    5,786    3,576         802
STOCK FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.261   $1.073   $1.031      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.569   $1.261   $1.073      $1.031
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      30,096    9.158    9,229       1,250
MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.136   $1.071   $1.019      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.225   $1.136   $1.071      $1.019
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      28,291   29,043   11,633         243
ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.223   $1.085   $1.036      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.470   $1.223   $1.085      $1.036
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      79,738   56.584   56,332       9,405
U.S. GOVERNMENT MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.122   $1.062   $1.018      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.202   $1.122   $1.062      $1.018
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................         297      281      187          10
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.142   $0.916   $0.969      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.400   $1.142   $0.916      $0.969
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................       8,041    3,606    2,989         431
MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $1.132   $1.057   $1.043      $1.000(a)
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.264   $1.132   $1.057      $1.043
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................      12,248   11,061    9,397       3,773
INDEX FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............      $0.989   $0.862   $1.000(b)       --
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................      $1.274   $0.989   $0.862          --
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of (in
 thousands)...............................................       6,306    2,868    1,758          --
INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................          --       --       --          --
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................          --       --       --          --
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................          --       --
DIVIDEND & GROWTH FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................
INTERNATIONAL ADVISERS FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................
SMALL COMPANY FUND SUB-ACCOUNT
Accumulation unit value at beginning of period............
Accumulation unit value at end of period..................
Number accumulation units outstanding at end of period (in
 thousands)...............................................
</TABLE>
    
 
   
(a) Inception date August 1, 1986.
    
 
   
(b) Inception date May 1, 1987.
    
 
   
(c) Inception date July 2, 1990.
    
 
   
(d) Inception date March 8, 1994.
    
 
   
(e) Inception date March 1, 1995.
    
 
   
(f) Inception date August 9, 1996.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                7
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- -------------------------------------------
    
                                  INTRODUCTION
 
   
    This Prospectus has been designed to provide you with the necessary
information to make a decision on purchasing an individual or group tax deferred
Variable Annuity Contract offered by Hartford Life Insurance Company
("Hartford") in the Fixed Account and/or a series of Separate Account Two. (See
"Hartford Life Insurance Company," page 7; "The Contracts," page 11; and "The
Separate Account," page 8.) Please read the Glossary of Special Terms on pages 3
and 4 prior to reading this Prospectus to familiarize yourself with the terms
being used.
    
 
   
    The Contracts are available for purchase by individuals and groups on both a
non-qualified and qualified basis. The maximum issue age for the Contract is 85
years old. (See "The Contracts," page 11.) Generally, the minimum initial
Premium Payment is $1,000. Thereafter, the minimum payment is $500. There is no
deduction for sales expenses from Premium Payments when made. A deduction will
be made for state Premium Taxes for Contracts sold in certain states. (See
"Charges Under the Contracts," page 13.)
    
 
   
    Generally, the Contracts are purchased by completing and submitting an
application or an order to purchase, along with the initial Premium Payment, to
Hartford for its approval. Generally, a Contract Owner may exercise his right to
cancel the Contract within ten days of delivery of the Contract by returning the
Contract to Hartford at its Home Office. If the Contract Owner exercises his
right to cancel, Hartford will return either the Contract Value or the original
Premium Payments to the Contract Owner. The duration of the right to cancel
period and Hartford's obligation to either return the Contract Value of the
original Premium Payment will depend on state law.
    
 
   
    The investment options for the Contracts are the Hartford Advisers Fund,
Inc., Hartford Bond Fund, Inc., Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Inc.,
Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund, Inc., Hartford Index Fund, Inc., Hartford
International Advisers Fund, Inc., Hartford International Opportunities Fund,
Inc., Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Inc., Hartford Small Company Fund,
Inc., Hartford Stock Fund, Inc., HVA Money Market Fund, Inc., BB&T Growth and
Income Fund and such other funds as shall be offered from time to time (the
"Funds"), and the Fixed Account. (See "The Funds," page 8, and "The Fixed
Account," page 10.) With certain limitations, Contract Owners may allocate their
Premium Payments and Contract Values to one or a combination of these investment
options and transfer among the investment options. (See "Transfers Between
Sub-Accounts/Fixed Account," page 12.)
    
 
   
    An Annual Maintenance Fee in the amount of $30.00 is deducted from Contract
Values each Contract Year (not applicable to Contracts with Account Values of
$50,000 or more or under other circumstances at the sole discretion of Hartford)
and there is a 1.25% per annum mortality and expense risk charge applied against
all Contract Values held in the Separate Account. (See "Charges Under the
Contracts," page 13). Finally, the Funds are subject to certain fees, charges
and expenses (see the Funds' prospectus attached hereto).
    
 
   
    The Contracts may be surrendered, or portions of the value of the Contracts
may be withdrawn, at any time prior to the Annuity Commencement Date. (See
"Surrender Benefits," page 16.) However, a contingent deferred sales charge may
be assessed against Contract Values when they are surrendered. Contingent
deferred sales charges will not be assessed in certain instances, including
withdrawals up to the annual withdrawal amount and the payment of Death
Benefits. (See "Charges Under the Contracts," page 13.)
    
 
   
    The Contract provides for a minimum Death Benefit in the event of the death
of the Annuitant or Contract Owner before Annuity payments have commenced (see
"Death Benefits," page 15). Various annuity options are available under the
Contract for election by the Contract Owner on either a fixed or variable basis.
In the absence of an annuity option election, the Contract Value (less
applicable Premium Taxes) will be applied on the Annuity Commencement Date to
provide a life annuity with 120 monthly payments certain (see "Annuity
Benefits," page 17).
    
 
   
    The Contract may be sold directly to certain individuals under certain
circumstances that do not involve payment of any sales compensation to a
registered representative. In such case, Hartford will credit the Contract with
an additional 5.0% of the premium payment. This additional percentage of premium
payment in no way affects present or future charges, rights, benefits or current
values of other Contract Owners. The following class of individuals are eligible
for this feature: (1) current or retired officers, directors, trustees and
employees (and their families) of the ultimate parent and affiliates of
Hartford; and (2) employees and registered representatives (and their families)
of registered broker-dealers (or financial institutions affiliated therewith)
that have a sales agreement with Hartford and its principal underwriter to sell
the Contracts.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                           HARTFORD, SEPARATE ACCOUNT
                            TWO, THE FIXED ACCOUNT,
                                 AND THE FUNDS
 
   
- --------------------------------
    
                        HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
 
   
    Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford") is a stock life insurance
company engaged in the business of writing health and life insurance, both
individual and
    
<PAGE>
8                                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
group, in all states of the United States and the District of Columbia. Hartford
was originally incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts on June 5, 1902, and
was subsequently redomiciled to Connecticut. Its offices are located in
Simsbury, Connecticut; however, its mailing address is P.O. Box 2999, Hartford,
CT 06104-2999. Hartford is a subsidiary of Hartford Fire Insurance Company, one
of the largest multiple lines insurance carriers in the United States. Hartford
is ultimately owned by The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.
    
 
   
    Hartford is rated A+ (superior) by A.M. Best and Company, Inc., on the basis
of its financial soundness and operating performance. Hartford is rated AA by
Standard & Poor's and AA+ by Duff and Phelps, on the basis of its claims paying
ability. These ratings do not apply to the investment performance of the Sub-
Accounts of the Separate Account. The ratings apply to Hartford's ability to
meet its insurance obligations, including those described in this Prospectus.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                              SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
 
   
    The Separate Account was established on June 2, 1986. It is the Separate
Account in which Hartford sets aside and invests the assets attributable to
variable annuity Contracts, including the Contracts sold under this Prospectus.
Separate Account assets are held by Hartford under a safekeeping arrangement.
Although the Separate Account is an integral part of Hartford, it is registered
as a unit investment trust under the Investment Company Act of 1940. This
registration does not, however, involve Commission supervision of the management
or the investment practices or policies of the Separate Account or Hartford. The
Separate Account meets the definition of "separate account" under federal
securities law.
    
 
   
    Your investment in the Separate Account is allocated to one or more
Sub-Accounts as per your specifications. Each Sub-Account is invested
exclusively in the assets of one underlying Fund. Hartford reserves the right,
subject to compliance with the law, to substitute the shares of any other
registered investment company for the shares of any Fund already purchased or to
be purchased in the future by the Separate Account provided that the
substitution has been approved by the Commission.
    
 
   
    Net Premium Payments and proceeds of transfers between Sub-Accounts are
applied to purchase shares in the appropriate Fund at net asset value determined
as of the end of the Valuation Period during which the payments were received or
the transfer made. All distributions from the Fund are reinvested at net asset
value. The value of your investment will therefore vary in accordance with the
net income and fluctuation in the individual investments within the underlying
Fund portfolio or portfolios. During the Variable Annuity payout period, both
your Annuity payments and reserve values will vary in accordance with these
factors.
    
 
   
    Under Connecticut law, the assets of the Separate Account attributable to
the Contracts offered under this Prospectus are held for the benefit of the
owners of, and the persons entitled to payments under, those Contracts. 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. Also, the assets in the Separate Account are not
chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other business Hartford may
conduct. Contract Values allocated to the Separate Account is not affected by
the rate of return of Hartford's General Account, nor by the investment
performance of any of Hartford's other separate accounts. The Separate Account
may be subject to liabilities arising from a Sub-Account of the Separate Account
whose assets are attributable to other variable annuity Contracts or variable
life insurance policies offered by the Separate Account which are not described
in this Prospectus. However, all obligations arising under the Contracts are
general corporate obligations of Hartford.
    
 
   
    Hartford does not guarantee the investment results of the Separate Accounts
or any of the underlying investments. There is no assurance that the value of a
Contract during the years prior to retirement or the aggregate amount of the
Variable Annuity payments will equal the total of Premium Payments made under
the Contract. Since each underlying Fund has different investment objectives,
each is subject to different risks. These risks are more fully described in the
accompanying Funds' prospectus.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                                   THE FUNDS
 
   
    The Hartford Bond Fund, Inc., Hartford Stock Fund, Inc., HVA Money Market
Fund, Inc., Hartford Advisers, Inc., Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Inc.,
Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Inc., Hartford Index Fund, Inc., Hartford
International Opportunities Fund, Inc., Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund, Inc.,
Hartford International Advisers Fund, Inc., and Hartford Small Company Fund,
Inc. are sponsored by Hartford and are incorporated under the laws of the State
of Maryland. HL Investment Advisors, Inc. ("HL Advisors") serves as the
investment adviser to each of the Hartford Funds.
    
 
   
    Wellington Management Company, L.L.P. serves as sub-investment adviser for
Hartford Advisers Fund, Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Hartford Dividend
and Growth Fund, Hartford International Advisers Fund, Hartford International
Opportunities Fund, Hartford Small Company Fund and Hartford Stock Fund.
    
 
   
    In addition, HL Advisors has entered an investment services agreement with
The Hartford Investment Management Company, Inc. ("HIMCO"), pursuant to which
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                                9
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
HIMCO will provide certain investment services to Hartford Bond Fund, Hartford
Index Fund, Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund and HVA Money Market Fund.
    
 
   
    BB&T Growth and Income Fund is sponsored by Branch Banking and Trust Company
and is a diversified investment portfolio of the Variable Insurance Funds, a
Massachusetts business trust which is registered as an open-end management
investment company. BB&T serves as the investment adviser to the BB&T Growth and
Income Fund.
    
 
   
    A full description of the Funds, their investment policies and restrictions,
risks, charges and expenses and all other aspects of their operation is
contained in the accompanying Funds' Prospectuses which should be read in
conjunction with this Prospectus before investing and in the Funds' Statements
of Additional Information which may be ordered from Hartford. The Funds may not
be available in all states.
    
 
   
    The investment objectives of each of the Funds are as follows:
    
 
   
 HARTFORD ADVISERS FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks maximum long-term total rate of return consistent with prudent
investment risk by investing in common stock and other equity securities, bonds
and other debt securities, and money market instruments.
    
 
   
 HARTFORD BOND FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks maximum current income consistent with preservation of capital by
investing primarily in fixed-income securities. Up to 20% of the total assets of
this Fund may be invested in debt securities rated in the highest category below
investment grade ("Ba" by Moody's or "BB" by S&P) or, if unrated, are determined
to be of comparable quality by the Fund's investment adviser. Securities rated
below investment grade are commonly referred to as "high yield-high risk
securities" or "junk bonds." For more information concerning the risks
associated with investing in such securities, please refer to the section in the
accompanying prospectus for the Hartford Funds entitled "Hartford Bond Fund,
Inc. -- Investment Policies."
    
 
   
 HARTFORD CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks growth of capital by investing in securities selected solely on the
basis of potential for capital appreciation; income, if any, is an incidental
consideration.
    
 
   
 HARTFORD DIVIDEND AND GROWTH FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks a high level of current income consistent with growth of capital and
reasonable investment risk.
    
 
   
 HARTFORD INDEX FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks to provide investment results which approximate the price and yield
performance of publicly-traded common stocks in the aggregate, as represented by
the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index.*
    
 
   
 HARTFORD INTERNATIONAL ADVISERS FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks maximum long-term total rate of return consistent with prudent
investment risk by investing in a portfolio of equity, debt and money market
securities. Securities in which the Fund invests primarily will be denominated
in non-U.S. currencies and will be traded in non-U.S. markets.
    
 
   
 HARTFORD INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks long-term total rate of return consistent with prudent investment risk
through investment primarily in equity securities issued by non-U.S. companies.
    
 
   
 HARTFORD MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks maximum current income consistent with safety of principal and
maintenance of liquidity by investing primarily in mortgage-related securities,
including securities issued by the Government National Mortgage Association.
    
 
   
 HARTFORD SMALL COMPANY FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks growth of capital by investing primarily in equity securities selected
on the basis of potential for capital appreciation.
    
 
   
 HARTFORD STOCK FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks long-term capital growth primarily through capital appreciation, with
income as a secondary consideration, by investing primarily in equity
securities.
    
 
   
 HVA MONEY MARKET FUND, INC.
    
 
   
    Seeks maximum current income consistent with liquidity and preservation of
capital.
    
 
   
 BB&T GROWTH AND INCOME FUND
    
 
   
    Seeks to achieve capital growth, current income or both primarily through
investment in stocks. Under normal market conditions, this Fund will invest at
least 65% of its total assets in stocks, which may include common stock,
preferred stock, warrants or debt instruments that are convertible to common
stock.
    
 
   
    VOTING RIGHTS -- Hartford is the legal owner of all Fund shares held in the
Separate Account. As the owner, Hartford has the right to vote at the Funds'
shareholder meetings. However, to the extent required by federal securities laws
or regulations, Hartford will:
    
 
   
* "STANDARD & POOR'S-REGISTERED TRADEMARK-," "S&P-REGISTERED TRADEMARK-," "S&P
  500-REGISTERED TRADEMARK-," "STANDARD & POOR'S 500," AND "500" ARE TRADEMARKS
  OF THE MCGRAW-HILL COMPANIES, INC. AND HAVE BEEN LICENSED FOR USE BY HARTFORD.
  THE INDEX FUND IS NOT SPONSORED, ENDORSED, SOLD OR PROMOTED BY STANDARD &
  POOR'S AND STANDARD & POOR'S MAKES NO REPRESENTATION REGARDING THE
  ADVISABILITY OF INVESTING IN THE INDEX FUND.
    
<PAGE>
10                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
1.  Vote all Fund shares attributable to a Contract according to instructions
    received from the Contract Owner, and
    
 
   
2.  Vote shares attributable to a Contract for which no voting instructions are
    received in the same proportion as shares for which instructions are
    received.
    
 
   
    If any federal securities laws or regulations, or their present
interpretation change to permit Hartford to vote Fund shares in its own right,
Hartford may elect to do so.
    
 
   
    Hartford will notify you of any Fund shareholders' meeting if the shares
held for your account may be voted at such meetings. Hartford will send proxy
materials and a form of instruction by means of which you can instruct Hartford
with respect to the voting of the Fund shares held for your account.
    
 
   
    In connection with the voting of Fund shares held by it, Hartford will
arrange for the handling and tallying of proxies received from Contract Owners.
Hartford as such, shall have no right, except as hereinafter provided, to vote
any Fund shares held by it hereunder which may be registered in its name or the
names of its nominees. Hartford will, however, vote the Fund shares held by it
in accordance with the instructions received from the Contract Owners for whose
accounts the Fund shares are held. If a Contract Owner desires to attend any
meeting at which shares held for the Contract Owner's benefit may be voted, the
Contract Owner may request Hartford to furnish a proxy or otherwise arrange for
the exercise of voting rights with respect to the Fund shares held for such
Contract Owner's account. Hartford will vote shares for which no instructions
have been given and shares which are not attributable to Contract Owners (i.e.
shares owned by Hartford) in the same proportion as it votes shares of that Fund
for which it has received instructions. During the Annuity period under a
Contract the number of votes will decrease as the assets held to fund Annuity
benefits decrease.
    
 
   
    The Funds are available only to serve as the underlying investment for
variable annuity and variable life insurance Contracts issued by Hartford. It is
conceivable that in the future it may be disadvantageous for variable annuity
separate accounts and variable life insurance separate accounts to invest in the
Funds simultaneously. Although Hartford and the Funds do not currently foresee
any such disadvantages either to variable annuity Contract Owners or to variable
life insurance Policy Owners, the Funds' Board of Directors intends to monitor
events in order to identify any material conflicts between such Contract Owners
and Policy Owners and to determine what action, if any, should be taken in
response thereto. If the Board of Directors of the Funds were to conclude that
separate funds should be established for variable life and variable annuity
separate accounts, the variable annuity Contract Owners would not bear any
expenses attendant to the establishment of such separate funds.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                               THE FIXED ACCOUNT
 
   
    THAT PORTION OF THE CONTRACT RELATING TO THE FIXED ACCOUNT IS NOT REGISTERED
UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 ("1933 ACT") AND THE FIXED ACCOUNT IS NOT
REGISTERED AS AN INVESTMENT COMPANY UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
("1940 ACT"). ACCORDINGLY, NEITHER THE FIXED ACCOUNT NOR ANY INTERESTS THEREIN
ARE SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OR RESTRICTIONS OF THE 1933 ACT OR THE 1940 ACT,
AND THE DISCLOSURE REGARDING THE FIXED ACCOUNT HAS NOT BEEN REVIEWED BY THE
STAFF OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THE FOLLOWING DISCLOSURE ABOUT
THE FIXED ACCOUNT MAY BE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN GENERALLY APPLICABLE PROVISIONS OF
THE FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS REGARDING THE ACCURACY AND COMPLETENESS OF
DISCLOSURE.
    
 
   
    Premium Payments and Contract Values allocated to the Fixed Account become a
part of the general assets of Hartford. Hartford invests the assets of the
General Account in accordance with applicable law governing the investments of
Insurance Company General Accounts.
    
 
   
    Currently, Hartford guarantees that it will credit interest at a rate of not
less than 3% per year, compounded annually, to amounts allocated to the Fixed
Account under the Contracts. However, Hartford reserves the right to change the
rate according to state insurance law. Hartford may credit interest at a rate in
excess of 3% per year. There is no specific formula for the determination of
excess interest credits. Some of the factors that the Company may consider in
determining whether to credit excess interest to amounts allocated to the Fixed
Account and the amount thereof, are general economic trends, rates of return
currently available and anticipated on the Company's investments, regulatory and
tax requirements and competitive factors. ANY INTEREST CREDITED TO AMOUNTS
ALLOCATED TO THE FIXED ACCOUNT IN EXCESS OF 3% PER YEAR WILL BE DETERMINED IN
THE SOLE DISCRETION OF THE COMPANY. THE OWNER ASSUMES THE RISK THAT INTEREST
CREDITED TO FIXED ACCOUNT ALLOCATIONS MAY NOT EXCEED THE MINIMUM GUARANTEE OF 3%
FOR ANY GIVEN YEAR.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                        PERFORMANCE RELATED INFORMATION
 
   
    The Separate Account may advertise certain performance related information
concerning its Sub-Accounts. Performance information about a Sub-Account is
based on
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               11
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
the Sub-Account's past performance only and is no indication of future
performance.
    
 
   
    The Hartford Advisers Fund, Hartford Bond Fund, Hartford Capital
Appreciation Fund, Inc., Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund, Hartford Index Fund,
Hartford International Advisers Fund, Hartford International Opportunities Fund,
Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Hartford Small Company Fund, Hartford Stock
Fund, HVA Money Market Fund and BB&T Growth and Income Fund Sub-Accounts may
include total return in advertisements or other sales material.
    
 
   
    When a Sub-Account advertises its standardized total return, it will usually
be calculated for one year, five years, and ten years or some other relevant
periods if the Sub-Account has not been in existence for at least ten years.
Total return is measured by comparing the value of an investment in the
Sub-Account at the beginning of the relevant period to the value of the
investment at the end of the period (assuming the deduction of any contingent
deferred sales charge which would be payable if the investment were redeemed at
the end of the period).
    
 
   
    In addition to the standardized total return, the Sub-Account may advertise
a non-standardized total return. This figure will usually be calculated for one
year, five years, and ten years or other periods. Non-standardized total return
is measured in the same manner as the standardized total return described above,
except that the contingent deferred sales charge and the Annual Maintenance Fee
are not deducted. Therefore, non-standardized total return for a Sub-Account is
higher than standardized total return for a Sub-Account.
    
 
   
    The Hartford Bond Fund, Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund and BB&T Growth
and Income Fund Sub-Accounts may advertise yield in addition to total return.
The yield will be computed in the following manner: The net investment income
per unit earned during a recent one month period, divided by the unit value on
the last day of the period. This figure reflects the recurring charges at the
Separate Account level including the annual maintenance fee.
    
 
   
    The HVA Money Market Fund Sub-Account may advertise yield and effective
yield. The yield of a Sub-Account is based upon the income earned by the
Sub-Account 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 Sub-Account units and thus compounded in the course of a
52-week period. Yield and effective yield reflect the recurring charges at the
Separate Account level including the annual maintenance fee.
    
 
   
    The Separate Account may also disclose yield, standard total return, and
non-standard total return for periods prior to the date the Separate Account
commenced operations. For periods prior to the date the Separate Account
commenced operations, performance information for the Sub-Accounts will be
calculated based on the performance of the underlying Funds and the assumption
that the Sub-Accounts were in existence for the same periods as those of the
underlying Funds, with a level of charges equal to those currently assessed
against the Sub-Accounts.
    
 
   
    Hartford may provide information on various topics to Contract Owners and
prospective Contract Owners in advertising, sales literature or other materials.
These topics may include the relationship between sectors of the economy and the
economy as a whole and its effect on various securities markets, investment
strategies and techniques (such as value investing, dollar cost averaging and
asset allocation), the advantages and disadvantages of investing in tax-
advantaged and taxable instruments, customer profiles and hypothetical purchase
scenarios, financial management and tax and retirement planning, and other
investment alternatives, including comparisons between the Contracts and the
characteristics of and market for such alternatives.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                                 THE CONTRACTS
 
   
- --------------------------------
    
                               CONTRACTS OFFERED
 
   
    The Contracts are individual or group tax-deferred Variable Annuity
Contracts designed for retirement planning purposes and may be purchased by any
individual, group or trust, including any trustee or custodian for a retirement
plan qualified under Sections 401(a) or 403(a) of the Code; annuity purchase
plans adopted by public school systems and certain tax-exempt organizations
according to Section 403(b) of the Code; Individual Retirement Annuities adopted
according to Section 408 of the Code; employee pension plans established for
employees by a state, a political subdivision of a state, or an agency or
instrumentality of either a state or a political subdivision of a state, and
certain eligible deferred compensation plans as defined in Section 457 of the
Code ("Qualified Contracts").
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                    PREMIUM PAYMENTS AND INITIAL ALLOCATIONS
 
   
    The minimum initial Premium Payment is $1,000. Thereafter, the minimum
Premium Payment is $500. Certain plans may make smaller periodic payments. Each
Premium Payment may be split among the various Sub-Accounts and/or the Fixed
Account subject to minimum amounts then in effect.
    
 
   
    REFUND RIGHTS -- If you are not satisfied with your purchase you may cancel
the Contract by returning it within ten days (or longer in some states) after
you receive it. A
    
<PAGE>
12                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
written request for cancellation must accompany the Contract. In such event,
Hartford will, without deduction for any charges normally assessed thereunder,
pay you an amount equal to the Contract Value on the date of receipt of the
request for cancellation. You bear the investment risk during the period prior
to the Company's receipt of request for cancellation. Hartford will refund the
premium paid only for individual retirement annuities (if returned within seven
days of receipt) and in those states where required by law.
    
 
   
    CREDITING AND VALUATION -- The balance of the initial Premium Payment
remaining after the deduction of any applicable Premium Tax is credited to your
Contract within two business days of receipt of a properly completed application
or an order to purchase a Contract and the initial Premium Payment by Hartford
at its Home Office, P.O. Box 5085, Hartford, CT 06102-5085. It will be credited
to the Sub-Account(s) and/or the Fixed Account in accordance with your election.
If the application or other information is incomplete when received, the balance
of the initial Premium Payment, after deduction of any applicable Premium Tax,
will be credited to the Sub-Account(s) or the Fixed Account within five business
days of receipt. If the initial Premium Payment is not credited within five
business days, the Premium Payment will be immediately returned unless you have
been informed of the delay and request that the Premium Payment not be returned.
    
 
   
    The number of Accumulation Units in each Sub-Account to be credited to a
Contract will be determined by dividing the portion of the Premium Payment being
credited to each Sub-Account by the value of an Accumulation Unit in that
Sub-Account on that date.
    
 
   
    Subsequent Premium Payments are priced on the Valuation Day received by
Hartford in its Home Office, or other designated administrative offices.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                                 CONTRACT VALUE
 
   
    The value of the Sub-Account investments under your Contract at any time
prior to the commencement of Annuity payments can be determined by multiplying
the total number of Accumulation Units credited to your Contract in each
Sub-Account by the then current Accumulation Unit values for the applicable
Sub-Account. The value of the Fixed Account under your Contract will be the
amount allocated to the Fixed Account plus interest credited.
    
 
   
    You will be advised at least semiannually of the number of Accumulation
Units credited to each Sub-Account, the current Accumulation Unit values, the
Fixed Account value, and the total value of your Contract.
    
 
   
    ACCUMULATION UNIT VALUES -- The Accumulation Unit value for each Sub-Account
will vary to reflect the investment experience of the applicable Fund and will
be determined on each Valuation Day by multiplying the Accumulation Unit value
of the particular Sub-Account on the preceding Valuation Day by a "Net
Investment Factor" for that Sub-Account for the Valuation Period then ended. The
"Net Investment Factor" for each of the Sub-Accounts is equal to (a) the net
asset value per share of the corresponding Fund at the end of the Valuation
Period (plus the per share amount of any dividends or capital gains distributed
by that Fund if the ex-dividend date occurs in the Valuation Period then ended)
divided by the net asset value per share of the corresponding Fund at the
beginning of the Valuation Period, (b) minus the mortality and expense risk
charge and the administration charge described below. You should refer to the
prospectus for each of the Funds which accompanies this Prospectus for a
description of how the assets of each Fund are valued since each determination
has a direct bearing on the Accumulation Unit value of the Sub-Account and
therefore the value of a Contract. The Accumulation Unit Value is affected by
the performance of the underlying Fund(s), expenses and deduction of the charges
described in this Prospectus.
    
 
   
    VALUATION OF FUND SHARES -- The shares of the Fund are valued at net asset
value on each Valuation Day. A complete description of the valuation method used
in valuing Fund shares may be found in the accompanying Funds' prospectus.
    
 
   
    VALUATION OF THE FIXED ACCOUNT -- Hartford will determine the value of the
Fixed Account by crediting interest to amounts allocated to the Fixed Account.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                  TRANSFERS BETWEEN SUB-ACCOUNTS/FIXED ACCOUNT
 
   
    You may transfer the values of your Sub-Account allocations from one or more
Sub-Accounts to another free of charge. However, Hartford reserves the right to
limit the number of transfers to twelve (12) per Contract Year, with no two (2)
transfers occurring on consecutive Valuation Days. Transfers by telephone may be
made by a Contract Owner or by the attorney-in-fact pursuant to a power of
attorney by calling (800) 862-6668 or by the agent of record by calling (800)
862-7155. Telephone transfers may not be permitted by some states for their
residents who purchase variable annuities.
    
 
   
    The policy of Hartford and its agents and affiliates is that they will not
be responsible for losses resulting from acting upon telephone requests
reasonably believed to be genuine. Hartford will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that instructions communicated by telephone are genuine; otherwise,
Hartford may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent
instructions. The procedures Hartford follows for transactions initiated by
telephone include requirements that callers provide certain
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               13
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
information for identification purposes. All transfer instructions by telephone
are tape recorded.
    
 
   
    Hartford may permit the Contract Owner to preauthorize transfers among Sub-
Accounts and between Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account under certain
circumstances. Transfers between the Sub-Accounts may be made both before and
after Annuity payments commence (limited to once a quarter) provided that the
minimum allocation to any Sub-Account may not be less than $500. No minimum
balance is required in any Sub-Account.
    
 
   
    It is the responsibility of the Contract Owner or Participant to verify the
accuracy of all confirmations of transfers and to promptly advise Hartford of
any inaccuracies within one business day of receipt of the confirmation.
Hartford will send the Contract Owner a confirmation of the transfer within five
days from the date of any instruction.
    
 
   
    Transfers from the Fixed Account into a Sub-Account may be made at any time
during the Contract Year. The maximum amount which may be transferred from the
Fixed Account during any Contract Year is the greater of 30% of the Fixed
Account balance as of the last Contract Anniversary or the greatest amount of
any prior transfer from the Fixed Account. If Hartford permits preauthorized
transfers from the Fixed Account to the Sub-Accounts, this restriction is
inapplicable. Also, if any interest rate is renewed at a rate of at least one
percentage point less than the previous rate, the Contract Owner may elect to
transfer up to 100% of the funds receiving the reduced rate within 60 days of
notification of the interest rate decrease. Generally, transfers may not be made
from any Sub-Account into the Fixed Account for the six-month period following
any transfer from the Fixed Account into one or more of the Sub-Accounts.
Hartford reserves the right to modify the limitations on transfers from the
Fixed Account and to defer transfers from the Fixed Account for up to six months
from the date of request.
    
 
   
    Subject to the exceptions set forth in the following two paragraphs, the
right to reallocate Contract Values is subject to modification if Hartford
determines, in its sole opinion, that the exercise of that right by one or more
Contract Owners is, or would be, to the disadvantage of other Contract Owners.
Any modification could be applied to transfers to or from some or all of the
Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account and could include, but not be limited to, the
requirement of a minimum time period between each transfer, not accepting
transfer requests of an agent acting under a power of attorney on behalf of more
than one Contract Owner, or limiting the dollar amount that may be transferred
between the Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account by a Contract Owner at any one
time. Such restrictions may be applied in any manner reasonably designed to
prevent any use of the transfer right which is considered by Hartford to be to
the disadvantage of other Contract Owners.
    
 
   
    For Contracts issued in the State of New York, the reservation of rights set
forth in the preceding paragraph is limited to (i) requiring up to a maximum of
10 Valuation Days between each transfer: (ii) limiting the amount to be
transferred on any one Valuation Day to no more than $2 million; and (iii) upon
30 days prior written notice, to only accepting transfer instructions from the
Contract Owner and not from the Contract Owner's representative, agent or person
acting under a power of attorney for the Contract Owner.
    
 
   
    Currently, and with respect to Contracts issued in all states, the only
restriction in effect is that Hartford will not accept instructions from agents
acting under a power of attorney of multiple Contract Owners whose accounts
aggregate more than $2 million, unless the agent has entered into a third party
transfer services agreement with Hartford.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                          CHARGES UNDER THE CONTRACTS
 
   
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGES
    
 
   
    There is no deduction for sales expenses from Premium Payments when made.
However, a contingent deferred sales charge may be assessed against Contract
Values when they are surrendered. The length of time from receipt of a Premium
Payment to the time of surrender determines the contingent deferred sales
charge. Premium payments will be deemed to be surrendered in the order in which
they were received.
    
 
   
    A Contract Owner who chooses to surrender a Contract in full who has not yet
withdrawn the Annual Withdrawal Amount during the current Contract Year (as
described at page 14 below under the sub-heading "Payments Not Subject to Sales
Charges") may, depending upon the amount of investment gain experienced under
the Contract, reduce the amount of any contingent deferred sales charge paid by
first withdrawing the Annual Withdrawal Amount and then requesting a full
surrender of the Contract. Currently, regardless of whether a Contract Owner
first requests a partial withdrawal of the Annual Withdrawal Amount, upon
receiving a request for a full surrender of a Contract, Hartford assesses any
applicable contingent deferred sales charge against the surrender proceeds
representing the lesser of: (1) aggregate Premium Payments not previously
withdrawn; and (2) the Contract Value, less the Annual Withdrawal Amount
available at the time of the full surrender, less the Annual Maintenance Fee.
    
 
   
PAYMENTS SUBJECT TO SALES CHARGES DURING THE FIRST SEVEN CONTRACT YEARS
    
 
   
    During the first seven Contract years, a contingent deferred sales charge
will be assessed against the surrender of the Premium Payments. All surrenders
will be first from Premium Payments and then from other Contract Values.
    
<PAGE>
14                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
AFTER THE SEVENTH CONTRACT YEAR
    
 
   
    After the seventh Contract year, all surrenders will first be from earnings
and then from premium payments. A contingent deferred sales charge will not be
assessed against the surrender of earnings. If an amount equal to all earnings
has been surrendered, a contingent deferred sales charge will not be assessed
against premium payments received more than seven years prior to surrender, but
will be assessed against premium payments received less than seven years prior
to surrender.
    
 
   
    The charge is a percentage of the amount withdrawn (not to exceed the
aggregate amount of the Premium Payments made) and equals: Length of Time from
Premium Payment Charge(Number of Years)
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                 LENGTH OF TIME
  CHARGE      FROM PREMIUM PAYMENT
- -----------  -----------------------
<S>          <C>
                (NUMBER OF YEARS)
        6%                  1
        6%                  2
        5%                  3
        5%                  4
        4%                  5
        3%                  6
        2%                  7
        0%          8 or more
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    PAYMETS NOT SUBJECT TO SALES CHARGES -- During the first seven Contract
Years, on a non-cumulative basis, a Contract Owner may make a partial surrender
of Contract Values of up to 10% of the aggregate Premium Payments made to the
Contract (as determined on the date of the requested withdrawal) without the
application of the contingent deferred sales charge. After the seventh Contract
year, the Contract Owner may make a partial surrender of 10% of premium payments
made during the seven years prior to the surrender and 100% of the Contract
Value less the premium payments made during the seven years prior to the
surrender. The amount which can be withdrawn in any Contract Year prior to
incurring sales charges is the "Annual Withdrawal Amount." An Extended
Withdrawal Privilege rider allows an Annuitant who attains age 70 1/2 under a
Qualified Plan to withdraw an amount in excess of the Annual Withdrawal Amount
to comply with IRS minimum distribution rules.
    
 
   
    Certain plans or programs may have different withdrawal privileges. Any such
withdrawal will be deemed to be from Contract Values other than Premium
Payments. From time to time, Hartford may permit the Contract Owner to
preauthorize partial surrenders subject to certain limitations then in effect.
Additional surrenders or any surrender of the Contract Values in excess of such
amount in any Contract Year during the period when contingent deferred sales
charges are applicable will be subject to the appropriate charge.
    
 
   
    No contingent deferred sales charges otherwise applicable will be assessed
in the event of death of the Annuitant, death of the Contract Owner or if
payments are made under an Annuity option (other than a surrender out of Option
4) provided for under the Contract.
    
 
   
    PURPOSE OF SALES CHARGES -- The contingent deferred sales charges are used
to cover expenses relating to the sale and distribution of the Contracts,
including commissions paid to any distribution organization and its sales
personnel, the cost of preparing sales literature and other promotional
activities. To the extent that these charges do not cover such distribution
expenses they will be borne by Hartford from its general assets, including
surplus. The surplus might include profits resulting from unused mortality and
expense risk charges.
    
 
   
    MORTALITY AND EXPENSE RISK CHARGE -- Although Variable Annuity payments made
under the Contracts will vary in accordance with the investment performance of
the underlying Fund shares held in the Sub-Account(s), the payments will not be
affected by (a) Hartford's actual mortality experience among Annuitants before
or after the Annuity Commencement Date or (b) Hartford's actual expenses, if
greater than the deductions provided for in the Contracts because of the expense
and mortality undertakings by Hartford.
    
 
   
    For assuming these risks under the Contracts, Hartford will make a daily
charge at the rate of 1.25% per annum against all Contract Values held in the
Sub-Accounts during the life of the Contract (estimated at .90% for mortality
and .35% for expense).
    
 
   
    The mortality undertakings provided by Hartford under the Contracts,
assuming the selection of one of the forms of life Annuities, is to make monthly
Annuity payments (determined in accordance with the 1983a Individual Annuity
Mortality Table and other provisions contained in the Contract) to Annuitants
regardless of how long an Annuitant may live, and regardless of how long all
Annuitants as a group may live. Hartford also assumes the liability for payment
of a minimum Death Benefit under the Contract.
    
 
   
    The mortality undertakings are based on Hartford's determination of expected
mortality rates among all Annuitants. If actual experience among Annuitants
during the Annuity payment period deviates from Hartford's actuarial
determination of expected mortality rates among Annuitants because, as a group,
their longevity is longer than anticipated, Hartford must provide amounts from
its general funds to fulfill its Contract obligations. Hartford will bear the
loss in such a situation. Also, in the event of the death of an Annuitant or
Contract Owner before the commencement of Annuity payments, whichever is
earlier, Hartford can, in periods of declining value or in periods where the
contingent deferred sales loads would have been
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               15
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
applicable, experience a loss resulting from the assumption of the mortality
risk relative to the guaranteed Death Benefit.
    
 
   
    In providing an expense undertaking, Hartford assumes the risk that the
contingent deferred sales charges and the Annual Maintenance Fee for maintaining
the Contracts prior to the Annuity Commencement Date may be insufficient to
cover the actual cost of providing such items.
    
 
   
    ANNUAL MAINTENANCE FEE -- Each year, on each Contract Anniversary on or
before the Annuity Commencement Date, Hartford will deduct an Annual Maintenance
Fee, if applicable, from Contract Values to reimburse it for expenses relating
to the maintenance of the Contract, the Fixed Account, and the Sub-Account(s)
thereunder. If during a Contract Year the Contract is surrendered for its full
value, Hartford will deduct the Annual Maintenance Fee at the time of such
surrender. The fee is a flat fee which will be due in the full amount regardless
of the time of the Contract Year that Contract Values are surrendered. The
Annual Maintenance Fee is $30.00 per Contract Year for Contracts with less than
$50,000 Contract Value on the Contract Anniversary. The deduction will be made
pro rata according to the value in each Sub-Account and the Fixed Account under
a Contract.
    
 
   
    PREMIUM TAXES -- A deduction is also made for Premium Tax, if applicable,
imposed by a state or other governmental entity. Certain states impose a Premium
Tax, currently ranging up to 3.5%. Some states assess the tax at the time
purchase payments are made; others assess the tax at the time of annuitization.
Hartford will pay Premium Taxes at the time imposed under applicable law. At its
sole discretion, Hartford may deduct Premium Taxes at the time Hartford pays
such taxes to the applicable taxing authorities, at the time the Contract is
surrendered, or at the time the Contract annuitizes.
    
 
   
    EXCEPTIONS -- Hartford may offer, in its discretion, reduced fees and
charges including, but not limited to, the contingent deferred sales charges,
the mortality and expense risk charge and the maintenance fee for certain sales
(including employer sponsored savings plans) under circumstances which may
result in savings of certain costs and expenses. Reductions in these fees and
charges will not be unfairly discriminatory against any Contract Owner.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                                 DEATH BENEFITS
 
   
    The Contract provides that, in the event the Annuitant dies before the
selected Annuity Commencement Date, the Contingent Annuitant will become the
Annuitant. If (1) the Annuitant dies before the Annuity Commencement Date and
either (a) there is no designated Contingent Annuitant or (b) the Contingent
Annuitant predeceases the Annuitant, or (2) if any Contract Owner dies before
the Annuity Commencement Date, the Beneficiary as determined under the Contract
Control Provisions, will receive the Death Benefit as determined on the date of
receipt of due proof of death by Hartford in its Home Office. With regard to
Joint Contract Owners, at the first death of a joint Contract Owner prior to the
Annuity Commencement Date, the Beneficiary will be the surviving Contract Owner
notwithstanding that the beneficiary designation may be different.
    
 
   
    GUARANTEED DEATH BENEFIT -- If the Annuitant dies before the Annuity
Commencement Date and there is no designated Contingent Annuitant surviving, or
if the Contract Owner dies before the Annuity Commencement Date, the Beneficiary
will receive the greatest of (a) the Contract Value determined as of the day
written proof of death of such person is received by Hartford, or (b) 100% of
the total Premium Payments made to such Contract, reduced by the dollar amount
of any partial surrenders since the issue date, or (c) the Maximum Anniversary
Value immediately preceding the date of death. The Maximum Anniversary Value is
equal to the greatest Anniversary Value attained from the following:
    
 
   
    As of the date of receipt of due proof of death, the Company will calculate
an Anniversary Value for each Contract Anniversary prior to the deceased's
attained age 81. The Anniversary Value is equal to the Contract Value on a
Contract Anniversary, increased by the dollar amount of any premium payments
made since that anniversary and reduced by the dollar amount of any partial
surrenders since that anniversary.
    
 
   
    If the Annuitant or Contract Owner, as applicable, dies after the Annuity
Commencement Date, then the Death Benefit will equal the present value of any
remaining payments under the elected Annuity Option. In computing such present
value for the portion of such remaining payments attributable to the Separate
Account, Hartford will assume a net investment rate of 5.0% per year.
    
 
   
    PAYMENT OF DEATH BENEFIT -- Death Benefit proceeds will remain invested in
the Separate Account in accordance with the allocation instructions given by the
Contract Owner until the proceeds are paid or Hartford receives new instructions
from the Beneficiary. The Death Benefit may be taken in one sum, payable within
seven days after the date Due Proof of Death is received, or under any of the
settlement options then being offered by the Company provided, however, that:
(a) in the event of the death of any Contract Owner prior to the Annuity
Commencement Date, the entire interest in the Contract will be distributed
within five years after the death of the Contract Owner and (b) in the event of
the death of any Contract Owner or Annuitant which occurs on or after the
Annuity Commencement Date, any remaining interest in the Contract will be paid
at least as rapidly as under the method of distribution in effect at the time of
death, or, if the benefit is payable over a period not extending beyond the life
expectancy of the Beneficiary or
    
<PAGE>
16                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
over the life of the Beneficiary, such distribution must commence within one
year of the date of death. The proceeds due on the death may be applied to
provide variable payments, fixed payments, or a combination of variable and
fixed payments. However, in the event of the Contract Owner's death where the
sole Beneficiary is the spouse of the Contract Owner and the Annuitant or
Contingent Annuitant is living, such spouse may elect, in lieu of receiving the
death benefit, to be treated as the Contract Owner. The Contract Value and the
Maximum Anniversary Value of the Contract will be unaffected by treating the
spouse as the Contract Owner.
    
 
   
    If the Contract is owned by a corporation or other non-individual, the Death
Benefit payable upon the death of the Annuitant prior to the Annuity
Commencement Date will be payable only as one sum or under the same settlement
options and in the same manner as if an individual Contract Owner died on the
date of the Annuitant's death.
    
 
   
    There may be postponement in the payment of Death Benefits whenever (a) the
New York Stock Exchange is closed, except for holidays or weekends, or trading
on the New York Stock Exchange is restricted as determined by the Commission;
(b) the Commission permits postponement and so orders; or (c) the Commission
determines that an emergency exists making valuation of the amounts or disposal
of securities not reasonably practicable.
    
 
   
    GROUP UNALLOCATED CONTRACTS -- Hartford requires that detailed accounting of
cumulative purchase payments, cumulative gross surrenders, and current Contract
Value attached to each Plan Participant be submitted on an annual basis by the
Contract Owner. Failure to submit accurate data satisfactory to Hartford will
give Hartford the right to terminate this extension of benefits.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                               SURRENDER BENEFITS
 
   
    FULL SURRENDERS -- At any time prior to the Annuity Commencement Date (and
after the Annuity Commencement Date with respect to values applied to Option 4
or 5), the Contract Owner has the right to terminate the Contract. In such
event, the Termination Value of the Contract may be taken in the form of a lump
sum cash settlement.
    
 
   
    Under any of the Annuity options excluding Options 4 and 5, no surrenders
are permitted after Annuity payments commence. Only full surrenders are allowed
out of Option 4 and any such surrender will be subject to contingent deferred
sales charges, if applicable. Full or partial withdrawals may be made from
Option 5 at any time and contingent deferred sales charges will not be applied.
    
 
   
    The Termination Value of the Contract is equal to the Contract Value less
any applicable Premium Taxes, the Annual Maintenance Fee if applicable and any
applicable contingent deferred sales charges. The Termination Value may be more
or less than the amount of the Premium Payments made to a Contract.
    
 
   
    PARTIAL SURRENDERS -- The Contract Owner may make a partial surrender of
Contract Values at any time prior to the Annuity Commencement Date so long as
the amount surrendered is at least equal to the minimum amount rules then in
effect. Additionally, if the remaining Contract Value following a surrender is
less than $500 ($1,000 in New York), Hartford will terminate the Contract and
pay the Termination Value. For Contracts issued in Texas, there is an additional
requirement that the Contract will not be terminated when the remaining Contract
Value after a surrender is less than $500 unless there were no Premium Payments
made during the previous two Contract Years.
    
 
   
    In requesting a partial withdrawal you should specify the Sub-Account(s)
and/or the Fixed Account from which the partial withdrawal is to be taken.
Otherwise, such withdrawal and any applicable contingent deferred sales charges
will be effected on a pro rata basis according to the value in the Fixed Account
and each Sub-Account under a Contract.
    
 
   
    Hartford may permit the Contract Owner to preauthorize partial surrenders
subject to certain limitations then in effect.
    
 
   
    PAYMENT OF SURRENDER BENEFITS -- Payment on any request for a full or
partial surrender from the Sub-Accounts will be made as soon as possible and in
any event no later than seven days after the written request is received by
Hartford at its Home Office, Attn: Individual Annuity Services, P.O. Box 5085,
Hartford, CT 06102-5085. Hartford may defer payment of any amounts from the
Fixed Account for up to six months from the date of the request for surrender.
If Hartford defers payment for more than 30 days (10 working days in New York),
Hartford will pay interest of at least 3% per annum on the amount deferred.
    
 
   
    There may be postponement in the payment of Surrender Benefits whenever (a)
the New York Stock Exchange is closed, except for holidays or weekends, or
trading on the New York Stock Exchange is restricted as determined by the
Commission; (b) the Commission permits postponement and so orders; or (c) the
Commission determines that an emergency exists making valuation of the amounts
or disposal of securities not reasonably practicable.
    
 
   
    CERTAIN QUALIFIED CONTRACT SURRENDERS -- THERE ARE CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS ON
SECTION 403(B) TAX SHELTERED ANNUITIES. AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1988, ALL SECTION
403(B) ANNUITIES HAVE LIMITS ON FULL AND PARTIAL SURRENDERS. CONTRIBUTIONS TO
THE CONTRACT MADE AFTER DECEMBER 31, 1988 AND ANY INCREASES IN CASH VALUE AFTER
DECEMBER 31, 1988 MAY NOT BE DISTRIBUTED UNLESS THE CONTRACT OWNER/
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               17
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
EMPLOYEE HAS A) ATTAINED AGE 59 1/2, B) SEPARATED FROM SERVICE, C) DIED, D)
BECOME DISABLED OR E) EXPERIENCED FINANCIAL HARDSHIP. (CASH VALUE INCREASES MAY
NOT BE DISTRIBUTED PRIOR TO AGE 59 1/2 FOR HARDSHIPS.)
    
 
   
    DISTRIBUTIONS PRIOR TO AGE 59 1/2 DUE TO FINANCIAL HARDSHIP OR SEPARATION
FROM SERVICE MAY STILL BE SUBJECT TO A PENALTY TAX OF 10%.
    
 
   
    HARTFORD WILL NOT ASSUME ANY RESPONSIBILITY IN DETERMINING WHETHER A
WITHDRAWAL IS PERMISSIBLE, WITH OR WITHOUT TAX PENALTY, IN ANY PARTICULAR
SITUATION; OR IN MONITORING WITHDRAWAL REQUESTS REGARDING PRE OR POST JANUARY 1,
1989 ACCOUNT VALUES.
    
 
   
    ANY SUCH FULL OR PARTIAL SURRENDER DESCRIBED ABOVE MAY AFFECT THE CONTINUING
TAX QUALIFIED STATUS OF SOME CONTRACTS OR PLANS AND MAY RESULT IN ADVERSE TAX
CONSEQUENCES TO THE CONTRACT OWNER. THE CONTRACT OWNER, THEREFORE, SHOULD
CONSULT WITH HIS TAX ADVISER BEFORE UNDERTAKING ANY SUCH SURRENDER. (SEE
"FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS" COMMENCING ON PAGE 19.)
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                                ANNUITY BENEFITS
 
   
    You select an Annuity Commencement Date and an Annuity option which may be
on a fixed or variable basis, or a combination thereof. The Annuity Commencement
Date will not be deferred beyond the Annuitant's 90th birthday (85th birthday in
some states, 100th birthday if sold as part of a Charitable Remainder Trust).
The Annuity Commencement Date and/or the Annuity option may be changed from time
to time, but any change must be at least 30 days prior to the date on which
Annuity payments are scheduled to begin. The Contract allows the Contract Owner
to change the Sub-Accounts on which variable payments are based after payments
have commenced once every three months. Any Fixed Annuity allocation may not be
changed.
    
 
   
ANNUITY OPTIONS
    
 
   
    The Contract contains the five optional Annuity forms described below.
Options 2, 4, and 5 are available to Qualified Contracts only if the guaranteed
payment period is less than the life expectancy of the Annuitant at the time the
option becomes effective. Such life expectancy shall be computed on the basis of
the mortality table prescribed by the IRS, or if none is prescribed, the
mortality table then in use by Hartford. With respect to Non-Qualified
Contracts, if you do not elect otherwise, payments in most states will
automatically begin at the Annuitant's age 90 (with the exception of states that
do not allow deferral past age 85) under Option 2 with 120 monthly payments
certain. For Qualified Contracts and Contracts issued in Texas, if you do not
elect otherwise, payments will begin automatically at the Annuitant's age 90
under Option 1 to provide a life Annuity. After the Annuity Commencement Date,
the Annuity option elected may not be changed.
    
 
   
    Under any of the Annuity options excluding Options 4 and 5, no surrenders
are permitted after Annuity payments commence. Only full surrenders are allowed
out of Option 4 and any such surrender will be subject to contingent deferred
sales charges, if applicable. Full or partial withdrawals may be made from
Option 5 at any time and contingent deferred sales charges will not be applied.
    
 
   
    OPTION 1 -- Life Annuity
    
 
   
    A life Annuity is an Annuity payable during the lifetime of the Annuitant
and terminating with the last payment due preceding the death of the Annuitant.
This option offers the largest payment amount of any of the life Annuity options
since there is no guarantee of a minimum number of payments nor a provision for
a Death Benefit payable to a Beneficiary.
    
 
   
    It would be possible under this option for an Annuitant to receive only one
Annuity payment if he died prior to the due date of the second Annuity payment,
two if he died before the date of the third Annuity payment, etc.
    
 
   
    OPTION 2 -- Life Annuity with 120, 180 or 240 Monthly Payments Certain
    
 
   
    This Annuity option is an Annuity payable monthly during the lifetime of an
Annuitant with the provision that payments will be made for a minimum of 120,
180 or 240 months, as elected. If, at the death of the Annuitant, payments have
been made for less than the minimum elected number of months, then the present
value as of the date of the Annuitant's death, of any remaining guaranteed
payments will be paid in one sum to the Beneficiary or Beneficiaries designated
unless other provisions have been made and approved by Hartford.
    
 
   
    OPTION 3 -- Joint and Last Survivor Annuity
    
 
   
    An Annuity payable monthly during the joint lifetime of the Annuitant and a
designated second person, and thereafter during the remaining lifetime of the
survivor, ceasing with the last payment prior to the death of the survivor.
Based on the options currently offered by Hartford, the Annuitant may elect that
the payment to the survivor be less than the payment made during the joint
lifetime of the Annuitant and a designated second person.
    
 
   
    It would be possible under this option for an Annuitant and designated
second person to receive only one payment in the event of the common or
simultaneous death of the parties prior to the due date for the second payment
and so on.
    
<PAGE>
18                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    OPTION 4 -- Payments for a Designated Period
    
 
   
    An amount payable monthly for the number of years selected which may be from
5 to 30 years. Under this option, you may, at any time, surrender the Contract
and receive, within seven days, the Termination Value of the Contract as
determined by Hartford.
    
 
   
    In the event of the Annuitant's death prior to the end of the designated
period, the present value as of the date of the Annuitant's death, of any
remaining guaranteed payments will be paid in one sum to the Beneficiary or
Beneficiaries designated unless other provisions have been made and approved by
Hartford.
    
 
   
    Option 4 is an option that does not involve life contingencies and thus no
mortality guarantee. Charges made for the mortality undertaking under the
Contracts thus provide no real benefit to a Contract Owner.
    
 
   
    OPTION 5 -- Death Benefit Remaining with Hartford
    
 
   
    Proceeds from the Death Benefit may be left with Hartford for a period not
to exceed five years from the date of the Contract Owner's death prior to the
Annuity Commencement Date. These proceeds will remain in the Sub-Account(s) to
which they were allocated at the time of death unless the Beneficiary elects to
reallocate them. Full or partial withdrawals may be made at any time. In the
event of withdrawals, the remaining value will equal the Contract Value of the
proceeds left with Hartford, minus any withdrawals.
    
 
   
    Hartford may offer other annuity options from time to time.
    
 
   
    VARIABLE AND FIXED ANNUITY PAYMENTS -- When an Annuity is effected under a
Contract, unless otherwise specified, Contract Values (less applicable Premium
Taxes) held in the Sub-Accounts will be applied to provide a Variable Annuity
based on the pro rata amount in the various Sub-Accounts. Fixed Account Contract
Values will be applied to provide a Fixed Annuity. YOU SHOULD CONSIDER THE
QUESTION OF ALLOCATION OF CONTRACT VALUES (LESS APPLICABLE PREMIUM TAXES) AMONG
SUB-ACCOUNTS OF THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT AND THE GENERAL ACCOUNT OF HARTFORD TO MAKE
CERTAIN THAT ANNUITY PAYMENTS ARE BASED ON THE INVESTMENT ALTERNATIVE BEST
SUITED TO YOUR NEEDS FOR RETIREMENT.
    
 
   
    The minimum monthly Annuity payment is $50.00. No election may be made which
results in a first payment of less than $50.00. If at any time Annuity payments
are or become less than $50.00, Hartford has the right to change the frequency
of payment to intervals that will result in payments of at least $50.00. For New
York Contracts, the minimum monthly Annuity payment is $20.00.
    
 
   
    When Annuity payments are to commence, the value of the Contract is
determined as the sum of (1) the value of the Fixed Account no earlier than the
close of business on the fifth Valuation Day preceding the date the first
Annuity payment is due plus (2) the product of (a) the value of the Accumulation
Unit of each Sub-Account on that same day and (b) the number of Accumulation
Units credited to each Sub-Account as of the date the Annuity is to commence.
    
 
   
    The first payment under any option should be made on the 15th day of the
month immediately following approval of the claim for settlement. Subsequent
payments shall be made on the 15th day of each subsequent month in accordance
with the manner of payment selected.
    
 
   
    VARIABLE ANNUITY -- The Contract contains tables indicating the minimum
dollar amount of the first monthly payment under the optional variable forms of
Annuity for each $1,000 of value of a Sub-Account under a Contract. The first
monthly payment varies according to the form and type of Variable Payment
Annuity selected. The Contract contains Variable Payment Annuity tables derived
from the 1983a Individual Annuity Mortality Table with ages set back one year
and with an assumed investment rate ("A.I.R.") of 5% per annum. The total first
monthly Variable Annuity payment is determined by multiplying the value
(expressed in thousands of dollars) of a Sub-Account (less any applicable
Premium Taxes) by the amount of the first monthly payment per $1,000 of value
obtained from the tables in the Contracts.
    
 
   
    The amount of the first monthly Variable Annuity payment is divided by the
value of an Annuity Unit for the appropriate Sub-Account no earlier than the
close of business on the fifth Valuation Day preceding the day on which the
payment is due in order to determine the number of Annuity Units represented by
the first payment. This number of Annuity Units remains fixed during the Annuity
payment period, and in each subsequent month the dollar amount of the Variable
Annuity payment is determined by multiplying this fixed number of Annuity Units
by the then current Annuity Unit value.
    
 
   
    The value of the Annuity Unit for each Sub-Account in the Separate Account
for any day is determined by multiplying the value for the preceding day by the
product of (1) the net investment factor for the day for which the Annuity Unit
value is being calculated, and (2) a factor to neutralize the assumed investment
rate of 5.00% per annum. The Annuity Unit value used in calculating the amount
of the Variable Annuity payments will be based on an Annuity Unit value
determined as of the close of business on a day no earlier than the fifth
Valuation Day preceding the date of the Annuity payment.
    
 
   
    LEVEL VARIABLE ANNUITY PAYMENTS WOULD BE PRODUCED IF THE INVESTMENT RATE
REMAINED CONSTANT AND EQUAL TO THE A.I.R. IN
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               19
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
FACT, PAYMENTS WILL VARY UP OR DOWN AS THE INVESTMENT RATE VARIES UP OR DOWN
FROM THE A.I.R.
    
 
   
    FIXED ANNUITY -- Fixed Annuity payments are determined at annuitization by
multiplying the Contract Value (less applicable Premium Taxes) by a rate to be
determined by Hartford which is no less than the rate specified in the Fixed
Payment Annuity tables in the Contract. The Annuity payment will remain level
for the duration of the Annuity.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                               OTHER INFORMATION
 
   
    ASSIGNMENT -- Ownership of a Contract described herein is generally
assignable. However, if the Contracts are issued pursuant to some form of
Qualified Plan, it is possible that the ownership of the Contracts may not be
transferred or assigned depending on the type of tax-qualified retirement plan
involved. An assignment of a Non-Qualified Contract may subject the Contract
values or assignment proceeds to income taxes and certain penalty taxes.
    
 
   
    CONTRACT MODIFICATION -- The Annuitant may not be changed; however, the
Contingent Annuitant may be changed at any time prior to the Annuity
Commencement Date by written notice to the Company.
    
 
   
    Hartford reserves the right to modify the Contract, but only if such
modification: (i) is necessary to make the Contract or the Separate Account
comply with any law or regulation issued by a governmental agency to which
Hartford is subject; or (ii) is necessary to assure continued qualification of
the Contract under the Code or other federal or state laws relating to
retirement annuities or annuity Contracts; or (iii) is necessary to reflect a
change in the operation of the Separate Account or the Sub-Account(s) or (iv)
provides additional Separate Account options or (v) withdraws Separate Account
options. In the event of any such modification Hartford will provide notice to
the Contract Owner or to the payee(s) during the Annuity period. Hartford may
also make appropriate endorsement in the Contract to reflect such modification.
    
 
   
    As of December 31, 1996, certain Hartford group pension contracts held
direct interest in shares as follows:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      PERCENT OF
                                           SHARES    TOTAL SHARES
                                         ----------  -------------
<S>                                      <C>         <C>
Hartford Advisers Fund, Inc.             18,752,510        0.69%
Hartford Bond Fund, Inc.                     47,060        0.01%
Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund,
 Inc.                                    15,519,596        1.79%
Hartford Dividend & Growth Fund, Inc.       443,556        0.08%
Hartford Index Fund, Inc.                16,432,999        6.30%
Hartford International Advisers Fund,
 Inc.                                        27,096        0.03%
Hartford International Opportunities
 Fund, Inc.                               7,835,802        1.11%
Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund, Inc.  17,408,850        5.65%
Hartford Small Company Fund, Inc.            28,535        0.07%
Hartford Stock Fund, Inc.                    92,167        0.01%
HVA Money Market Fund, Inc.                  31,633        0.01%
</TABLE>
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                           FEDERAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS
 
   
- --------------------------------
    
  A. GENERAL
 
   
    SINCE THE TAX LAW IS COMPLEX AND SINCE TAX CONSEQUENCES WILL VARY ACCORDING
TO THE ACTUAL STATUS OF THE CONTRACT OWNER INVOLVED AND THE TYPE OF PLAN UNDER
WHICH THE CONTRACT IS PURCHASED, LEGAL AND TAX ADVICE MAY BE NEEDED BY A PERSON,
TRUSTEE, OR OTHER ENTITY CONTEMPLATING THE PURCHASE OF A CONTRACT DESCRIBED
HEREIN.
    
 
   
    It should be understood that any detailed description of the federal income
tax consequences regarding the purchase of these Contracts cannot be made in
this Prospectus and that special tax rules may be applicable with respect to
certain purchase situations not discussed herein. In addition, no attempt is
made here to consider any applicable state or other tax laws. For detailed
information, a qualified tax adviser should always be consulted. The discussion
here and in Appendix I, commencing on page 24, is based on Hartford's
understanding of existing federal income tax laws as they are currently
interpreted.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  B. TAXATION OF HARTFORD AND THE
     SEPARATE ACCOUNT
 
   
    The Separate Account is taxed as part of Hartford which is taxed as a life
insurance company in accordance with the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended (the "Code"). Accordingly, the Separate Account will not be taxed as a
"regulated investment company" under subchapter M of Chapter 1 of the Code.
Investment income and any realized capital gains on the assets of the Separate
Account are reinvested and are taken into account in determining the value of
the Accumulation and Annuity Units (See "Accumulation Unit Values" commencing on
page 6). As a result, such investment income and realized capital gains are
automatically applied to increase reserves under the Contract.
    
 
   
    No taxes are due on interest, dividends and short-term or long-term capital
gains earned by the Separate Account with respect to Qualified or Non-Qualified
Contracts.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  C. TAXATION OF ANNUITIES -- GENERAL
     PROVISIONS AFFECTING PURCHASERS OTHER
     THAN QUALIFIED RETIREMENT PLANS
 
   
    Section 72 of the Code governs the taxation of annuities in general.
    
<PAGE>
20                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
 1. NON-NATURAL PERSONS, CORPORATIONS, ETC.
    
 
   
    Section 72 contains provisions for Contract Owners which are non-natural
persons. Non-natural persons include corporations, trusts, and partnerships. The
annual net increase in the value of the Contract is currently includable in the
gross income of a non-natural person unless the non-natural person holds the
Contract as an agent for a natural person. There is an exception from current
inclusion for certain annuities held in tax-qualified retirement arrangements,
certain annuities held by structured settlement companies, certain annuities
held by an employer with respect to a terminated tax-qualified retirement plan
and certain immediate annuities. A non-natural person which is a tax-exempt
entity for federal tax purposes will not be subject to income tax as a result of
this provision.
    
 
   
    If the Contract Owner is not an individual, the primary Annuitant shall be
treated as the Contract Owner for purposes of making distributions which are
required to be made upon the death of the Contract Owner. If there is a change
in the primary Annuitant, such change shall be treated as the death of the
Contract Owner.
    
 
   
 2. OTHER CONTRACT OWNERS (NATURAL PERSONS).
    
 
   
    A Contract Owner is not taxed on increases in the value of the Contract
until an amount is received or deemed received, e.g., in the form of a lump sum
payment (full or partial value of a Contract) or as Annuity payments under the
settlement option elected.
    
 
   
    The provisions of Section 72 of the Code concerning distributions are
summarized briefly below. Also summarized are special rules affecting
distributions from Contracts obtained in a tax-free exchange for other annuity
contracts or life insurance contracts which were purchased prior to August 14,
1982.
    
 
   
   A.DISTRIBUTIONS PRIOR TO THE ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT DATE.
    
 
   
i.  Total premium payments less amounts received which were not includable in
    gross income equal the "investment in the contract" under Section 72 of the
    Code.
    
 
   
ii.  To the extent that the value of the Contract (ignoring any surrender
    charges except on a full surrender) exceeds the "investment in the
    contract," such excess constitutes the "income on the contract."
    
 
   
iii. Any amount received or deemed received prior to the Annuity Commencement
    Date (e.g., upon a partial surrender) is deemed to come first from any such
    "income on the contract" and then from "investment in the contract," and for
    these purposes such "income on the contract" shall be computed by reference
    to any aggregation rule in subparagraph 2.c., below. As a result, any such
    amount received or deemed received (1) shall be includable in gross income
    to the extent that such amount does not exceed any such "income on the
    contract," and (2) shall not be includable in gross income to the extent
    that such amount does exceed any such "income on the contract." If at the
    time that any amount is received or deemed received there is no "income on
    the contract" (e.g., because the gross value of the Contract does not exceed
    the "investment in the contract" and no aggregation rule applies), then such
    amount received or deemed received will not be includable in gross income,
    and will simply reduce the "investment in the contract."
    
 
   
iv.  The receipt of any amount as a loan under the Contract or the assignment or
    pledge of any portion of the value of the Contract shall be treated as an
    amount received for purposes of this subparagraph a. and the next
    subparagraph b.
    
 
   
v.  In general, the transfer of the Contract, without full and adequate
    consideration, will be treated as an amount received for purposes of this
    subparagraph a. and the next subparagraph b. This transfer rule does not
    apply, however, to certain transfers of property between spouses or incident
    to divorce.
    
 
   
   B.DISTRIBUTIONS AFTER ANNUITY COMMENCEMENT DATE.
    
 
   
    Annuity payments made periodically after the Annuity Commencement Date are
includable in gross income to the extent the payments exceed the amount
determined by the application of the ratio of the "investment in the contract"
to the total amount of the payments to be made after the Annuity Commencement
Date (the "exclusion ratio").
    
 
   
i.  When the total of amounts excluded from income by application of the
    exclusion ratio is equal to the investment in the contract as of the Annuity
    Commencement Date, any additional payments (including surrenders) will be
    entirely includable in gross income.
    
 
   
ii.  If the annuity payments cease by reason of the death of the Annuitant and,
    as of the date of death, the amount of annuity payments excluded from gross
    income by the exclusion ratio does not exceed the investment in the contract
    as of the Annuity Commencement Date, then the remaining portion of
    unrecovered investment shall be allowed as a deduction for the last taxable
    year of the Annuitant.
    
 
   
iii. Generally, nonperiodic amounts received or deemed received after the
    Annuity Commencement Date are not entitled to any exclusion ratio and shall
    be fully includable in gross income. However, upon a full surrender after
    such date, only the excess of the amount received (after any surrender
    charge) over the remaining "investment in the contract" shall be includable
    in gross income (except to the extent that the aggregation rule referred to
    in the next subparagraph c. may apply).
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               21
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
 C. AGGREGATION OF TWO OR MORE ANNUITY CONTRACTS.
    
 
   
    Contracts issued after October 21, 1988 by the same insurer (or affiliated
insurer) to the same Contract Owner within the same calendar year (other than
certain contracts held in connection with a tax-qualified retirement
arrangement) will be treated as one annuity Contract for the purpose of
determining the taxation of distributions prior to the Annuity Commencement
Date. An annuity contract received in a tax-free exchange for another annuity
contract or life insurance contract may be treated as a new Contract for this
purpose. Hartford believes that for any annuity subject to such aggregation, the
values under the Contracts and the investment in the contracts will be added
together to determine the taxation under subparagraph 2.a., above, of amounts
received or deemed received prior to the Annuity Commencement Date. Withdrawals
will first be treated as withdrawals of income until all of the income from all
such Contracts is withdrawn. As of the date of this Prospectus, there are no
regulations interpreting this provision.
    
 
   
 D.10% PENALTY TAX -- APPLICABLE TO CERTAIN WITHDRAWALS AND ANNUITY PAYMENTS.
    
 
   
i.  If any amount is received or deemed received on the Contract (before or
    after the Annuity Commencement Date), the Code applies a penalty tax equal
    to ten percent of the portion of the amount includable in gross income,
    unless an exception applies.
    
 
   
ii.  The 10% penalty tax will not apply to the following distributions
    (exceptions vary based upon the precise plan involved):
    
 
   
    1.  Distributions made on or after the date the recipient has attained the
        age of 59 1/2.
    
 
   
    2.  Distributions made on or after the death of the holder or where the
        holder is not an individual, the death of the primary annuitant.
    
 
   
    3.  Distributions attributable to a recipient's becoming disabled.
    
 
   
    4.  A distribution that is part of a scheduled series of substantially equal
        periodic payments for the life (or life expectancy) of the recipient (or
        the joint lives or life expectancies of the recipient and the
        recipient's Beneficiary).
    
 
   
    5.  Distributions of amounts which are allocable to the "investment in the
        contract" prior to August 14, 1982 (see next subparagraph e.).
    
 
   
   E.SPECIAL PROVISIONS AFFECTING CONTRACTS OBTAINED THROUGH A TAX-FREE EXCHANGE
     OF OTHER ANNUITY OR LIFE INSURANCE CONTRACTS PURCHASED PRIOR TO AUGUST 14,
     1982.
    
 
   
         If the Contract was obtained by a tax-free exchange of a life insurance
     or annuity contract purchased prior to August 14, 1982, then any amount
     received or deemed received prior to the Annuity Commencement Date shall be
     deemed to come (1) first from the amount of the "investment in the
     contract" prior to August 14, 1982 ("pre-8/14/82 investment") carried over
     from the prior Contract, (2) then from the portion of the "income on the
     contract" (carried over to, as well as accumulating in, the successor
     Contract) that is attributable to such pre-8/14/82 investment, (3) then
     from the remaining "income on the contract" and (4) last from the remaining
     "investment in the contract." As a result, to the extent that such amount
     received or deemed received does not exceed such pre-8/14/82 investment,
     such amount is not includable in gross income. In addition, to the extent
     that such amount received or deemed received does not exceed the sum of (a)
     such pre-8/14/82 investment and (b) the "income on the contract"
     attributable thereto, such amount is not subject to the 10% penalty tax. In
     all other respects, amounts received or deemed received from such
     post-exchange Contracts are generally subject to the rules described in
     this subparagraph 3.
    
 
   
   F. REQUIRED DISTRIBUTIONS
    
 
   
i.  Death of Contract Owner or Primary Annuitant
    
 
   
    Subject to the alternative election or spouse beneficiary provisions in ii
    or iii below:
    
 
   
    1.  If any Contract Owner dies on or after the Annuity Commencement Date and
        before the entire interest in the Contract has been distributed, the
        remaining portion of such interest shall be distributed at least as
        rapidly as under the method of distribution being used as of the date of
        such death;
    
 
   
    2.  If any Contract Owner dies before the Annuity Commencement Date, the
        entire interest in the Contract will be distributed within 5 years after
        such death; and
    
 
   
    3.  If the Contract Owner is not an individual, then for purposes of 1. or
        2. above, the primary annuitant under the Contract shall be treated as
        the Contract Owner, and any change in the primary annuitant shall be
        treated as the death of the Contract Owner. The primary annuitant is the
        individual, the events in the life of whom are of primary importance in
        affecting the timing or amount of the payout under the Contract.
    
 
   
ii.  Alternative Election to Satisfy Distribution Requirements
    
 
   
    If any portion of the interest of a Contract Owner described in i. above is
    payable to or for the benefit of a designated beneficiary, such beneficiary
    may elect to
    
<PAGE>
22                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    have the portion distributed over a period that does not extend beyond the
    life or life expectancy of the beneficiary. The election and payments must
    begin within a year of the death.
    
 
   
iii. Spouse Beneficiary
    
 
   
    If any portion of the interest of a Contract Owner is payable to or for the
    benefit of his or her spouse, and the Annuitant or Contingent Annuitant is
    living, such spouse shall be treated as the Contract Owner of such portion
    for purposes of section i. above.
    
 
   
 3. DIVERSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.
    
 
   
    Section 817 of the Code provides that a variable annuity contract will not
be treated as an annuity contract for any period during which the investments
made by the separate account or underlying fund are not adequately diversified
in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Treasury Department. If a
Contract is not treated as an annuity contract, the Contract Owner will be
subject to income tax on the annual increases in cash value.
    
 
   
    The Treasury Department has issued diversification regulations which
generally require, among other things, that no more than 55% of the value of the
total assets of the segregated asset account underlying a variable contract is
represented by any one investment, no more than 70% is represented by any two
investments, no more than 80% is represented by any three investments, and no
more than 90% is represented by any four investments. In determining whether the
diversification standards are met, all securities of the same issuer, all
interests in the same real property project, and all interests in the same
commodity are each treated as a single investment. In addition, in the case of
government securities, each government agency or instrumentality shall be
treated as a separate issuer.
    
 
   
    A separate account must be in compliance with the diversification standards
on the last day of each calendar quarter or within 30 days after the quarter
ends. If an insurance company inadvertently fails to meet the diversification
requirements, the company may comply within a reasonable period and avoid the
taxation of contract income on an ongoing basis. However, either the company or
the Contract Owner must agree to pay the tax due for the period during which the
diversification requirements were not met.
    
 
   
    Hartford monitors the diversification of investments in the separate
accounts and tests for diversification as required by the Code. Hartford intends
to administer all contracts subject to the diversification requirements in a
manner that will maintain adequate diversification.
    
 
   
 4.OWNERSHIP OF THE ASSETS IN THE SEPARATE ACCOUNT.
    
 
   
    In order for a variable annuity contract to qualify for tax deferral, assets
in the segregated asset accounts supporting the variable contract must be
considered to be owned by the insurance company and not by the variable contract
owner for tax purposes. The Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") has issued several
rulings which discuss investor control. The IRS has ruled that certain incidents
of ownership by the contract owner, such as the ability to select and control
investments in a separate account, could cause the contract owner to be treated
as the owner of the assets for tax purposes.
    
 
   
    Further, in the explanation to the temporary Section 817 diversification
regulations, the Treasury Department noted that the temporary regulations "do
not provide guidance concerning the circumstances in which investor control of
the investments of a segregated asset account may cause the investor, rather
than the insurance company, to be treated as the owner of the assets in the
account." The explanation further indicates that "the temporary regulations
provide that in appropriate cases a segregated asset account may include
multiple sub-accounts, but do not specify the extent to which policyholders may
direct their investments to particular sub-accounts without being treated as the
owners of the underlying assets. Guidance on this and other issues will be
provided in regulations or revenue rulings under Section 817(d), relating to the
definition of variable contract." The final regulations issued under Section 817
did not provide guidance regarding investor control, and as of the date of this
Prospectus, no other such guidance has been issued. Further, Hartford does not
know if or in what form such guidance will be issued. In addition, although
regulations are generally issued with prospective effect, it is possible that
regulations may be issued with retroactive effect. Due to the lack of specific
guidance regarding the issue of investor control, there is necessarily some
uncertainty regarding whether a Contract Owner could be considered the owner of
the assets for tax purposes. Hartford reserves the right to modify the
contracts, as necessary, to prevent Contract Owners from being considered the
owners of the assets in the separate accounts.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  D. FEDERAL INCOME TAX WITHHOLDING
 
   
    The portion of a distribution which is taxable income to the recipient will
be subject to federal income tax withholding, pursuant to Section 3405 of the
Code. The application of this provision is summarized below:
    
 
   
 1. NON-PERIODIC DISTRIBUTIONS.
    
 
   
    The portion of a non-periodic distribution which constitutes taxable income
will be subject to federal income tax withholding unless the recipient elects
not to have taxes withheld. If an election not to have taxes withheld is not
provided, 10% of the taxable distribution will be withheld as federal income
tax. Election forms will be provided at the time distributions are requested. If
the necessary election forms are not submitted to Hartford, Hartford will
automatically withhold 10% of the taxable distribution.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               23
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
 2.PERIODIC DISTRIBUTIONS (DISTRIBUTIONS PAYABLE OVER A PERIOD GREATER THAN ONE
   YEAR).
    
 
   
       The portion of a periodic distribution which constitutes taxable income
   will be subject to federal income tax withholding as if the recipient were
   married claiming three exemptions, unless the recipient elects otherwise. A
   recipient may elect not to have income taxes withheld or to have income taxes
   withheld at a different rate by providing a completed election form. Election
   forms will be provided at the time distributions are requested.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  E. GENERAL PROVISIONS AFFECTING
     TAX-QUALIFIED RETIREMENT PLANS
 
   
    The Contract may be used for a number of tax-qualified retirement plans. If
the Contract is being purchased with respect to some form of tax-qualified
retirement plan, please refer to Appendix I commencing on page 24 for
information relative to the types of plans for which it may be used and the
general explanation of the tax features of such plans.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  F. ANNUITY PURCHASES BY NONRESIDENT
    ALIENS AND FOREIGN CORPORATIONS
 
   
    The discussion above provides general information regarding U.S. federal
income tax consequences to annuity purchasers that are U.S. citizens or
residents. Purchasers that are not U.S. citizens or residents will generally be
subject to U.S. federal income tax and withholding on annuity distributions at a
30% rate, unless a lower treaty rate applies. In addition, purchasers may be
subject to state premium tax, other state and/or municipal taxes, and taxes that
may be imposed by the purchaser's country of citizenship or residence.
Prospective purchasers are advised to consult with a qualified tax advisor
regarding U.S., state, and foreign taxation with respect to an annuity purchase.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                                 MISCELLANEOUS
 
   
- --------------------------------
    
                             HOW CONTRACTS ARE SOLD
 
   
    Hartford Securities Distribution Company, Inc. ("HSD") serves as Principal
Underwriter for the securities issued with respect to the Separate Account. HSD
is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hartford. The principal business address of HSD
is the same as that of Hartford.
    
 
   
    The securities will be sold by salesperson of HSD who represent Hartford as
insurance and variable annuity agents and who are registered representatives of
Broker-Dealers who have entered into distribution agreements with HSD.
    
 
   
    HSD is registered with the Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 as a Broker-Dealer and is a member of the National Association of
Securities Dealers, Inc.
    
 
   
    Commissions will be paid by Hartford and will not be more than 6% of Premium
Payments.
    
 
   
    From time to time, Hartford may pay or permit other promotional incentives,
in cash or credit or other compensation.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                           LEGAL MATTERS AND EXPERTS
 
   
    There are no material legal proceedings pending to which the Separate
Account is a party.
    
 
   
    Counsel with respect to federal laws and regulations applicable to the issue
and sale of the Contracts and with respect to Connecticut law is Lynda Godkin,
General Counsel, Hartford Life Insurance Companies, P.O. Box 2999, Hartford,
Connecticut 06104-2999.
    
 
   
    The audited consolidated financial statements and financial statement
schedules included in this Prospectus and elsewhere in the registration
statement have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public
accountants, as indicated in their reports with respect thereto, and are
included herein in reliance upon the authority of said firm as experts in giving
said reports. Reference is made to said report on the consolidated financial
statements of Hartford Life Insurance Company (the Depositor), which includes an
explanatory paragraph with respect to the change in method of accounting for
debt and equity securities as of January 1, 1994, as discussed in Note 2 of
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The principal business address of
Arthur Andersen LLP is One Financial Plaza, Hartford, Connecticut 06103.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
                             ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
   
    Inquiries will be answered by calling your representative or by writing:
    
 
   
Hartford Life Insurance Company
Attn: Individual Annuity Services
P.O. Box 5085
Hartford, Connecticut 06102-5085.
Telephone:(800) 862-6668 (Contract Owners)
          (800) 862-7155 (Investment Representatives)
    
<PAGE>
24                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                                   APPENDIX I
              INFORMATION REGARDING TAX-QUALIFIED RETIREMENT PLANS
 
   
The tax rules applicable to tax qualified contract owners, including
restrictions on contributions and distributions, taxation of distributions and
tax penalties, vary according to the type of plan as well as the terms and
conditions of the plan itself. Various tax penalties may apply to contributions
in excess of specified limits, to distributions in excess of specified limits,
distributions which do not satisfy certain requirements and certain other
transactions with respect to qualified plans. Accordingly, this summary provides
only general information about the tax rules associated with use of the Contract
by a qualified plan. Contract owners, plan participants and beneficiaries are
cautioned that the rights and benefits of any person to benefits are controlled
by the terms and conditions of the plan regardless of the terms and conditions
of the Contract. Some qualified plans are subject to distribution and other
requirements which are not incorporated into Hartford's administrative
procedures. Owners, participants, and beneficiaries are responsible for
determining that contributions, distributions and other transactions comply with
applicable law. Because of the complexity of these rules, owners, participants
and beneficiaries are encouraged to consult their own tax advisors as to
specific tax consequences.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  A. TAX-QUALIFIED PENSION OR
     PROFIT-SHARING PLANS
 
   
    Provisions of the Code permit eligible employers to establish tax-qualified
pension or profit sharing plans (described in Section 401(a) and 401(k), if
applicable, and exempt from taxation under Section 501(a) of the Code), and
Simplified Employee Pension Plans (described in Section 408(k)). Such plans are
subject to limitations on the amount that may be contributed, the persons who
may be eligible and the time when distributions must commence. Employers
intending to use these contracts in connection with such plans should seek
competent tax and other legal advice.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
  B. TAX SHELTERED ANNUITIES
     UNDER SECTION 403(b)
    
 
   
    Section 403(b) of the Code permits public school employees and employees of
certain types of charitable, educational and scientific organizations specified
in Section 501(c)(3) of the Code to purchase annuity contracts, and, subject to
certain limitations, exclude such contributions from gross income. Generally,
such contributions may not exceed the lesser of $9,500 or 20% of the employees
"includable compensation" for his most recent full year of employment, subject
to other adjustments. Special provisions may allow some employees to elect a
different overall limitation.
    
 
   
    Tax-sheltered annuity programs under Section 403(b) are subject to a
PROHIBITION AGAINST DISTRIBUTIONS FROM THE CONTRACT ATTRIBUTABLE TO
CONTRIBUTIONS MADE PURSUANT TO A SALARY REDUCTION AGREEMENT unless such
distribution is made:
    
 
   
    (1) after the participating employee attains age 59 1/2;
    
 
   
    (2) upon separation from service;
    
 
   
    (3) upon death or disability; or
    
 
   
    (4) in the case of hardship (and in the case of hardship, any income
        attributable to such contributions may not be distributed).
    
 
   
    Generally, the above restrictions do not apply to distributions attributable
to cash values or other amounts held under a Section 403(b) contract as of
December 31, 1988.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  C.DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS
     UNDER SECTION 457
 
   
    Employees and independent contractors performing services for eligible
governmental or other tax-exempt employers may have contributions made to
Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans of their employers in accordance with the
employer's plan and Section 457 of the Code. Section 457 places limitations on
contributions to Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans maintained by a State or
other tax-exempt organization. ("State" means a State, a political sub-division
of a State, and an agency or instrumentality of a State or political
sub-division of a State.) Generally, the limitation is 33 1/3% of includable
compensation (typically 25% of gross compensation) or $7,500 (indexed),
whichever is less. Such a plan may also provide for additional "catch-up"
deferrals during the three taxable years ending before a participant attains
normal retirement age.
    
 
   
    An employee electing to participate in an Eligible Deferred Compensation
Plan should understand that his or her rights and benefits are governed strictly
by the terms of the plan and that the employer is the legal owner of any
contract issued with respect to the plan. The employer, as owner of the
contract(s), retains all voting and redemption rights which may accrue to the
contract(s) issued with respect to the plan. The participating employee should
look to the terms of his or her plan for any charges in regard to
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               25
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
participating therein other than those disclosed in this Prospectus.
Participants should also be aware that effective August 20, 1996, the Small
Business Job Protection Act of 1996 requires that all assets and income of an
Eligible Deferred Compensation Plan established by a governmental employer which
is a State, a political subdivision of a State, or any agency or instrumentality
of a State or political subdivision of a State, must be held in trust (or under
certain specified annuity contracts or custodial accounts) for the exclusive
benefit of Participants and their Beneficiaries. Special transition rules apply
to such governmental Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans already in existence
on August 20, 1996, and provide that such plans need not establish a trust
before January 1, 1999. However, this requirement does not apply to amounts
under an Eligible Deferred Compensation Plan of a tax-exempt (non-governmental)
organization and such amounts will be subject to the claims of such tax-exempt
employer's general creditors.
    
 
   
    In general, distributions from an Eligible Deferred Compensation Plan are
prohibited under Section 457 of the Code unless made after the participating
employee attains age 70 1/2, separates from service, dies, or suffers an
unforeseeable financial emergency. Present federal tax law does not allow tax-
free transfers or rollovers for amounts accumulated in a Section 457 plan except
for transfers to other Section 457 plans in limited cases.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  D. INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITIES
     UNDER SECTION 408
 
   
    Section 408 of the Code permits eligible individuals to establish individual
retirement programs through the purchase of Individual Retirement Annuities
("IRAs"). IRAs are subject to limitations on the amount that may be contributed,
the contributions that may be deducted from taxable income, the persons who may
be eligible and the time when distributions may commence. Also, distributions
from certain qualified plans may be "rolled-over" on a tax-deferred basis into
an IRA.
    
 
   
    IRAs generally may not invest in life insurance contracts. However, an
annuity that is used as an IRA may provide a death benefit that equals the
greater of the premiums paid and the annuity's cash value. The Contract offers
an enhanced Death Benefit that may exceed the greater of the Contract Value and
total Premium Payments less prior surrenders. For Contracts issued in most
states, Hartford has obtained approval from the Internal Revenue Service to use
the Contract as an IRA. For Contracts issued in New York, Hartford has asked the
Internal Revenue Service to approve use of the Contract as an IRA, but there is
no assurance that approval will be granted.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
  E. TAX PENALTIES
 
   
    Distributions from retirement plans are generally taxed under Section 72 of
the Code. Under these rules, a portion of each distribution may be excludable
from income. The excludable amount is the portion of the distribution which
bears the same ratio as the after-tax contributions bear to the expected return.
    
 
   
 1. PREMATURE DISTRIBUTION
    
 
   
    Distributions from a qualified plan before the Participant attains age
59 1/2 are generally subject to an additional tax equal to 10% of the taxable
portion of the distribution. The 10% penalty does not apply to distributions
made after the employee's death, on account of disability, for eligible medical
expenses and distributions in the form of a life annuity and, except in the case
of an IRA, certain distributions after separation from service after age 55. For
these purposes, "life annuity" means a scheduled series of substantially equal
periodic payments for the life or life expectancy of the Participant (or the
joint lives or life expectancies of the Participant and Beneficiary).
    
 
   
 2. MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION TAX
    
 
   
    If the amount distributed is less than the minimum required distribution for
the year, the Participant is subject to a 50% tax on the amount that was not
properly distributed.
    
 
   
    An individual's interest in a tax-qualified retirement plan must generally
be distributed, or begin to be distributed, not later than April 1 of the
calendar year following the later of (i) the calendar year in which the
individual attains age 70 1/2 or (ii) the calendar year in which the individual
retires from service with the employer sponsoring the plan ("required beginning
date"). However, the required beginning date for an individual who is a five (5)
percent owner (as defined in the Code), or who is the owner of an IRA, is April
1 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the individual
attains age 70 1/2. The entire interest of the Participant must be distributed
beginning no later than this required beginning date over a period which may not
extend beyond a maximum of the life expectancy of the Participant and a
designated Beneficiary. Each annual distribution must equal or exceed a "minimum
distribution amount" which is determined by dividing the account balance by the
applicable life expectancy. This account balance is generally based upon the
account value as of the close of business on the last day of the previous
calendar year. In addition, minimum distribution incidental benefit rules may
require a larger annual distribution.
    
 
   
    If an individual dies before reaching his or her required beginning date,
the individual's entire interest must generally be distributed within five years
of the individual's death. However, this rule will be deemed satisfied, if
distributions begin before the close of the calendar year
    
<PAGE>
26                                               HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
following the individual's death to a designated Beneficiary (or over a period
not extending beyond the life expectancy of the beneficiary). If the Beneficiary
is the individual's surviving spouse, distributions may be delayed until the
individual would have attained age 70 1/2.
    
 
   
    If an individual dies after reaching his or her required beginning date or
after distributions have commenced, the individual's interest must generally be
distributed at least as rapidly as under the method of distribution in effect at
the time of the individual's death.
    
 
   
 3. EXCESS DISTRIBUTION TAX
    
 
   
    If the aggregate distributions from all IRAs and certain other tax-qualified
retirement plans in a calendar year exceed the greater of (i) $150,000, or (ii)
$112,500 as indexed for inflation, a penalty tax of 15% is generally imposed on
the excess portion of the distribution.
    
 
   
 4. WITHHOLDING
    
 
   
    In general, distributions from IRAs and plans described in Section 457 of
the Code are subject to regular wage withholding rules.
    
 
   
    Periodic distributions from other tax-qualified retirement plans that are
made for a specified period of ten or more years or for the life or life
expectancy of the Participant (or the joint lives or life expectancies of the
Participant and the Beneficiary) are generally subject to federal income tax
withholding as if the recipient were married claiming three exemptions, unless
the recipient elects otherwise. The recipient of periodic distributions may
generally elect not to have withholding apply or to have income taxes withheld
at a different rate by providing a completed election form.
    
 
   
    Other distributions from such other tax-qualified retirement plans are
generally subject to mandatory income tax withholding at the flat rate of 20%,
unless such distributions are:
    
 
   
    (a) the non-taxable portion of the distribution;
    
 
   
    (b) required minimum distributions; or
    
 
   
    (c) direct transfer distributions.
    
 
   
    Direct transfer distributions are direct payments to an IRA or to another
eligible retirement plan under Section 401(a)(31) of the Code.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY                                               27
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                       TO
                      STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 SECTION                                                                   PAGE
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------  ----
 <S>                                                                       <C>
 INTRODUCTION............................................................
 DESCRIPTION OF HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY..........................
 SAFEKEEPING OF ASSETS...................................................
 INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS..........................................
 DISTRIBUTION OF CONTRACTS...............................................
 ANNUITY PERIOD..........................................................
     A.  Annuity Payments................................................
     B.  Electing the Annuity Commencement Date and Form of Annuity......
     C.  Optional Annuity Forms..........................................
     D. The Annuity Unit and Valuation...................................
     E.  Determination of Amount of First Monthly Annuity Payment --
      Fixed and Variable.................................................
     F.  Amount of Second and Subsequent Monthly Annuity Payments........
     G. Date and Time of Annuity Payments................................
 CALCULATION OF YIELD AND RETURN.........................................
 PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS.................................................
 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS....................................................
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
   
This form must be completed for all tax sheltered annuities.
    
 
   
                     SECTION 403(b)(11) ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM
    
 
   
    The Hartford variable annuity Contract which you have recently purchased is
subject to certain restrictions imposed by the Tax Reform Act of
1986.Contributions to the Contract after December 31, 1988 and any increases in
cash value after December 31, 1988 may not be distributed to you unless you
have:
    
 
   
    a. attained age 59 1/2,
    
 
   
    b. separated from service,
    
 
   
    c. died, or
    
 
   
    d. become disabled.
    
 
   
Distributions of post December 31, 1988 contributions (excluding any income
thereon) may also be made if you have experienced a financial hardship.
    
 
   
Also, there may be a 10% penalty tax for distributions made prior to age 59 1/2
because of financial hardship or separation from service.
    
 
   
Also, please be aware that your 403(b) Plan may also offer other financial
alternatives other than the Hartford variable annuity. Please refer to your
Plan.
    
 
   
    Please complete the following and return to:
    
 
   
    Hartford Life Insurance Company
    Individual Annuity Services
    P.O. Box 5085
    Hartford, CT 06102-5085
    
 
   
Name of Contract Owner/Participant
    
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
Address
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
City or Plan/School District
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
Date:
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
Contract No:
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
Signature:
    
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
   
    To Obtain a Statement of Additional Information, please complete the form
below and mail to:
    
 
   
    Hartford Life Insurance Company
    Attn: Individual Annuity Services
    P.O. Box 5085
    Hartford, CT 06102-5085
    
 
   
    Please send a Statement of Additional Information for the Director to me at
the following address:
    
 
   
- ----------------------------------------------------
                            Name
 
- ------------------------------------------------------------
                          Address
 
- ------------------------------------------------------------
    City/State                                        Zip
Code
    
<PAGE>
   
                                        PART B
                                           
                         STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
                                           
                           HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                 SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
                                           

This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus.  The information
contained herein should be read in conjunction with the Prospectus.

To obtain a Prospectus, send a written request to Hartford Life Insurance
Company Attn:   Annuity Marketing Services, P.O. Box 5085, Hartford, CT 
06102-5085.





Date of Prospectus:  May 1, 1997

Date of Statement of Additional Information:  May 1, 1997

<PAGE>

                                         -2-


                                  TABLE OF CONTENTS


Section                                                                     Page
- -------                                                                     ----

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    3

DESCRIPTION OF HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    3

SAFEKEEPING OF ASSETS  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    4

INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    4

DISTRIBUTION OF CONTRACTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    4

CALCULATION OF YIELD AND RETURN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    5

PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .    8

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

<PAGE>

                                         -3-


                                     INTRODUCTION
                                           
The individual and group tax-deferred variable annuity Contracts described in
the Prospectus are designed to provide Annuity benefits to individuals who have
established or wish to establish retirement programs which may or may not
qualify for special federal income tax treatment.  The Annuitant under these
Contracts may receive Annuity benefits in accordance with the Annuity option
selected and the retirement program, if any, under which the Contracts have been
purchased.  Annuity payments under a Contract will begin on a particular future
date which may be selected at any time under the Contract or automatically when
the Annuitant reaches age 90 except in certain states where deferral past age 85
is not permitted.  There are several alternative annuity payment options
available under the Contract (see "Optional Annuity Forms," commencing on 
page ).

The Premium Payments under a Contract, less any applicable Premium Taxes, will
be applied to the Separate Account and/or the Fixed Account.  Accordingly, the
net Premium Payment under the Contract will be applied to purchase interests in
one or more of the Hartford Bond Fund, Hartford Stock Fund,  HVA Money Market
Fund (for qualified Contracts issued prior to May 1, 1987), Hartford Advisers
Fund, Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund, Inc., Hartford Dividend and Growth,
Hartford Index Fund, Hartford International Advisers Fund, Hartford
International Opportunities Fund, and Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund
Sub-Accounts.

Shares of the Funds are purchased by the Separate Account without the imposition
of a sales charge.  The value of a Contract depends on the value of the shares
of the Fund held by the Separate Account pursuant to that Contract.  As a
result, the Contract Owner bears the investment risk since market value of the
shares may increase or decrease.

There is no assurance that the value of the Contract Owner's Contract at any
time will equal or exceed the Premium Payments made.  However, if the Annuitant
or Contract Owner dies before the Annuity Commencement Date, the Contracts
provide that a death benefit equal to the value of the Contract as of the date
due proof of death is received by Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford")
shall be payable.  This amount is the greater of (a) the Contract Value on the
date of receipt of due proof of death by Hartford, or (b) 100% of the total
Premium Payments made to such Contract, reduced by any prior surrenders, or (c)
the Maximum Anniversary Value (See "Death Benefits" commencing on page ___ of
the Prospectus).

                    DESCRIPTION OF HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
                                           
Hartford Life Insurance Company ("Hartford") is a stock life insurance company
engaged in the business of writing health and life insurance, both individual
and group, in all states of the United States and the District of Columbia. 
Hartford was originally incorporated under the laws of Massachusetts on June 5,
1902, and was subsequently redomiciled to Connecticut.   Its offices are located
in Simsbury, Connecticut; however, its mailing address is P.O. Box 2999,
Hartford, CT  06104-2999.  Hartford is a subsidiary of Hartford Fire Insurance
Company, one of the largest multiple lines insurance carriers in the United
States.  Hartford is ultimately owned by

<PAGE>

                                         -4-


ITT Hartford Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation.  Subject to shareholder 
approval on May 2, 1997, the name of ITT Hartford Group, Inc. will change to 
The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.

Hartford is rated A+ (superior) by A.M. Best and Company, Inc., on the basis of
its financial soundness and operating performance.  Hartford is rated AA by
Standard & Poor's and AA+ by Duff and Phelps on the basis of its claims paying
ability.  These ratings do not apply to the investment performance of the
Sub-Accounts of the Separate Account.  The ratings apply to Hartford's ability
to meet its insurance obligations, including those described in this Prospectus.

                                SAFEKEEPING OF ASSETS
                                           
Title to the assets of the Separate Account is held by Hartford.  The assets are
kept physically segregated and are held separate and apart from Hartford's
general corporate assets.  Records are maintained of all purchases and
redemptions of Fund shares held in each of the Sub-Accounts.

                            INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
                                           
The audited consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules
included in this Statement of Additional Information and elsewhere in the
registration statement have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent
public accountants, as indicated in their reports with respect thereto, and are
included herein in reliance upon the authority of said firm as experts in giving
said reports.  Reference is made to said report on the consolidated financial
statements of Hartford Life Insurance Company (the Depositor), which includes an
explanatory paragraph with respect to the change in method of accounting for
debt and equity securities as of January 1, 1994, as discussed in Note 2 of
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.  The principal business address of
Arthur Andersen LLP is One Financial Plaza, Hartford, Connecticut 06103.

                              DISTRIBUTION OF CONTRACTS
                                           
Hartford Securities Distribution Company, Inc. ("HSD") serves as Principal
Underwriter for the securities issued with respect to the Separate Account and
will offer the Contracts on a continous basis.   

HSD is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hartford.  The principal business address of
HSD is the same as Hartford.

The securities will be sold by salespersons of HSD, who represent Hartford as
insurance and Variable Annuity agents and who are registered representatives of
Broker-Dealers who have entered into distribution agreements with HSD.

HSD is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the
Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 as a Broker-Dealer and is a member of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD").

<PAGE>

                                         -5-


                           CALCULATION OF YIELD AND RETURN

YIELD OF THE HVA MONEY MARKET FUND SUB-ACCOUNT.  As summarized in the Prospectus
under the heading "Performance Related Information," the yield of the HVA Money
Market Fund Sub-Account for a seven day period (the "base period") will be
computed by determining the "net change in value" (calculated as set forth
below) of a hypothetical account having a balance of one share 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 a
hypothetical account will include net investment income of the account (accrued
daily dividends as declared by the underlying funds, less daily expense charges
of the account) for the period, but will not include realized gains or losses or
unrealized appreciation or depreciation on the underlying fund shares.

The HVA Money Market Fund Sub-Account's yield and effective yield will vary in
response to fluctuations in interest rates and in the expenses of the two
Sub-Accounts.

THE CURRENT YIELD AND EFFECTIVE YIELD REFLECT RECURRING CHARGES ON THE SEPARATE
ACCOUNT LEVEL, INCLUDING THE MAXIMUM ANNUAL POLICY FEE.

HVA Money Market Fund Sub-Account

The yield and effective yield for the seven day period ending December 31, 1996
is as follows:

         ($30 annual policy fee)

Yield              3.85%
Effective Yield    3.93%

YIELDS OF BOND FUND AND MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNTS.  As summarized in
the Prospectus under the heading "Performance Related Information," yields of
these two Sub-Accounts will be computed by annualizing a recent month's net
investment income, divided by a Fund share's net asset value on the last trading
day of that month.  Net changes in the value of a hypothetical account will
assume the change in the underlying mutual fund's "net asset value per share"
for the same period in addition to the daily expense charge assessed, at the
sub-account level for the respective period.  The Bond Fund and Mortgage
Securities Fund Sub-Accounts' yields will vary from time to time depending upon
market conditions and, the composition of the underlying funds' portfolios. 
Yield should also be considered relative to changes in the value of the
Sub-Accounts' shares and to the relative risks associated with the investment
objectives and policies of the Bond Fund and Mortgage Securities Fund.

The yield reflects recurring charges on the Separate Account level, including
the annual policy fee.

<PAGE>

                                         -6-


BOND FUND SUB-ACCOUNT

Yield calculations of the Sub-Account used for illustration purposes reflect the
interest earned by the Sub-Account, less applicable asset charges assessed
against a Contract Owner's account over the base period.  The following is the
method used to determine the yield for the 30 day period ended December 31,
1996.

Example:
                                                               6
Current Yield Formula for the Sub-Account  2*[((A-B)/(C*D) + 1)  - 1]

Where    A = Dividends and interest earned during the period.
         B = Expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements).
         C = The average daily number of units outstanding during the period 
                that were entitled to receive dividends.
         D = The maximum offering price per unit on the last day of the period.

Yield =  4.94% 

HARTFORD MORTGAGE SECURITIES FUND SUB-ACCOUNT

Yield calculations of the Sub-Account used for illustration purposes reflect the
interest earned by the Sub-Account, less applicable asset charges assessed
against a Contract Owner's account over the base period.  The following is the
method used to determine the yield for the 30 days period ended December 31,
1996.

Example:
                                                                   6
Current Yield Formula for the Sub-Account      2*[((A-B)/(C*D) + 1)  - 1]

Where    A = Dividends and interest earned during the period.
         B = Expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements).
         C = The average daily number of units outstanding during the period 
                  that were entitled to receive dividends.
         D = The maximum offering price per unit on the last day of the period.

Yield = 5.35%

At any time in the future, yields and total return may be higher or lower than
past yields and there can be no assurance that any historical results will
continue.

The method of calculating yields described above for these Sub-Accounts differs
from the method used by the Sub-Accounts prior to May 1, 1988.  The denominator
of the fraction used to 

<PAGE>

                                         -7-


calculate yield was previously the average unit value for the period calculated.
That denominator will hereafter be the unit value of the Sub-Accounts on the
last trading day of the period calculated.

CALCULATION OF TOTAL RETURN.  As summarized in the Prospectus under the heading
"Performance Related Information", total return is a measure of the change in
value of an investment in a Sub-Account over the period covered.  the formula
for total return used herein includes three steps: (1) calculating the value of
the hypothetical initial investment of $1,000 as of the end of the period by
multiplying the total number of units owned at the end of the period by the unit
value per unit on the last trading day of the period by the unit value per unit
on the last trading day of the period; (2) assuming redemption at the end of the
period and deducting any applicable contingent deferred sales charge and (3)
dividing this account value for the hypothetical investor by the initial $1,000
investment and annualizing the result for periods of less than one year.  Total
return will be calculated for one year, five years and ten years or some other
relevant periods if a Sub-Account has not been in existence for at least ten
years.

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, standardized average annual total
return quotations for the Sub-Accounts listed were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                        Since    
 Sub-Accounts                           Inception         1 Year      5 Year      10 Year
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>                                    <C>               <C>           <C>       <C>    
 Hartford Advisers Fund                     9.12%          6.14%         7.34%      8.62%

 Hartford Bond Fund                         5.57%        (6.76)%         1.55%      3.68%

 Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund        14.42%         10.20%        13.53%     13.14%

 Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund         15.07%         12.39%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Index Fund                        8.88%         11.58%         9.68%        n/a

 Hartford International Advisers Fund       7.57%          1.41%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford International Opportunities Fund  2.68%          2.53%         5.21%        n/a

 Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund          5.60%        (5.23)%         0.93%      3.90%

 Hartford Small Company Fund              (5.58)%            n/a           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Stock Fund                       11.74%         13.83%        10.91%     11.02%


</TABLE>

<PAGE>

                                         -8-


For the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996, non-standardized annualized total
return quotations for the Sub-Accounts listed were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                        Since    
 Sub-Accounts                           Inception         1 Year        5 Year    10 Year
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 <S>                                    <C>               <C>           <C>       <C>    
 Hartford Advisers Fund                    11.06%         15.14%         10.7%     10.86%

 Hartford Bond Fund                         7.63%          2.24%         5.19%       6.3%

 Hartford Capital Appreciation Fund        15.97%          19.2%        16.44%     15.26%

 Hartford Dividend and Growth Fund         19.33%         21.39%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Index Fund                       11.42%         20.58%        13.01%        n/a

 Hartford International Advisers Fund      13.71%         10.41%           n/a        n/a

 Hartford International Opportunities Fund  6.24%         11.53%         8.66%        n/a

 Hartford Mortgage Securities Fund          7.73%          3.77%         4.65%      6.45%

 Hartford Small Company Fund               16.67%            n/a           n/a        n/a

 Hartford Stock Fund                       13.15%         22.83%         14.1%     13.15%


</TABLE>




                                PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS
                                           
YIELD AND TOTAL RETURN.  Each Sub-Account may from time to time include its
total return in advertisements or in information furnished to present to
prospective shareholders.  Each Sub-Account may from time to time include its
yield and total return in advertisements or information furnished to present to
prospective shareholders.  Each Sub-Account may from time to time include in
advertisements its total return (and yield in the case of certain Sub-Accounts)
the ranking of those performance figures relative to such figures for groups of
other annuities analyzed by Lipper Analytical Services and Morningstar, Inc. as
having the same investment objectives.

The total return and yield may also be used to compare the performance of the
Sub-Accounts against certain widely acknowledged outside standards or indices
for stock and bond market performance.  The Standard & Poor's Composite Index of
500 Stocks (the "S&P 500") is a market value-weighted and unmanaged index
showing the changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks relative to the
base period 1941-43.  The S&P 500 is composed almost entirely of common stocks
of companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange, although the common stocks
of a few companies listed on the American Stock Exchange or traded
over-the-counter are included.  The 500 companies represented include 400
industrial, 60 transportation and 40 financial services concerns.  The S&P 500
represents about 80% of the market value of all issues

<PAGE>

                                         -9-


traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

The NASDAQ-OTC Composite Price Index (The "NASDAQ Index") is a market
value-weighted and unmanaged index showing the changes in the aggregate market
value of approximately 3,500 stocks relative to the base measure of 100.00 on
February 5, 1971.  The NASDAQ Index is composed entirely of common stocks of
companies traded over-the-counter and often through the National Association of
Securities Dealers Automated Quotations ("NASDAQ") system.  Only those
over-the-counter stocks having only one market maker or traded on exchanges are
excluded.

The Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index (the "EAFE Index") is an
unmanaged index, which includes over 1,000 companies representing the stock
markets of Europe,  Australia, New Zealand, and the Far East.  The EAFE Index is
weighted by market capitalization, and therefore, it has a heavy representation
in countries with large stock markets, such as Japan.

The Shearson Lehman Government Bond Index (the "SL Government Index") is a
measure of the market value of all public obligations of the U.S. Treasury; all
publicly issued debt of all agencies of the U.S. Government and all
quasi-federal corporations; and all corporate debt guaranteed by the U.S.
Government.  Mortgage-backed securities, flower bonds and foreign targeted
issued are not included in the SL Government Index.

The Shearson Lehman Government/Corporate Bond Index (the "SL
Government/Corporate Index") is a measure of the market value of approximately
5,300 bonds with a face value currently in excess of $1.3 trillion.  To be
included in the SL Government/Corporate Index, an issue must have amounts
outstanding in excess of $1 million, have at least one year to maturity and be
rated "Baa" or higher ("investment grade") by a nationally recognized rating
agency.

The Composite Index for Hartford Advisers Fund is comprised of the S&P 500
(55%), the Lehman Government/Corporate Bond Index (35%), both mentioned above,
and 90 Day U.S. Treasury Bills (10%).
    


<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
                    REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
    
 
   
To Hartford Life Insurance Company and Subsidiaries:
    
 
   
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Hartford Life
Insurance Company (a Connecticut corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of
Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company) and subsidiaries as of December
31, 1996 and 1995, and the related consolidated statements of income,
stockholder's equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1996. These consolidated financial statements and the
schedules referred to below are the responsibility of Hartford Life Insurance
Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
consolidated financial statements and schedules 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 consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
Hartford Life Insurance Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and
1995, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the
three years in the period ended December 31, 1996 in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles.
    
 
   
As discussed in Note 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, Hartford
Life Insurance Company adopted a new accounting standard promulgated by the
Financial Accounting Standards Board, changing its method of accounting, as of
January 1, 1994, for debt and equity securities.
    
 
   
Our audits were made for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic
consolidated financial statements taken as a whole. The schedules listed in the
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedules are presented for
purposes of complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules and
are not a required part of the basic consolidated financial statements. These
schedules have been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audits
of the basic consolidated financial statements and, in our opinion, fairly state
in all material respects the financial data required to be set forth therein in
relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole.
    
 
   
                                         ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
    
 
   
Hartford, Connecticut
February 10, 1997
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        FOR THE YEARS ENDED
                                                            DECEMBER 31,
                                                      ------------------------
                                                       1996     1995     1994
                                                      ------   ------   ------
                                                           (IN MILLIONS)
 <S>                                                  <C>      <C>      <C>
 Revenues
   Premiums and other considerations...............   $1,705   $1,487   $1,100
   Net investment income...........................    1,397    1,328    1,292
   Net realized capital (losses) gains.............     (213)     (11)       7
                                                      ------   ------   ------
     Total Revenues................................    2,889    2,804    2,399
                                                      ------   ------   ------
 Benefits, Claims and Expenses
   Benefits, claims and claim adjustment
    expenses.......................................    1,535    1,422    1,405
   Amortization of deferred policy acquisition
    costs..........................................      234      199      145
   Dividends to policyholders......................      635      675      419
   Other insurance expenses........................      427      317      227
                                                      ------   ------   ------
     Total Benefits, Claims and Expenses...........    2,831    2,613    2,196
                                                      ------   ------   ------
   Income before income tax expense................       58      191      203
   Income tax expense..............................       20       62       65
                                                      ------   ------   ------
 Net income........................................   $   38   $  129   $  138
                                                      ------   ------   ------
                                                      ------   ------   ------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
                            of the above statements.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       AS OF DECEMBER
                                                             31,
                                                      -----------------
                                                       1996      1995
                                                      -------   -------
 <S>                                                  <C>       <C>
                                                        (IN MILLIONS
                                                        EXCEPT SHARE
                                                            DATA)
 Assets
   Investments
   Fixed maturities, available for sale, at fair
    value (amortized cost $13,579 and $14,440).....   $13,624   $14,400
   Equity securities, available for sale, at fair
    value..........................................       119        63
   Policy loans, at outstanding balance............     3,836     3,381
   Mortgage loans, at outstanding balance..........         2       265
   Other investments, at cost......................        54       156
                                                      -------   -------
     Total investments.............................    17,635    18,265
   Cash............................................        43        46
   Premiums and amounts receivable.................       137       165
   Accrued investment income.......................       407       394
   Reinsurance recoverable.........................     6,066     6,221
   Deferred policy acquisition costs...............     2,760     2,188
   Deferred income tax.............................       474       420
   Other assets....................................       357       234
   Separate account assets.........................    49,690    36,264
                                                      -------   -------
     Total assets..................................   $77,569   $64,197
                                                      -------   -------
                                                      -------   -------
 Liabilities
   Future policy benefits..........................   $ 2,281   $ 2,373
   Other policyholder funds........................    22,134    22,598
   Other liabilities...............................     1,572     1,233
   Separate account liabilities....................    49,690    36,264
                                                      -------   -------
     Total liabilities.............................    75,677    62,468
                                                      -------   -------
 Stockholder's Equity
   Common stock, $5,690 par value, 1,000 shares
    authorized, issued and outstanding.............         6         6
   Capital surplus.................................     1,045     1,007
   Net unrealized capital gain (loss) on
    investments, net of tax........................        30       (57)
   Retained earnings...............................       811       773
                                                      -------   -------
     Total stockholder's equity....................     1,892     1,729
                                                      -------   -------
   Total liabilities and stockholder's equity......   $77,569   $64,197
                                                      -------   -------
                                                      -------   -------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
                            of the above statements.
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       NET UNREALIZED
                                                                        CAPITAL GAIN
                                                                         (LOSS) ON                       TOTAL
                                            COMMON      CAPITAL         INVESTMENTS,     RETAINED    STOCKHOLDER'S
                                            STOCK       SURPLUS          NET OF TAX      EARNINGS       EQUITY
                                            ------   --------------    --------------    --------    -------------
 <S>                                        <C>      <C>               <C>               <C>         <C>
                                                                        (IN MILLIONS)
 Balance, December 31, 1993..............     $6         $  676            $  (5)          $516         $1,193
   Net income............................     --             --               --            138            138
   Dividends declared on common stock....     --             --               --            (10)           (10)
   Capital contribution..................     --            150               --             --            150
   Change in net unrealized capital loss
    on investments, net of tax(1)........     --             --             (649)            --           (649)
                                              --
                                                         ------           ------         --------       ------
 Balance, December 31, 1994..............      6            826             (654)           644            822
   Net income............................     --             --               --            129            129
   Capital contribution..................     --            181               --             --            181
   Change in net unrealized capital gain
    on investments, net of tax...........     --             --              597             --            597
                                              --
                                                         ------           ------         --------       ------
 Balance, December 31, 1995..............      6          1,007              (57)           773          1,729
   Net income............................     --             --               --             38             38
   Capital contribution..................     --             38               --             --             38
   Change in net unrealized capital gain
    on investments, net of tax...........     --             --               87             --             87
                                              --
                                                         ------           ------         --------       ------
 Balance, December 31, 1996..............     $6         $1,045            $  30           $811         $1,892
                                              --
                                              --
                                                         ------           ------         --------       ------
                                                         ------           ------         --------       ------
</TABLE>
    
 
- ------------------------
   
(1) The 1994 change in net unrealized capital loss on investments, net of tax,
    includes a gain of $91 due to the adoption of SFAS No. 115 as discussed in
    Note 2(b) of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
    
 
   
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
                            of the above statements.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                            --------------------------------
                                              1996        1995        1994
                                            --------    --------    --------
 <S>                                        <C>         <C>         <C>
                                                     (IN MILLIONS)
 Operating Activities
   Net income............................   $     38    $    129    $    138
   Adjustments to net income:
   Net realized capital losses (gains) on
    sale of investments..................        213          11          (7)
   Net amortization of premium on fixed
    maturities...........................         14          21          41
   Increase in deferred income taxes.....       (102)       (172)       (128)
   Increase in deferred policy
    acquisition costs....................       (572)       (379)       (441)
   Decrease (increase) in premiums and
    amounts receivable...................         10         (81)         10
   Increase in accrued investment
    income...............................        (13)        (16)       (106)
   (Increase) decrease in other assets...       (132)       (177)        101
   Decrease (increase) in reinsurance
    recoverable..........................        179         (35)         75
   (Decrease) increase in liability for
    future policy benefits...............        (92)        483         224
   Increase in other liabilities.........        477         281         191
                                            --------    --------    --------
     Cash provided by operating
      activities.........................         20          65          98
                                            --------    --------    --------
 Investing Activities
   Purchases of fixed maturity
    investments..........................     (5,747)     (6,228)     (9,127)
   Sales of fixed maturity investments...      3,459       4,845       5,713
   Maturities and principal paydowns of
    fixed maturity investments...........      2,693       1,741       1,931
   Net purchase of other investments.....       (107)       (871)     (1,338)
   Net sales (purchases) of short-term
    investments..........................         84         (24)        135
                                            --------    --------    --------
     Cash provided by (used for)
      investing activities...............        382        (537)     (2,686)
                                            --------    --------    --------
 Financing Activities
   Capital contribution..................         38          --         150
   Dividends paid........................         --          --         (10)
   Net (disbursements for) receipts from
    investment and universal life-type
    contracts (charged from) credited to
    policyholder accounts................       (443)        498       2,467
                                            --------    --------    --------
     Cash (used for) provided by
      financing activities...............       (405)        498       2,607
                                            --------    --------    --------
   Net (decrease) increase in cash.......         (3)         26          19
   Cash--beginning of year...............         46          20           1
                                            --------    --------    --------
 Cash--end of year.......................   $     43    $     46    $     20
                                            --------    --------    --------
                                            --------    --------    --------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements are an integral part
                            of the above statements.
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                   NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 1. ORGANIZATION AND DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
 
   
    These consolidated financial statements include Hartford Life Insurance
Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (the "Company"), ITT Hartford Life and
Annuity Insurance Company ("ILA") and ITT Hartford International Life
Reassurance Corporation ("HLRe"), formerly American Skandia Life Reinsurance
Corporation. The Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hartford Life and
Accident Insurance Company ("HLA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hartford Life,
Inc. ("Hartford Life"), a direct subsidiary of Hartford Accident and Indemnity
Company, an indirect subsidiary of ITT Hartford Group, Inc. ("The Hartford").
Hartford Life was formed on December 13, 1996 and capitalized on December 16,
1996 with the contribution of all the outstanding common stock of HLA. On
February 10, 1997, The Hartford, the ultimate parent of Hartford Life, announced
its intention to sell up to 20% of Hartford Life during the second quarter of
1997. Management believes that this transaction will not have a material impact
on the operations of the Company (See Note 11).
    
 
   
    On December 19, 1995, ITT Industries, Inc. (formerly ITT Corporation)("ITT")
distributed all the outstanding shares of capital stock of The Hartford to ITT
stockholders of record on such date (the transactions relating to such
distribution are referred to herein as the "ITT Spin-off"). As a result of the
ITT Spin-off, The Hartford became an independent, publicly traded company.
    
 
   
    The Company is a leading insurance and financial services company which
provides: (a) investment products such as individual variable annuities and
fixed market value adjusted annuities, deferred compensation plan services and
mutual funds for savings and retirement needs; (b) life insurance for income
protection and estate planning; and (c) employee benefits products such as
corporate owned life insurance.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
   
(A) BASIS OF PRESENTATION
    
 
   
    These financial statements present the financial position, results of
operations and cash flows of the Company, and all material intercompany
transactions and balances between Hartford Life Insurance Company and its
subsidiaries have been eliminated. The consolidated financial statements are
prepared on a basis of generally accepted accounting principles which differ
materially from the statutory accounting prescribed by various insurance
regulatory authorities.
    
 
   
    The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles, requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
    
 
   
(B) CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
    
 
   
    On November 14, 1996, the Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF") reached a
consensus on Issue No. 96-12, "Recognition of Interest Income and Balance Sheet
Classification of Structured Notes". This Issue requires companies to record
income on certain structured securities on a retrospective interest method. The
Company adopted EITF No. 96-12 for structured securities acquired after November
14, 1996. Adoption of EITF No. 96-12 did not have a material effect on the
Company's financial condition or results of operations.
    
 
   
    In June 1996, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 125, "Accounting for
Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishment of Liabilities".
This statement established criteria for determining whether transferred assets
should be accounted for as sales or secured borrowings. Subsequently, in
December 1996, the FASB issued SFAS No. 127, "Deferral of Effective Date of
Certain Provisions of FASB Statement No. 125", which defers the effective date
of certain provisions of SFAS No. 125 for one year. Adoption of SFAS No. 125 is
not expected to have a material effect on the Company's financial condition or
results of operations.
    
 
   
    In October 1995, the FASB issued SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based
Compensation", which is effective in 1996. As permitted by SFAS No. 123, the
Company continues to measure compensation costs of employee stock option plans
(relating to options on common stock of The Hartford) using the intrinsic value
method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25. As of February
10, 1997, the Company had not adopted an employee stock compensation plan.
Certain officers of the Company participate in The Hartford's stock option plan.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    Compensation costs allocated by The Hartford to the Company, as well as pro
forma compensation costs as determined under SFAS No. 123, were immaterial to
the results of operations for 1996 and 1995.
    
 
   
    Effective January 1, 1994, the Company adopted SFAS No. 115, "Accounting for
Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities". The new standard requires,
among other things, that securities be classified as "held-to-maturity",
"available-for-sale" or "trading" based on the Company's intentions with respect
to the ultimate disposition of the security and its ability to effect those
intentions. The classification determines the appropriate accounting carrying
value (cost basis or fair value) and, in the case of fair value, whether the
fair value difference from cost, net of tax, impacts stockholder's equity
directly or is reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Investments
in equity securities had previously been and continue to be recorded at fair
value with the corresponding after-tax impact included in stockholder's equity.
Under SFAS No. 115, the Company's fixed maturity investments are classified as
"available-for-sale" and, accordingly, these investments are reflected at fair
value with the corresponding impact included as a component of stockholder's
equity designated as "Net unrealized capital gain (loss) on investments, net of
tax." As with the underlying investment security, unrealized capital gains and
losses on derivative financial instruments are considered in determining the
fair value of the portfolios. The impact of adoption was an increase to
stockholder's equity of $91 million. The Company's cash flows were not impacted
by this change in accounting principle.
    
 
   
(C) REVENUE RECOGNITION
    
 
   
    Revenues for universal life policies and investment products consist of
policy charges for the cost of insurance, policy administration and surrender
charges assessed to policy account balances and are recognized in the period in
which services are provided. Premiums for traditional life insurance policies
are recognized as revenues when they are due from policyholders.
    
 
   
(D) FUTURE POLICY BENEFITS AND OTHER POLICYHOLDER FUNDS
    
 
   
    Liabilities for future policy benefits are computed by the net level premium
method using interest rate assumptions varying from 3% to 11% and withdrawal and
mortality assumptions appropriate at the time the policies were issued.
Liabilities for universal life-type and investment contracts are stated at
policyholder account values before surrender charges.
    
 
   
(E) DEFERRED POLICY ACQUISITION COSTS
    
 
   
    Policy acquisition costs, including commissions and certain underwriting
expenses associated with acquiring business, are deferred and amortized over the
estimated lives of the contracts, generally 20 years. Generally, acquisition
costs are deferred and amortized using the retrospective deposit method. Under
the retrospective deposit method, acquisition costs are amortized in proportion
to the present value of expected gross profits from surrender charges,
investment, mortality and expense margins. Actual gross profits can vary from
management's estimates resulting in increases or decreases in the rate of
amortization. Management periodically updates these estimates, when appropriate,
and evaluates the recoverability of the deferred acquisition cost asset. When
appropriate, management revises its assumptions on the estimated gross profits
of these contracts and the cumulative amortization for the books of business are
reestimated and readjusted by a cumulative charge or credit to income.
    
 
   
(F) POLICYHOLDER REALIZED CAPITAL GAINS AND LOSSES
    
 
   
    Realized capital gains and losses on security transactions associated with
the Company's immediate participation guaranteed contracts are excluded from
revenues and deferred, since under the terms of the contracts the realized gains
and losses will be credited to policyholders in future years as they are
entitled to receive them.
    
 
   
(G) FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
    
 
   
    Foreign currency translation gains and losses are reflected in stockholder's
equity. Balance sheet accounts are translated at the exchange rates in effect at
each year end and income statement accounts are translated at the average rates
of exchange prevailing during the year. The national currencies of international
operations are generally their functional currencies.
    
 
   
(H) INVESTMENTS
    
 
   
    The Company's investments in fixed maturities include bonds, redeemable
preferred stock and commercial paper which are classified as
"available-for-sale" and accordingly are carried at fair value with the
after-tax difference from cost reflected as a component of stockholder's equity
designated as "Net unrealized capital gain (loss) on investments, net of tax".
Equity securities, which include common and non-redeemable preferred stocks, are
carried at fair value with the after-tax difference from cost reflected in
stockholder's equity. Policy and mortgage loans are each carried at their
outstanding balance which approximates fair value. Investments in partnerships
and trusts are carried at cost. Net realized capital gains (losses), after
deducting the policyholders' share, are reported as a component of revenue and
are determined on a specific identification basis.
    
 
   
    The Company's accounting policy for impairment recognition requires
recognition of an other than temporary impairment charge on a security if it is
determined that the Company is unable to recover all amounts due under the
contractual obligations of the security. In addition, the Company has
established specific criteria to be used in the
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
impairment evaluation of an individual portfolio of assets. Specifically, if the
asset portfolio is supporting a runoff operation, is forced to be liquidated
prior to maturity to meet liability commitments, and has fair value below
amortized cost, which will not materially fluctuate as a result of future
interest rate changes, then an other than temporary impairment condition has
been determined to have occurred. Each individual security within that portfolio
is evaluated to determine whether or not it is impaired. Once an impairment
charge has been recorded, the Company then continues to review the individual
impaired securities for appropriate valuation on an ongoing basis.
    
 
   
    During 1996, it was determined that certain individual securities within the
investment portfolio supporting the Company's closed block of guaranteed rate
contracts ("Closed Book GRC") were impaired. With the initiation of certain
hedge transactions, which eliminated the possibility that the fair value of the
Closed Book GRC investments would recover to their current amortized cost, an
other than temporary impairment loss of $88 after tax was determined to have
occurred and was recorded.
    
 
   
(I) DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
    
 
   
    The Company uses a variety of derivative financial instruments including
swaps, caps, floors, forwards and exchange traded financial futures and options
as part of an overall risk management strategy. These instruments are used as a
means of hedging exposure to price, foreign currency and/or interest rate risk
on anticipated investment purchases or existing assets and liabilities. The
Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading
purposes. The Company's accounting for derivative financial instruments used to
manage risk is in accordance with the concepts established in SFAS No. 80,
"Accounting for Futures Contracts," SFAS No. 52, "Foreign Currency Translation",
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Statement of Position 86-2,
"Accounting for Options", and various EITF pronouncements. Written options are,
in all cases, used in conjunction with other assets and derivatives as part of
the Company's asset/liability management strategies. Derivative instruments are
carried at values consistent with the asset or liability being hedged.
Derivatives used to hedge fixed maturities or equities are carried at fair value
with the after-tax difference from cost reflected in stockholder's equity.
Derivatives used to hedge other invested assets or liabilities are carried at
cost.
    
 
   
    Derivatives must be designated at inception as a hedge and measured for
effectiveness both at inception and on an ongoing basis. The Company's minimum
correlation threshold for hedge designation is 80%. If correlation, which is
assessed monthly and measured based on a rolling three month average, falls
below 80%, hedge accounting will be terminated. Derivatives used to create a
synthetic asset must meet synthetic accounting criteria including designation at
inception and consistency of terms between the synthetic and the instrument
being replicated. Interest rate swaps are the primary type of derivatives used
to convert London interbank offered quotations for U.S. dollar deposits
("LIBOR") based variable rate instruments to fixed rate instruments. Synthetic
instrument accounting, consistent with industry practice, provides that the
synthetic asset is accounted for like the financial instrument it is intended to
replicate. Derivatives which fail to meet risk management criteria are marked to
market with the impact reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income.
    
 
   
    Gains or losses on financial futures contracts entered into in anticipation
of the future receipt of product cash flows are deferred and, at the time of the
ultimate purchase, reflected as an adjustment to the cost basis of the purchased
asset. Gains or losses on futures used in invested asset risk management are
deferred and adjusted into the cost basis of the hedged asset when the futures
contracts are closed, except for futures used in duration hedging which are
deferred and are adjusted into the cost basis on a quarterly basis. The
adjustments to the cost basis are amortized into investment income over the
remaining asset life.
    
 
   
    Open forward commitment contracts are marked to market through stockholder's
equity. Such contracts are recorded at settlement by recording the purchase of
the specified securities at the previously committed price. Gains or losses
resulting from the termination of the forward commitment contracts before the
delivery of the securities are recognized immediately in the Consolidated
Statements of Income as a component of net investment income.
    
 
   
    The cost of purchased options and/or premiums received on covered written
options, entered into as part of an asset/liability management strategy, is/are
adjusted into the cost basis of the underlying asset or liability and amortized
over the remaining life of the hedge. Gains or losses on expiration or
termination of the hedge are adjusted into the basis of the underlying asset or
liability and amortized over the remaining asset life. The Company had no
written options as of December 31, 1996 and 1995.
    
 
   
    Interest rate swaps involve the periodic exchange of payments without the
exchange of underlying principal or notional amounts. Net receipts or payments
are accrued and recognized over the life of the swap agreement as an adjustment
to income. Should the swap be terminated, the gain or loss is adjusted into the
basis of the asset or liability and amortized over the remaining life. Should
the hedged asset be sold or liability terminated without terminating the swap
position, any swap gains or losses are immediately recognized in earnings.
Interest rate swaps purchased in anticipation of an asset purchase (an
"anticipatory transaction") are recognized consistent with the underlying asset
components such that the settlement component is recognized in the Consolidated
Statements of Income while the change in market value is recognized as an
unrealized gain or loss.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    Premiums paid on purchased floor or cap agreements and the premium received
on issued floor or cap agreements (used for risk management) are adjusted into
the basis of the applicable asset and amortized over the asset life. Gains or
losses on termination of such positions are adjusted into the basis of the asset
or liability and amortized over the remaining asset life. Net payments are
recognized as an adjustment to income or basis adjusted and amortized depending
on the specific hedge strategy.
    
   
    Forward exchange contracts and foreign currency swaps are accounted for in
accordance with SFAS No. 52.
    
 
   
(J) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
    
   
    Transactions of the Company with HLA and its affiliates relate principally
to tax settlements, reinsurance, insurance coverage, rental and service fees and
payment of dividends and capital contributions. In addition, certain affiliated
insurance companies purchased group annuity contracts from the Company to fund
pension costs and claim annuities to settle casualty claims. Substantially all
general insurance expenses related to the Company, including rent and employee
benefit plan expenses, are initially paid by Hartford Fire Insurance Company, an
indirect subsidiary of The Hartford ("Hartford Fire"). Direct expenses are
allocated to the Company using specific identification, and indirect expenses
are allocated using other applicable methods. Indirect expenses include those
for corporate areas which, depending on the type, are allocated based on either
a percentage of direct expenses or on utilization. Indirect expenses allocated
to the Company by Hartford Fire were $40, $45 and $41 in 1996, 1995 and 1994,
respectively. Management of the Company believes that the methods used are
reasonable. In addition, the Company was charged its share of costs allocated to
The Hartford by ITT prior to the ITT Spin-off, which were immaterial in 1995 and
1994. The Company had a receivable from The Hartford of $1 and a payable to The
Hartford of $2 at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
    
 
   
    In 1996, the Company ceded approximately $33.3 billion of group life
insurance in force and $318 million of disability premium to HLA and assumed
$8.5 billion of individual life insurance in force from HLA.
    
   
    On June 30, 1995, the ownership of ITT Lyndon Insurance Company was
transferred to the Company via a capital contribution of $181 million,
representing the net assets of the company. Also, in 1996, the Company received
a capital contribution of $37.5 million from its parent HLA.
    
   
(K) DIVIDENDS TO POLICYHOLDERS
    
 
   
    Certain life insurance policies contain dividend payment provisions that
enable the policyholder to participate in the earnings of the life insurance
subsidiaries of the Company. The participating insurance in force accounted for
44%, 41%, and 43% in 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively, of total life insurance
in force.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 3. INVESTMENTS
 
   
(A) COMPONENTS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                 -------------------------------
                                   1996       1995       1994
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                              <C>        <C>        <C>
Interest income................  $   1,452  $   1,338  $   1,247
(Losses) income from other
 investments...................        (42)         1         54
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
Gross investment income........      1,410      1,339      1,301
Less: Investment expenses......         13         11          9
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
Net investment income..........  $   1,397  $   1,328  $   1,292
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
(B) COMPONENTS OF NET REALIZED CAPITAL GAINS (LOSSES)
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                 -------------------------------
                                   1996       1995       1994
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                              <C>        <C>        <C>
Fixed maturities...............  $    (201) $      23  $     (34)
Equity securities..............          2         (6)       (11)
Real estate and other..........         (4)       (25)        47
Less: (Increase) decrease in
 liability to policyholders for
 realized capital gains
 (losses)......................        (10)        (3)         5
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
Net realized capital (losses)
 gains.........................  $    (213) $     (11) $       7
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
                                 ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
(C) NET UNREALIZED CAPITAL GAINS (LOSSES) ON EQUITY SECURITIES
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                   -----------------------------------
                                      1996         1995        1994
                                      -----        -----     ---------
<S>                                <C>          <C>          <C>
Gross unrealized gains...........   $      13    $       4   $       2
Gross unrealized losses..........          (1)          (2)        (11)
                                          ---          ---   ---------
Net unrealized capital gains
 (losses)........................          12            2          (9)
Deferred income tax liability
 (asset).........................           4            1          (3)
                                          ---          ---   ---------
Net unrealized capital gains
 (losses), after tax.............           8            1          (6)
Balance beginning of year........           1           (6)         (5)
                                          ---          ---   ---------
Change in net unrealized capital
 gains (losses) on investments...   $       7    $       7   $      (1)
                                          ---          ---   ---------
                                          ---          ---   ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
(D) NET UNREALIZED CAPITAL GAINS (LOSSES) ON FIXED MATURITIES
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                             YEAR ENDED DECEMBER
                                                                                                                     31,
                                                                                                             --------------------
                                                                                                               1996       1995
                                                                                                             ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                                                          <C>        <C>
Gross unrealized gains.....................................................................................  $     386  $     529
Gross unrealized losses....................................................................................       (341)      (569)
Unrealized (gains) losses credited to policyholders........................................................        (11)       (52)
                                                                                                             ---------  ---------
Net unrealized capital gains (losses)......................................................................         34        (92)
Deferred income tax liability (asset)......................................................................         12        (34)
                                                                                                             ---------  ---------
Net unrealized capital gains (losses), after tax...........................................................         22        (58)
Balance beginning of year..................................................................................        (58)      (648)
                                                                                                             ---------  ---------
Change in net unrealized capital gains (losses) on investments.............................................  $      80  $     590
                                                                                                             ---------  ---------
                                                                                                             ---------  ---------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                                                               1994
                                                                                                             ---------
<S>                                                                                                          <C>
Gross unrealized gains.....................................................................................  $     150
Gross unrealized losses....................................................................................     (1,185)
Unrealized (gains) losses credited to policyholders........................................................         37
                                                                                                             ---------
Net unrealized capital gains (losses)......................................................................       (998)
Deferred income tax liability (asset)......................................................................       (350)
                                                                                                             ---------
Net unrealized capital gains (losses), after tax...........................................................       (648)
Balance beginning of year..................................................................................        161
                                                                                                             ---------
Change in net unrealized capital gains (losses) on investments.............................................  $    (809)
                                                                                                             ---------
                                                                                                             ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
(E) COMPONENTS OF FIXED MATURITIES INVESTMENTS
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                     AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                                                                                ---------------------------------
                                                                                                               GROSS UNREALIZED
                                                                                                 AMORTIZED   --------------------
                                                                                                   COST        GAINS     LOSSES
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                                             <C>          <C>        <C>
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and sponsored)............   $     166   $      12  $      (3)
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and
 sponsored)--asset-backed.....................................................................       1,970         161       (128)
States, municipalities and political subdivisions.............................................         373           6        (11)
International governments.....................................................................         281          12         (4)
Public utilities..............................................................................         877          12         (8)
All other corporate including international...................................................       4,656         120       (107)
All other corporate--asset-backed.............................................................       3,601          49        (59)
Short-term investments........................................................................       1,655          14        (21)
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
    Total fixed maturities....................................................................   $  13,579   $     386  $    (341)
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                                                     AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1995
                                                                                                ---------------------------------
                                                                                                               GROSS UNREALIZED
                                                                                                 AMORTIZED   --------------------
                                                                                                   COST        GAINS     LOSSES
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                                             <C>          <C>        <C>
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and sponsored)............   $     502   $       4  $      (9)
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and
 sponsored)--asset-backed.....................................................................       3,568         210       (387)
States, municipalities and political subdivisions.............................................         201           4         (3)
International governments.....................................................................         291          19         (4)
Public utilities..............................................................................         949          29         (2)
All other corporate including international...................................................       3,065          76        (55)
All other corporate--asset-backed.............................................................       5,056         187       (109)
Short-term investments........................................................................         808          --         --
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
    Total fixed maturities....................................................................   $  14,440   $     529  $    (569)
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
                                                                                                -----------  ---------  ---------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                                                  FAIR
                                                                                                  VALUE
                                                                                                ---------
<S>                                                                                             <C>
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and sponsored)............  $     175
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and
 sponsored)--asset-backed.....................................................................      2,003
States, municipalities and political subdivisions.............................................        368
International governments.....................................................................        289
Public utilities..............................................................................        881
All other corporate including international...................................................      4,669
All other corporate--asset-backed.............................................................      3,591
Short-term investments........................................................................      1,648
                                                                                                ---------
    Total fixed maturities....................................................................  $  13,624
                                                                                                ---------
                                                                                                ---------
 
                                                                                                  FAIR
                                                                                                  VALUE
                                                                                                ---------
<S>                                                                                             <C>
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and sponsored)............  $     497
U.S. government and government agencies and authorities (guaranteed and
 sponsored)--asset-backed.....................................................................      3,391
States, municipalities and political subdivisions.............................................        202
International governments.....................................................................        306
Public utilities..............................................................................        976
All other corporate including international...................................................      3,086
All other corporate--asset-backed.............................................................      5,134
Short-term investments........................................................................        808
                                                                                                ---------
    Total fixed maturities....................................................................  $  14,400
                                                                                                ---------
                                                                                                ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturities at December 31, 1996,
by maturity, are shown below. Asset-backed securities, including mortgage-backed
securities and collateralized mortgage obligations, are distributed to maturity
year based on the Company's estimates of the rate of future prepayments of
principal over the remaining lives of such securities. These estimates are
developed using prepayment speeds reported in broker consensus data and can be
expected to vary from actual experience. Expected maturities differ from
contractual maturities due to call or prepayment provisions.
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
         MATURITY           AMORTIZED COST  FAIR VALUE
- --------------------------  --------------  -----------
<S>                         <C>             <C>
One year or less..........    $    2,632     $   2,642
Over one year through five
 years....................         5,871         5,928
Over five years through
 ten years................         3,320         3,311
Over ten years............         1,756         1,743
                                 -------    -----------
    Total.................    $   13,579     $  13,624
                                 -------    -----------
                                 -------    -----------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    Sales of fixed maturities excluding short-term fixed maturities for the
years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 resulted in proceeds of $3,459,
$4,848 and $5,708, respectively, resulting in gross realized capital gains of
$87, $91 and $71, respectively, and gross realized capital losses (including
investment writedowns) of $298, $72 and $100, respectively, not including
policyholder gains and losses. Sales of equity securities for the years ended
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 resulted in proceeds of $74, $64 and $159,
respectively, resulting in gross realized capital gains of $2, $28 and $3,
respectively, and gross realized capital losses of $0, $59 and $14,
respectively, not including policyholder gains and losses.
    
 
   
(F) CONCENTRATION OF CREDIT RISK
    
 
   
    As of December 31, 1996, the Company had a reinsurance recoverable of $3.8
billion from Mutual Benefit Life Assurance Corporation ("Mutual Benefit"),
supported by assets in a security trust of $3.8 billion (including policy loans
of $3.3 billion). The risk of Mutual Benefit becoming insolvent is mitigated by
the reinsurance agreement's requirement that the assets be kept in a security
trust with the Company as sole beneficiary. Excluding investments in U.S.
government and agencies, the Company has no other significant concentrations of
credit risk in fixed maturities.
    
 
   
(G) DERIVATIVE INVESTMENTS
    
 
   
    Derivatives play an important role in facilitating the management of
interest rate risk, creating opportunities to fund product obligations hedging
against indexation risks that affect the value of certain liabilities and
adjusting broad investment risk characteristics when dictated by significant
changes in market risks. As an end user of derivatives, the Company uses a
variety of derivative financial instruments, including swaps, caps, floors,
forwards and exchange traded financial futures and options in order to hedge
exposure to price, foreign currency and/or interest rate risk on anticipated
investment purchases or existing assets and liabilities. The notional amounts of
derivative contracts represent the basis upon which pay and receive amounts are
calculated and are not reflective of credit risk for derivative contracts.
Credit risk for derivative contracts is limited to the amounts calculated to be
due to the Company on such contracts. The Company believes it maintains prudent
policies regarding the financial stability and credit standing of its major
counterparties and typically requires credit enhancement provisions to further
limit its credit risk. Many of these derivative contracts are bilateral
agreements that are not assignable without the consent of the relevant
counterparty. Notional amounts pertaining to derivative financial instruments
totaled $9.9 billion and $8.8 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995,
respectively ($7.4 billion and $7.1 billion related to life insurance
investments and $2.5 billion and $1.7 billion related to life insurance
liabilities at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively).
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    The following table summarizes the Company's derivatives, segregated by
major categories, as of December 31, 1996 and 1995:
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                             AMOUNTS HEDGED (NOTIONAL AMOUNTS) (EXCLUDING
                                                                                          LIABILITY HEDGES)
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                   PURCHASED
                                                                            TOTAL    ISSUED CAPS   OPTIONS,
                                                                          CARRYING        &         CAPS &
1996                                                                        VALUE     FLOORS(C)    FLOORS(D)    FUTURES(E)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------  -----------  -----------  -------------
<S>                                                                       <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>
Asset-backed securities (excluding inverse floaters and anticipatory)...  $   5,242   $     500    $   2,454     $      --
Inverse floaters(a).....................................................        352          98          856            --
Anticipatory(g).........................................................         --          --           --           132
Other bonds and notes...................................................      7,369         425          440             5
Short-term investments..................................................        661          --           --            --
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
    Total fixed maturities..............................................     13,624       1,023        3,750           137
Equity securities, policy loans and other investments...................      4,011          --           --            --
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
    Total investments...................................................  $  17,635   $   1,023    $   3,750     $     137
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
    Total derivatives-fair value(b).....................................              $     (10)   $      35     $      --
                                                                                     -----------  -----------        -----
                                                                                     -----------  -----------        -----
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                             AMOUNTS HEDGED (NOTIONAL AMOUNTS) (EXCLUDING
                                                                                          LIABILITY HEDGES)
                                                                          --------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                   PURCHASED
                                                                            TOTAL    ISSUED CAPS   OPTIONS,
                                                                          CARRYING        &         CAPS &
1995                                                                        VALUE     FLOORS(C)    FLOORS(D)    FUTURES(E)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------  -----------  -----------  -------------
<S>                                                                       <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>
Asset-backed securities (excluding inverse floaters and anticipatory)...  $   5,764   $     118    $   3,133     $     322
Inverse floaters(a).....................................................        711         560          354             6
Anticipatory(g).........................................................         --          --           --           213
Other bonds and notes...................................................      7,118          33           66           322
Short-term investments..................................................        807          --           --            --
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
    Total fixed maturities..............................................     14,400         711        3,553           863
Equity securities, policy loans and other investments...................      3,865          --           --            --
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
    Total investments...................................................  $  18,265   $     711    $   3,553     $     863
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
                                                                          ---------  -----------  -----------        -----
    Total derivatives-fair value(b).....................................              $     (32)   $      46     $      --
                                                                                     -----------  -----------        -----
                                                                                     -----------  -----------        -----
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                           INTEREST      FOREIGN       TOTAL
                                                                             RATE       CURRENCY     NOTIONAL
1996                                                                       SWAPS(H)     SWAPS(F)      AMOUNT
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                                                       <C>          <C>          <C>
Asset-backed securities (excluding inverse floaters and anticipatory)...   $     941    $      --    $   3,895
Inverse floaters(a).....................................................         346           --        1,300
Anticipatory(g).........................................................          --           --          132
Other bonds and notes...................................................       1,079          125        2,074
Short-term investments..................................................          --           --           --
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
    Total fixed maturities..............................................       2,366          125        7,401
Equity securities, policy loans and other investments...................          19           --           19
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
    Total investments...................................................   $   2,385    $     125    $   7,420
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
    Total derivatives-fair value(b).....................................   $     (25)   $      (9)   $      (9)
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
 
                                                                           INTEREST      FOREIGN       TOTAL
                                                                             RATE       CURRENCY     NOTIONAL
1995                                                                       SWAPS(H)     SWAPS(F)      AMOUNT
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                                                       <C>          <C>          <C>
Asset-backed securities (excluding inverse floaters and anticipatory)...   $     290    $      --    $   3,863
Inverse floaters(a).....................................................         681           --        1,601
Anticipatory(g).........................................................          25           --          238
Other bonds and notes...................................................         757          187        1,365
Short-term investments..................................................          --           --           --
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
    Total fixed maturities..............................................       1,753          187        7,067
Equity securities, policy loans and other investments...................          18           --           18
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
    Total investments...................................................   $   1,771    $     187    $   7,085
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
    Total derivatives-fair value(b).....................................   $    (108)   $     (24)   $    (118)
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
                                                                          -----------       -----   -----------
</TABLE>
    
 
- ------------------------
   
(a) Inverse floaters are variations of collateralized mortgage obligations
    ("CMOs") for which the coupon rates move inversely with an index rate such
    as LIBOR. The risk to principal is considered negligible as the underlying
    collateral for the securities is guaranteed or sponsored by government
    agencies. To address the volatility risk created by the coupon variability,
    the Company uses a variety of derivative instruments, primarily interest
    rate swaps and purchased caps and floors.
    
   
(b) The fair value of derivative instruments including swaps, caps, floors,
    futures, options and forward commitments, was determined using a pricing
    model which is validated through quarterly comparison to dealer quoted
    market prices, for 1996 and dealer quoted prices for 1995.
    
   
(c) The 1996 data includes issued caps of $433 with a weighted average strike
    rate of 8.21% (ranging from 7.0% to 9.5%) and over 93% maturing in 2000
    through 2005. In addition, issued floors totaled $590, had a weighted
    average strike rate of 5.17% (ranging from 5.00% to 7.85%) with all of them
    maturing by the end of 2005. The 1995 data includes issued caps of $475 with
    a weighted average strike rate of 8.5% (ranging from 7.0% to 10.4%) and over
    85% maturing in 2000 through 2004. In addition, issued floors totaled $236,
    had a weighted average strike rate of 8.1% (ranging from 5.3% to 10.9%) and
    mature through 2007, with 76% maturing by 2004.
    
   
(d) The 1996 data includes purchased floors of $2.4 billion and purchased caps
    of $1.3 billion. The floors had a weighted average strike rate of 5.84%
    (ranging from 3.70% to 7.85%) and over 87% mature in 1997 through 1999. The
    options mature in 1997. The caps had a weighted average strike rate of 7.59%
    (ranging from 4.40% to 10.125%) and over 76% mature in 1997 through 2001.
    The 1995 data includes purchased floors of $1.8 billion and purchased caps
    of $1.7 billion. The floors had a weighted average strike price of 5.8%
    (ranging from 3.7% to 6.8%) and over 85% mature in 1997 through 1999. The
    caps had a weighted average strike price of 7.5% (ranging from 4.5% and
    10.1%) and over 82% mature in 1997 through 1999.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
(e) As of December 31, 1996 and 1995, over 39% and 95%, respectively, of the
    notional futures contracts, expire within one year.
    
   
(f) As of December 31, 1996 and 1995, over 42% and 25%, respectively, of the
    Company's foreign currency swaps, expire within one year; the balance mature
    over the succeeding 4 to 5 years.
    
   
(g) Deferred gains and losses on anticipatory transactions are included in the
    carrying value of bond investments in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. At
    the time of the ultimate purchase, they are reflected as a basis adjustment
    to the purchased asset. At December 31, 1996, the Company had $1 million in
    net deferred gains for futures, interest rate swaps and purchased options.
    The Company expects to basis adjust $1 million of the deferred gains in
    1997. At December 31, 1995, the Company had $5.3 million in net deferred
    gains for futures, interest rate swaps and purchased options.
    
   
(h) The following table summarizes the maturities by notional value of interest
    rate swaps outstanding at December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related
    weighted average interest pay rate or receive rate. The variable rates
    represent spot rates (primarily 90 day LIBOR), as of December 31, 1996 and
    1995. Such variable rates have been calculated assuming that the spot rates
    remain unchanged throughout the life of the interest rate swaps.
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
1996                                                             1997         1998         1999         2000         2001
- ------------------------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
  PAY FIXED/RECEIVE VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                   $--         $50          $125          $35         $125
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                         --          5.7 %        5.9 %        5.5 %        5.5%
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                     --          3.2 %         --          6.5 %        6.4%
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE FIXED
    Notional Value                                                   $86          $25         $486          $74         $582
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                        7.5 %         --          6.4 %        6.7 %        7.0%
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                    5.6 %         --          5.6 %        5.7 %        6.2%
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE DIFFERENT VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                   $19          $15          $--         $200          $--
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                        5.9 %        5.7 %         --          6.4 %         --
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                    3.7 %        5.5 %         --          5.0 %         --
    Total Interest Rate Swaps                                       $105          $90         $611         $309         $707
    Total Weighted Average Pay Rate                                  7.2 %        5.7 %        6.3 %        6.4 %        6.7%
    Total Weighted Average Receive Rate                              5.2 %        3.8 %        4.3 %        5.4 %        6.3%
 
<CAPTION>
 
1995                                                             1996         1997         1998         1999         2000
- ------------------------------------------------------------  -----------  -----------  -----------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
  PAY FIXED/RECEIVE VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                  $15           $50          $--         $453          $31
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                        5.0 %        7.2 %         --          8.1 %        7.1%
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                    5.8 %        5.9 %         --          5.8 %        5.7%
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE FIXED
    Notional Value                                                  $100          $68          $25          $25          $35
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                        5.9 %        8.6 %        5.9 %         --          5.9%
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                    2.4 %        7.9 %        4.0 %         --          6.5%
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE DIFFERENT VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                   $50          $18          $36          $12         $200
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                        5.8 %         --          3.7 %        3.5 %        4.5%
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                    5.4 %         --          5.6 %        5.2 %        6.8%
    Total Interest Rate Swaps                                       $165         $136          $61         $490         $266
    Total Weighted Average Pay Rate                                  5.8 %        7.8 %        4.6 %        7.6 %        5.0%
    Total Weighted Average Receive Rate                              3.6 %        7.2 %        4.9 %        5.4 %        6.6%
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                                            LATEST
1996                                                           THEREAFTER       TOTAL      MATURITY
- ------------------------------------------------------------  -------------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>          <C>
  PAY FIXED/RECEIVE VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                   $170          $505         2003
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                         5.7  %        5.7 %
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                     6.9  %        4.7 %
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE FIXED
    Notional Value                                                   $349        $1,602         2007
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                         6.9  %        6.8 %
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                     5.9  %        5.9 %
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE DIFFERENT VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                    $44          $278         2003
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                        12.9  %        7.4 %
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                     6.4  %        5.2 %
    Total Interest Rate Swaps                                        $563        $2,385         2007
    Total Weighted Average Pay Rate                                   7.0  %        6.6 %
    Total Weighted Average Receive Rate                               6.3  %        5.5 %
                                                                                            LATEST
1995                                                           THEREAFTER       TOTAL      MATURITY
- ------------------------------------------------------------  -------------  -----------  -----------
<S>                                                           <C>            <C>          <C>
  PAY FIXED/RECEIVE VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                   $229          $778         2004
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                         7.8  %        7.8 %
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                     5.9  %        5.9 %
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE FIXED
    Notional Value                                                   $190          $443         2007
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                         5.4  %        5.4 %
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                     6.9  %        6.9 %
  PAY VARIABLE/RECEIVE DIFFERENT VARIABLE
    Notional Value                                                   $234          $550         2004
    Weighted Average Pay Rate                                        16.3  %        5.7 %
    Weighted Average Receive Rate                                     5.9  %        6.4 %
    Total Interest Rate Swaps                                        $653        $1,771         2007
    Total Weighted Average Pay Rate                                   7.3  %        6.9 %
    Total Weighted Average Receive Rate                               6.3  %        5.8 %
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    In addition, interest rate sensitivity related to certain Company insurance
liabilities was altered primarily through interest rate swap agreements. The
notional amount of the liability agreements in which the Company generally pays
one variable rate in exchange for another was $2.4 billion and $1.7 billion at
December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. As of December 31, 1996, the weighted
average pay rate was 5.6% and the weighted average receive rate was 6.5%. These
agreements mature at various times through 2001.
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    A reconciliation between notional amounts at December 31, 1995 and 1996 by
derivative type and strategy is as follows:
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        BY DERIVATIVE TYPE
                                                                           ---------------------------------------------
                                                                               12/31/95                     MATURITIES/
                                                                            NOTIONAL AMOUNT    ADDITIONS   TERMINATIONS
                                                                           -----------------  -----------  -------------
<S>                                                                        <C>                <C>          <C>
Caps.....................................................................      $   2,184       $   1,286     $   1,715
Floors...................................................................          2,180           2,053         1,065
Options..................................................................             --              10            --
Swaps/Forwards...........................................................          3,566           3,989         2,694
Futures..................................................................            863           2,092         2,818
                                                                                  ------      -----------       ------
    Total................................................................      $   8,793       $   9,430     $   8,292
                                                                                  ------      -----------       ------
                                                                                  ------      -----------       ------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                                            BY STRATEGY
                                                                           ---------------------------------------------
                                                                               12/31/95                     MATURITIES/
                                                                            NOTIONAL AMOUNT    ADDITIONS   TERMINATIONS
                                                                           -----------------  -----------  -------------
<S>                                                                        <C>                <C>          <C>
Liability................................................................      $   1,708       $   1,940     $   1,137
Anticipatory.............................................................            238             516           622
Asset....................................................................          2,984           1,265         2,137
Portfolio................................................................          3,863           5,709         4,396
                                                                                  ------      -----------       ------
    Total................................................................      $   8,793       $   9,430     $   8,292
                                                                                  ------      -----------       ------
                                                                                  ------      -----------       ------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                               12/31/96
                                                                            NOTIONAL AMOUNT
                                                                           -----------------
<S>                                                                        <C>
Caps.....................................................................      $   1,755
Floors...................................................................          3,168
Options..................................................................             10
Swaps/Forwards...........................................................          4,861
Futures..................................................................            137
                                                                                  ------
    Total................................................................      $   9,931
                                                                                  ------
                                                                                  ------
 
                                                                               12/31/96
                                                                            NOTIONAL AMOUNT
                                                                           -----------------
<S>                                                                        <C>
Liability................................................................      $   2,511
Anticipatory.............................................................            132
Asset....................................................................          2,112
Portfolio................................................................          5,176
                                                                                  ------
    Total................................................................      $   9,931
                                                                                  ------
                                                                                  ------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
(H) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  AS OF DECEMBER 31,    AS OF DECEMBER 31,
                                                                                         1996                  1995
                                                                                 --------------------  --------------------
                                                                                 CARRYING     FAIR     CARRYING     FAIR
                                                                                  AMOUNT      VALUE     AMOUNT      VALUE
                                                                                 ---------  ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                                                              <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
ASSETS
  Fixed maturities.............................................................  $  13,624  $  13,624  $  14,400  $  14,400
  Equity securities............................................................        119        119         63         63
  Policy loans.................................................................      3,836      3,836      3,381      3,381
  Mortgage loans...............................................................          2          2        265        265
  Investments in partnerships and trust........................................         48         48         94         97
  Other........................................................................          6         56         62         62
LIABILITIES
  Other policy benefits........................................................  $  11,707  $  11,469  $  12,727  $  12,767
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value
of each class of financial instrument: fair value for fixed maturities and
equity securities approximate those quotations published by applicable stock
exchanges or received from other reliable sources; policy and mortgage loan
carrying amounts approximate fair value; investments in partnerships and trusts
are based on external market valuations from partnership and trust managements;
fair value of derivative instruments, including swaps, caps, floors, futures,
and forward commitments, is determined by using a pricing model which is
validated through quarterly comparison to dealer quoted market prices; and other
policy benefits payable for investment type contracts are determined by
estimating future cash flows discounted at the year end market rate.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 4. INCOME TAX
 
   
    Hartford Life and The Hartford have entered into a tax sharing agreement
under which each member, including the Company, in the consolidated U.S. federal
income tax return will make payments between them such that, with respect to any
period, the amount of taxes to be paid by Hartford Life for the Company, subject
to certain adjustments, generally will be determined as though the Company were
to file separate federal, state and local income tax returns.
    
 
   
    As long as The Hartford continues to beneficially own, directly or
indirectly, at least 80% of the combined voting power and 80% of the value of
the outstanding capital stock of Hartford Life, the Company will be included for
federal income tax purposes in the consolidated group of which The Hartford is
the common parent. It is the current intention of The Hartford and its
subsidiaries to continue to file a consolidated federal income tax return. The
Company will continue to remit to (receive from) The Hartford a current income
tax provision (benefit) computed in accordance with such tax sharing agreement.
The Company's effective tax rate was 35%, 32% and 32% in 1996, 1995 and 1994,
respectively.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
    Income tax expense was as follows:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER
                                                     31,
                                       -------------------------------
                                         1996       1995       1994
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                    <C>        <C>        <C>
 Current.............................  $     122  $     211  $     185
  Deferred...........................       (102)      (149)      (120)
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total............................  $      20  $      62  $      65
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    A reconciliation of the tax provision at the U.S. federal statutory rate to
the provision for income taxes was as follows:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                        FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER
                                                     31,
                                       -------------------------------
                                         1996       1995       1994
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                    <C>        <C>        <C>
 Tax provision at U.S. statutory
  rate...............................  $      20  $      67  $      71
  Tax-exempt income..................         --         (3)        (3)
  Foreign tax credit.................         --         (4)        (1)
  Other..............................         --          2         (2)
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total............................  $      20  $      62  $      65
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
                                       ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    Income taxes paid were $189, $162 and $244 in 1996, 1995 and 1994,
respectively. The current tax refund due from The Hartford to the Company was
$72 and $8 as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
    
 
   
    Deferred tax assets (liabilities) included the following:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       AS OF
                                                    DECEMBER 31,
                                                --------------------
                                                  1996       1995
                                                ---------  ---------
<S>                                             <C>        <C>
Tax return deferred acquisition costs.........  $     514  $     410
Financial statement deferred acquisition costs
 and reserves.................................       (242)       138
Employee benefits.............................          8          8
Unrealized (gain) loss on investments.........        (16)        32
Investments and other.........................        210       (168)
                                                ---------  ---------
    Total.....................................  $     474  $     420
                                                ---------  ---------
                                                ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    Prior to the Tax Reform Act of 1984, the Life Insurance Company Income Tax
Act of 1959 permitted the deferral from taxation of a portion of statutory
income under certain circumstances. In such circumstances, the deferred income
was accumulated in a "Policyholders' Surplus Account" and will be taxable in the
future only under conditions which management considers to be remote; therefore,
no Federal income taxes have been provided on this deferred income. The balance
for tax return purposes of the Policyholders' Surplus Account as of December 31,
1996 was $37.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 5. REINSURANCE
 
   
    The Company cedes insurance to non-affiliated insurers in order to limit its
maximum loss. Such transfer does not relieve the Company of its primary
liability. The Company also assumes insurance from other insurers.
    
 
   
    Life insurance net retained premiums were comprised of the following:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                     -------------------------------
                                       1996       1995       1994
                                     ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                  <C>        <C>        <C>
Gross premiums.....................  $   1,834  $   1,545  $   1,316
Insurance assumed..................        173        591        299
Insurance ceded....................       (302)      (649)      (515)
                                     ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total..........................  $   1,705  $   1,487  $   1,100
                                     ---------  ---------  ---------
                                     ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    Life reinsurance recoveries, which reduced death and other benefits, for the
years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 approximated $140, $220 and $164,
respectively.
    
 
   
    In December 1994, the Company ceded to a third party $1.0 billion in
individual fixed and variable annuities on a modified coinsurance basis. In
December 1995, the Company ceded approximately $1.2 billion in individual
variable annuities on a modified coinsurance basis to a third party. These
transactions did not have a material impact on consolidated net income.
    
 
   
    In May 1994, the Company assumed the life insurance policies and the
individual annuities of Pacific Standard with reserves and account values of
approximately $434 million. The Company received cash and investment grade
assets to support the life insurance and individual annuity contract obligations
assumed.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 6.PENSION PLANS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT
   BENEFITS
 
   
    The Company's employees are included in Hartford Fire's noncontributory
defined benefit pension plans. These plans provide pension benefits that are
based on years of service and the employee's compensation during the last ten
years of employment. The Company's funding policy is to contribute annually an
amount between the minimum funding requirements set forth in the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and the maximum amount that
can be deducted for Federal income tax purposes. Generally, pension costs are
funded through the purchase of the Company's group pension contracts. The cost
to the Company was approximately $5, $2 and $2 in 1996, 1995 and 1994,
respectively.
    
 
   
    The Company also provides, through Hartford Fire, certain health care and
life insurance benefits for eligible retired employees. A substantial portion of
the Company's employees may become eligible for these benefits upon retirement.
The Company's contribution for health care benefits will depend on the retiree's
date of retirement and years of service. In addition, the plan has a defined
dollar cap which limits average Company contributions. The Company has prefunded
a portion of the health care and life insurance obligations through trust funds
where such prefunding can be accomplished on a tax effective basis.
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
Postretirement health care and life insurance benefits expense, allocated by The
Hartford, was immaterial for 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.
    
 
   
    The assumed rate of future increases in the per capita cost of health care
(the health care trend rate) was 9.3% for 1996, decreasing ratably to 6.0% in
the year 2001. Increasing the health care trend rates by one percent per year
would have an immaterial impact on the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation and the annual expense. To the extent that the actual experience
differs from the inherent assumptions, the effect will be amortized over the
average future service of the covered employees.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 7. BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
 
   
    The Company sells financial products such as fixed and variable annuities,
retirement plan services, and life insurance on both an individual and a group
basis. The Company divides its core businesses into three segments: Investment
Products, Individual Life Insurance and Employee Benefits. In addition, the
Company also maintains a corporate operation and also classifies certain of its
business as Runoff operations. The Investment Products segment offers individual
variable annuities and fixed market value adjusted annuities, deferred
compensation and retirement plan services, mutual funds, investment management
services and other financial products. The Individual Life Insurance segment
sells a variety of individual life insurance products, including variable life,
universal life, and interest-sensitive whole life policies. The Employee
Benefits segment sells corporate owned life insurance. Through its corporate
operation, the Company reports net investment income on assets representing
surplus not assigned to any of its business segments and certain other revenues
and expenses not specifically allocable to any of its business segments. The
Company's Runoff operations are comprised of Closed Book GRC. With the exception
of Closed Book GRC, net realized capital gains and losses are recognized in the
period of realization but are allocated to the segments utilizing durations of
the segment portfolios.
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                      -------------------------------
                                        1996       1995       1994
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                   <C>        <C>        <C>
REVENUES
  Investment Products...............  $   1,013  $     759  $     594
  Individual Life Insurance.........        440        383        375
  Employee Benefits.................      1,366      1,273        919
  Corporate Operations..............         81         52         30
  Runoff Operations.................        (11)       337        481
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total Revenues..................  $   2,889  $   2,804  $   2,399
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                      -------------------------------
                                        1996       1995       1994
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                   <C>        <C>        <C>
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAX EXPENSE
  Investment Products...............  $     230  $     172  $     127
  Individual Life Insurance.........         68         56         39
  Employee Benefits.................         43         37         27
  Corporate Operations..............         65         16          8
  Runoff Operations.................       (348)       (90)         2
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
    Income Before Income Tax
     Expense........................  $      58  $     191  $     203
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
<CAPTION>
 
                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                      -------------------------------
                                        1996       1995       1994
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                                   <C>        <C>        <C>
ASSETS
  Investment Products...............  $  53,743  $  40,624  $  29,115
  Individual Life Insurance.........      3,753      3,173      2,808
  Employee Benefits.................     14,515     13,494      7,847
  Corporate Operations..............      1,891      1,729        822
  Runoff Operations.................      3,667      5,177      7,257
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
    Total Assets....................  $  77,569  $  64,197  $  47,849
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
                                      ---------  ---------  ---------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 8. STATUTORY NET INCOME AND SURPLUS
 
   
    A significant percentage of the consolidated statutory surplus is
permanently reinvested or is subject to various state regulatory restrictions
which limit the payment of dividends without prior approval. The total amount of
statutory dividends which may be paid by the insurance subsidiaries of the
Company in 1997, without prior approval, is estimated to be $121 million.
Statutory net income and surplus as of and for the years ended December 31 were:
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              1996       1995       1994
                            ---------  ---------  ---------
<S>                         <C>        <C>        <C>
Statutory net income......  $     144  $     112  $      58
Statutory surplus.........  $   1,207  $   1,125  $     941
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    The insurance subsidiaries of the Company prepare their statutory financial
statements in accordance with accounting practices prescribed by the State of
Connecticut Insurance Department. Prescribed statutory accounting practices
include publications of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners
("NAIC"), as well as state laws, regulations, and general administrative rules.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 9. SEPARATE ACCOUNTS
 
   
    The Company maintained separate account assets and liabilities totaling
$49.7 billion and $36.3 billion at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively,
which are reported at fair value. Separate account assets are segregated from
other investments, and investment income and gains and losses accrue directly to
the policyholder. Separate accounts reflect two categories of risk assumption:
non-guaranteed separate accounts totaling $39.4 billion and $25.9 billion at
December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively, wherein the policyholder assumes the
investment risk, and
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
guaranteed separate account assets totaling $10.3 billion at December 31, 1996
and 1995, wherein the Company contractually guarantees either a minimum return
or account value to the policyholder. Included in the non-guaranteed category
are policy loans totaling $2.0 billion and $1.7 billion at December 31, 1996 and
1995, respectively. Investment income (including investment gains and losses)
and interest credited to policyholders on separate account assets are not
reflected in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Separate account management
fees, net of minimum guarantees, were $538, $387 and $256 in 1996, 1995 and
1994, respectively.
    
 
   
    The guaranteed separate accounts include modified guaranteed individual
annuity and modified guaranteed life insurance. The average credited interest
rate on these contracts was 6.53% at December 31, 1996. The assets that support
these liabilities were comprised of $10.2 billion in fixed maturities at
December 31, 1996. The portfolios are segregated from other investments and are
managed so as to minimize liquidity and interest rate risk. To minimize the risk
of disintermediation associated with early withdrawals, individual annuity and
modified guaranteed life insurance contracts carry a graded surrender charge as
well as a market value adjustment. Additional investment risk is hedged using a
variety of derivatives which totaled $0.1 billion in carrying value and $2.4
billion in notional amounts at December 31, 1996.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
   
    Under insurance guaranty fund laws existing in each state, the District of
Columbia and Puerto Rico, insurers licensed to do business can be assessed by
state insurance guaranty associations for certain obligations of insolvent
insurance companies to policyholders and claimants. Recent regulatory actions
against certain large life insurers encountering financial difficulty have
prompted various state insurance guaranty associations to begin assessing life
insurance companies for the deemed losses. Most of these laws do provide,
however, that an assessment may be excused or deferred if it would threaten an
insurer's solvency and further provide annual limits on such assessments. A
large part of the assessments paid by the Company's insurance subsidiaries
pursuant to these laws may be used as credits for a portion of the Company's
insurance subsidiaries' premium taxes. The Company paid guaranty fund
assessments of approximately $11, $10 and $8 in 1996, 1995 and 1994,
respectively, of which $5, $6 and $4 were estimated to be creditable against
premium taxes.
    
 
   
    The Company is a defendant in various lawsuits arising in the ordinary
course of business. In the opinion of management, the resolution of these
matters is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the Company's
business, financial position, or results of operations.
    
 
   
    The rent paid to Hartford Fire for the space occupied by the Company was $3
in 1996, 1995, and 1994. The Company expects to pay annual rent of $7 in 1997,
1998, and 1999, respectively, $12 in 2000 and 2001, and $96 thereafter, over the
remaining term of the sublease, which expires on December 31, 2009. Rental
expense is recognized on a level basis over the term of the sublease and
amounted to approximately $8 in 1996, 1995 and 1994.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 11. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
 
   
    On February 10, 1997, Hartford Life filed a registration statement with the
Securities and Exchange Commission relating to the U.S. and international
offerings of shares of Class A common stock (the "Equity Offerings")
representing up to 20% ownership of Hartford Life. After completion of the
Equity Offerings, The Hartford would own all of the shares of Class B Common
Stock (after reclassification of Hartford Life's common stock into Class B
Common Stock prior to March 31, 1997). Hartford Life intends to use the
estimated net proceeds of the Equity Offerings to make a capital contribution to
its insurance subsidiaries, to reduce its third-party indebtedness and for other
general corporate purposes.
    
 
   
    The Hartford has advised the Company that its current intent is to continue
to beneficially own at least 80% of Hartford Life, but it is under no
contractual obligation to do so, except for a limited period. Provided that The
Hartford continues to beneficially own at least 80% of the combined voting power
or the value of the outstanding capital stock of Hartford Life, Hartford Life
will be included for federal income tax purposes in the controlled group of
which The Hartford is the common parent. Each member of a controlled group is
jointly and severally liable for pension funding and pension termination
liabilities of each other member of the controlled group, as well as certain
benefit plan taxes. Accordingly, the Company could be liable for pension
funding, pension termination liabilities and certain other pension related
excise taxes as well as other taxes of another member of The Hartford controlled
group in the event any such liability is incurred, and not discharged, by such
other member.
    
 
   
    In connection with the proposed Equity Offerings, Hartford Life plans to
enter into formal agreements, including a master intercompany agreement,
investment management agreements and a new tax sharing agreement, with The
Hartford covering such matters as corporate services, approval of certain
corporate activities, registration rights, owned and leased space, allocation of
expenses, taxes and liabilities, investment advisory services, use of trademarks
and certain other corporate matters. As part of the master intercompany
agreement, Hartford Life would agree to remit to The Hartford 30% of any shared
liabilities for which The Hartford is responsible in respect of the ITT
Spin-off, 30% of any taxes which may be assessed to The
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
Hartford relating to the ITT Spin-off and will indemnify The Hartford for
certain other tax liabilities. As of December 31, 1996 there was no known
liability associated with the ITT Spin-off. Such agreements are meant to
maintain the relationship between Hartford Life and The Hartford in a manner
consistent in all material respects with past practice. As a result, management
believes these agreements should not have a material impact on the results of
operations of the Company.
    
 
   
    In addition, under insurance company holding laws, agreements between
Hartford Life's insurance subsidiaries and The Hartford must be fair and
reasonable and may be subject to the approval of applicable insurance
commissioners. The agreements will be intended to maintain the relationship
between Hartford Life and The Hartford in a manner generally consistent with
past practices. However, none of these arrangements will result from
arm's-length negotiations and, therefore, the prices charged to Hartford Life
and its subsidiaries for services provided under these arrangements may be
higher or lower than prices that may be charged by third parties.
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
  SCHEDULE I -- SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS (OTHER THAN INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATES)
                            AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                               ESTIMATED
                                                                                                                 FAIR
TYPE OF INVESTMENT                                                                                   COST        VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  ---------  -----------
<S>                                                                                                <C>        <C>
Fixed Maturities
Bonds and Notes
  U.S. Government and government agencies and authorities
   (guaranteed sponsored)........................................................................  $     166   $     175
  U.S. Government and government agencies and authorities
   (guaranteed sponsored)--asset-backed..........................................................      1,970       2,003
States, municipalities and political subdivisions................................................        373         368
International governments........................................................................        281         289
Public utilities.................................................................................        877         881
All other corporate including international......................................................      4,656       4,669
All other corporate--asset-backed................................................................      3,601       3,591
Short-term investments...........................................................................      1,655       1,648
                                                                                                   ---------  -----------
Total Fixed Maturities...........................................................................  $  13,579   $  13,624
Equity Securities
Common Stocks--industrial, miscellaneous, and all other..........................................        110         119
Total Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities.....................................................  $  13,689   $  13,743
Other Investments
Policy Loans.....................................................................................      3,836       3,836
Mortgage Loans...................................................................................          2           2
Investments in partnerships and trusts...........................................................         48          48
Futures, options, and miscellaneous..............................................................          6          56
Total Other Investments..........................................................................      3,892       3,942
                                                                                                   ---------  -----------
Total Investments................................................................................  $  17,581   $  17,685
                                                                                                   ---------  -----------
                                                                                                   ---------  -----------
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                     AMOUNT AT
                                                                                                    WHICH SHOWN
                                                                                                        ON
TYPE OF INVESTMENT                                                                                 BALANCE SHEET
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  -------------
<S>                                                                                                <C>
Fixed Maturities
Bonds and Notes
  U.S. Government and government agencies and authorities
   (guaranteed sponsored)........................................................................   $       175
  U.S. Government and government agencies and authorities
   (guaranteed sponsored)--asset-backed..........................................................         2,003
States, municipalities and political subdivisions................................................           368
International governments........................................................................           289
Public utilities.................................................................................           881
All other corporate including international......................................................         4,669
All other corporate--asset-backed................................................................         3,591
Short-term investments...........................................................................         1,648
                                                                                                   -------------
Total Fixed Maturities...........................................................................   $    13,624
Equity Securities
Common Stocks--industrial, miscellaneous, and all other..........................................           119
Total Fixed Maturities and Equity Securities.....................................................   $    13,743
Other Investments
Policy Loans.....................................................................................         3,836
Mortgage Loans...................................................................................             2
Investments in partnerships and trusts...........................................................            48
Futures, options, and miscellaneous..............................................................             6
Total Other Investments..........................................................................         3,892
                                                                                                   -------------
Total Investments................................................................................   $    17,635
                                                                                                   -------------
                                                                                                   -------------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
    Note: The fair values for short-term investments approximate cost.
    
<PAGE>
                                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
              SCHEDULE III -- SUPPLEMENTARY INSURANCE INFORMATION
              FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996, 1995 AND 1994
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                        FUTURE POLICY
                                                                                      BENEFITS, UNPAID     OTHER POLICY
                                                                                         CLAIMS AND         CLAIMS AND
                                                                   DEFERRED POLICY    CLAIM ADJUSTMENT       BENEFITS
SEGMENT                                                           ACQUISITION COSTS       EXPENSES            PAYABLE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------  -----------------  -------------------  ---------------
<S>                                                               <C>                <C>                  <C>
1996
Investment Products.............................................      $   2,030           $   1,554          $   6,599
Individual Life Insurance.......................................            730                 346              2,160
Employee Benefits...............................................             --                 381              9,834
Corporate Operations............................................             --                  --                 --
Runoff Operations...............................................             --                  --              3,541
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
Consolidated Operations.........................................      $   2,760           $   2,281          $  22,134
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
 
1995
Investment Products.............................................      $   1,561           $   1,314          $   6,204
Individual Life Insurance.......................................            615                 706              1,932
Employee Benefits...............................................             12                 325              9,285
Corporate Operations............................................             --                  --                 --
Runoff Operations...............................................             --                  28              5,177
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
Consolidated Operations.........................................      $   2,188           $   2,373          $  22,598
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
 
1994
Investment Products.............................................      $   1,244           $     895          $   4,617
Individual Life Insurance.......................................            565                 582              2,543
Employee Benefits...............................................             --                 369              6,911
Corporate Operations............................................             --                  --                 --
Runoff Operations...............................................             --                  44              7,257
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
Consolidated Operations.........................................      $   1,809           $   1,890          $  21,328
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                                      BENEFITS CLAIMS,    AMORTIZATION OF
                                                                    NET REALIZED          AND CLAIM       DEFERRED POLICY
                                                                  CAPITAL (LOSSES)       ADJUSTMENT         ACQUISITION
SEGMENT                                                                 GAINS             EXPENSES             COSTS
- ----------------------------------------------------------------  -----------------  -------------------  ---------------
<S>                                                               <C>                <C>                  <C>
1996
Investment Products.............................................      $      --           $     451          $     175
Individual Life Insurance.......................................             --                 245                 59
Employee Benefits...............................................             --                 546                 --
Corporate Operations............................................              6                  --                 --
Runoff Operations...............................................           (219)                293                 --
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
Consolidated Operations.........................................      $    (213)          $   1,535          $     234
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
 
1995
Investment Products.............................................      $      --           $     349          $     117
Individual Life Insurance.......................................             --                 127                 70
Employee Benefits...............................................             --                 496                 --
Corporate Operations............................................            (11)                 33                 --
Runoff Operations...............................................             --                 417                 12
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
Consolidated Operations.........................................      $     (11)          $   1,422          $     199
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
 
1994
Investment Products.............................................      $      --           $     383          $      90
Individual Life Insurance.......................................             --                 179                 51
Employee Benefits...............................................             --                 376                 --
Corporate Operations............................................              7                  --                 --
Runoff Operations...............................................             --                 467                  4
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
Consolidated Operations.........................................      $       7           $   1,405          $     145
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
                                                                         ------              ------            -------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                                                                   PREMIUMS AND        NET
                                                                       OTHER       INVESTMENT
SEGMENT                                                           CONSIDERATIONS     INCOME
- ----------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -----------
<S>                                                               <C>              <C>
1996
Investment Products.............................................     $     536      $     477
Individual Life Insurance.......................................           287            153
Employee Benefits...............................................           881            485
Corporate Operations............................................            --             75
Runoff Operations...............................................             1            207
                                                                        ------     -----------
Consolidated Operations.........................................     $   1,705      $   1,397
                                                                        ------     -----------
                                                                        ------     -----------
1995
Investment Products.............................................     $     319      $     436
Individual Life Insurance.......................................           246            137
Employee Benefits...............................................           922            351
Corporate Operations............................................            --             67
Runoff Operations...............................................            --            337
                                                                        ------     -----------
Consolidated Operations.........................................     $   1,487      $   1,328
                                                                        ------     -----------
                                                                        ------     -----------
1994
Investment Products.............................................     $     263      $     330
Individual Life Insurance.......................................           268            108
Employee Benefits...............................................           569            350
Corporate Operations............................................            --             23
Runoff Operations...............................................            --            481
                                                                        ------     -----------
Consolidated Operations.........................................     $   1,100      $   1,292
                                                                        ------     -----------
                                                                        ------     -----------
 
                                                                   DIVIDENDS TO       OTHER
SEGMENT                                                            POLICYHOLDERS    EXPENSES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------  ---------------  -----------
<S>                                                               <C>              <C>
1996
Investment Products.............................................     $      --      $     156
Individual Life Insurance.......................................            --             68
Employee Benefits...............................................           635            143
Corporate Operations............................................            --             16
Runoff Operations...............................................            --             44
                                                                        ------     -----------
Consolidated Operations.........................................     $     635      $     427
                                                                        ------     -----------
                                                                        ------     -----------
1995
Investment Products.............................................     $      --      $     115
Individual Life Insurance.......................................            --             55
Employee Benefits...............................................           675            138
Corporate Operations............................................            --             11
Runoff Operations...............................................            --             (2)
                                                                        ------     -----------
Consolidated Operations.........................................     $     675      $     317
                                                                        ------     -----------
                                                                        ------     -----------
1994
Investment Products.............................................     $      --      $     (31)
Individual Life Insurance.......................................            --            107
Employee Benefits...............................................           419            100
Corporate Operations............................................            --             43
Runoff Operations...............................................            --              8
                                                                        ------     -----------
Consolidated Operations.........................................     $     419      $     227
                                                                        ------     -----------
                                                                        ------     -----------
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY AND SUBSIDIARIES
                           SCHEDULE IV -- REINSURANCE
                                 (IN MILLIONS)
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          GROSS         CEDED TO        ASSUMED FROM       NET
                                                          AMOUNT    OTHER COMPANIES   OTHER COMPANIES     AMOUNT
                                                        ----------  ----------------  ----------------  ----------
<S>                                                     <C>         <C>               <C>               <C>
Year Ended December 31, 1996
Life Insurance in Force...............................  $  177,094    $    106,146       $   31,957     $  102,905
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
Insurance Revenues
  Life Insurance and Annuities........................  $    1,801    $        298       $      169     $    1,672
  Accident and Health Insurance.......................          33               4                4             33
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
Total.................................................  $    1,834    $        302       $      173     $    1,705
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
For the Year Ended December 31, 1995
Life Insurance in Force...............................  $  182,716    $    112,774       $   26,996     $   96,938
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
Insurance Revenues
  Life Insurance and Annuities........................  $    1,232    $        325       $      574     $    1,481
  Accident and Health Insurance.......................         313             324               17              6
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
Total.................................................  $    1,545    $        649       $      591     $    1,487
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
For the Year Ended December 31, 1994
Life Insurance in Force...............................  $  136,929    $     87,553       $   35,016     $   84,392
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
Insurance Revenues
  Life Insurance and Annuities........................  $    1,008    $        211       $      294     $    1,091
  Accident and Health Insurance.......................         308             304                5              9
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
Total.................................................  $    1,316    $        515       $      299     $    1,100
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
                                                        ----------        --------          -------     ----------
 
<CAPTION>
                                                          PERCENTAGE OF
                                                         AMOUNT ASSUMED
                                                             TO NET
                                                        -----------------
<S>                                                     <C>
Year Ended December 31, 1996
Life Insurance in Force...............................          31.1%
Insurance Revenues
  Life Insurance and Annuities........................          10.1%
  Accident and Health Insurance.......................          12.1%
Total.................................................          10.1%
For the Year Ended December 31, 1995
Life Insurance in Force...............................          27.8%
Insurance Revenues
  Life Insurance and Annuities........................          38.8%
  Accident and Health Insurance.......................         283.3%
Total.................................................          39.7%
For the Year Ended December 31, 1994
Life Insurance in Force...............................          41.5%
Insurance Revenues
  Life Insurance and Annuities........................          26.9%
  Accident and Health Insurance.......................          55.6%
Total.................................................          27.2%
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>
                                                 HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
                    REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
    
 
   
To Hartford Life Insurance Company
Separate Account Two and to the
Owners of Units of Interest Therein:
    
 
   
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Hartford
Life Insurance Company Separate Account Two (the Account) as of December 31,
1996, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended and
statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then
ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Account'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 Hartford Life Insurance Company
Separate Account Two as of December 31, 1996, the results of its operations for
the year then ended and the changes in its net assets for each of the two years
in the period then ended in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
    
 
   
                                         ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
    
   
Hartford, Connecticut
February 14, 1997
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 Separate Account Two
 
   
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                            MONEY
                            BOND FUND      STOCK FUND    MARKET FUND
                           SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ------------  --------------  ------------
<S>                        <C>           <C>             <C>
ASSETS:
Investments:
  Hartford Bond Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           209,901,213
    Cost                            $213,818,503
    Market Value.........  $209,731,192        --             --
  Hartford Stock Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           325,077,171
    Cost                            $942,043,980
    Market Value.........       --       $1,346,700,441       --
  HVA Money Market Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           282,828,485
    Cost                            $282,828,485
    Market Value.........       --             --        $282,828,485
  Hartford Advisers Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                         1,337,021,547
    Cost                          $2,233,276,156
    Market Value.........       --             --             --
  Hartford U.S.
   Government Money
   Market Fund, Inc.
    Shares                             1,592,137
    Cost                              $1,592,137
    Market Value.........       --             --             --
  Hartford Capital
   Appreciation Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           366,806,192
    Cost                          $1,062,106,327
    Market Value.........       --             --             --
  Hartford Mortgage
   Securities Fund, Inc.
    Shares                           189,233,708
    Cost                            $203,956,416
    Market Value.........       --             --             --
  Hartford Index Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           111,179,449
    Cost                            $184,665,755
    Market Value.........       --             --             --
  Hartford International
   Opportunities Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           291,990,802
    Cost                            $336,561,408
    Market Value.........       --             --             --
  Hartford Dividend and
   Growth Fund, Inc.
    Shares                           209,596,491
    Cost                            $268,301,179
    Market Value.........       --             --             --
  Due from Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....       389,971        --           1,275,023
  Receivable from fund
   shares sold...........       --            1,214,364       --
                           ------------  --------------  ------------
  Total Assets...........   210,121,163   1,347,914,805   284,103,508
                           ------------  --------------  ------------
LIABILITIES:
  Due to Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....       --            1,203,942       --
  Payable for fund shares
   purchased.............       391,131        --           1,269,939
                           ------------  --------------  ------------
  Total Liabilities......       391,131       1,203,942     1,269,939
                           ------------  --------------  ------------
  Net Assets (variable
   annuity contract
   liabilities)..........  $209,730,032  $1,346,710,863  $282,833,569
                           ------------  --------------  ------------
                           ------------  --------------  ------------
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                      MORTGAGE                    INTERNATIONAL
                                             U.S. GOVERNMENT          CAPITAL        SECURITIES                   OPPORTUNITIES
                           ADVISERS FUND    MONEY MARKET FUND    APPRECIATION FUND      FUND        INDEX FUND        FUND
                            SUB-ACCOUNT        SUB-ACCOUNT          SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT   SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT
                          ---------------  -------------------   -----------------  -------------  ------------ -----------------
<S>                       <C>              <C>                   <C>                <C>            <C>          <C>
ASSETS:
Investments:
  Hartford Bond Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           209,901,213
    Cost                            $213,818,503
    Market Value.........       --               --                    --                --             --            --
  Hartford Stock Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           325,077,171
    Cost                            $942,043,980
    Market Value.........       --               --                    --                --             --            --
  HVA Money Market Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           282,828,485
    Cost                            $282,828,485
    Market Value.........       --               --                    --                --             --            --
  Hartford Advisers Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                         1,337,021,547
    Cost                          $2,233,276,156
    Market Value.........  $2,900,708,354        --                    --                --             --            --
  Hartford U.S.
   Government Money
   Market Fund, Inc.
    Shares                             1,592,137
    Cost                              $1,592,137
    Market Value.........       --             $1,592,137              --                --             --            --
  Hartford Capital
   Appreciation Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           366,806,192
    Cost                          $1,062,106,327
    Market Value.........       --               --               $1,435,800,482         --             --            --
  Hartford Mortgage
   Securities Fund, Inc.
    Shares                           189,233,708
    Cost                            $203,956,416
    Market Value.........       --               --                    --           $199,787,272        --            --
  Hartford Index Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           111,179,449
    Cost                            $184,665,755
    Market Value.........       --               --                    --                --        $264,803,879       --
  Hartford International
   Opportunities Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                           291,990,802
    Cost                            $336,561,408
    Market Value.........       --               --                    --                --             --        $410,796,017
  Hartford Dividend and
   Growth Fund, Inc.
    Shares                           209,596,491
    Cost                            $268,301,179
    Market Value.........       --               --                    --                --             --            --
  Due from Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....       --               --                    --                --             --            --
  Receivable from fund
   shares sold...........           7,791           3,686                505,615           6,461        195,459        294,275
                          ---------------  -------------------   -----------------  -------------  ------------ -----------------
  Total Assets...........   2,900,716,145       1,595,823          1,436,306,097     199,793,733    264,999,338    411,090,292
                          ---------------  -------------------   -----------------  -------------  ------------ -----------------
LIABILITIES:
  Due to Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....           9,064           3,303                505,676           2,327        196,318        294,299
  Payable for fund shares
   purchased.............       --               --                    --                --             --            --
                          ---------------  -------------------   -----------------  -------------  ------------ -----------------
  Total Liabilities......           9,064           3,303                505,676           2,327        196,318        294,299
                          ---------------  -------------------   -----------------  -------------  ------------ -----------------
  Net Assets (variable
   annuity contract
   liabilities)..........  $2,900,707,081      $1,592,520         $1,435,800,421    $199,791,406   $264,803,020   $410,795,993
                          ---------------  -------------------   -----------------  -------------  ------------ -----------------
                          ---------------  -------------------   -----------------  -------------  ------------ -----------------
 
<CAPTION>
 
                           DIVIDEND AND
                           GROWTH FUND
                           SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ------------
<S>                       <C>
ASSETS:
Investments:
  Hartford Bond Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford Stock Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  HVA Money Market Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford Advisers Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford U.S.
   Government Money
   Market Fund, Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford Capital
   Appreciation Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford Mortgage
   Securities Fund, Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford Index Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford International
   Opportunities Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........      --
  Hartford Dividend and
   Growth Fund, Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........  $324,333,800
  Due from Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....      278,410
  Receivable from fund
   shares sold...........      --
                           ------------
  Total Assets...........  324,612,210
                           ------------
LIABILITIES:
  Due to Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....      --
  Payable for fund shares
   purchased.............      278,289
                           ------------
  Total Liabilities......      278,289
                           ------------
  Net Assets (variable
   annuity contract
   liabilities)..........  $324,333,921
                           ------------
                           ------------
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
 
   
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES -- (CONTINUED)
DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               CALVERT
                             RESPONSIBLY
                              INVESTED
                              BALANCED       INTERNATIONAL       SMALL            SMITH BARNEY
                              PORTFOLIO      ADVISERS FUND   COMPANY FUND    CASH PORTFOLIO CLASS A
                             SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT         SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ---------------   -------------   -------------   ----------------------
<S>                        <C>               <C>             <C>             <C>
ASSETS:
Investments:
  Calvert Responsibly
   Invested Balanced
   Portfolio
    Shares                          1,499,952
    Cost                          $ 2,391,011
    Market Value.........    $2,660,914           --              --               --
  Hartford International
   Advisers Fund, Inc.
    Shares                         25,549,431
    Cost                          $28,919,492
    Market Value.........       --            $29,805,457         --               --
  Hartford Small Company
   Fund, Inc.
    Shares                         12,669,842
    Cost                          $13,471,629
    Market Value.........       --                --          $13,546,087          --
  Smith Barney Cash
   Portfolio Class A
    Shares                            580,242
    Cost                          $  580,242
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               $580,243
  Smith Barney
   Appreciation Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                             13,454
    Cost                          $   98,474
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  Smith Barney Government
   Portfolio Class A
    Shares                             39,801
    Cost                          $   39,801
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  TCI Advantage Fund
    Shares                             27,440
    Cost                          $  166,872
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  TCI Growth Fund
    Shares                            111,230
    Cost                          $ 1,287,905
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  Fidelity VIP Overseas
   Portfolio
    Shares                             56,298
    Cost                          $  979,269
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  Fidelity VIP II Asset
   Manager Portfolio
    Shares                            108,305
    Cost                          $ 1,688,636
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  Fidelity VIP II
   Contrafund Portfolio
    Shares                            402,873
    Cost                          $ 5,743,454
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  Fidelity VIP Growth
   Portfolio
    Shares                            225,301
    Cost                          $ 6,630,047
    Market Value.........       --                --              --               --
  Dividends receivable...       --                --              --                    689
  Due from Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....        20,342           233,723         306,594          --
  Receivable from fund
   shares sold...........       --                --              --                  1,097
                           ---------------   -------------   -------------         --------
  Total Assets...........     2,681,256        30,039,180      13,852,681           582,029
                           ---------------   -------------   -------------         --------
LIABILITIES:
  Due to Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....       --                --              --                  1,098
  Payable for fund shares
   purchased.............        20,027           230,006         306,589          --
                           ---------------   -------------   -------------         --------
  Total Liabilities......        20,027           230,006         306,589             1,098
                           ---------------   -------------   -------------         --------
  Net Assets (variable
   annuity contract
   liabilities)..........    $2,661,229       $29,809,174     $13,546,092          $580,931
                           ---------------   -------------   -------------         --------
                           ---------------   -------------   -------------         --------
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           SMITH BARNEY        SMITH BARNEY                                            FIDELITY VIP
                           APPRECIATION    GOVERNMENT PORTFOLIO          TCI                TCI          OVERSEAS
                               FUND              CLASS A            ADVANTAGE FUND      GROWTH FUND     PORTFOLIO
                            SUB-ACCOUNT        SUB-ACCOUNT           SUB-ACCOUNT        SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT
                          ---------------  --------------------   ------------------  ---------------  ------------
<S>                       <C>              <C>                    <C>                 <C>              <C>
ASSETS:
Investments:
  Calvert Responsibly
   Invested Balanced
   Portfolio
    Shares                          1,499,952
    Cost                          $ 2,391,011
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --            --
  Hartford International
   Advisers Fund, Inc.
    Shares                         25,549,431
    Cost                          $28,919,492
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --            --
  Hartford Small Company
   Fund, Inc.
    Shares                         12,669,842
    Cost                          $13,471,629
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --            --
  Smith Barney Cash
   Portfolio Class A
    Shares                            580,242
    Cost                          $  580,242
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --            --
  Smith Barney
   Appreciation Fund,
   Inc.
    Shares                             13,454
    Cost                          $   98,474
    Market Value.........  $  172,850            --                     --                  --            --
  Smith Barney Government
   Portfolio Class A
    Shares                             39,801
    Cost                          $   39,801
    Market Value.........     --                $   39,801              --                  --            --
  TCI Advantage Fund
    Shares                             27,440
    Cost                          $  166,872
    Market Value.........     --                 --                  $    172,596           --            --
  TCI Growth Fund
    Shares                            111,230
    Cost                          $ 1,287,905
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --              $  1,138,990      --
  Fidelity VIP Overseas
   Portfolio
    Shares                             56,298
    Cost                          $  979,269
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --         $1,060,645
  Fidelity VIP II Asset
   Manager Portfolio
    Shares                            108,305
    Cost                          $ 1,688,636
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --            --
  Fidelity VIP II
   Contrafund Portfolio
    Shares                            402,873
    Cost                          $ 5,743,454
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --            --
  Fidelity VIP Growth
   Portfolio
    Shares                            225,301
    Cost                          $ 6,630,047
    Market Value.........     --                 --                     --                  --            --
  Dividends receivable...     --                        56              --                  --            --
  Due from Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....     --                 --                           113              1,084         318
  Receivable from fund
   shares sold...........         123                   17              --                  --            --
                          ---------------          -------               --------     ---------------  ------------
  Total Assets...........     172,973               39,874                172,709          1,140,074   1,060,963
                          ---------------          -------               --------     ---------------  ------------
LIABILITIES:
  Due to Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....         112                   32              --                  --            --
  Payable for fund shares
   purchased.............     --                 --                           114              1,084         374
                          ---------------          -------               --------     ---------------  ------------
  Total Liabilities......         112                   32                    114              1,084         374
                          ---------------          -------               --------     ---------------  ------------
  Net Assets (variable
   annuity contract
   liabilities)..........  $  172,861           $   39,842           $    172,595       $  1,138,990   $1,060,589
                          ---------------          -------               --------     ---------------  ------------
                          ---------------          -------               --------     ---------------  ------------
 
<CAPTION>
                                              FIDELITY VIP
                            FIDELITY VIP II        II        FIDELITY VIP
                             ASSET MANAGER     CONTRAFUND       GROWTH
                               PORTFOLIO        PORTFOLIO      PORTFOLIO
                              SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT
                           -----------------  -------------  -------------
<S>                       <C>                 <C>            <C>
ASSETS:
Investments:
  Calvert Responsibly
   Invested Balanced
   Portfolio
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  Hartford International
   Advisers Fund, Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  Hartford Small Company
   Fund, Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  Smith Barney Cash
   Portfolio Class A
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  Smith Barney
   Appreciation Fund,
   Inc.
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  Smith Barney Government
   Portfolio Class A
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  TCI Advantage Fund
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  TCI Growth Fund
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  Fidelity VIP Overseas
   Portfolio
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --             --
  Fidelity VIP II Asset
   Manager Portfolio
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........    $  1,833,607          --             --
  Fidelity VIP II
   Contrafund Portfolio
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --           $  6,671,576        --
  Fidelity VIP Growth
   Portfolio
 
    Shares
 
    Cost
    Market Value.........        --                --        $  7,015,865
  Dividends receivable...        --                --             --
  Due from Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....           1,331            7,363          5,867
  Receivable from fund
   shares sold...........        --                --             --
                           -----------------  -------------  -------------
  Total Assets...........       1,834,938        6,678,939      7,021,732
                           -----------------  -------------  -------------
LIABILITIES:
  Due to Hartford Life
   Insurance Company.....        --                --             --
  Payable for fund shares
   purchased.............             923            7,344          5,867
                           -----------------  -------------  -------------
  Total Liabilities......             923            7,344          5,867
                           -----------------  -------------  -------------
  Net Assets (variable
   annuity contract
   liabilities)..........    $  1,834,015     $  6,671,595   $  7,015,865
                           -----------------  -------------  -------------
                           -----------------  -------------  -------------
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 Separate Account Two
 
   
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES -- (CONTINUED)
DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        UNITS
                                                       OWNED BY       UNIT        CONTRACT
                                                     PARTICIPANTS     PRICE      LIABILITY
                                                     ------------   ---------  --------------
 DEFERRED ANNUITY CONTRACTS IN THE ACCUMULATION
  PERIOD:
 <S>                                                 <C>            <C>        <C>
 INDIVIDUAL SUB-ACCOUNTS:
   Bond Fund Qualified 1.00%.......................       286,137   $3.705223  $    1,060,201
   Bond Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...................     2,004,675    3.648889       7,314,837
   Bond Fund 1.25%.................................    96,857,176    1.922173     186,176,248
   Bond Fund .25%..................................        58,462    1.279841          74,822
   Stock Fund Qualified 1.00%......................       829,845    6.828860       5,666,897
   Stock Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%..................     3,406,617    6.529899      22,244,866
   Stock Fund 1.25%................................   333,175,709    3.546656   1,181,659,627
   Stock Fund .25%.................................     1,094,565    1.863616       2,039,847
   Money Market Fund Qualified 1.00%...............     1,361,999    2.465145       3,357,527
   Money Market Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...........    13,210,943    2.466312      32,582,307
   Money Market Fund 1.25%.........................   151,978,017    1.586516     241,115,556
   Money Market Fund .25%..........................       107,272    1.177980         126,364
   Advisers Fund Qualified 1.00%...................     3,530,743    4.341094      15,327,287
   Advisers Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...............    12,468,636    4.341094      54,127,522
   Advisers Fund 1.25%.............................   953,997,531    2.905301   2,771,649,980
   Advisers Fund .25%..............................     1,035,316    1.620437       1,677,664
   U.S. Government Money Market Fund Qualified
    1.00%..........................................        13,096    1.964748          25,730
   U.S. Government Money Market Fund 1.25%.........        46,108    1.520714          70,117
   Capital Appreciation Fund Qualified 1.00%.......       887,736    6.732095       5,976,324
   Capital Appreciation Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...     2,634,097    6.728893      17,724,557
   Capital Appreciation Fund 1.25%.................   330,579,796    4.010163   1,325,678,867
   Capital Appreciation Growth Fund .25%...........     2,393,968    1.929665       4,619,555
   Mortgage Securities Fund Qualified 1.00%........       754,527    2.494635       1,882,270
   Mortgage Securities Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%....     8,165,242    2.494635      20,369,299
   Mortgage Securities Fund 1.25%..................    89,097,727    1.948580     173,614,049
   Mortgage Securities Fund .25%...................        16,088    1.259955          20,270
   Index Fund 1.00%................................        38,885    1.121353          43,604
   Index Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%..................       105,698    1.121353         118,525
   Index Fund 1.25%................................    87,611,122    2.845170     249,268,537
   Index Fund .25%.................................       208,930    1.823336         380,949
   International Opportunities Fund Qualified
    1.00%..........................................       374,127    1.506694         563,694
   International Opportunities Fund Non-Qualified
    1.00%..........................................     1,951,162    1.506641       2,939,701
   International Opportunities Fund 1.25%..........   266,961,904    1.482397     395,743,525
   International Opportunities Fund .25%...........       796,396    1.658799       1,321,061
   Dividend and Growth Fund Qualified 1.00%........       291,489    1.661695         484,366
   Dividend and Growth Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%....     1,241,381    1.661695       2,062,797
   Dividend and Growth Fund 1.25%..................   190,957,704    1.650056     315,090,906
   Dividend and Growth Fund .25%...................       278,866    1.697062         473,253
   International Advisers Fund 1.00%...............        18,539    1.271482          23,572
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        UNITS
                                                       OWNED BY       UNIT        CONTRACT
                                                     PARTICIPANTS     PRICE      LIABILITY
                                                     ------------   ---------  --------------
 INDIVIDUAL SUB-ACCOUNTS -- (CONTINUED)
 <S>                                                 <C>            <C>        <C>
   International Advisers Fund Non-Qualified
    1.00%..........................................       347,573   $1.271482  $      441,933
   International Advisers Fund 1.25%...............    23,174,203    1.265665      29,330,778
   International Advisers Fund .25%................        10,000    1.289112          12,891
   Hartford Small Company Fund 1.00%...............        10,000    1.067381          10,674
   Hartford Small Company Fund Non-Qualified
    1.00%..........................................       109,746    1.067381         117,140
   Hartford Small Company Fund 1.25%...............    12,562,718    1.066345      13,396,192
   Hartford Small Company Fund .25%................        20,632    1.070487          22,086
   Smith Barney Cash Portfolio Class A Qualified
    1.00%..........................................        78,105    2.668734         208,440
   Smith Barney Cash Portfolio Class A
    Non-Qualified 1.00%............................       134,883    2.761578         372,491
   Smith Barney Appreciation Fund, Inc. Qualified
    1.00%..........................................        23,313    7.414916         172,861
   Smith Barney Government Portfolio Class A
    Qualified 1.00%................................        16,556    2.406571          39,842
                                                                               --------------
   Sub-total Individual Sub-Accounts...............                             7,088,822,408
                                                                               --------------
 GROUP SUB-ACCOUNTS:
   Bond Fund Qualified 1.00% QP....................     1,156,525    4.339730       5,019,007
   Bond Fund 1.25% DCII............................     1,655,052    4.186875       6,929,497
   Bond Fund .15% DCII.............................       305,789    3.988350       1,219,594
   Stock Fund Qualified 1.00% QP...................     3,371,997   11.419696      38,507,182
   Stock Fund Qualified .825% QP...................     1,236,665    9.187655      11,362,056
   Stock Fund Non-Qualified 1.00% NQ...............        84,854    8.960086         760,298
   Stock Fund Non-Qualified .825% NQ...............       789,689    9.203794       7,268,133
   Stock Fund 1.25% DCII...........................     4,885,027   11.016763      53,817,180
   Stock Fund .15% DCII............................       873,948    8.647926       7,557,838
   Money Market Fund Qualified .375% QP............         2,493    3.094168           7,714
   Money Market Fund 1.25% DCII....................     1,332,772    2.724852       3,631,605
   Money Market Fund .15% DCII.....................       321,329    2.679247         860,920
   Advisers Fund 1.25% DCII........................    10,504,581    4.201072      44,130,500
   Advisers Fund .15% DCII.........................       603,382    4.875465       2,941,770
   U.S. Government Money Market Fund 1.25% DCII....       586,557    1.898594       1,113,633
   U.S. Government Money Market Fund .15% DCII.....        54,540    2.211389         120,609
   Capital Appreciation Fund 1.25% DCII............    10,979,149    6.532522      71,721,533
   Capital Appreciation Fund .15% DCII.............       783,105    7.500897       5,873,989
   Mortgage Securities Fund 1.25% DCII.............     1,140,765    2.421049       2,761,848
   Mortgage Securities Fund .15% DCII..............       143,045    2.761199         394,976
   Index Fund 1.25% DCII...........................     4,377,886    2.848016      12,468,289
   Index Fund .15% DCII............................       354,223    3.118020       1,104,474
   International Opportunities Fund 1.25% DCII.....     5,995,783    1.482607       8,889,390
   International Opportunities Fund .15% DCII......       437,734    1.592168         696,947
   Dividend and Growth Fund........................     3,874,337    1.484086       5,749,849
   Calvert Responsibly Invested Balanced Portfolio
    1.25% DCII.....................................     1,192,706    2.020652       2,410,043
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
 
   
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES -- (CONTINUED)
DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        UNITS
                                                       OWNED BY       UNIT        CONTRACT
                                                     PARTICIPANTS     PRICE      LIABILITY
                                                     ------------   ---------  --------------
 GROUP SUB-ACCOUNTS -- (CONTINUED)
 <S>                                                 <C>            <C>        <C>
   TCI Advantage Portfolio.........................       144,148   $1.134354  $      163,515
   TCI Growth Fund Portfolio.......................     1,107,888    1.021217       1,131,394
   Fidelity VIP Overseas Portfolio.................       920,778    1.151840       1,060,589
   Fidelity VIP II Asset Manager Portfolio.........     1,491,046    1.230019       1,834,015
   Fidelity VIP II Contrafund Portfolio............     5,069,393    1.316054       6,671,595
   Fidelity VIP II Growth Portfolio................     5,773,053    1.215278       7,015,865
                                                                               --------------
   Sub-total Group Sub-Accounts....................                               315,195,847
                                                                               --------------
 TOTAL ACCUMULATION PERIOD.........................                             7,404,018,255
                                                                               --------------
 ANNUITY CONTRACTS IN THE ANNUITY PERIOD:
 INDIVIDUAL SUB-ACCOUNTS:
   Bond Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...................            27    3.648889              99
   Bond Fund 1.25%.................................       183,085    1.922173         351,921
   Stock Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%..................         9,504    6.529899          62,059
   Stock Fund 1.25%................................       305,133    3.546656       1,082,200
   Money Market Fund Qualified 1.00%...............        12,037    2.465145          29,672
   Money Market Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...........        90,874    2.466312         224,124
   Money Market Fund 1.25%.........................       293,556    1.586516         465,731
   Advisers Fund Qualified 1.00%...................         4,038    4.341094          17,529
   Advisers Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...............        61,575    4.341094         267,305
   Advisers Fund 1.25%.............................       863,489    2.905301       2,508,695
   U.S. Government Money Market Fund Qualified
    1.00%..........................................        10,951    1.964748          21,515
   Capital Appreciation Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%...         3,442    6.728893          23,158
   Capital Appreciation Fund 1.25%.................       150,348    4.010163         602,921
   Mortgage Securities Fund Non-Qualified 1.00%....        80,072    2.494635         199,751
   Mortgage Securities Fund 1.25%..................        81,728    1.948580         159,253
   Index Fund 1.25%................................        53,288    2.845170         151,614
   International Opportunities Fund 1.25%..........       184,639    1.482397         273,708
   Dividend and Growth Fund 1.25%..................       120,079    1.650056         198,136
                                                                               --------------
   Sub-total Individual Sub-Accounts...............                                 6,639,391
                                                                               --------------
 GROUP SUB-ACCOUNTS:
   Bond Fund Qualified 1.00% QP....................        68,667    4.339730         297,996
   Bond Fund 1.25% DCII............................       290,717    4.186875       1,217,195
   Bond Fund 1.00% DCII............................        11,681    4.322597          50,493
   Bond Fund .15% DCII.............................         4,544    3.988350          18,122
   Stock Fund Qualified 1.00% QP...................       228,666   11.419696       2,611,302
   Stock Fund Qualified .825% QP...................        50,529    9.187655         464,243
   Stock Fund Non-Qualified 1.00% NQ...............           569    8.960086           5,099
   Stock Fund Non-Qualified .825% NQ...............        50,740    9.203794         467,004
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        UNITS
                                                       OWNED BY       UNIT        CONTRACT
                                                     PARTICIPANTS     PRICE      LIABILITY
                                                     ------------   ---------  --------------
 GROUP SUB-ACCOUNTS -- (CONTINUED)
 <S>                                                 <C>            <C>        <C>
   Stock Fund 1.25% DCII...........................       997,034   $11.016763 $   10,984,089
   Stock Fund 1.00% DCII...........................         3,994   11.383947          45,472
   Stock Fund .15% DCII............................        12,196    8.647926         105,471
   Money Market Fund 1.25% DCII....................       158,559    2.724852         432,049
   Advisers Fund 1.25% DCII........................     1,889,915    4.201072       7,939,668
   Advisers Fund .15% DCII.........................        24,441    4.875465         119,161
   U.S. Government Money Market Fund 1.25% DCII....       126,892    1.898594         240,916
   Capital Appreciation Fund 1.25% DCII............       537,157    6.532522       3,508,989
   Capital Appreciation Fund .15% DCII.............         9,403    7.500897          70,528
   Mortgage Securities Fund 1.25% DCII.............       160,959    2.421049         389,689
   Index Fund 1.25% DCII...........................       440,396    2.848016       1,254,255
   Index Fund .15% DCII............................         4,097    3.118020          12,773
   International Opportunities Fund 1.25% DCII.....       227,628    1.482607         337,483
   International Opportunities Fund .15% DCII......        19,146    1.592168          30,484
   Dividend and Growth Fund........................       185,039    1.484086         274,614
   Calvert Responsibly Invested Balanced Portfolio
    1.25% DCII.....................................       124,309    2.020652         251,186
   TCI Advantage Fund..............................         8,005    1.134354           9,080
   TCI Growth Fund.................................         7,438    1.021217           7,596
                                                                               --------------
   Sub-total Group Sub-Accounts....................                                31,144,957
                                                                               --------------
 TOTAL ANNUITY PERIOD..............................                                37,784,348
                                                                               --------------
 GRAND TOTAL.......................................                            $7,441,802,603
                                                                               --------------
                                                                               --------------
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 Separate Account Two
 
   
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           MONEY
                            BOND FUND      STOCK FUND   MARKET FUND
                           SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT   SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
<S>                        <C>            <C>           <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
  Dividends..............  $ 12,893,843   $ 18,086,005  $12,430,899
EXPENSES:
  Mortality and expense
   undertakings..........    (2,481,229)   (13,978,363)  (2,990,459)
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
    Net investment income
     (loss)..............    10,412,614      4,107,642    9,440,440
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
CAPITAL GAINS INCOME.....       --          41,100,004      --
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
NET REALIZED AND
  UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
  ON INVESTMENTS:
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........      (262,277)     3,161,056      --
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................    (5,517,884)   189,613,138      --
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
    Net realized and
     unrealized gain
     (loss) on
     investments.........    (5,780,161)   192,774,194      --
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
    Net increase
     (decrease) in net
     assets resulting
     from operations.....  $  4,632,453   $237,981,840  $ 9,440,440
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
                           ------------   ------------  -----------
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                             U.S. GOVERNMENT           CAPITAL           MORTGAGE
                           ADVISERS FUND    MONEY MARKET FUND     APPRECIATION FUND   SECURITIES FUND
                            SUB-ACCOUNT        SUB-ACCOUNT           SUB-ACCOUNT        SUB-ACCOUNT
                           -------------   --------------------   -----------------   ---------------
<S>                        <C>             <C>                    <C>                 <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
  Dividends..............  $  75,797,664         $ 73,159           $  8,578,529        $13,309,238
EXPENSES:
  Mortality and expense
   undertakings..........    (32,375,755)         (17,750)           (15,329,687)        (2,542,139)
                           -------------         --------         -----------------   ---------------
    Net investment income
     (loss)..............     43,421,909           55,409             (6,751,158)        10,767,099
                           -------------         --------         -----------------   ---------------
CAPITAL GAINS INCOME.....     53,115,059         --                   70,324,118           --
                           -------------         --------         -----------------   ---------------
NET REALIZED AND
  UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
  ON INVESTMENTS:
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........      1,874,522         --                    2,065,427           (435,741)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................    276,364,776         --                  154,074,827         (2,844,443)
                           -------------         --------         -----------------   ---------------
    Net realized and
     unrealized gain
     (loss) on
     investments.........    278,239,298         --                  156,140,254         (3,280,184)
                           -------------         --------         -----------------   ---------------
    Net increase
     (decrease) in net
     assets resulting
     from operations.....  $ 374,776,266         $ 55,409           $219,713,214        $ 7,486,915
                           -------------         --------         -----------------   ---------------
                           -------------         --------         -----------------   ---------------
 
<CAPTION>
                                           INTERNATIONAL      DIVIDEND AND
                            INDEX FUND   OPPORTUNITIES FUND   GROWTH FUND
                           SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT       SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
<S>                        <C>           <C>                  <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
  Dividends..............  $  4,491,244     $ 7,252,292       $  5,391,238
EXPENSES:
  Mortality and expense
   undertakings..........    (2,695,725)     (4,681,021)        (2,723,447)
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
    Net investment income
     (loss)..............     1,795,519       2,571,271          2,667,791
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
CAPITAL GAINS INCOME.....     3,292,866       9,589,596          2,810,352
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
NET REALIZED AND
  UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
  ON INVESTMENTS:
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........       140,503          91,466             (3,931)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................    36,167,970      28,439,913         38,471,770
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
    Net realized and
     unrealized gain
     (loss) on
     investments.........    36,308,473      28,531,379         38,467,839
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
    Net increase
     (decrease) in net
     assets resulting
     from operations.....  $ 41,396,858     $40,692,246       $ 43,945,982
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
                           ------------  ------------------   ------------
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
 
   
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS -- (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 CALVERT                                                  SMITH BARNEY
                           RESPONSIBLY INVESTED   INTERNATIONAL         SMALL            CASH PORTFOLIO
                            BALANCED PORTFOLIO    ADVISERS FUND      COMPANY FUND            CLASS A
                               SUB-ACCOUNT         SUB-ACCOUNT       SUB-ACCOUNT*          SUB-ACCOUNT
                           --------------------   -------------   ------------------   -------------------
<S>                        <C>                    <C>             <C>                  <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
  Dividends..............        $ 57,279          $  879,182          $ 9,954               $27,809
EXPENSES:
  Mortality and expense
   undertakings..........         (27,872)           (234,636)         (27,632)               (5,756)
                                 --------         -------------        -------               -------
    Net investment income
     (loss)..............          29,407             644,546          (17,678)               22,053
                                 --------         -------------        -------               -------
CAPITAL GAINS INCOME.....         140,994             595,787          --                   --
                                 --------         -------------        -------               -------
NET REALIZED AND
  UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
  ON INVESTMENTS:
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........           6,518              (3,562)             922              --
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................          78,661             708,119           74,459              --
                                 --------         -------------        -------               -------
    Net realized and
     unrealized gain
     (loss) on
     investments.........          85,179             704,557           75,381              --
                                 --------         -------------        -------               -------
    Net increase
     (decrease) in net
     assets resulting
     from operations.....        $255,580          $1,944,890          $57,703               $22,053
                                 --------         -------------        -------               -------
                                 --------         -------------        -------               -------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
* From inception, August 9, 1996, to December 31, 1996.
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               SMITH BARNEY
                                                GOVERNMENT                                  FIDELITY VIP    FIDELITY VIP II
                            SMITH BARNEY        PORTFOLIO           TCI            TCI        OVERSEAS       ASSET MANAGER
                          APPRECIATION FUND      CLASS A       ADVANTAGE FUND  GROWTH FUND    PORTFOLIO        PORTFOLIO
                             SUB-ACCOUNT       SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT   SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT
                          -----------------   --------------   --------------  -----------  -------------  ------------------
<S>                       <C>                 <C>              <C>             <C>          <C>            <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
  Dividends..............      $16,634            $2,077           $6,903       $ 100,570      $ 3,709          $ 27,849
EXPENSES:
  Mortality and expense
   undertakings..........       (1,599)             (431)          (1,529)        (13,692)      (8,486)          (13,608)
                               -------            ------           ------      -----------  -------------       --------
    Net investment income
     (loss)..............       15,035             1,646            5,374          86,878       (4,777)           14,241
                               -------            ------           ------      -----------  -------------       --------
CAPITAL GAINS INCOME.....      --                 --               --              --            4,080          --
                               -------            ------           ------      -----------  -------------       --------
NET REALIZED AND
  UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
  ON INVESTMENTS:
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........          174            --                 (110)            527          985               (71)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................       11,776            --                4,528        (155,560)      77,918           126,112
                               -------            ------           ------      -----------  -------------       --------
    Net realized and
     unrealized gain
     (loss) on
     investments.........       11,950            --                4,418        (155,033)      78,903           126,041
                               -------            ------           ------      -----------  -------------       --------
    Net increase
     (decrease) in net
     assets resulting
     from operations.....      $26,985            $1,646           $9,792       $ (68,155)     $78,206          $140,282
                               -------            ------           ------      -----------  -------------       --------
                               -------            ------           ------      -----------  -------------       --------
 
<CAPTION>
                                             FIDELITY
                           FIDELITY VIP II      VIP
                             CONTRAFUND       GROWTH
                              PORTFOLIO      PORTFOLIO
                             SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ---------------  -----------
<S>                       <C>               <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
  Dividends..............     $ 21,249       $ 73,883
EXPENSES:
  Mortality and expense
   undertakings..........      (56,903)       (63,705)
                           ---------------  -----------
    Net investment income
     (loss)..............      (35,654)        10,178
                           ---------------  -----------
CAPITAL GAINS INCOME.....      --             115,329
                           ---------------  -----------
NET REALIZED AND
  UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
  ON INVESTMENTS:
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........         (377)        (6,795)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................      910,896        420,263
                           ---------------  -----------
    Net realized and
     unrealized gain
     (loss) on
     investments.........      910,519        413,468
                           ---------------  -----------
    Net increase
     (decrease) in net
     assets resulting
     from operations.....     $874,865       $538,975
                           ---------------  -----------
                           ---------------  -----------
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 Separate Account Two
 
   
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             MONEY
                            BOND FUND      STOCK FUND     MARKET FUND
                           SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
<S>                        <C>           <C>             <C>
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................  $ 10,412,614  $    4,107,642  $   9,440,440
  Capital gains income...       --           41,100,004       --
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........      (262,277)      3,161,056       --
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................    (5,517,884)    189,613,138       --
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............     4,632,453     237,981,840      9,440,440
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............    27,446,873     174,128,189     70,557,174
  Net transfers..........   (16,819,459)     27,816,288     67,229,895
  Surrenders.............   (16,860,465)    (57,921,128)   (52,794,253)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........       (32,192)       (176,096)      (239,109)
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........    (6,265,243)    143,847,253     84,753,707
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................    (1,632,790)    381,829,093     94,194,147
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....   211,362,822     964,881,770    188,639,422
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  End of period..........  $209,730,032  $1,346,710,863  $ 282,833,569
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
 
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
 
                                                             MONEY
                            BOND FUND      STOCK FUND     MARKET FUND
                           SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................  $  9,356,706  $    8,102,133  $   9,540,693
  Capital gains income...       --           26,305,598       --
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........       117,877       2,168,121       --
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................    18,122,724     184,154,644       --
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............    27,597,307     220,730,496      9,540,693
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............    18,860,293     101,236,958     48,515,026
  Net transfers..........    17,461,966      34,337,542    (83,703,644)
  Surrenders.............   (12,010,919)    (38,089,217)   (27,263,647)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........       (33,972)        563,526       (138,249)
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........    24,277,368      98,048,809    (62,590,514)
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................    51,874,675     318,779,305    (53,049,821)
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....   159,488,147     646,102,465    241,689,243
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
  End of period..........  $211,362,822  $  964,881,770  $ 188,639,422
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
                           ------------  --------------  -------------
</TABLE>
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            U.S. GOVERNMENT         CAPITAL         MORTGAGE                     INTERNATIONAL
                           ADVISERS FUND   MONEY MARKET FUND   APPRECIATION FUND SECURITIES FUND  INDEX FUND   OPPORTUNITIES FUND
                            SUB-ACCOUNT       SUB-ACCOUNT         SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT
                          --------------- -------------------- ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
<S>                       <C>             <C>                  <C>               <C>             <C>           <C>
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................ $    43,421,909      $   55,409       $   (6,751,158)   $ 10,767,099   $   1,795,519    $  2,571,271
  Capital gains income...      53,115,059       --                  70,324,118        --             3,292,866       9,589,596
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........       1,874,522       --                   2,065,427        (435,741)        140,503          91,466
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................     276,364,776       --                 154,074,827      (2,844,443)     36,167,970      28,439,913
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............     374,776,266          55,409          219,713,214       7,486,915      41,396,858      40,692,246
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............     322,583,889         216,658          200,411,434       9,051,920      47,675,352      43,044,896
  Net transfers..........      (3,947,049)        (124,960)            495,679     (19,016,015)     21,152,822      20,223,935
  Surrenders.............    (150,653,853)         (77,729)        (60,449,676)    (19,091,976)    (10,892,469)     (21,614,763)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........         730,038         (18,734)             658,118         (55,176)         75,085         141,714
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........     168,713,025          (4,765)         141,115,555     (29,111,247)     58,010,790      41,795,782
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................     543,489,291          50,644          360,828,769     (21,624,332)     99,407,648      82,488,028
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....   2,357,217,790       1,541,876        1,074,971,652     221,415,738     165,395,372     328,307,965
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  End of period.......... $ 2,900,707,081      $1,592,520       $1,435,800,421    $199,791,406   $ 264,803,020    $410,795,993
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
 
                                            U.S. GOVERNMENT         CAPITAL         MORTGAGE                     INTERNATIONAL
                           ADVISERS FUND   MONEY MARKET FUND   APPRECIATION FUND SECURITIES FUND  INDEX FUND   OPPORTUNITIES FUND
                            SUB-ACCOUNT       SUB-ACCOUNT         SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT
                          --------------- -------------------- ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................ $    47,996,996      $   56,945       $   (2,372,963)   $ 11,548,045   $   1,542,554    $  1,106,594
  Capital gains income...      21,614,744       --                  34,687,769        --                38,706       2,695,768
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........       1,643,658       --                   2,276,572        (490,628)        969,630        (488,089)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................     410,209,012       --                 168,562,628      18,815,991      34,721,169      32,521,726
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............     481,464,410          56,945          203,154,006      29,873,408      37,272,059      35,835,999
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............     189,985,618         247,760          164,142,420       9,787,879      22,856,837      27,669,493
  Net transfers..........      (5,608,414)          17,612         104,275,366     (15,085,789)     14,885,934     (24,115,834)
  Surrenders.............    (110,192,361)         (76,250)        (29,551,158)    (16,689,694)     (4,088,509)     (12,086,298)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........         487,625          84,208              482,089          13,331          84,999         124,982
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........      74,672,468         273,330          239,348,717     (21,974,273)     33,739,261      (8,407,657)
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................     556,136,878         330,275          442,502,723       7,899,135      71,011,320      27,428,342
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....   1,801,080,912       1,211,601          632,468,929     213,516,603      94,384,052     300,879,623
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
  End of period.......... $ 2,357,217,790      $1,541,876       $1,074,971,652    $221,415,738   $ 165,395,372    $328,307,965
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
                          ---------------     -----------      ----------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------
 
<CAPTION>
                           DIVIDEND AND
                            GROWTH FUND
                            SUB-ACCOUNT
                           -------------
<S>                      <C>
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................  $  2,667,791
  Capital gains income...     2,810,352
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........        (3,931)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................    38,471,770
                           -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............    43,945,982
                           -------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............    99,649,393
  Net transfers..........    73,409,821
  Surrenders.............    (8,580,693)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........       330,214
                           -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........   164,808,735
                           -------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................   208,754,717
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....   115,579,204
                           -------------
  End of period..........  $324,333,921
                           -------------
                           -------------
                           DIVIDEND AND
                            GROWTH FUND
                            SUB-ACCOUNT
                           -------------
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................  $  1,044,698
  Capital gains income...       --
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........         4,933
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................    18,047,295
                           -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............    19,096,926
                           -------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............    37,005,986
  Net transfers..........    31,702,670
  Surrenders.............    (2,159,189)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........        77,507
                           -------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........    66,626,974
                           -------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................    85,723,900
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....    29,855,304
                           -------------
  End of period..........  $115,579,204
                           -------------
                           -------------
</TABLE>
    
 
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
 SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
 
   
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS -- (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996
    
 
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                               CALVERT
                             RESPONSIBLY
                              INVESTED
                              BALANCED       INTERNATIONAL         SMALL             SMITH BARNEY
                              PORTFOLIO      ADVISERS FUND      COMPANY FUND      DAILY DIVIDEND FUND
                             SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT***         SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------   -------------------
<S>                        <C>               <C>             <C>                  <C>
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................    $     29,407    $    644,546       $   (17,678)           $ 22,053
  Capital gains income...         140,994         595,787          --                  --
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........           6,518          (3,562)              922            --
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................          78,661         708,119            74,459            --
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............         255,580       1,944,890            57,703              22,053
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............         501,957      10,618,419         4,333,960                  25
  Net transfers..........          86,346      10,257,798         9,203,248            --
  Surrenders.............         (81,242)       (609,471)          (48,819)            (10,494)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........         135,085         --               --                  --
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........         642,146      20,266,746        13,488,389             (10,469)
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................         897,726      22,211,636        13,546,092              11,584
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....       1,763,503       7,597,538          --                   569,347
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  End of period..........    $  2,661,229    $ 29,809,174       $13,546,092            $580,931
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
 
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS -- (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
 
                               CALVERT
                             RESPONSIBLY
                              INVESTED                          SMITH BARNEY
                              BALANCED       INTERNATIONAL     CASH PORTFOLIO        SMITH BARNEY
                              PORTFOLIO      ADVISERS FUND        CLASS A          APPRECIATION FUND
                             SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT*       SUB-ACCOUNT           SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------   -------------------
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................    $     87,446    $    164,074       $    26,340            $  1,041
  Capital gains income...          50,438         --               --                    11,468
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........           1,044           6,279          --                       148
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................         184,034         177,844          --                    20,104
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............         322,962         348,197            26,340              32,761
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............         394,157       2,632,312          --                        50
  Net transfers..........          19,199       4,663,681           (10,709)           --
  Surrenders.............         (28,010)        (46,652)          (92,200)             (1,598)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........          30,857         --               --                  --
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........         416,203       7,249,341          (102,909)             (1,548)
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................         739,165       7,597,538           (76,569)             31,213
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....       1,024,338         --                645,916             117,221
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
  End of period..........    $  1,763,503    $  7,597,538       $   569,347            $148,434
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
                           ---------------   -------------   ------------------        --------
</TABLE>
    
 
   
  * From inception, March 31, 1995, to December 31, 1995.
    
   
 ** From inception, July 1, 1995, to December 31, 1995.
    
   
*** From inception, August 9, 1996, to December 31, 1996.
    
 
   The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               SMITH BARNEY
                                                GOVERNMENT          TCI                        FIDELITY VIP      FIDELITY VIP II
                            SMITH BARNEY        PORTFOLIO        ADVANTAGE         TCI           OVERSEAS         ASSET MANAGER
                          APPRECIATION FUND      CLASS A            FUND       GROWTH FUND      PORTFOLIO           PORTFOLIO
                             SUB-ACCOUNT       SUB-ACCOUNT      SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT         SUB-ACCOUNT
                          -----------------   --------------   --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
<S>                       <C>                 <C>              <C>             <C>          <C>                 <C>
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................     $ 15,035           $ 1,646          $  5,374     $   86,878       $   (4,777)         $   14,241
  Capital gains income...      --                 --               --              --                4,080            --
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........          174            --                  (110)           527              985                 (71)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................       11,776            --                 4,528       (155,560)          77,918             126,112
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............       26,985             1,646             9,792        (68,155)          78,206             140,282
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............      --                 --                52,991        278,606          196,292             268,755
  Net transfers..........      --                 --                63,519        248,714          626,400           1,181,511
  Surrenders.............       (2,558)           (4,273)             (218)       (13,223)         (27,202)            (95,811)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........      --                 --                  (410)          (374)        --                  --
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........       (2,558)           (4,273)          115,882        513,723          795,490           1,354,455
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................       24,427            (2,627)          125,674        445,568          873,696           1,494,737
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....      148,434            42,469            46,921        693,422          186,893             339,278
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  End of period..........     $172,861           $39,842          $172,595     $1,138,990       $1,060,589          $1,834,015
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
 
                            SMITH BARNEY                                        FIDELITY
                             GOVERNMENT                                            VIP       FIDELITY VIP II     FIDELITY VIP II
                              PORTFOLIO            TCI              TCI         OVERSEAS      ASSET MANAGER         CONTRAFUND
                               CLASS A        ADVANTAGE FUND    GROWTH FUND     PORTFOLIO       PORTFOLIO           PORTFOLIO
                             SUB-ACCOUNT       SUB-ACCOUNT     SUB-ACCOUNT**   SUB-ACCOUNT**   SUB- ACCOUNT**     SUB- ACCOUNT**
                          -----------------   --------------   --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................     $  1,938           $   549          $ (2,133)    $     (491)      $   (1,491)         $   19,233
  Capital gains income...      --                 --               --              --             --                  --
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........      --                    (90)              938           (240)             456                (577)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................      --                  1,195             6,645          3,459           18,860              17,225
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............        1,938             1,654             5,450          2,728           17,825              35,881
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............      --                 15,135            30,024         21,829           32,160              89,641
  Net transfers..........      --                 40,646           669,352        172,761          300,031           1,871,915
  Surrenders.............       (7,562)          (19,236)          (20,127)       (10,425)         (10,738)            (11,744)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........      --                  8,722             8,723         --             --                  --
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........       (7,562)           45,267           687,972        184,165          321,453           1,949,812
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................       (5,624)           46,921           693,422        186,893          339,278           1,985,693
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....       48,093            --               --              --             --                  --
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
  End of period..........     $ 42,469           $46,921          $693,422     $  186,893       $  339,278          $1,985,693
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
                              --------           -------       --------------  -----------  ------------------  ------------------
 
<CAPTION>
                                             FIDELITY
                           FIDELITY VIP II      VIP
                             CONTRAFUND       GROWTH
                              PORTFOLIO      PORTFOLIO
                             SUB-ACCOUNT    SUB-ACCOUNT
                           ---------------  -----------
<S>                       <C>               <C>
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................    $  (35,654)    $   10,178
  Capital gains income...       --             115,329
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........          (377)        (6,795)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................       910,896        420,263
                           ---------------  -----------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............       874,865        538,975
                           ---------------  -----------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............       928,554      1,249,738
  Net transfers..........     3,162,455      3,357,091
  Surrenders.............      (279,972)      (334,425)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........       --              --
                           ---------------  -----------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........     3,811,037      4,272,404
                           ---------------  -----------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................     4,685,902      4,811,379
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....     1,985,693      2,204,486
                           ---------------  -----------
  End of period..........    $6,671,595     $7,015,865
                           ---------------  -----------
                           ---------------  -----------
 
                            FIDELITY VIP
                               GROWTH
                              PORTFOLIO
                            SUB-ACCOUNT**
                           ---------------
OPERATIONS:
  Net investment income
   (loss)................    $   (6,603)
  Capital gains income...       --
  Net realized gain
   (loss) on security
   transactions..........        (2,056)
  Net unrealized
   appreciation
   (depreciation) of
   investments during the
   period................       (34,445)
                           ---------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from
   operations............       (43,104)
                           ---------------
UNIT TRANSACTIONS:
  Purchases..............       120,267
  Net transfers..........     2,148,417
  Surrenders.............       (21,094)
  Net annuity
   transactions..........       --
                           ---------------
  Net increase (decrease)
   in net assets
   resulting from unit
   transactions..........     2,247,590
                           ---------------
  Total increase
   (decrease) in net
   assets................     2,204,486
NET ASSETS:
  Beginning of period....       --
                           ---------------
  End of period..........    $2,204,486
                           ---------------
                           ---------------
</TABLE>
    
<PAGE>
                                                 HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
   
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
                              SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
                         NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                               DECEMBER 31, 1996
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 1. ORGANIZATION:
 
   
Separate Account Two (the Account) is a separate investment account within
Hartford Life Insurance Company (the Company) and is registered with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a unit investment trust under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. Both the Company and the Account are
subject to supervision and regulation by the Department of Insurance of the
State of Connecticut and the SEC. The Account invests deposits by variable
annuity contractholders of the Company in various mutual funds (the Funds) as
directed by the contractholders.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
 
   
    The following is a summary of significant accounting policies of the
Account, which are in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
in the investment company industry:
    
 
   
    a)  SECURITY TRANSACTIONS--Security transactions are recorded on the trade
        date (date the order to buy or sell is executed). Cost of investments
        sold is determined on the basis of identified cost. Dividends and
        capital gains income are accrued as of the ex-dividend date. Capital
        gains income represents dividends from the Funds which are characterized
        as capital gains under tax regulations.
    
 
   
    b)  SECURITY VALUATION--The investment in shares of the Hartford, Smith
        Barney, TCI, Fidelity and Calvert Responsibily Invested Series mutual
        funds are valued at the closing net asset value per share as determined
        by the appropriate Fund as of December 31, 1996.
    
 
   
    c)  FEDERAL INCOME TAXES--The operations of the Account form a part of, and
        are taxed with, the total operations of the Company, which is taxed as
        an insurance company under the Internal Revenue Code. Under current law,
        no federal income taxes are payable with respect to the operations of
        the Account.
    
 
   
    d) USE OF ESTIMATES--The preparation of financial statements in conformity
        with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to
        make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of
        assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and
        the reported amounts of income and expenses during the period. Operating
        results in the future could vary from the amounts derived from
        management's estimates.
    
 
   
- ---------------------------------------------------
    
 3.ADMINISTRATION OF THE ACCOUNT AND
   RELATED CHARGES:
 
   
    a)  MORTALITY AND EXPENSE UNDERTAKINGS--The Company, as issuer of variable
        annuity contracts, provides the mortality and expense undertakings and,
        with respect to the Account, receives a maximum annual fee of up to
        1.25% of the Account's average daily net assets.
    
 
   
    b)  DEDUCTION OF ANNUAL MAINTENANCE FEE--Annual maintenance fees are
        deducted through termination of units of interest from applicable
        contract owners' accounts, in accordance with the terms of the
        contracts.
    
<PAGE>
   

                            OTHER INFORMATION
                                           
Item 24. Financial Statements and Exhibits

    (a)  All financial statements are included in Part A and Part B of the
         Registration Statement.

    (b)  (1)  Resolution of the Board of Directors of Hartford Life Insurance
              Company ("Hartford") authorizing the establishment of the
              Separate Account.(1)

         (2)  Not applicable.  

         (3)  (a)  Principal Underwriter Agreement.(2)

         (3)  (b)  Form of Dealer Agreement.(2)
    
         (4)  Form of Individual Flexible Premium Variable Annuity Contract.(1)

         (5)  Form of Application.(1)

         (6)  (a)  Article of Incorporation of Hartford.(3)

              (b)  Bylaws of Hartford.(1)
     
         (7)  Not applicable.

         (8)  Not applicable.

         (9)  Opinion and Consent of Lynda Godkin, General Counsel.
     
         (10) Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP, Independent Public Accountants.

         (11) No financial statements are omitted.

         (12) Not applicable.

_______________

    1  Incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 2,
       to the Registration Statement File No. 33-73570, dated May
       1, 1995.

    2  Incorporated by reference to Post Effective Amendment No. 3,
       to the Registration Statement File No. 33-73570, dated May 1, 1996.

    3  Incorporated by reference to Post Effective Amendment No. 19, 
       to the Registration Statement File No. 33-73570, filed on 
       April 14, 1997.

    
<PAGE>
   

         (13) Not applicable.

         (14) Not applicable.

         (15) Copy of Power of Attorney.(3)

         (16) Organizational Chart.(3)


Item 25.   Directors and Officers of the Depositor


NAME                            POSITION WITH HARTFORD
- ----                            ----------------------

Wendell J. Bossen               Vice President

Gregory A. Boyko                Senior Vice President and Chief Financial 
                                Officer and Treasurer

Peter W. Cummins                Senior Vice President

Ann M. deRaismes                Senior Vice President

Timothy M. Fitch                Vice President and Actuary

Bruce D. Gardner                Vice President, Director*

Joseph H. Gareau                Executive Vice President and Chief 
                                Investment Officer, Director*

J. Richard Garrett              Vice President and Assistant Treasurer

John P. Ginnetti                Executive Vice President and Director, 
                                Asset Management Services, Director*

Lynda Godkin                    Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and 
                                Corporate Secretary

Lois W. Grady                   Vice President

Chris Graham                    Vice President

David A. Hall                   Vice President and Actuary

Stephen T. Joyce                Vice President

Robert A. Kerzner               Vice President

                                     2
    
<PAGE>
   

NAME                            POSITION WITH HARTFORD
- ----                            ----------------------

Andrew W. Kohnke                Vice President

Steven M. Maher                 Vice President and Actuary

William B. Malchodi, Jr.        Vice President and Director of Taxes

Thomas M. Marra                 Executive Vice President and Director 
                                Individual Life and Annuity Division, 
                                Director*

Robert F. Nolan                 Vice President

Joseph J. Noto                  Vice President

Leonard E. Odell, Jr.           Senior Vice President, Director*

Craig D. Raymond                Senior Vice President and Chief Actuary

Donald A. Salama                Vice President

Timothy P. Schiltz              Vice President

Lowndes A. Smith                President and Chief Executive Officer, 
                                Director*

Edward J. Sweeney               Vice President

Raymond P. Welnicki             Senior Vice President and Director, Employee 
                                Benefit Division, Director*

Walter C. Welsh                 Senior Vice President

James J. Westervelt             Senior Vice President and Group Controller

Lizabeth H. Zlatkus             Senior Vice President, Director*

David M. Znamierowski           Senior Vice President

Unless otherwise indicated, the principal business address of each the above
individuals is P.O. Box 2999, Hartford, CT  06104-2999.
                                           
*Denotes Board of Directors.
                                           
Item 26.   Persons Controlled By or Under Common Control with the Depositor 
           or Registrant
                                           
           Filed as Exhibit 16. 

                                      3
    
<PAGE>
   

Item 27.   Number of Contract Owners
                                           
           As of March 31, 1997, there were 57,052 Contract Owners.

Item 28.   Indemnification

           Under Section 33-320a of the Connecticut General 
           Statutes, the Registrant must indemnify a director or 
           officer against judgments, fines, penalties, amounts paid 
           in settlement and reasonable expenses, including 
           attorneys' fees, for actions brought or threatened to be 
           brought against him in his capacity as a director or 
           officer when it is determined by certain disinterested 
           parties that he acted in good faith and in a manner he 
           reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the 
           Registrant.  In any criminal action or proceeding, it 
           also must be determined that the director or officer had 
           no reason to believe his conduct was unlawful.  The 
           director or officer must also be indemnified when he is 
           successful on the merits in the defense of a proceeding 
           or in circumstances where a court determines that he is 
           fairly and reasonably entitled to be indemnified, and the 
           court approves the amount.  In shareholder derivative 
           suits, the director or officer must be finally adjudged 
           not to have breached his duty to the Registrant or a 
           court must determine that he is fairly and reasonably 
           entitled to be indemnified and must approve the amount.  
           In a claim based upon the director's or officer's 
           purchase or sale of the Registrant's securities, the 
           director or officer may obtain indemnification only if a 
           court determines that, in view of all the circumstances, 
           he is fairly and reasonably entitled to be indemnified, 
           and then for such amount as the court shall determine.
                                           
           The foregoing statements are specifically made subject to the 
           detailed provisions of Section 33-320a.
                                           
           The directors and officers of Hartford and Hartford Securities 
           Distribution Company, Inc. ("HSD") are covered under a directors 
           and officers liability insurance policy issued to ITT Hartford 
           Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries.  Such policy will reimburse the 
           Registrant for any payments that it shall make to directors and 
           officers pursuant to law and will, subject to certain exclusions 
           contained in the policy, further pay any other costs, charges
           and expenses and settlements and judgments arising from any 
           proceeding involving any director or officer of the Registrant 
           in his past or present capacity as such, and for which he may be 
           liable, except as to any liabilities arising from acts that are 
           deemed to be uninsurable.
                                           
           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, 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, 

                                      4
    
<PAGE>
   

           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 of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling 
           precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the 
           question 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.

Item 29.  Principal Underwriters
                                           
     (a)  HSD acts as principal underwriter for the following investment
          companies:
                                           
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account One
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Two           
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Two 
            (DC Variable Account I)
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Two 
            (DC Variable Account II)
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Two 
            (QP Variable Account)
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Two 
            (Variable Account "A")
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Two 
            (NQ Variable Account)
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Putnam Capital Manager Trust
            Separate Account 
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Three
          Hartford Life Insurance Company - Separate Account Five
          ITT Hartford Life and Annuity Insurance Company - Separate Account One
          ITT Hartford Life and Annuity Insurance Company - Putnam Capital
          Manager Trust Separate Account Two
          ITT Hartford Life and Annuity Insurance Company - Separate 
            Account Three
          ITT Hartford Life and Annuity Insurance Company - Separate 
            Account Five 
          ITT Hartford Life and Annuity Insurance Company - Separate 
            Account Six
          American Maturity Life Insurance Company - Separate Account AMLVA
     
     (b)  Directors and Officers of HSD
                                           
     Name and Principal            Positions and Offices
      Business Address               With Underwriter
     ------------------            ----------------------

     Lowndes A. Smith              President, Director
     John P. Ginnetti              Executive Vice President, Director
     Thomas M. Marra               Executive Vice President, Director
     George R. Jay                 Controller
     Peter W. Cummins              Vice President
     Donald E. Waggaman, Jr.       Treasurer
     Lynda Godkin                  Secretary
     Michael Wilder                Director

     Unless otherwise indicated, the principal business address of each the bove
     individuals is P.O. Box 2999, Hartford, CT  01604-2999.


                                     5
    
<PAGE>
   

Item 30.  Location of Accounts and Records

          All of the accounts, books, records or other documents required to be
          kept by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and rules
          thereunder, are maintained by Hartford at 200 Hopmeadow Street,
          Simsbury, Connecticut 06089.

Item 31.  Management Services

          All management contracts are discussed in Part A and Part B of this
          Registration Statement.
                                           
Item 32.  Undertakings
                                           
     (a)  The Registrant hereby undertakes to file a post-effective amendment 
          to this Registration Statement as frequently as is necessary to 
          ensure that the audited financial statements in the Registration 
          Statement are never more than 16 months old so long as payments 
          under the variable annuity Contracts may be accepted.
                                           
     (b)  The Registrant hereby undertakes to include either (1) as part of any
          application to purchase a Contract offered by the Prospectus, a space
          that an applicant can check to request a Statement of Additional
          Information, or (2) a post card or similar written communication
          affixed to or included in the Prospectus that the applicant can remove
          to send for a Statement of Additional Information.

     (c)  The Registrant hereby undertakes to deliver any Statement of
          Additional Information and any financial statements required to be
          made available under this Form promptly upon written or oral request.
                                           
     (d)  Hartford hereby represents that the aggregate fees and charges under
          the Contract are reasonable in relation to the services rendered, the
          expenses expected to be incurred, and the risks assumed by Hartford.
                                           
     The Registrant is relying on the no-action letter issued by the Division 
     of Investment Management to American Counsel of Life Insurance, Ref. 
     No. IP-6-88, November 28, 1988.  The Registrant has complied with 
     conditions one through four of the no-action letter.

                                     6
    
<PAGE>
   

                                SIGNATURES

As required by the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of
1940, the Registrant certifies that it meets all the requirements for
effectiveness of this Registration Statement pursuant to Rule 485(b) under the
Securities Act of 1933 and duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed
on its behalf, in the City of Hartford, and State of Connecticut on this 3 day 
of June, 1997.

HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY -
SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
    (Registrant)
     
*By: /s/ Thomas M. Marra                      *By:      /s/ Marianne O'Doherty
     ----------------------------                       ----------------------
     Thomas M. Marra, Executive Vice President           Marianne O'Doherty
                                                         Attorney-in-Fact

HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
     (Depositor)

*By:   /s/ Thomas M. Marra
       ---------------------------- 
       Thomas M. Marra, Executive Vice President

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this
Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons and in the
capacity and on the date indicated.

Bruce D. Gardner, Vice President,                                          
    Director *                                      
Joseph H. Gareau, Executive Vice
    President and Chief Investment
    Officer, Director *
John P. Ginnetti, Executive Vice
   President, Director *
Thomas M. Marra, Executive Vice              *By:    /s/ Marianne O'Doherty 
     President, Director *                           ------------------------
Leonard E. Odell, Jr., Senior                        Marianne O'Doherty
   Vice President, Director *                        Attorney-In-Fact
Lowndes A. Smith, President,  
   Chief Executive Officer, Director *        Dated: June 3, 1997
Raymond P. Welnicki, Senior Vice
   President, Director *
Lizabeth H. Zlatkus, Senior Vice President
   Director *



                                     7
    
<PAGE>
   
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX



      9.  Opinion and Consent of Lynda Godkin, General Counsel

     10.  Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP, Independent Public Accountants

    

<PAGE>

                                                       EXHIBIT 9
                                            THE     [LOGO]
                                            HARTFORD       



June 3, 1997


                                         Lynda Godkin
                                         Senior Vice President, General Counsel
                                         & Corporate Secretary
                                         Law Department

Board of Directors
Hartford Life Insurance Company
200 Hopmeadow Street 
Simsbury, CT  06089

RE: SEPARATE ACCOUNT TWO
    HARTFORD LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY 
    FILE NO. 33-73570

Dear Sir/Madam:

I have acted as General Counsel to Hartford Life Insurance Company (the 
"Company"), a Connecticut insurance company, and Hartford Life Insurance 
Company Separate Account Two (the "Account") in connection with the 
registration of an indefinite amount of securities in the form of variable 
annuity contracts (the "Contracts") with the Securities and Exchange 
Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.  I have examined 
such documents (including the Form N-4 Registration Statement) and reviewed 
such questions of law as I considered necessary and appropriate, and on the 
basis of such examination and review, it is my opinion that:

1.  The Company is a corporation duly organized and validly existing as a stock
    life insurance company under the laws of the State of Connecticut and is
    duly authorized by the Insurance Department of the State of Connecticut to
    issue the Contracts.

2.  The Account is a duly authorized and validly existing separate account
    established pursuant to the provisions of Section 38a-433 of the
    Connecticut Statutes.

3.  To the extent so provided under the Contracts, that portion of the assets
    of the Account equal to the reserves and other contract liabilities with
    respect to the Account will not be chargeable with liabilities arising out
    of any other business that the Company may conduct.

                                            Hartford Life Insurance Companies
                                            200 Hopmeadow Street
                                            Simsbury, CT 06089
                                            860 843 3153
                                            860 843 8665 Fax
                                            Mailing Address:  P.O. Box 2999
                                            Hartford, CT  06104-2999

<PAGE>

Board of Directors
Hartford Life Insurance Company
June 3, 1997
Page 2


4.  The Contracts, when issued as contemplated by the Form N-4 Registration
    Statement, will constitute legal, validly issued and binding obligations of
    the Company.

I hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the Form N-4 
Registration Statement for the Contracts and the Account.

Sincerely,

/s/ Lynda Godkin

Lynda Godkin


<PAGE>

                                                                EXHIBIT 10
                                                                                

                            ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP



               CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS



As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the use of our 
reports (and to all references to our Firm) included or made a part of this 
Registration Statement File No. 33-73570 for Hartford Life Insurance Company 
Separate Account Two on Form N-4.

                                       /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP


Hartford, Connecticut
June 3, 1997


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