<PAGE>
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON MAY 19, 1999
REGISTRATION NO. 33-51981
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
------------------------------------------
POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 5
TO
FORM S-6
------------------------------------------
FOR REGISTRATION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT
OF 1933 OF SECURITIES OF UNIT INVESTMENT
TRUSTS REGISTERED ON FORM N-8B-2
------------------------------------------
A. EXACT NAME OF TRUST:
MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND
MULTISTATE SERIES--56
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS
B. NAMES OF DEPOSITORS:
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED
SALOMON SMITH BARNEY INC.
PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES INCORPORATED
PAINEWEBBER INCORPORATED
DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS INC.
C. COMPLETE ADDRESSES OF DEPOSITORS' PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES:
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE,
FENNER & SMITH
INCORPORATED
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS
POST OFFICE BOX 9051
PRINCETON, NJ 08543-9051 SALOMON SMITH BARNEY INC.
388 GREENWICH
STREET--23RD FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10013
PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES PAINEWEBBER INCORPORATED DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS INC.
INCORPORATED 1285 AVENUE OF THE TWO WORLD TRADE
ONE NEW YORK PLAZA AMERICAS CENTER--59TH FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10292 NEW YORK, NY 10019 NEW YORK, NY 10048
D. NAMES AND COMPLETE ADDRESSES OF AGENTS FOR SERVICE:
TERESA KONCICK, ESQ. ROBERT E. HOLLEY MICHAEL KOCHMANN
P.O. BOX 9051 1200 HARBOR BLVD. 388 GREENWICH ST.
PRINCETON, NJ 08543-9051 WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07087 NEW YORK, NY 10013
LEE B. SPENCER, JR. COPIES TO: DOUGLAS LOWE, ESQ.
ONE NEW YORK PLAZA PIERRE DE SAINT PHALLE, DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS INC.
NEW YORK, NY 10292 ESQ. TWO WORLD TRADE
450 LEXINGTON AVENUE CENTER--59TH FLOOR
NEW YORK, NY 10017 NEW YORK, NY 10048
The issuer has registered an indefinite number of Units under the Securities Act
of 1933 pursuant to Rule 24f-2 and filed the Rule 24f-2 Notice for the most
recent fiscal year on March 16, 1999.
Check box if it is proposed that this filing will become effective on May 28,
1999 pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485. / x /
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<PAGE>
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDSSM
- --------------------------------------------
- ----------------------------------
MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND
MULTISTATE SERIES--56
(A UNIT INVESTMENT TRUST)
O CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK AND
PENNSYLVANIA
O PORTFOLIOS OF INSURED LONG-TERM MUNICIPAL
BONDS
O DESIGNED FOR FEDERALLY TAX-FREE INCOME
O EXEMPT FROM SOME STATE TAXES
O MONTHLY DISTRIBUTIONS
SPONSORS:
Merrill Lynch,
Pierce, Fenner & Smith -------------------------------------------------
Incorporated The Securities and Exchange Commission has not
Salomon Smith Barney Inc. approved or disapproved these Securities or
Prudential Securities passed upon the adequacy of this prospectus. Any
Incorporated representation to the contrary is a criminal
PaineWebber Incorporated offense.
Dean Witter Reynolds Inc. Prospectus dated May 28, 1999.
<PAGE>
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Def ined Asset FundsSM
Defined Asset FundsSM is America's oldest and largest family of unit investment
trusts, with over $160 billion sponsored over the last 28 years. Defined Asset
Funds has been a leader in unit investment trust research and product
innovation. Our family of Funds helps investors work toward their financial
goals with a full range of quality investments, including municipal, corporate
and government bond portfolios, as well as domestic and international equity
portfolios.
Defined Asset Funds offer a number of advantages:
o A disciplined strategy of buying and holding with a long-term view is the
cornerstone of Defined Asset Funds.
o Fixed portfolio: Defined Funds follow a buy and hold investment strategy;
funds are not managed and portfolio changes are limited.
o Defined Portfolios: We choose the stocks and bonds in advance, so you know
what you're investing in.
o Professional research: Our dedicated research team seeks out stocks or bonds
appropriate for a particular fund's objectives.
o Ongoing supervision: We monitor each portfolio on an ongoing basis.
No matter what your investment goals, tolerance for risk or time horizon,
there's probably a Defined Asset Fund that suits your investment style. Your
financial professional can help you select a Defined Asset Fund that works best
for your investment portfolio.
THE FINANCIAL INFORMATION IN THIS PROSPECTUS IS AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999, THE
EVALUATION DATE.
CONTENTS
PAGE
-----------
California Insured Portfolio--
Risk/Return Summary.................................. 3
Florida Insured Portfolio-- Risk/Return Summary......... 6
New Jersey Insured Portfolio-- Risk/Return Summary...... 9
New York Insured Portfolio--
Risk/Return Summary.................................. 12
Pennsylvania Insured Portfolio--
Risk/Return Summary.................................. 15
What You Can Expect From Your Investment................ 20
Monthly Income....................................... 20
Return Figures....................................... 20
Records and Reports.................................. 20
The Risks You Face...................................... 21
Interest Rate Risk................................... 21
Call Risk............................................ 21
Reduced Diversification Risk......................... 21
Liquidity Risk....................................... 21
Concentration Risk................................... 21
State Concentration Risk............................. 23
Bond Quality Risk.................................... 25
Insurance Related Risk............................... 25
Litigation and Legislation Risks..................... 25
Selling or Exchanging Units............................. 26
Sponsors' Secondary Market........................... 26
Selling Units to the Trustee......................... 26
Exchange Option...................................... 27
How The Fund Works...................................... 27
Pricing.............................................. 27
Evaluations.......................................... 27
Income............................................... 27
Expenses............................................. 27
Portfolio Changes.................................... 28
Fund Termination..................................... 28
Certificates......................................... 29
Trust Indenture...................................... 29
Legal Opinion........................................ 30
Auditors............................................. 30
Sponsors............................................. 30
Trustee.............................................. 30
Underwriters' and Sponsors' Profits 30
Public Distribution.................................. 31
Code of Ethics....................................... 31
Year 2000 Issues..................................... 31
Taxes................................................... 31
Supplemental Information................................ 33
Financial Statements.................................... D-1
2
<PAGE>
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CALIFORNIA INSURED PORTFOLIO--RISK/RETURN SUMMARY
1. WHAT IS THE FUND'S OBJECTIVE?
The Fund seeks interest income that is exempt from regular
federal income taxes and some state and local taxes by
investing in a fixed portfolio consisting primarily of
insured, long term municipal revenue bonds.
2. WHAT ARE MUNICIPAL REVENUE BONDS?
Municipal revenue bonds are bonds issued by states,
municipalities and public authorities to finance the cost
of buying, building or improving various projects intended
to generate revenue, such as airports, health care
facilities, housing and municipal electric, water and sewer
utilities. Generally, payments on these bonds depend solely
on the revenues generated by the projects, excise taxes or
state appropriations, and are not backed by the
government's taxing power.
3. WHAT IS THE FUND'S INVESTMENT STRATEGY?
O The Fund plans to hold to maturity 8 long-term tax-exempt
municipal bonds with an aggregate face amount of
$3,200,000.
o The Fund is a unit investment trust which means that,
unlike a mutual fund, the Portfolio is not managed.
o The bonds are rated AAA or Aaa by Standard & Poor's,
Moody's or Fitch.
o Many of the bonds can be called at a premium declining over
time to par value. Some bonds may be called earlier at par
for extraordinary reasons.
o 100% of the bonds are insured by insurance companies that
guarantee timely payments of principal and interest on the
bonds (but not Fund units or the market value of the bonds
before they mature).
The Portfolio consists of municipal bonds of the following
types:
APPROXIMATE
PORTFOLIO
PERCENTAGE
/ / Lease Rental Appropriation 48%
/ / Refunded Bonds 10%
/ / Special Tax 9%
/ / Municipal Electric Utilities 25%
/ / Universities/Colleges 8%
4. WHAT ARE THE SIGNIFICANT RISKS?
YOU CAN LOSE MONEY BY INVESTING IN THE FUND. THIS CAN
HAPPEN FOR VARIOUS REASONS, INCLUDING:
o Rising interest rates, an issuer's worsening financial
condition or a drop in bond ratings can reduce the price of
your units.
o Because the Fund is concentrated in lease rental
appropriation and municipal electric utility bonds, adverse
developments in these sectors may affect the value of your
units.
o Assuming no changes in interest rates, when you sell your
units, they will generally be worth less than your cost
because your cost included a sales fee.
o The Fund will receive early returns of principal if bonds
are called or sold before they mature. If this happens your
income will decline and you may not be able to reinvest the
money you receive at as high a yield or as long a maturity.
ALSO, THE PORTFOLIO IS CONCENTRATED IN BONDS OF CALIFORNIA
SO IT IS LESS DIVERSIFIED THAN A NATIONAL FUND AND IS
SUBJECT TO RISKS PARTICULAR TO CALIFORNIA WHICH ARE BRIEFLY
DESCRIBED UNDER STATE CONCENTRATION RISKS LATER IN THIS
PROSPECTUS.
3
<PAGE>
5. IS THIS FUND APPROPRIATE FOR YOU?
Yes, if you want federally tax-free income. You will
benefit from a professionally selected and supervised
portfolio whose risk is reduced by investing in insured
bonds of several different issuers.
The Fund is not appropriate for you if you want a
speculative investment that changes to take advantage of
market movements, if you do not want a tax-advantaged
investment or if you cannot tolerate any risk.
DEFINING YOUR INCOME
WHAT YOU MAY EXPECT (Payable on the 25th day of
the month to holders of record on the 10th day
of the month):
Regular Monthly Income per unit $ 4.67
Annual Income per unit: $ 56.05
These figures are estimates determined on the evaluation
day; actual payments may vary.
6. WHAT ARE THE FUND'S FEES AND EXPENSES?
This table shows the costs and expenses you may pay,
directly or indirectly, when you invest in the Fund.
INVESTOR FEES
Maximum Sales Fee (Load) on new
purchases (as a percentage of
$1,000 invested) 2.90%
Employees of some of the Sponsors and their affiliates may
pay a reduced sales fee of no less than $5.00 per unit.
The maximum sales fee is reduced if you invest at least
$100,000, as follows:
YOUR MAXIMUM
SALES FEE
IF YOU INVEST: WILL BE:
----------------------------------- -----------------
Less than $100,000 2.90%
$100,000 to $249,999 2.65%
$250,000 to $499,999 2.40%
$500,000 to $999,999 2.15%
$1,000,000 and over 1.90%
Maximum Exchange Fee 1.90%
ESTIMATED ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
AMOUNT
PER UNIT
-----------
$ 0.70
Trustee's Fee
$ 0.37
Portfolio Supervision,
Bookkeeping and
Administrative Fees
(including updating
expenses)
$ 0.23
Evaluator's Fee
$ 0.33
Other Operating Expenses
-----------
$ 1.63
TOTAL
The Sponsors historically paid updating expenses.
7. HOW HAVE SIMILAR FUNDS PERFORMED IN THE PAST?
In the following chart we show past performance of prior
California Portfolios, which had investment objectives,
strategies and types of bonds substantially similar to
this Fund. These prior Series differed in that they
charged a higher sales fee. These prior California Series
were offered between June 22, 1988 and September 27, 1996
and were outstanding on March 31, 1999. OF COURSE, PAST
PERFORMANCE OF PRIOR SERIES IS NO GUARANTEE OF FUTURE
RESULTS OF THIS FUND.
AVERAGE ANNUAL COMPOUND TOTAL RETURNS
FOR PRIOR SERIES
Reflecting all expenses. For periods ended 3/31/99.
NO SALES
WITH SALES FEE FEE
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 1 YEAR 5 YEARS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
High 4.57% 7.62% 7.61% 8.82%
Average 2.32 5.66 5.52 6.70
Low 0.40 4.27 3.11 5.10
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Average
Sales fee 3.18% 5.10%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Note: All returns represent changes in unit price with distributions reinvested
into the Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program.
8. IS THE FUND MANAGED?
Unlike a mutual fund, the Fund is not managed and bonds are
not sold because of market changes. Rather, experienced
Defined Asset Funds financial analysts regularly review the
bonds in the Fund. The Fund may sell a bond if certain
adverse credit or other conditions exist.
4
<PAGE>
9. HOW DO I BUY UNITS?
The minimum investment is one unit.
You can buy units from any of the Sponsors and other
broker-dealers. The Sponsors are listed later in this
prospectus. Some banks may offer units for sale through
special arrangements with the Sponsors, although certain
legal restrictions may apply.
UNIT PRICE PER UNIT $1,082.79
(as of February 28, 1999)
Unit price is based on the net asset value of the Fund plus
the sales fee. An amount equal to any principal cash, as
well as net accrued but undistributed interest on the unit,
is added to the unit price. An independent evaluator prices
the bonds at 3:30 p.m. Eastern time every business day.
Unit price changes every day with changes in the prices of
the bonds in the Fund.
10. HOW DO I SELL UNITS?
You may sell your units at any time to any Sponsor or the
Trustee for the net asset value determined at the close of
business on the date of sale. You will not pay any other
fee when you sell your units.
11. HOW ARE DISTRIBUTIONS MADE AND TAXED?
The Fund pays income monthly.
In the opinion of bond counsel when each bond was issued,
interest on the bonds in this Fund is generally 100% exempt
from regular federal income tax. Your income may also be
exempt from some California state and local personal income
taxes if you live in California.
You will also receive principal payments if bonds are sold
or called or mature, when the cash available is more than
$5.00 per unit. You will be subject to tax on any gain
realized by the Fund on the disposition of bonds.
12. WHAT OTHER SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?
REINVESTMENT
You will receive your income in cash unless you choose to
compound your income by reinvesting at no sales fee in the
Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program, Inc. This
program is an open-end mutual fund with a comparable
investment objective, but the bonds will generally not be
insured. Income from this program will generally be subject
to state and local income taxes. For more complete
information about the program, including charges and fees,
ask the Trustee for the program's prospectus. Read it
carefully before you invest. The Trustee must receive your
written election to reinvest at least 10 days before the
record day of an income payment.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES
You may exchange units of this Fund for units of certain
other Defined Asset Funds. You may also exchange into this
Fund from certain other funds. We charge a reduced sales fee
on exchanges.
5
<PAGE>
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FLORIDA INSURED PORTFOLIO--RISK/RETURN SUMMARY
1. WHAT IS THE FUND'S OBJECTIVE?
The Fund seeks interest income that is exempt from regular
federal income taxes and some state and local taxes by
investing in a fixed portfolio consisting primarily of
insured, long term municipal revenue bonds.
2. WHAT ARE MUNICIPAL REVENUE BONDS?
Municipal revenue bonds are bonds issued by states,
municipalities and public authorities to finance the cost
of buying, building or improving various projects intended
to generate revenue, such as airports, health care
facilities, housing and municipal electric, water and sewer
utilities. Generally, payments on these bonds depend solely
on the revenues generated by the projects, excise taxes or
state appropriations, and are not backed by the
government's taxing power.
3. WHAT IS THE FUND'S INVESTMENT STRATEGY?
O The Fund plans to hold to maturity 7 long-term tax-exempt
municipal bonds with an aggregate face amount of
$2,775,000.
o The Fund is a unit investment trust which means that,
unlike a mutual fund, the Portfolio is not managed.
o The bonds are rated AAA or Aaa by Standard & Poor's,
Moody's or Fitch.
o Many of the bonds can be called at a premium declining over
time to par value. Some bonds may be called earlier at par
for extraordinary reasons.
o 100% of the bonds are insured by insurance companies that
guarantee timely payments of principal and interest on the
bonds (but not Fund units or the market value of the bonds
before they mature).
The Portfolio consists of municipal bonds of the following
types:
APPROXIMATE
PORTFOLIO
PERCENTAGE
/ / Airports/Ports/Highways 18%
/ / Hospital/Health Care 29%
/ / Municipal Water/Sewer Utilities 34%
/ / Refunded Bonds 6%
/ / Municipal Electric Utilities 13%
4. WHAT ARE THE SIGNIFICANT RISKS?
YOU CAN LOSE MONEY BY INVESTING IN THE FUND. THIS CAN
HAPPEN FOR VARIOUS REASONS, INCLUDING:
o Rising interest rates, an issuer's worsening financial
condition or a drop in bond ratings can reduce the price of
your units.
o Because the Fund is concentrated in municipal water/sewer
utility bonds, adverse developments in these sectors may
affect the value of your units.
o Assuming no changes in interest rates, when you sell your
units, they will generally be worth less than your cost
because your cost included a sales fee.
o The Fund will receive early returns of principal if bonds
are called or sold before they mature. If this happens your
income will decline and you may not be able to reinvest the
money you receive at as high a yield or as long a maturity.
ALSO, THE PORTFOLIO IS CONCENTRATED IN BONDS OF FLORIDA SO
IT IS LESS DIVERSIFIED THAN A NATIONAL FUND AND IS SUBJECT
TO RISKS PARTICULAR TO FLORIDA WHICH ARE BRIEFLY DESCRIBED
UNDER STATE CONCENTRATION RISKS LATER IN THIS PROSPECTUS.
6
<PAGE>
5. IS THIS FUND APPROPRIATE FOR YOU?
Yes, if you want federally tax-free income. You will
benefit from a professionally selected and supervised
portfolio whose risk is reduced by investing in insured
bonds of several different issuers.
The Fund is not appropriate for you if you want a
speculative investment that changes to take advantage of
market movements, if you do not want a tax-advantaged
investment or if you cannot tolerate any risk.
DEFINING YOUR INCOME
WHAT YOU MAY EXPECT (Payable on the 25th day of
the month to holders of record on the 10th day
of the month):
Regular Monthly Income per unit $ 4.51
Annual Income per unit: $ 54.12
These figures are estimates determined on the evaluation
day; actual payments may vary.
6. WHAT ARE THE FUND'S FEES AND EXPENSES?
This table shows the costs and expenses you may pay,
directly or indirectly, when you invest in the Fund.
INVESTOR FEES
Maximum Sales Fee (Load) on new
purchases (as a percentage of
$1,000 invested) 2.90%
Employees of some of the Sponsors and their affiliates may
pay a reduced sales fee of no less than $5.00 per unit.
The maximum sales fee is reduced if you invest at least
$100,000, as follows:
YOUR MAXIMUM
SALES FEE
IF YOU INVEST: WILL BE:
----------------------------------- -----------------
Less than $100,000 2.90%
$100,000 to $249,999 2.65%
$250,000 to $499,999 2.40%
$500,000 to $999,999 2.15%
$1,000,000 and over 1.90%
Maximum Exchange Fee 1.90%
ESTIMATED ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
AMOUNT
PER UNIT
-----------
$ 0.70
Trustee's Fee
$ 0.37
Portfolio Supervision,
Bookkeeping and
Administrative Fees
(including updating
expenses)
$ 0.27
Evaluator's Fee
$ 0.40
Other Operating Expenses
-----------
$ 1.74
TOTAL
The Sponsors historically paid updating expenses.
7. HOW HAVE SIMILAR FUNDS PERFORMED IN THE PAST?
In the following chart we show past performance of prior
Florida Portfolios, which had investment objectives,
strategies and types of bonds substantially similar to
this Fund. These prior Series differed in that they
charged a higher sales fee. These prior Florida Series
were offered between August 25, 1988 and December 6, 1996
and were outstanding on March 31, 1999. OF COURSE, PAST
PERFORMANCE OF PRIOR SERIES IS NO GUARANTEE OF FUTURE
RESULTS OF THIS FUND.
AVERAGE ANNUAL COMPOUND TOTAL RETURNS
FOR PRIOR SERIES
Reflecting all expenses. For periods ended 3/31/99.
WITH SALES FEE NO SALES FEE
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
High 4.94% 7.40% 6.95% 7.59% 8.61% 7.55%
Average 2.24 5.62 6.79 5.45 6.67 7.39
Low -0.66 4.39 6.71 3.15 5.28 7.31
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Average
Sales fee 3.19% 5.13% 5.82%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Note: All returns represent changes in unit price with distributions reinvested
into the Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program.
8. IS THE FUND MANAGED?
Unlike a mutual fund, the Fund is not managed and bonds are
not sold because of market changes. Rather, experienced
Defined Asset Funds financial analysts regularly review the
bonds in the Fund. The Fund may sell a bond if certain adverse
credit or other conditions exist.
7
<PAGE>
9. HOW DO I BUY UNITS?
The minimum investment is one unit.
You can buy units from any of the Sponsors and other
broker-dealers. The Sponsors are listed later in this
prospectus. Some banks may offer units for sale through
special arrangements with the Sponsors, although certain
legal restrictions may apply.
UNIT PRICE PER UNIT $1,064.13
(as of February 28, 1999)
Unit price is based on the net asset value of the Fund plus
the sales fee. An amount equal to any principal cash, as well
as net accrued but undistributed interest on the unit, is
added to the unit price. An independent evaluator prices the
bonds at 3:30 p.m. Eastern time every business day. Unit
price changes every day with changes in the prices of the
bonds in the Fund.
10. HOW DO I SELL UNITS?
You may sell your units at any time to any Sponsor or the
Trustee for the net asset value determined at the close of
business on the date of sale. You will not pay any other fee
when you sell your units.
11. HOW ARE DISTRIBUTIONS MADE AND TAXED?
The Fund pays income monthly.
In the opinion of bond counsel when each bond was issued,
interest on the bonds in this Fund is generally 100% exempt
from regular federal income tax. Your income may also be
exempt from some Florida state and local taxes if you live in
Florida.
You will also receive principal payments if bonds are sold or
called or mature, when the cash available is more than $5.00
per unit. You will be subject to tax on any gain realized by
the Fund on the disposition of bonds.
12. WHAT OTHER SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?
REINVESTMENT
You will receive your income in cash unless you choose to
compound your income by reinvesting at no sales fee in the
Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program, Inc. This
program is an open-end mutual fund with a comparable
investment objective. Income from this program will generally
be subject to state and local income taxes. For more complete
information about the program, including charges and fees,
ask the Trustee for the program's prospectus. Read it
carefully before you invest. The Trustee must receive your
written election to reinvest at least 10 days before the
record day of an income payment.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES
You may exchange units of this Fund for units of certain
other Defined Asset Funds. You may also exchange into this
Fund from certain other funds. We charge a reduced sales fee
on exchanges.
8
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW JERSEY INSURED PORTFOLIO--RISK/RETURN SUMMARY
1. WHAT IS THE FUND'S OBJECTIVE?
The Fund seeks interest income that is exempt from regular
federal income taxes and some state and local taxes by
investing in a fixed portfolio consisting primarily of
insured, long term municipal revenue bonds.
2. WHAT ARE MUNICIPAL REVENUE BONDS?
Municipal revenue bonds are bonds issued by states,
municipalities and public authorities to finance the cost
of buying, building or improving various projects intended
to generate revenue, such as airports, health care
facilities, housing and municipal electric, water and sewer
utilities. Generally, payments on these bonds depend solely
on the revenues generated by the projects, excise taxes or
state appropriations, and are not backed by the
government's taxing power.
3. WHAT IS THE FUND'S INVESTMENT STRATEGY?
O The Fund plans to hold to maturity 7 long-term tax-exempt
municipal bonds with an aggregate face amount of
$3,080,000.
o The Fund is a unit investment trust which means that,
unlike a mutual fund, the Portfolio is not managed.
o The bonds are rated AAA or Aaa by Standard & Poor's,
Moody's or Fitch.
o Many of the bonds can be called at a premium declining over
time to par value. Some bonds may be called earlier at par
for extraordinary reasons.
o 100% of the bonds are insured by insurance companies that
guarantee timely payments of principal and interest on the
bonds (but not Fund units or the market value of the bonds
before they mature).
The Portfolio consists of municipal bonds of the following
types:
APPROXIMATE
PORTFOLIO
PERCENTAGE
/ / Airports/Ports/Highways 16%
/ / Hospital/Health Care 27%
/ / Industrial Development Revenue 16%
/ / Municipal Water/Sewer Utilities 25%
/ / Refunded Bonds 16%
4. WHAT ARE THE SIGNIFICANT RISKS?
YOU CAN LOSE MONEY BY INVESTING IN THE FUND. THIS CAN
HAPPEN FOR VARIOUS REASONS, INCLUDING:
o Rising interest rates, an issuer's worsening financial
condition or a drop in bond ratings can reduce the price of
your units.
o Because the Fund is concentrated in municipal water/sewer
utility bonds, adverse developments in these sectors may
affect the value of your units.
o Assuming no changes in interest rates, when you sell your
units, they will generally be worth less than your cost
because your cost included a sales fee.
o The Fund will receive early returns of principal if bonds
are called or sold before they mature. If this happens your
income will decline and you may not be able to reinvest the
money you receive at as high a yield or as long a maturity.
ALSO, THE PORTFOLIO IS CONCENTRATED IN BONDS OF NEW JERSEY
SO IT IS LESS DIVERSIFIED THAN A NATIONAL FUND AND IS
SUBJECT TO RISKS PARTICULAR TO NEW JERSEY WHICH ARE BRIEFLY
DESCRIBED UNDER STATE CONCENTRATION RISKS LATER IN THIS
PROSPECTUS.
9
<PAGE>
5. IS THIS FUND APPROPRIATE FOR YOU?
Yes, if you want federally tax-free income. You will
benefit from a professionally selected and supervised
portfolio whose risk is reduced by investing in insured
bonds of several different issuers.
The Fund is not appropriate for you if you want a
speculative investment that changes to take advantage of
market movements, if you do not want a tax-advantaged
investment or if you cannot tolerate any risk.
DEFINING YOUR INCOME
WHAT YOU MAY EXPECT (Payable on the 25th day of
the month to holders of record on the 10th day
of the month):
Regular Monthly Income per unit $ 4.24
Annual Income per unit: $ 50.92
These figures are estimates determined on the evaluation
day; actual payments may vary.
6. WHAT ARE THE FUND'S FEES AND EXPENSES?
This table shows the costs and expenses you may pay,
directly or indirectly, when you invest in the Fund.
INVESTOR FEES
Maximum Sales Fee (Load) on new
purchases (as a percentage of
$1,000 invested) 2.90%
Employees of some of the Sponsors and their affiliates may
pay a reduced sales fee of no less than $5.00 per unit.
The maximum sales fee is reduced if you invest at least
$100,000, as follows:
YOUR MAXIMUM
SALES FEE
IF YOU INVEST: WILL BE:
----------------------------------- -----------------
Less than $100,000 2.90%
$100,000 to $249,999 2.65%
$250,000 to $499,999 2.40%
$500,000 to $999,999 2.15%
$1,000,000 and over 1.90%
Maximum Exchange Fee 1.90%
ESTIMATED ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
AMOUNT
PER UNIT
-----------
$ 0.70
Trustee's Fee
$ 0.37
Portfolio Supervision,
Bookkeeping and
Administrative Fees
(including updating
expenses)
$ 0.24
Evaluator's Fee
$ 0.38
Other Operating Expenses
-----------
$ 1.69
TOTAL
The Sponsors historically paid updating expenses.
7. HOW HAVE SIMILAR FUNDS PERFORMED IN THE PAST?
In the following chart we show past performance of prior
New Jersey Portfolios, which had investment objectives,
strategies and types of bonds substantially similar to
this Fund. These prior Series differed in that they
charged a higher sales fee. These prior New Jersey Series
were offered between June 22, 1988 and September 19, 1996
and were outstanding on March 31, 1999. OF COURSE, PAST
PERFORMANCE OF PRIOR SERIES IS NO GUARANTEE OF FUTURE
RESULTS OF THIS FUND.
AVERAGE ANNUAL COMPOUND TOTAL RETURNS
FOR PRIOR SERIES
Reflecting all expenses. For periods ended 3/31/99.
WITH SALES FEE NO SALES FEE
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
High 5.83% 7.04% 6.92% 7.45% 8.24% 7.52%
Average 2.55 5.41 6.80 5.53 6.46 7.40
Low 0.51 4.20 6.73 3.51 5.19 7.33
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Average
Sales fee 2.96% 5.14% 5.82%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Note: All returns represent changes in unit price with distributions reinvested
into the Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program.
8. IS THE FUND MANAGED?
Unlike a mutual fund, the Fund is not managed and bonds are
not sold because of market changes. Rather, experienced
Defined Asset Funds financial analysts regularly review the
bonds in the Fund. The Fund may sell a bond if certain
adverse credit or other conditions exist.
10
<PAGE>
9. HOW DO I BUY UNITS?
The minimum investment is one unit.
You can buy units from any of the Sponsors and other
broker-dealers. The Sponsors are listed later in this
prospectus. Some banks may offer units for sale through
special arrangements with the Sponsors, although certain
legal restrictions may apply.
UNIT PRICE PER UNIT $1,039.59
(as of February 28, 1999)
Unit price is based on the net asset value of the Fund plus
the sales fee. An amount equal to any principal cash, as
well as net accrued but undistributed interest on the unit,
is added to the unit price. An independent evaluator prices
the bonds at 3:30 p.m. Eastern time every business day.
Unit price changes every day with changes in the prices of
the bonds in the Fund.
10. HOW DO I SELL UNITS?
You may sell your units at any time to any Sponsor or the
Trustee for the net asset value determined at the close of
business on the date of sale. You will not pay any other
fee when you sell your units.
11. HOW ARE DISTRIBUTIONS MADE AND TAXED?
The Fund pays income monthly.
In the opinion of bond counsel when each bond was issued,
interest on the bonds in this Fund is generally 100% exempt
from regular federal income tax. Your income may also be
exempt from some New Jersey state and local personal income
taxes if you live in New Jersey.
You will also receive principal payments if bonds are sold
or called or mature, when the cash available is more than
$5.00 per unit. You will be subject to tax on any gain
realized by the Fund on the disposition of bonds.
12. WHAT OTHER SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?
REINVESTMENT
You will receive your income in cash unless you choose to
compound your income by reinvesting at no sales fee in the
Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program, Inc. This
program is an open-end mutual fund with a comparable
investment objective, but the bonds generally will not be
insured. Income from this program will generally be subject
to state and local income taxes. For more complete
information about the program, including charges and fees,
ask the Trustee for the program's prospectus. Read it
carefully before you invest. The Trustee must receive your
written election to reinvest at least 10 days before the
record day of an income payment.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES
You may exchange units of this Fund for units of certain
other Defined Asset Funds. You may also exchange into this
Fund from certain other funds. We charge a reduced sales fee
on exchanges.
11
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW YORK INSURED PORTFOLIO--RISK/RETURN SUMMARY
1. WHAT IS THE FUND'S OBJECTIVE?
The Fund seeks interest income that is exempt from regular
federal income taxes and some state and local taxes by
investing in a fixed portfolio consisting primarily of
insured, long term municipal revenue bonds.
2. WHAT ARE MUNICIPAL REVENUE BONDS?
Municipal revenue bonds are bonds issued by states,
municipalities and public authorities to finance the cost
of buying, building or improving various projects intended
to generate revenue, such as airports, health care
facilities, housing and municipal electric, water and sewer
utilities. Generally, payments on these bonds depend solely
on the revenues generated by the projects, excise taxes or
state appropriations, and are not backed by the
government's taxing power.
3. WHAT IS THE FUND'S INVESTMENT STRATEGY?
O The Fund plans to hold to maturity 8 long-term tax-exempt
municipal bonds with an aggregate face amount of
$3,455,000.
o The Fund is a unit investment trust which means that,
unlike a mutual fund, the Portfolio is not managed.
o The bonds are rated AAA or Aaa by Standard & Poor's,
Moody's or Fitch.
o Many of the bonds can be called at a premium declining over
time to par value. Some bonds may be called earlier at par
for extraordinary reasons.
o 100% of the bonds are insured by insurance companies that
guarantee timely payments of principal and interest on the
bonds (but not Fund units or the market value of the bonds
before they mature).
The Portfolio consists of municipal bonds of the following
types:
APPROXIMATE
PORTFOLIO
PERCENTAGE
/ / Airports/Ports/Highways 3%
/ / Hospital/Health Care 29%
/ / Lease Rental Appropriation 14%
/ / Municipal Water/Sewer Utilities 44%
/ / Transit/Transportation 10%
4. WHAT ARE THE SIGNIFICANT RISKS?
YOU CAN LOSE MONEY BY INVESTING IN THE FUND. THIS CAN
HAPPEN FOR VARIOUS REASONS, INCLUDING:
o Rising interest rates, an issuer's worsening financial
condition or a drop in bond ratings can reduce the price of
your units.
o Because the Fund is concentrated in municipal water/sewer
utility bonds, adverse developments in these sectors may
affect the value of your units.
Approximately 14% of the bonds are moral obligation bonds.
Generally the agency or authority issuing the bonds has no
taxing power, and repayment of these bonds is only a moral
commitment, but not a legal obligation of the state or
municipality.
o Assuming no changes in interest rates, when you sell your
units, they will generally be worth less than your cost
because your cost included a sales fee.
o The Fund will receive early returns of principal if bonds
are called or sold before they mature. If this happens your
income will decline and you may not be able to reinvest the
money you receive at as high a yield or as long a maturity.
ALSO, THE PORTFOLIO IS CONCENTRATED IN BONDS OF NEW YORK SO
IT IS LESS DIVERSIFIED THAN A NATIONAL FUND AND IS SUBJECT
TO RISKS PARTICULAR TO NEW YORK WHICH ARE BRIEFLY DESCRIBED
UNDER STATE CONCENTRATION RISKS LATER IN THIS PROSPECTUS.
12
<PAGE>
5. IS THIS FUND APPROPRIATE FOR YOU?
Yes, if you want federally tax-free income. You will
benefit from a professionally selected and supervised
portfolio whose risk is reduced by investing in insured
bonds of several different issuers.
The Fund is not appropriate for you if you want a
speculative investment that changes to take advantage of
market movements, if you do not want a tax-advantaged
investment or if you cannot tolerate any risk.
DEFINING YOUR INCOME
WHAT YOU MAY EXPECT (Payable on the 25th day of
the month to holders of record on the 10th day
of the month):
Regular Monthly Income per unit $ 4.51
Annual Income per unit: $ 54.17
These figures are estimates determined on the evaluation
day; actual payments may vary.
6. WHAT ARE THE FUND'S FEES AND EXPENSES?
This table shows the costs and expenses you may pay,
directly or indirectly, when you invest in the Fund.
INVESTOR FEES
Maximum Sales Fee (Load) on new
purchases (as a percentage of
$1,000 invested) 2.90%
Employees of some of the Sponsors and their affiliates may
pay a reduced sales fee of no less than $5.00 per unit.
The maximum sales fee is reduced if you invest at least
$100,000, as follows:
YOUR MAXIMUM
SALES FEE
IF YOU INVEST: WILL BE:
----------------------------------- -----------------
Less than $100,000 2.90%
$100,000 to $249,999 2.65%
$250,000 to $499,999 2.40%
$500,000 to $999,999 2.15%
$1,000,000 and over 1.90%
Maximum Exchange Fee 1.90%
ESTIMATED ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
AMOUNT
PER UNIT
-----------
$ 0.70
Trustee's Fee
$ 0.37
Portfolio Supervision,
Bookkeeping and
Administrative Fees
(including updating
expenses)
$ 0.22
Evaluator's Fee
$ 0.36
Other Operating Expenses
-----------
$ 1.65
TOTAL
The Sponsors historically paid updating expenses.
7. HOW HAVE SIMILAR FUNDS PERFORMED IN THE PAST?
In the following chart we show past performance of prior
New York Portfolios, which had investment objectives,
strategies and types of bonds substantially similar to
this Fund. These prior Series differed in that they
charged a higher sales fee. These prior New York Series
were offered between January 14, 1988 and October 16, 1996
and were outstanding on March 31, 1999. OF COURSE, PAST
PERFORMANCE OF PRIOR SERIES IS NO GUARANTEE OF FUTURE
RESULTS OF THIS FUND.
AVERAGE ANNUAL COMPOUND TOTAL RETURNS
FOR PRIOR SERIES
Reflecting all expenses. For periods ended 3/31/99.
WITH SALES FEE NO SALES FEE
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
High 5.38% 7.23% 7.44% 7.65% 8.43% 8.04%
Average 2.37 5.33 7.17 5.49 6.33 7.76
Low -0.98 4.23 7.00 3.37 5.12 7.59
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Average
Sales fee 3.11% 4.90% 5.77%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------
Note: All returns represent changes in unit price with distributions reinvested
into the Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program.
8. IS THE FUND MANAGED?
Unlike a mutual fund, the Fund is not managed and bonds are
not sold because of market changes. Rather, experienced
Defined Asset Funds financial analysts regularly review the
bonds in the Fund. The Fund may sell a bond if certain
adverse credit or other conditions exist.
13
<PAGE>
9. HOW DO I BUY UNITS?
The minimum investment is one unit.
You can buy units from any of the Sponsors and other
broker-dealers. The Sponsors are listed later in this
prospectus. Some banks may offer units for sale through
special arrangements with the Sponsors, although certain
legal restrictions may apply.
UNIT PRICE PER UNIT $1,061.35
(as of February 28, 1999)
Unit price is based on the net asset value of the Fund plus
the sales fee. An amount equal to any principal cash, as
well as net accrued but undistributed interest on the unit,
is added to the unit price. An independent evaluator prices
the bonds at 3:30 p.m. Eastern time every business day.
Unit price changes every day with changes in the prices of
the bonds in the Fund.
10. HOW DO I SELL UNITS?
You may sell your units at any time to any Sponsor or the
Trustee for the net asset value determined at the close of
business on the date of sale. You will not pay any other
fee when you sell your units.
11. HOW ARE DISTRIBUTIONS MADE AND TAXED?
The Fund pays income monthly.
In the opinion of bond counsel when each bond was issued,
interest on the bonds in this Fund is generally 100% exempt
from regular federal income tax. Your income may also be
exempt from some New York state and local personal income
taxes if you live in New York.
You will also receive principal payments if bonds are sold
or called or mature, when the cash available is more than
$5.00 per unit. You will be subject to tax on any gain
realized by the Fund on the disposition of bonds.
12. WHAT OTHER SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?
REINVESTMENT
You will receive your income in cash unless you choose to
compound your income by reinvesting at no sales fee in the
Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program, Inc. This
program is an open-end mutual fund with a comparable
investment objective, but the bonds will generally not be
insured. Income from this program will generally be subject
to state and local income taxes. For more complete
information about the program, including charges and fees,
ask the Trustee for the program's prospectus. Read it
carefully before you invest. The Trustee must receive your
written election to reinvest at least 10 days before the
record day of an income payment.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES
You may exchange units of this Fund for units of certain
other Defined Asset Funds. You may also exchange into this
Fund from certain other funds. We charge a reduced sales
fee on exchanges.
14
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PENNSYLVANIA INSURED PORTFOLIO--RISK/RETURN SUMMARY
1. WHAT IS THE FUND'S OBJECTIVE?
The Fund seeks interest income that is exempt from regular
federal income taxes and some state and local taxes by
investing in a fixed portfolio consisting primarily of long
term municipal revenue bonds.
2. WHAT ARE MUNICIPAL REVENUE BONDS?
Municipal revenue bonds are bonds issued by states,
municipalities and public authorities to finance the cost
of buying, building or improving various projects intended
to generate revenue, such as airports, health care
facilities, housing and municipal electric, water and sewer
utilities. Generally, payments on these bonds depend solely
on the revenues generated by the projects, excise taxes or
state appropriations, and are not backed by the
government's taxing power.
3. WHAT IS THE FUND'S INVESTMENT STRATEGY?
O The Fund plans to hold to maturity 7 long-term tax-exempt
municipal bonds with an aggregate face amount of
$2,945,000.
o The Fund is a unit investment trust which means that,
unlike a mutual fund, the Portfolio is not managed.
o When the bonds were initially deposited they were rated A
or better by Standard & Poor's, Moody's or Fitch. The
quality of the bonds may currently be lower.
o Many of the bonds can be called at a premium declining over
time to par value. Some bonds may be called earlier at par
for extraordinary reasons.
o 100% of the bonds are insured by insurance companies that
guarantee timely payments of principal and interest on the
bonds (but not Fund units or the market value of the bonds
before they mature).
The Portfolio consists of municipal bonds of the following
types:
APPROXIMATE
PORTFOLIO
PERCENTAGE
/ / Hospital/Health Care 51%
/ / Industrial Development Revenue 15%
/ / Miscellaneous 1%
/ / Special Tax 15%
/ / Universities/Colleges 18%
4. WHAT ARE THE SIGNIFICANT RISKS?
YOU CAN LOSE MONEY BY INVESTING IN THE FUND. THIS CAN
HAPPEN FOR VARIOUS REASONS, INCLUDING:
o Rising interest rates, an issuer's worsening financial
condition or a drop in bond ratings can reduce the price of
your units.
o Because the Fund is concentrated in hospital/health care
bonds, adverse developments in this sector may affect the
value of your units.
o Assuming no changes in interest rates, when you sell your
units, they will generally be worth less than your cost
because your cost included a sales fee.
o The Fund will receive early returns of principal if bonds
are called or sold before they mature. If this happens your
income will decline and you may not be able to reinvest the
money you receive at as high a yield or as long a maturity.
ALSO, THE PORTFOLIO IS CONCENTRATED IN BONDS OF
PENNSYLVANIA SO IT IS LESS DIVERSIFIED THAN A NATIONAL FUND
AND IS SUBJECT TO RISKS PARTICULAR TO PENNSYLVANIA WHICH
ARE BRIEFLY DESCRIBED UNDER STATE CONCENTRATION RISKS LATER
IN THIS PROSPECTUS.
15
<PAGE>
5. IS THIS FUND APPROPRIATE FOR YOU?
Yes, if you want federally tax-free income. You will
benefit from a professionally selected and supervised
portfolio whose risk is reduced by investing in bonds of
several different issuers.
The Fund is not appropriate for you if you want a
speculative investment that changes to take advantage of
market movements, if you do not want a tax-advantaged
investment or if you cannot tolerate any risk.
DEFINING YOUR INCOME
WHAT YOU MAY EXPECT (Payable on the 25th day of
the month to holders of record on the 10th day
of the month):
Regular Monthly Income per unit $ 4.47
Annual Income per unit: $ 53.66
These figures are estimates determined on the evaluation
day; actual payments may vary.
6. WHAT ARE THE FUND'S FEES AND EXPENSES?
This table shows the costs and expenses you may pay,
directly or indirectly, when you invest in the Fund.
INVESTOR FEES
Maximum Sales Fee (Load) on new
purchases (as a percentage of
$1,000 invested) 2.90%
Employees of some of the Sponsors and their affiliates may
be charged a reduced sales fee of no less than $5.00 per
unit.
The maximum sales fee is reduced if you invest at least
$100,000, as follows:
YOUR MAXIMUM
SALES FEE
IF YOU INVEST: WILL BE:
----------------------------------- -----------------
Less than $100,000 2.90%
$100,000 to $249,999 2.65%
$250,000 to $499,999 2.40%
$500,000 to $999,999 2.15%
$1,000,000 and over 1.90%
Maximum Exchange Fee 1.90%
ESTIMATED ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
AMOUNT
PER UNIT
-----------
$ 0.70
Trustee's Fee
$ 0.37
Portfolio Supervision,
Bookkeeping and
Administrative Fees
(including updating
expenses)
$ 0.25
Evaluator's Fee
$ 0.64
Other Operating Expenses
-----------
$ 1.96
TOTAL
The Sponsors historically paid updating expenses.
7. HOW HAVE SIMILAR FUNDS PERFORMED IN THE PAST?
In the following chart we show past performance of prior
Pennsylvania Portfolios, which had investment objectives,
strategies and types of bonds substantially similar to
this Fund. These prior Series differed in that they
charged a higher sales fee. These prior Pennsylvania
Series were offered between May 19, 1988 and September 13,
1996 and were outstanding on March 31, 1999. OF COURSE,
PAST PERFORMANCE OF PRIOR SERIES IS NO GUARANTEE OF FUTURE
RESULTS OF THIS FUND.
AVERAGE ANNUAL COMPOUND TOTAL RETURNS
FOR PRIOR SERIES
Reflecting all expenses. For periods ended 3/31/99.
WITH SALES FEE NO SALES FEE
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
High 3.65% 7.30% 6.98% 7.57% 8.50% 7.56%
Average 2.17 5.45 6.92 5.22 6.47 7.51
Low -0.52 3.96 6.81 1.23 4.98 7.41
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Average
Sales fee 3.03% 5.04% 5.68%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: All returns represent changes in unit price with distributions reinvested
into the Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program.
8. IS THE FUND MANAGED?
Unlike a mutual fund, the Fund is not managed and bonds are
not sold because of market changes. Rather, experienced
Defined Asset Funds financial analysts regularly review the
bonds in the Fund. The Fund may sell a bond if certain
adverse credit or other conditions exist.
16
<PAGE>
9. HOW DO I BUY UNITS?
The minimum investment is one unit.
You can buy units from any of the Sponsors and other
broker-dealers. The Sponsors are listed later in this
prospectus. Some banks may offer units for sale through
special arrangements with the Sponsors, although certain
legal restrictions may apply.
UNIT PRICE PER UNIT $1,058.82
(as of February 28, 1999)
Unit price is based on the net asset value of the Fund plus
the sales fee. An amount equal to any principal cash, as
well as net accrued but undistributed interest on the unit,
is added to the unit price. An independent evaluator prices
the bonds at 3:30 p.m. Eastern time every business day.
Unit price changes every day with changes in the prices of
the bonds in the Fund.
10. HOW DO I SELL UNITS?
You may sell your units at any time to any Sponsor or the
Trustee for the net asset value determined at the close of
business on the date of sale. You will not pay any other
fee when you sell your units.
11. HOW ARE DISTRIBUTIONS MADE AND TAXED?
The Fund pays income monthly.
In the opinion of bond counsel when each bond was issued,
interest on the bonds in this Fund is generally 100% exempt
from regular federal income tax. Your income may also be
exempt from some Pennsylvania state and local personal
income taxes if you live in Pennsylvania.
You will also receive principal payments if bonds are sold
or called or mature, when the cash available is more than
$5.00 per unit. You will be subject to tax on any gain
realized by the Fund on the disposition of bonds.
12. WHAT OTHER SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE?
REINVESTMENT
You will receive your income in cash unless you choose to
compound your income by reinvesting at no sales fee in the
Municipal Fund Investment Accumulation Program, Inc. This
program is an open-end mutual fund with a comparable
investment objective. Income from this program will
generally be subject to state and local income taxes. For
more complete information about the program, including
charges and fees, ask the Trustee for the program's
prospectus. Read it carefully before you invest. The
Trustee must receive your written election to reinvest at
least 10 days before the record day of an income payment.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES
You may exchange units of this Fund for units of certain
other Defined Asset Funds. You may also exchange into this
Fund from certain other funds. We charge a reduced sales
fee on exchanges.
17
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TAX-FREE VS. TAXABLE INCOME: A COMPARISON OF TAXABLE AND TAX-FREE YIELDS
FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMBINED
EFFECTIVE
TAXABLE INCOME 1999* TAX RATE TAX-FREE YIELD OF
SINGLE RETURN JOINT RETURN % 4% 4.5% 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7% 7.5% 8%
IS EQUIVALENT TO A TAXABLE YIELD OF
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0- 25,750 $ 0- 43,050 20.10 5.01 5.63 6.26 6.88 7.51 8.14 8.76 9.39 10.01
$ 25,751- 62,450 $ 43,051-104,050 34.70 6.13 6.89 7.66 8.42 9.19 9.95 10.72 11.48 12.25
$ 62,451-130,250 $104,051-158,550 37.42 6.39 7.19 7.99 8.79 9.59 10.39 11.19 11.98 12.78
$130,251-283,150 $158,551-283,150 41.95 6.89 7.75 8.61 9.47 10.34 11.20 12.06 12.92 13.78
OVER $283,151 OVER $283,151 45.22 7.30 8.21 9.13 10.04 10.95 11.87 12.78 13.69 14.60
</TABLE>
FOR FLORIDA RESIDENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EFFECTIVE
TAXABLE INCOME 1999* TAX RATE TAX-FREE YIELD OF
SINGLE RETURN JOINT RETURN % 3% 3.5% 4% 4.5% 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7%
IS EQUIVALENT TO A TAXABLE YIELD OF
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0- 25,750 $ 0- 43,050 15.00 3.53 4.12 4.71 5.29 5.88 6.47 7.06 7.65 8.24
$ 27,751- 62,450 $ 43,051-104,050 28.00 4.17 4.86 5.56 6.25 6.94 7.64 8.33 9.03 9.72
$ 62,451-130,250 $104,051-158,550 31.00 4.35 5.07 5.80 6.52 7.25 7.97 8.70 9.42 10.14
$130,251-283,150 $158,551-283,150 36.00 4.69 5.47 6.25 7.03 7.81 8.59 9.38 10.16 10.94
OVER $283,151 OVER $283,151 39.60 4.97 5.79 6.62 7.45 8.28 9.11 9.93 10.76 11.59
</TABLE>
FOR NEW JERSEY RESIDENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMBINED
EFFECTIVE
TAXABLE INCOME 1999* TAX RATE TAX-FREE YIELD OF
SINGLE RETURN JOINT RETURN % 4% 4.5% 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7% 7.5% 8%
IS EQUIVALENT TO A TAXABLE YIELD OF
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0- 25,750 $ 0- 43,050 16.49 4.79 5.39 5.99 6.59 7.18 7.78 8.38 8.98 9.58
$ 25,751- 62,450 $ 43,051-104,050 31.98 5.88 6.62 7.35 8.09 8.82 9.56 10.29 11.03 11.76
$ 62,451-130,250 $104,051-158,550 35.40 6.19 6.97 7.74 8.51 9.29 10.06 10.84 11.61 12.38
$130,251-283,150 $158,551-283,150 40.08 6.68 7.51 8.34 9.18 10.01 10.85 11.68 12.52 13.35
OVER $283,151 OVER $283,151 43.45 7.07 7.96 8.84 9.73 10.61 11.49 12.38 13.26 14.15
</TABLE>
To compare the yield of a taxable security with the yield of a tax-free
security, find your taxable income and read across. The table incorporates 1999
federal and applicable State income tax rates and assumes that all income would
otherwise be taxed at the investor's highest tax rate. Yield figures are for
example only.
*Based upon net amount subject to federal income tax after deductions and
exemptions. This table does not reflect the possible effect of other tax
factors, such as alternative minimum tax, personal exemptions, the phase out of
exemptions, itemized deductions or the possible partial disallowance of
deductions. Consequently, you should consult your own tax advisers in this
regard.
18
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TAX-FREE VS. TAXABLE INCOME: A COMPARISON OF TAXABLE AND TAX-FREE YIELDS
FOR NEW YORK CITY RESIDENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMBINED
EFFECTIVE
TAXABLE INCOME 1999* TAX RATE TAX-FREE YIELD OF
SINGLE RETURN JOINT RETURN % 4% 4.5% 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7% 7.5% 8%
IS EQUIVALENT TO A TAXABLE YIELD OF
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0- 43,060 23.59 5.24 5.89 6.54 7.20 7.85 8.51 9.16 9.82 10.47
$ 0-25,750- 23.63 5.24 5.89 6.55 7.20 7.86 8.51 9.17 9.82 10.48
$ 25,751- 62,450 $ 43,051-104,050 35.35 6.19 6.96 7.73 8.51 9.28 10.05 10.83 11.60 12.37
$ 62,451-130,250 $104,051-158,550 38.04 6.46 7.26 8.07 8.88 9.68 10.49 11.30 12.11 12.91
$130,251-283,150 $158,551-283,150 42.53 6.96 7.83 8.70 9.57 10.44 11.31 12.18 13.05 13.92
OVER $283,151 OVER $283,151 45.77 7.38 8.30 9.22 10.14 11.06 11.98 12.91 13.83 14.75
</TABLE>
FOR NEW YORK STATE RESIDENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMBINED
EFFECTIVE
TAXABLE INCOME 1999* TAX RATE TAX-FREE YIELD OF
SINGLE RETURN JOINT RETURN % 4% 4.5% 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7% 7.5% 8%
IS EQUIVALENT TO A TAXABLE YIELD OF
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0- 25,750 $ 0- 43,050 20.82 5.05 5.68 6.31 6.95 7.58 8.21 8.84 9.47 10.10
$ 25,751- 62,450 $ 43,051-104,050 32.93 5.96 6.71 7.46 8.20 8.95 9.69 10.44 11.18 11.93
$ 62,451-130,250 $104,051-158,550 35.73 6.22 7.00 7.78 8.56 9.34 10.11 10.69 11.67 12.45
$130,251-283,150 $158,551-283,150 40.38 6.71 7.55 8.39 9.23 10.06 10.90 11.74 12.58 13.42
OVER $283,151 OVER $283,151 43.74 7.11 8.00 8.89 9.78 10.66 11.55 12.44 13.33 14.22
</TABLE>
FOR PENNSYLVANIA RESIDENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COMBINED
EFFECTIVE
TAXABLE INCOME 1999* TAX RATE TAX-FREE YIELD OF
SINGLE RETURN JOINT RETURN % 3% 3.5% 4% 4.5% 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7%
IS EQUIVALENT TO A TAXABLE YIELD OF
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 0- 25,750 $ 0- 43,050 17.38 3.63 4.24 4.84 5.45 6.05 6.66 7.26 7.87 8.47
$ 27,751- 62,450 $ 43,051-104,050 30.02 4.29 5.00 5.72 6.43 7.14 7.86 8.57 9.29 10.00
$ 62,451-130,250 $104,051-158,550 32.93 4.47 5.22 5.96 6.71 7.46 8.20 8.95 9.69 10.44
$130,251-283,150 $158,551-283,150 37.79 4.82 5.63 6.43 7.23 8.04 8.84 9.65 10.45 11.25
OVER $283,151 OVER $283,151 41.29 5.11 5.96 6.81 7.66 8.52 9.37 10.22 11.07 11.92
</TABLE>
To compare the yield of a taxable security with the yield of a tax-free
security, find your taxable income and read across. The table incorporates 1999
federal and applicable State (and City) income tax rates and assumes that all
income would otherwise be taxed at the investor's highest tax rate. Yield
figures are for example only.
*Based upon net amount subject to federal income tax after deductions and
exemptions. This table does not reflect the possible effect of other tax
factors, such as alternative minimum tax, personal exemptions, the phase out of
exemptions, itemized deductions or the possible partial disallowance of
deductions. Consequently, investors are urged to consult their own tax advisers
in this regard.
19
<PAGE>
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM YOUR INVESTMENT
MONTHLY INCOME
The Fund will pay you regular monthly income. Your monthly income may vary
because of:
o elimination of one or more bonds from the Fund's portfolio because of
calls, redemptions or sales;
o a change in the Fund's expenses; or
o the failure by a bond's issuer to pay interest.
Changes in interest rates generally will not affect your income because the
portfolio is fixed.
Along with your income, you will receive your share of any available bond
principal.
RETURN FIGURES
We cannot predict your actual return, which will vary with unit price, how long
you hold your investment and changes in the portfolio, interest income and
expenses.
Estimated Current Return equals the estimated annual cash to be received from
the bonds in the Fund less estimated annual Fund expenses, divided by the Unit
Price (including the maximum sales fee):
Estimated Annual Estimated
Interest Income - Annual Expenses
- -------------------------------------------------
Unit Price
Estimated Long Term Return is a measure of the estimated return over the
estimated life of the Fund. Unlike Estimated Current Return, Estimated Long Term
Return reflects maturities, discounts and premiums of the bonds in the Fund. It
is an average of the yields to maturity (or in certain cases, to an earlier call
date) of the individual bonds in the portfolio, adjusted to reflect the Fund's
maximum sales fee and estimated expenses. We calculate the average yield for the
portfolio by weighting each bond's yield by its market value and the time
remaining to the call or maturity date.
Yields on individual bonds depend on many factors including general conditions
of the bond markets, the size of a particular offering and the maturity and
quality rating of the particular issues. Yields can vary among bonds with
similar maturities, coupons and ratings.
These return quotations are designed to be comparative rather than predictive.
RECORDS AND REPORTS
You will receive:
o a monthly statement of income payments and any principal payments;
o a notice from the Trustee when new bonds are deposited in exchange or
substitution for bonds originally deposited;
o an annual report on Fund activity; and
o annual tax information. This will also be sent to the IRS. You must report the
amount of tax-exempt interest received during the year.
You may request:
o copies of bond evaluations to enable you to comply with federal and state tax
reporting requirements; and
o audited financial statements of the Fund.
You may inspect records of Fund transactions at the Trustee's office during
regular business hours.
20
<PAGE>
THE RISKS YOU FACE
INTEREST RATE RISK
Investing involves risks, including the risk that your investment will decline
in value if interest rates rise. Generally, bonds with longer maturities will
change in value more than bonds with shorter maturities. Bonds in the Fund are
more likely to be called when interest rates decline. This would result in early
returns of principal to you and may result in early termination of the Fund. Of
course, we cannot predict how interest rates may change.
CALL RISK
Many bonds can be prepaid or 'called' by the issuer before their stated
maturity.
For example, some bonds may be required to be called pursuant to mandatory
sinking fund provisions.
Also, an issuer might call its bonds during periods of falling interest rates,
if the issuer's bonds have a coupon higher than current market rates.
An issuer might call its bonds in extraordinary cases, including if:
o it no longer needs the money for the original purpose;
o the project is condemned or sold;
o the project is destroyed and insurance proceeds are used to redeem the
bonds;
o any related credit support expires and is not replaced; or
o interest on the bonds become taxable.
If the bonds are called, your income will decline and you may not be able to
reinvest the money you receive at as high a yield or as long a maturity. An
early call at par of a premium bond will reduce your return.
REDUCED DIVERSIFICATION RISK
If many investors sell their units, the Fund will have to sell bonds. This could
reduce the diversification of your investment and increase your share of Fund
expenses.
LIQUIDITY RISK
You can always sell back your units, but we cannot assure you that a liquid
trading market will always exist for the bonds in the portfolio, especially
since current law may restrict the Fund from selling bonds to any Sponsor. The
bonds will generally trade in the over-the-counter market. The value of the
bonds, and of your investment, may be reduced if trading in bonds is limited or
absent.
CONCENTRATION RISK
When a certain type of bond makes up 25% or more of the portfolio, it is said to
be 'concentrated' in that bond type, which makes the Portfolio less diversified.
Here is what you should know about the Florida, New Jersey, New York and
Pennsylvania Portfolio's concentration in hospital and health care bonds.
o payment for these bonds depends on revenues from private third-party payors
and government programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, which have
generally undertaken cost containment measures to limit payments to health
care providers;
o hospitals face increasing competition resulting from hospital mergers and
affiliations;
o hospitals need to reduce costs as HMOs increase market penetration and
hospital supply and drug companies raise prices;
o hospitals and health care providers are subject to various legal claims by
patients and others and are adversely affected by increasing costs of
insurance; and
21
<PAGE>
o many hospitals are aggressively buying physician practices and assuming
risk contracts to gain market share. If revenues do not increase
accordingly, this practice could reduce profits;
o Medicare is changing its reimbursement system for nursing homes. Many
nursing home providers are not sure how they will be treated. In many
cases, the providers may receive lower reimbursements and these would have
to cut expenses to maintain profitability; and
o most retirement/nursing home providers rely on entrance fees for operating
revenues. If people live longer than expected and turnover is lower than
budgeted, operating revenues would be adversely affected by less than
expected entrance fees.
Here is what you should know about the California Portfolio's concentration in
municipal electric utility revenue bonds. The payment of interest and principal
of these bonds depends on the rates the utilities may charge, the demand for
their services and the cost of operating their business which includes the
expense of complying with environmental and other energy and licensing laws and
regulations. The operating results of utilities are particularly influenced by:
o increases in operating and construction costs;
o the costs and availability of fuel;
o unpredicability of future usage requirements; and
o the risks associated with the nuclear industry.
There has been an increase in competition in the electric utility industry. The
effect of this competition has been to induce municipal utilities to keep their
rates as low as possible. Municipal electric utilities may, therefore, be unable
to increase rates to recover their investment in generating plant.
Here is what you should know about the Florida, New Jersey and New York
Portfolio's concentration in municipal water and sewer revenue bonds. The
payment of interest and principal of these bonds depends on the rates the
utilities may charge, the demand for their services and the cost of operating
their business which includes the expense of complying with environmental and
other energy and licensing laws and regulations. The operating results of
utilities are particularly influenced by:
o increases in operating and construction costs; and
o unpredicability of future usage requirements.
Here is what you should know about the California Portfolio's concentration in
lease rental bonds. Lease rental bonds are generally issued by governmental
financing authorities that cannot assess a tax to cover the cost of equipment or
construction of buildings that will be used by a state or local government. The
risks associated with these bonds include:
o the failure of the government to appropriate funds for the leasing rental
payments to service the bonds; and
o rental obligations, and therefore payments, may terminate in the event of
damages to or destruction or condemnation of the of the equipment or
building.
Changes to the portfolio from bond redemptions, maturities and sales may affect
the Fund's concentrations over time.
22
<PAGE>
STATE CONCENTRATION RISK
CALIFORNIA RISKS
Generally
From the late 1980s through the early 1990s, an economic recession eroded
California's revenue base. At the same time rapid population growth caused State
expenditures to exceed budget appropriations.
o As a result California experienced a period of sustained budget imbalance.
o Since that time the California economy has improved and the extreme
budgetary pressures have begun to lessen.
State Government
The 1997-98 Budget Act allocated a State budget of approximately $66.9 Billion
and contains no tax increases or reductions. Despite this somewhat improved
state, California's budget is still subject to certain unforeseeable events. For
example:
o In December, 1994, Orange County and its investment pool filed for
bankruptcy. While a settlement has been reached, the full impact on the
State and Orange County is still unknown.
o California faces constant fluctuations in other expenses (including health
and welfare caseloads, property tax receipts, federal funding and natural
disaster relief) that will undoubtedly create new budgetary pressure and
reduce issuers' ability to pay their debts.
o California's general obligation bonds are currently rated A1 by Moody's and
A+ by Standard & Poor's.
Other Risks
Issuers' ability to make payments on bonds (and the remedies available to
bondholders) could also be adversely affected by the following constraints:
o Certain provisions of California's Constitution, laws and regulatory system
contain tax, spending and appropriations limits and prohibit certain new
taxes.
o Certain other California laws subject the users of bond proceeds to strict
rules and limits regarding revenue repayment.
o Bonds of healthcare institutions which are subject to the strict rules and
limits regarding reimbursement payments of California's Medi-Cal program
for health care services to welfare recipients and bonds secured by liens
on real property are two of the types of bonds affected by these
provisions.
FLORIDA RISKS
Generally
Florida's financial condition is affected by numerous national, economic, social
and environmental policies and conditions. For example:
o south Florida is heavily involved with foreign tourism, trade and
investment capital. As a result, the region is susceptible to international
trade and currency imbalances and economic problems in Central and South
America;
o central and northern Florida are more vulnerable to agricultural problems,
such as crop failures or severe weather conditions, especially in the
citrus and sugar industries; and
o the state as a whole is also very dependent on tourism and construction.
State and Local Government
The state of Florida and its local governments are restricted in their ability
to raise taxes and
23
<PAGE>
incur debts. These restrictions limit their ability to generate revenue, and so
could hurt their ability to pay debts.
General obligations of the state are rated Aa2 by Moody's, AA+ by Standard &
Poor's and AA by Fitch.
NEW JERSEY RISKS
State and Local Government
Certain features of New Jersey law could affect the repayment of debt:
o the State of New Jersey and its agencies and public authorities issue
general obligation bonds, which are secured by the full faith and credit of
the state, backed by its taxing authority, without recourse to specific
sources of revenue, therefore, any liability to increase taxes could impair
the state's ability to repay debt; and
o the state is required by law to maintain a balanced budget, and state
spending for any given municipality or county cannot increase by more than
5% per year. This limit could make it harder for any particular county or
municipality to repay its debts.
In recent years the state budget's main expenditures have been
o elementary and secondary education, and
o state agencies and programs, including police and corrections facilities,
higher education, and environmental protection.
The state's general obligations are rated Aa1 by Moody's and AA+ by Standard &
Poor's.
NEW YORK RISKS
Generally
For decades, New York's economy has trailed the rest of the nation. Both the
state and New York City have experienced long-term structural imbalances between
revenues and expenses, and have repeatedly relied substantially on non-recurring
measures to achieve budget balance. The pressures that contribute to budgetary
problems at both the state and local level include:
o the high combined state and local tax burden;
o a decline in manufacturing jobs, leading to above-average unemployment;
o sensitivity to the financial services industry; and
o dependence on federal aid.
State Government
The State government frequently has difficulty approving budgets on time. Budget
gaps of $1 billion and $4 billion are projected for the next two years. The
State's general obligation bonds are rated A by Standard & Poor's and A2 by
Moody's. There is $37 billion of state-related debt outstanding.
New York City Government
Even though the City had budget surpluses each year from 1981, budget gaps of $2
billion are projected for each of the next three years. New York City faces
fiscal pressures from:
o aging public facilities that need repair or replacement;
o welfare and medical costs;
o expiring labor contracts; and
o a high and increasing debt burden.
The City requires substantial state aid, and its fiscal strength depends heavily
on the securities industry. Its general obligation bonds are rated A-by Standard
& Poor's and A3 by Moody's.
24
<PAGE>
PENNSYLVANIA RISKS
Generally
Pennsylvania and many of its municipalities (including Philadelphia) have
undergone an economic decline:
o coal, steel, railroads and other heavy industry historically associated
with the Commonwealth has given way to increased competition from foreign
producers.
o agriculture and related industries are still an important part of the
Commonwealth's economy.
o Recently, however, service sector industries (trade, medical and health
services, education and financial services) have provided new sources of
growth.
State and Local Governments
Historically, both the Commonwealth and the City of Philadelphia have
experienced serious revenue shortfalls. At the same time, rising demands for
state and local programs and services (particularly medical assistance and cash
assistance programs) have lead to increased spending.
o In recent years, both the Commonwealth and the City of Philadelphia have
tried to balance their budgets with a mix of tax increases and spending
cuts.
o Philadelphia has considered significant service cuts and privatization of
certain services which it has provided to date.
o In 1991, the Commonwealth created the Pennsylvania Inter-Governmental
Cooperation Authority ('PICA') which it authorized to issue debt to cover
Philadelphia's budget shortfalls, eliminate the City's projected deficits
and fund its capital spending. PICA issued approximately $1.76 billion of
Special Revenue Bonds on Philadelphia's behalf. Its power to issue bonds on
Philadelphia's behalf expired at the end of 1996; as of June 30, 1997,
approximately $1.1 billion in PICA Special Revenue Bonds were outstanding.
o Pennsylvania's general obligation bonds are currently rated A1 by Moody's
and AA-by Standard & Poor's. Philadelphia's general obligation bonds are
rated Baa by Moody's and BBB by Standard & Poor's. There can be no
assurance that these ratings will not be lowered.
BOND QUALITY RISK
A reduction in a bond's rating may decrease its value and, indirectly, the value
of your investment in the Fund.
INSURANCE RELATED RISK
The bonds are insured (as shown under Portfolios). Insurance policies generally
make payments only according to a bond's original payment schedule and do not
make early payments when a bond defaults or becomes taxable. Although the
federal government does not regulate the insurance business, various state laws
and federal initiatives and tax law changes could significantly affect the
insurance business. The claims-paying ability of the insurance companies is
generally rated A or better by Standard & Poor's or another nationally
recognized rating organization. The insurance company ratings are subject to
change at any time at the discretion of the rating agencies.
LITIGATION AND LEGISLATION RISKS
We do not know of any pending litigation that might have a material adverse
effect upon the Fund.
Future tax legislation could affect the value of the portfolio by:
25
<PAGE>
o limiting real property taxes,
o reducing tax rates,
o imposing a flat or other form of tax, or
o exempting investment income from tax.
SELLING OR EXCHANGING UNITS
You can sell your units at any time for a price based on net asset value. Your
net asset value is calculated each business day by:
o adding the value of the bonds, net accrued interest, cash and any other
Fund assets;
o subtracting accrued but unpaid Fund expenses, unreimbursed Trustee
advances, cash held to buy back units or for distribution to investors and
any other Fund liabilities; and
o dividing the result by the number of outstanding units.
Your net asset value when you sell may be more or less than your cost because of
sales fees, market movements and changes in the portfolio.
SPONSORS' SECONDARY MARKET
While we are not obligated to do so, we will buy back units at net asset value
without any other fee or charge. We may resell the units to other buyers or to
the Trustee. You should consult your financial professional for current market
prices to determine if other broker-dealers or banks are offering higher prices.
We have maintained the secondary market continuously for over 25 years, but we
could discontinue it without prior notice for any business reason.
SELLING UNITS TO THE TRUSTEE
Regardless of whether we maintain a secondary market, you can sell your units to
the Trustee at any time by sending the Trustee a letter (with any outstanding
certificates if you hold Unit certificates). You must properly endorse your
certificates (or execute a written transfer instrument with signatures
guaranteed by an eligible institution). Sometimes, additional documents are
needed such as a trust document, certificate of corporate authority, certificate
of death or appointment as executor, administrator or guardian.
Within seven days after your request and the necessary documents are received,
the Trustee will mail a check to you. Contact the Trustee for additional
information.
As long as we are maintaining a secondary market, the Trustee will sell your
units to us at a price based on net asset value. If there is no secondary
market, the Trustee may sell your units in the over-the-counter market for a
higher price, but it is not obligated to do so. In that case, you will receive
the net proceeds of the sale.
If the Fund does not have cash available to pay you for units you are selling,
the agent for the Sponsors will select bonds to be sold. Bonds will be selected
based on market and credit factors. These sales could be made at times when the
bonds would not otherwise be sold and may result in your receiving less than the
unit par value and also reduce the size and diversity of the Fund.
There could be a delay in paying you for your units:
o if the New York Stock Exchange is closed (other than customary weekend and
holiday closings);
o if the SEC determines that trading on the New York Stock Exchange is
restricted or that an emergency exists making sale or
26
<PAGE>
evaluation of the bonds not reasonably practicable; and
o for any other period permitted by SEC order.
EXCHANGE OPTION
You may exchange units of certain Defined Asset Funds for units of this Fund at
a maximum exchange fee of 1.90%. You may exchange units of this Fund for units
of certain other Defined Asset Funds at a reduced sales fee if your investment
goals change. To exchange units, you should talk to your financial professional
about what funds are exchangeable, suitable and currently available.
Normally, an exchange is taxable and you must recognize any gain or loss on the
exchange. However, the IRS may try to disallow a loss if the portfolios of the
two funds are not materially different; you should consult your own tax adviser.
We may amend or terminate this exchange option at any time without notice.
HOW THE FUND WORKS
PRICING
The price of a unit includes interest accrued on the bonds, less expenses, from
the initial most recent Record Day up to, but not including, the settlement
date, which is usually three business days after the purchase date of the unit.
A portion of the price of a unit consists of cash so that the Trustee can
provide you with regular monthly income. When you sell your units you will
receive your share of this cash.
EVALUATIONS
An independent Evaluator values the bonds on each business day (excluding
Saturdays, Sundays and the following holidays as observed by the New York Stock
Exchange: New Year's Day, Presidents' Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Good
Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas).
Bond values are based on current bid or offer prices for the bonds or comparable
bonds. In the past, the difference between bid and offer prices of publicly
offered tax-exempt bonds has ranged from 0.5% of face amount on actively traded
issues to 3.5% on inactively traded issues; the difference has averaged between
1 and 2%.
INCOME
The Trustee credits interest to an Income Account and other receipts to a
Capital Account. The Trustee may establish a Reserve Account by withdrawing from
these accounts amounts it considers appropriate to pay any material liability.
These accounts do not bear interest.
EXPENSES
The Trustee is paid monthly. It also benefits when it holds cash for the Fund in
non-interest bearing accounts. The Trustee may also receive additional amounts:
o to reimburse the Trustee for the Fund's operating expenses;
o for extraordinary services and costs of indemnifying the Trustee and the
Sponsors;
o costs of actions taken to protect the Fund and other legal fees and
expenses;
o expenses for keeping the Fund's registration statement current; and
27
<PAGE>
o Fund termination expenses and any governmental charges.
The Sponsors are currently reimbursed up to 45 cents per $1,000 face amount
annually for providing portfolio supervisory, bookkeeping and administrative
services and for any other expenses properly chargeable to the Fund. Legal,
typesetting, electronic filing and regulatory filing fees and expenses
associated with updating the Portfolio's registration statement yearly are also
now chargeable to the Portfolio. While this fee may exceed the amount of these
costs and expenses attributable to this Fund, the total of these fees for all
Series of Defined Asset Funds will not exceed the aggregate amount attributable
to all of these Series for any calendar year. The Fund also pays the Evaluator's
fees.
The Trustee's, Sponsors' and Evaluator's fees may be adjusted for inflation
without investors' approval.
The Sponsors will pay advertising and selling expenses at no charge to the Fund.
If Fund expenses exceed initial estimates, the Fund will owe the excess. The
Trustee has a lien on Fund assets to secure reimbursement of Fund expenses and
may sell bonds if cash is not available.
PORTFOLIO CHANGES
The Sponsors and Trustee are not liable for any default or defect in a bond; if
a contract to buy any bond.
Unlike a mutual fund, the portfolio is designed to remain intact and we may keep
bonds in the portfolio even if their credit quality declines or other adverse
financial circumstances occur. However, we may sell a bond in certain cases if
we believe that certain adverse credit conditions exist or if a bond becomes
taxable.
If we maintain a secondary market in units but are unable to sell the units that
we buy in the secondary market, we will redeem units, which will affect the size
and composition of the portfolio. Units offered in the secondary market may not
represent the same face amount of bonds that they did originally.
We decide whether or not to offer units for sale that we acquire in the
secondary market after reviewing:
o diversity of the portfolio;
o size of the Fund relative to its original size;
o ratio of Fund expenses to income;
o current and long-term returns;
o degree to which units may be selling at a premium over par; and
o cost of maintaining a current prospectus.
FUND TERMINATION
The Fund will terminate following the stated maturity or sale of the last bond
in the portfolio. The Fund may also terminate earlier with the consent of
investors holding 51% of the units or if total assets of the Fund have fallen
below 40% of the face amount of bonds deposited. We will decide whether to
terminate the Fund early based on the same factors used in deciding whether or
not to offer units in the secondary market.
When the Fund is about to terminate you will receive a notice, and you will be
unable to sell your units after that time. On or shortly before termination, we
will sell any remaining bonds, and you will receive your final distribution. Any
bond that cannot be sold at a reasonable
28
<PAGE>
price may continue to be held by the Trustee in a liquidating trust pending its
final sale.
You will pay your share of the expenses associated with termination, including
brokerage costs in selling bonds. This may reduce the amount you receive as your
final distribution.
CERTIFICATES
Certificates for units are issued on request. You may transfer certificates by
complying with the requirements for redeeming certificates, described above. You
can replace lost or mutilated certificates by delivering satisfactory indemnity
and paying the associated costs.
TRUST INDENTURE
The Fund is a 'unit investment trust' governed by a Trust Indenture, a contract
among the Sponsors, the Trustee and the Evaluator, which sets forth their duties
and obligations and your rights. A copy of the Indenture is available to you on
request to the Trustee. The following summarizes certain provisions of the
Indenture.
The Sponsors and the Trustee may amend the Indenture without your consent:
o to cure ambiguities;
o to correct or supplement any defective or inconsistent provision;
o to make any amendment required by any governmental agency; or
o to make other changes determined not to be materially adverse to your best
interest (as determined by the Sponsors).
Investors holding 51% of the units may amend the Indenture. Every investor must
consent to any amendment that changes the 51% requirement. No amendment may
reduce your interest in the Fund without your written consent.
The Trustee may resign by notifying the Sponsors. The Sponsors may remove the
Trustee without your consent if:
o it fails to perform its duties and the Sponsors determine that its
replacement is in your best interest; or
o it becomes incapable of acting or bankrupt or its affairs are taken over by
public authorities.
Investors holding 51% of the units may remove the Trustee. The Evaluator may
resign or be removed by the Sponsors and the Trustee without the consent of
investors. The resignation or removal of either becomes effective when a
successor accepts appointment. The Sponsors will try to appoint a successor
promptly; however, if no successor has accepted within 30 days after notice of
resignation, the resigning Trustee or Evaluator may petition a court to appoint
a successor.
Any Sponsor may resign as long as one Sponsor with a net worth of $2 million
remains and agrees to the resignation. The remaining Sponsors and the Trustee
may appoint a replacement. If there is only one Sponsor and it fails to perform
its duties or becomes bankrupt the Trustee may:
o remove it and appoint a replacement Sponsor;
o liquidate the Fund; or
o continue to act as Trustee without a Sponsor.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated acts as agent for the
Sponsors.
The Trust Indenture contains customary provisions limiting the liability of the
Trustee, the Sponsors and the Evaluator.
29
<PAGE>
LEGAL OPINION
Davis Polk & Wardwell, 450 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10017, as
counsel for the Sponsors, has given an opinion that the units are validly
issued. Special counsel located in the relevant states have given state and
local tax opinions.
AUDITORS
Deloitte & Touche LLP, 2 World Financial Center, New York, New York 10281,
independent accountants, audited the Statements of Condition included in this
prospectus.
SPONSORS
The Sponsors are:
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED (a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc.)
P.O. Box 9051,
Princeton, NJ 08543-9051
SALOMON SMITH BARNEY INC. (an indirectly wholly-owned subsidiary of Citigroup
Inc.)
388 Greenwich Street--23rd Floor,
New York, NY 10013
DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS INC. (a principal operating subsidiary of Morgan Stanley
Dean Witter & Co.)
Two World Trade Center--59th Floor,
New York, NY 10048
PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES INCORPORATED (an
indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of the
Prudential Insurance Company of America)
One New York Plaza
New York, NY 10292
PAINEWEBBER INCORPORATED (a wholly-owned subsidiary of PaineWebber Group Inc.)
1285 Avenue of the Americas,
New York, NY 10019
Each Sponsor is a Delaware corporation and it, or its predecessor, has acted as
sponsor to many unit investment trusts. As a registered broker-dealer each
Sponsor buys and sells securities (including investment company shares) for
others (including investment companies) and participates as an underwriter in
various selling groups.
TRUSTEE
The Bank of New York, 101 Barclay Street, 17 W, New York, New York 10268, is the
Trustee.
It is supervised by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System and New York State banking authorities.
UNDERWRITERS' AND SPONSORS' PROFITS
Underwriters receive sales charges when they sell units. The Sponsors also
realized a profit or loss on the initial date of deposit of the bonds. Any cash
made available by you to the Sponsors before the settlement date for those units
may be used in the Sponsors' businesses to the extent permitted by federal law
and may benefit the Sponsors.
A Sponsor or Underwriter may realize profits or sustain losses on bonds in the
Fund which were acquired from underwriting syndicates of which it was a member.
In maintaining a secondary market, the Sponsors will also realize profits or
sustain losses in the amount of any difference between the prices at which they
buy units and the prices at which they resell or redeem them.
30
<PAGE>
PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION
The Sponsors do not intend to qualify units for sale in any foreign countries.
This prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell units in any country where
units cannot lawfully be sold.
CODE OF ETHICS
Merrill Lynch, as agent for the Sponsors, has adopted a code of ethics requiring
preclearance and reporting of personal securities transactions by its employees
with access to information on portfolio transactions. The goal of the code is to
prevent fraud, deception or misconduct against the Fund and to provide
reasonable standards of conduct.
YEAR 2000 ISSUES
Many computer systems were designed in such a way that they may be unable to
distinguish between the year 2000 and the year 1900 (commonly known as the 'Year
2000 Problem'). We do not expect that the computer system changes necessary to
prepare for the Year 2000 will cause any major operational difficulties for the
Fund. The Year 2000 Problem may adversely affect the issuers of the securities
contained in the Portfolio, but we cannot predict whether any impact will be
material to the Portfolio as a whole.
TAXES
The following summary describes some of the important income tax consequences of
holding units. It assumes that you are not a dealer, financial institution,
insurance company or other investor with special circumstances. You should
consult your own tax adviser about your particular circumstances.
At the date of issue of each bond, counsel for the issuer delivered an opinion
to the effect that interest on the bond is exempt from regular federal income
tax. However, interest may be subject to state and local taxes and federal
alternative minimum tax. Neither we nor our counsel have reviewed the issuance
of the bonds, related proceedings or the basis for the opinions of counsel for
the issuers. We cannot assure you that the issuer (or other users) have complied
or will comply with any requirements necessary for a bond to be tax-exempt. If
any of the bonds were determined not to be tax-exempt, you could be required to
pay income tax for current and prior years, and if the Fund were to sell the
bond, it might have to sell it at a substantial discount.
In the opinion of our counsel, under existing law:
GENERAL TREATMENT OF THE FUND AND YOUR INVESTMENT
The Fund will not be taxed as a corporation for federal income tax purposes, and
you will be considered to own directly your share of each bond in the Fund.
INCOME OR LOSS UPON DISPOSITION
When all or part of your share of a bond is disposed of (for example, when the
Fund sells, exchanges or redeems a bond or when you sell or exchange your
units), you will generally recognize capital gain or loss. Your gain, however,
will generally be ordinary income to the extent of any accrued 'market
discount'. Generally you will have market discount to the extent that your basis
in a bond when you
31
<PAGE>
purchase a unit is less than its stated redemption price at maturity (or, if it
is an original issue discount bond, the issue price increased by original issue
discount that has accrued on the bond before your purchase). You should consult
your tax adviser in this regard.
If your net long-term capital gains exceed your net short-term capital losses,
the excess may be subject to tax at a lower rate than ordinary income. Any
capital gain from the Fund will be long-term if you are considered to have held
your investment on each bond for more than one year and short-term if you held
it for one year or less. If you are an individual and sell your units after
holding them for more than one year, you may be entitled to a 20% maximum
federal tax rate on any resulting gains. Consult your tax adviser in this
regard. Because the deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations,
you may not be able to deduct all of your capital losses.
YOUR BASIS IN THE BONDS
Your aggregate basis in the bonds will be equal to the cost of your units,
including any sales charges and the organizational expenses you pay, adjusted to
reflect any accruals of 'original issue discount,' 'acquisition premium' and
'bond premium'. You should consult your tax adviser in this regard.
EXPENSES
If you are not a corporate investor, you will not be entitled to a deduction for
your share of fees and expenses of the Fund. Also, if you borrowed money in
order to purchase or carry your units, you will not be able to deduct the
interest on this borrowing for federal income tax purposes. The IRS may treat
your purchase of units as made with borrowed money even if the money is not
directly traceable to the purchase of units.
STATE AND LOCAL TAXES
Under the income tax laws of the State and City of New York, the Fund will not
be taxed as a corporation. If you are a New York taxpayer, your income from the
Fund will not be tax-exempt in New York except to the extent that the income is
earned on bonds that are tax-exempt for New York purposes. Depending on where
you live, your income from the Fund may be subject to state and local taxation.
You should consult your tax adviser in this regard.
CALIFORNIA TAXES
In the opinion of O'Melveny & Myers LLP, Los Angeles, California, special
counsel on California tax matters:
Under the income tax laws of the State of California, the Trust will not be
taxed as a corporation and you will be considered to own directly your share of
each bond of the Trust. If you are a California taxpayer, your share of the
income from the bonds of the Trust will not be tax-exempt in California except
for California personal income tax purposes and only to the extent that the
income is earned on bonds that are exempt for such purposes. If you are a
California taxpayer and all or part of your share of a bond is disposed of (for
example, when a bond is sold, exchanged or redeemed at maturity or you sell or
exchange your units), you will recognize gain or loss for California tax
purposes. Depending on where you live, your income from the Trust may be subject
to state and local taxation. You should consult your tax advisor in this regard.
32
<PAGE>
FLORIDA TAXES
In the opinion of Greenberg, Traurig, P.A., Miami, Florida, special counsel on
Florida tax matters:
Under the income tax laws of the State of Florida, the Fund will not be taxed as
a corporation. Florida imposes an income tax on corporations but does not impose
a personal income tax. Accordingly, if you are an individual taxpayer your
income from the Fund will not be subject to tax in Florida. However, if you are
an entity that is normally taxed as a corporation, your income from the fund
will not be exempt from tax in Florida and special rules for taxation apply
depending on the type of entity. You should consult your tax adviser in this
regard.
Florida also imposes a tax on intangible personal property, such as stocks,
bonds, notes and units in trusts. The tax is imposed on Florida taxpayers as of
January 1st of each year. Florida exempts certain types of bonds and debt
obligations from this tax. Your units will be exempt from the intangible
personal property tax as long as the Fund invests exclusively in bonds and other
debt obligations that are tax-exempt for Florida purposes.
NEW JERSEY TAXES
In the opinion of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
special counsel on New Jersey tax matters:
The Fund will not be taxed as a corporation under the current income tax laws of
the State of New Jersey. Your income from the Fund may be subject to taxation
depending on where you live. If you are a New Jersey taxpayer your income from
the Fund (including gains on sales of bonds by the Fund) and gains on sales of
units by you will be tax-exempt to the extent that income and gains are earned
on bonds that are tax-exempt for New Jersey purposes. You should consult your
tax adviser as to the consequences to you with respect to any investment you
make in the Fund.
PENNSYLVANIA TAXES
In the opinion of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
special counsel on Pennsylvania tax matters:
The Pennsylvania Trust will not be taxed as a corporation under the current
income tax laws of Pennsylvania. Your income from the Trust may be subject to
taxation depending on where you live. If you are a Pennsylvania taxpayer your
interest income from the Trust will be tax exempt to the extent that income is
earned on bonds that are tax exempt for Pennsylvania purposes. However, gains on
the sale of bonds by the Trust or on the sale of your Units will be subject to
Pennsylvania income tax. If you are a Philadelphia resident you may be subject
to the Philadelphia school district tax on any gains realized from the sale of
bonds by the Trust or the sale of Units by you to the extent either the bonds or
Units have been held for six months or less. You should consult your tax adviser
as to the consequences to you with respect to any investment you make in the
Trust.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
You can receive at no cost supplemental information about the Fund by calling
the Trustee. The supplemental information includes more detailed risk disclosure
about the types of bonds that may be in the Fund's
33
<PAGE>
portfolios, general risk disclosure concerning any insurance securing certain
bonds, and general information about the structure and operation of the Fund.
The supplemental information is also available from the SEC.
34
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK AND
PENNSYLVANIA TRUSTS)
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Sponsors, Trustee and Holders
of Defined Asset Funds - Municipal Investment Trust Fund,
Multistate Series - 56 (California, Florida, New Jersey, New York
and Pennsylvania Trusts):
We have audited the accompanying statements of condition of Defined
Asset Funds - Municipal Investment Trust Fund, Multistate Series - 56
(California, Florida, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania Trusts),
including the portfolios, as of February 28, 1999 and the related
statements of operations and of changes in net assets for the years
ended February 28, 1999, 1998 and 1997. These financial statements are
the responsibility of the Trustee. 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. Securities owned at February 28, 1999, as shown
in such portfolios, were confirmed to us by The Bank of New York, the
Trustee. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by the Trustee, 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 Defined
Asset Funds - Municipal Investment Trust Fund, Multistate Series - 56
(California, Florida, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania Trusts) at
February 28, 1999 and the results of their operations and changes
in their net assets for the above-stated years in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
New York, N.Y.
May 2, 1999
D - 1
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (CALIFORNIA TRUST)
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
TRUST PROPERTY:
Investment in marketable securities - at value
(cost $3,110,060)(Note 1)...................... $3,401,172
Accrued interest receivable...................... 56,669
_____________
Total trust property................. 3,457,841
LESS LIABILITIES:
Advance from Trustee............................. $ 14,330
Accrued expenses................................. 1,370 15,700
_____________ _____________
NET ASSETS, REPRESENTED BY:
3,213 units of fractional undivided
interest outstanding (Note 3).................. 3,401,177
Undistributed net investment income.............. 40,964
_____________
$3,442,141
=============
UNIT VALUE ($3,442,141/3,213 units)................ $1,071.32
=============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 2
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (CALIFORNIA TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
Interest income........................... $196,458 $209,907 $216,100
Trustee's fees and expenses............... (3,888) (5,731) (5,314)
Sponsors' fees............................ (1,249) (1,322) (1,381)
_________________________________________
Net investment income..................... 191,321 202,854 209,405
_________________________________________
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
ON INVESTMENTS:
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................. 24,290 8,192
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments.......................... 3,295 195,935 (39,594)
_________________________________________
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments.......................... 27,585 204,127 (39,594)
_________________________________________
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS........................... $218,906 $406,981 $169,811
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 3
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (CALIFORNIA TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income....................... $ 191,321 $ 202,854 $ 209,405
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................... 24,290 8,192
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments............................ 3,295 195,935 (39,594)
_________________________________________
Net increase in net assets resulting
from operations........................... 218,906 406,981 169,811
_________________________________________
DISTRIBUTIONS TO HOLDERS (Note 2):
Income...................................... (191,651) (203,569) (209,383)
Principal................................... (11,503) (10,042)
_________________________________________
Total distributions......................... (203,154) (213,611) (209,383)
_________________________________________
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS - Redemptions of
286 and 201 units, respectively............. (311,628) (209,079)
_________________________________________
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS.................... (295,876) (15,709) (39,572)
NET ASSETS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR............... 3,738,017 3,753,726 3,793,298
_________________________________________
NET ASSETS AT END OF YEAR..................... $3,442,141 $3,738,017 $3,753,726
=========================================
PER UNIT:
Income distributions during year............ $56.30 $56.50 $56.59
=========================================
Principal distributions during year......... $3.58 $2.87
=========================================
Net asset value at end of year.............. $1,071.32 $1,068.31 $1,014.52
=========================================
TRUST UNITS OUTSTANDING AT END OF YEAR........ 3,213 3,499 3,700
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 4
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (CALIFORNIA TRUST)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as
a Unit Investment Trust. The following is a summary of significant
accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the
preparation of its financial statements. The policies are in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
(a) Securities are stated at value as determined by the Evaluator
based on bid side evaluations for the securities.
(b) The Fund is not subject to income taxes. Accordingly, no
provision for such taxes is required.
(c) Interest income is recorded as earned.
2. DISTRIBUTIONS
A distribution of net investment income is made to Holders each
month. Receipts other than interest, after deductions for
redemptions and applicable expenses, are also distributed
periodically.
3. NET CAPITAL
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cost of 3,213 units at Date of Deposit.............. $3,293,978
Less sales charge................................... 148,248
______________
Net amount applicable to Holders.................... 3,145,730
Redemptions of units - net cost of 787 units
redeemed less redemption amounts.................. (3,378)
Realized loss on securities sold or redeemed........ (10,742)
Principal distributions............................. (21,545)
Unrealized appreciation of investments.............. 291,112
______________
Net capital applicable to Holders................... $3,401,177
==============
</TABLE>
4. INCOME TAXES
As of February 28, 1999, unrealized appreciation of investments, based
on cost for Federal income tax purposes, aggregated $291,112, all of
which related to appreciated securities. The cost of investment
securities for Federal income tax purposes was $3,110,060 at
February 28, 1999.
D - 5
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56
PORTFOLIO OF THE CALIFORNIA TRUST
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Rating Optional
Portfolio No. and Title of of Face Redemption
Securities(4) Issues(1) Amount Coupon Maturities(3) Provisions(3) Cost Value(2)
_____________ _________ ______ ______ _____________ _____________ ____ ________
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 Department of Corrections (California AAA $ 600,000 5.375% 2019 12/01/03 $ 554,796 $ 615,498
State Prison, Fresno Cnty., Coalinga), @ 102.000
Lease Rev. Bonds, Ser. 1993 B (MBIA
Ins.)
2 California Statewide Community AAA 250,000 5.625 2023 03/01/03 233,940 258,815
Development Authority, Certificates of @ 102.000
Participation (San Diego State
University Foundation), Ser. 1993
(Connie Lee Ins.)
3 Los Angeles Convention Ctr. and AAA 350,000 5.125 2021 08/15/03 313,341 351,810
Exhibition Ctr. Auth., CA, Lease Rev. @ 102.000
Bonds, 1993 Rfdg. Ser. A (MBIA Ins.)
4 Department of Water and Power of the AAA 515,000 5.875 2030 09/01/03 505,493 554,737
City of Los Angeles, California, @ 102.000
Electric Plant Refunding Revenue
Bonds, Issue of 1993 (MBIA Ins.)
5 M-S-R Public Power Agency, California, AAA 300,000 6.000 2020 07/01/03 301,188 328,377
(San Juan Proj.) Refunding Revenue @ 102.000
Bonds, Ser. F (AMBAC Ins.)
6 Monterey County, CA, Certificates of AAA 305,000 6.100 2027(5) 08/01/01 306,052 330,940
Participation (1994 Natividad Medical @ 102.000
Center Improvement Project), Ser. B
(MBIA Ins.)
7 San Bernardino County, CA, AAA 600,000 6.000 2018 11/01/02 602,286 652,320
Certificates of Participation (1992 @ 102.000
West Valley Detention Center
Refinancing Project), (MBIA Ins.)
</TABLE>
D - 6
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56
PORTFOLIO OF THE CALIFORNIA TRUST
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Rating Optional
Portfolio No. and Title of of Face Redemption
Securities(4) Issues(1) Amount Coupon Maturities(3) Provisions(3) Cost Value(2)
_____________ _________ ______ ______ _____________ _____________ ____ ________
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
8 Walnut Pub. Fin. Auth., Los Angeles AAA $ 280,000 6.500% 2022 09/01/02 $ 292,964 $ 308,675
Cnty., CA< 1992 Tax Allocation Rev. @ 102.000
Bonds (Walnut Imp. Proj.)(MBIA Ins.)
______________ ______________ ______________
TOTAL $3,200,000 $3,110,060 $3,401,172
============== ============== ==============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Portfolios on Page D - 28.
D - 7
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (FLORIDA TRUST)
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
TRUST PROPERTY:
Investment in marketable securities - at value
(cost $2,654,769)(Note 1)...................... $2,891,082
Accrued interest receivable...................... 52,439
_____________
Total trust property................. 2,943,521
LESS LIABILITIES:
Advance from Trustee............................. $ 9,910
Accrued expenses................................. 1,354 11,264
_____________ _____________
NET ASSETS, REPRESENTED BY:
2,780 units of fractional undivided
interest outstanding (Note 3).................. 2,896,263
Undistributed net investment income.............. 35,994
_____________
$2,932,257
=============
UNIT VALUE ($2,932,257/2,780 units)................ $1,054.77
=============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 8
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (FLORIDA TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
Interest income........................... $165,371 $175,710 $181,344
Trustee's fees and expenses............... (3,580) (5,464) (5,039)
Sponsors' fees............................ (1,093) (1,146) (1,207)
_________________________________________
Net investment income..................... 160,698 169,100 175,098
_________________________________________
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
ON INVESTMENTS:
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................. 16,643 7,758
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments.......................... 11,983 181,728 (51,303)
_________________________________________
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments.......................... 28,626 189,486 (51,303)
_________________________________________
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS........................... $189,324 $358,586 $123,795
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 9
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (FLORIDA TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income....................... $ 160,698 $ 169,100 $ 175,098
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................... 16,643 7,758
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments............................ 11,983 181,728 (51,303)
_________________________________________
Net increase in net assets resulting
from operations........................... 189,324 358,586 123,795
_________________________________________
DISTRIBUTIONS TO HOLDERS (Note 2):
Income...................................... (160,295) (169,871) (175,102)
Principal................................... (4,133) (8,227) (1,057)
_________________________________________
Total distributions......................... (164,428) (178,098) (176,159)
_________________________________________
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS - Redemptions of
199 and 228 units, respectively............. (211,192) (233,680)
_________________________________________
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS.................... (186,296) (53,192) (52,364)
NET ASSETS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR............... 3,118,553 3,171,745 3,224,109
_________________________________________
NET ASSETS AT END OF YEAR..................... $2,932,257 $3,118,553 $3,171,745
=========================================
PER UNIT:
Income distributions during year............ $54.33 $54.48 $54.60
=========================================
Principal distributions during year......... $1.41 $2.70 $0.33
=========================================
Net asset value at end of year.............. $1,054.77 $1,046.85 $989.01
=========================================
TRUST UNITS OUTSTANDING AT END OF YEAR........ 2,780 2,979 3,207
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 10
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (FLORIDA TRUST)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as
a Unit Investment Trust. The following is a summary of significant
accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the
preparation of its financial statements. The policies are in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
(a) Securities are stated at value as determined by the Evaluator
based on bid side evaluations for the securities.
(b) The Fund is not subject to income taxes. Accordingly, no
provision for such taxes is required.
(c) Interest income is recorded as earned.
2. DISTRIBUTIONS
A distribution of net investment income is made to Holders each
month. Receipts other than interest, after deductions for
redemptions and applicable expenses, are also distributed
periodically.
3. NET CAPITAL
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cost of 2,780 units at Date of Deposit.............. $2,804,212
Less sales charge................................... 126,184
______________
Net amount applicable to Holders.................... 2,678,028
Redemptions of units - net cost of 470 units
redeemed less redemption amounts.................. (30,331)
Realized gain on securities sold or redeemed........ 25,670
Principal distributions............................. (13,417)
Unrealized appreciation of investments.............. 236,313
______________
Net capital applicable to Holders................... $2,896,263
==============
</TABLE>
4. INCOME TAXES
As of February 28, 1999, unrealized appreciation of investments, based
on cost for Federal income tax purposes, aggregated $236,313, all of
which related to appreciated securities. The cost of investment
securities for Federal income tax purposes was $2,654,769 at
February 28, 1999.
D - 11
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56
PORTFOLIO OF THE FLORIDA TRUST (INSURED)
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Rating Optional
Portfolio No. and Title of of Face Redemption
Securities(4) Issues(1) Amount Coupon Maturities(3) Provisions(3) Cost Value(2)
_____________ _________ ______ ______ _____________ _____________ ____ ________
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 Dade County, Florida, Professional AAA $ 180,000 6.000% 2022(5) 10/01/02 $ 180,900 $ 196,821
Sports Franchise Facilities, Tax @ 101.500
Revenue Bonds, Ser. 1992 B
(Financial Guaranty Ins.)
2 Florida Municipal Power Agency, Tri- AAA 350,000 5.500 2019 10/01/03 333,847 362,464
City Project, Refunding Revenue @ 100.000
Bonds, Ser. 1992 (AMBAC Ins.)
3 City of Hollywood, Florida, Water AAA 450,000 5.600 2023 10/01/03 431,208 469,354
and Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds, @ 102.000
Ser. 1993 (Financial Guaranty Ins.)
4 Miami Beach, FL, Health Facilities AAA 340,000 6.250 2019 11/15/02 347,936 372,164
Authority, Hospital Revenue @ 102.000
Refunding Bonds, Ser. 1992 (Mount
Sinai Medical Center Project),
(FSAM Ins.)
5 State of Florida, Orlando-Orange AAA 500,000 5.250 2023 07/01/03 458,140 507,235
Cnty. Expy. Auth., Sr. Lien Rev. @ 102.000
Rfdg. Bonds, Ser. 1993 Financial
Guaranty Ins.)
6 Pinellas County, Florida, Health AAA 455,000 5.625 2023 11/15/03 437,528 473,919
Facilities Authority, Hospital @ 102.000
Revenue Bonds (Morton Plant Health
System Proj.), Ser. 1993 (MBIA
Ins.)
7 City of West Palm Beach, Florida, AAA 500,000 5.400 2023 10/01/02 465,210 509,125
Utility System Revenue Bonds, Ser. @ 101.000
1993 B (Financial Guaranty Ins.)
______________ ______________ ______________
TOTAL $2,775,000 $2,654,769 $2,891,082
============== ============== ==============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Portfolios on Page D - 28.
D - 12
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW JERSEY TRUST)
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
TRUST PROPERTY:
Investment in marketable securities - at value
(cost $2,875,010)(Note 1)...................... $3,119,262
Accrued interest receivable...................... 32,369
Cash............................................. 10,220
_____________
Total trust property................. 3,161,851
LESS LIABILITY - Accrued expenses.................. 1,377
_____________
NET ASSETS, REPRESENTED BY:
3,083 units of fractional undivided
interest outstanding (Note 3).................. $3,122,870
Undistributed net investment income.............. 37,604
_____________
$3,160,474
=============
UNIT VALUE ($3,160,474/3,083 units)................ $1,025.13
=============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 13
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW JERSEY TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
Interest income........................... $167,224 $170,322 $171,563
Trustee's fees and expenses............... (3,772) (5,621) (5,095)
Sponsors' fees............................ (1,162) (1,168) (1,213)
_________________________________________
Net investment income..................... 162,290 163,533 165,255
_________________________________________
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
ON INVESTMENTS:
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................. 8,339 2,256
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments.......................... 27,683 187,019 (43,358)
_________________________________________
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments.......................... 36,022 189,275 (43,358)
_________________________________________
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS........................... $198,312 $352,808 $121,897
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 14
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW JERSEY TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income....................... $ 162,290 $ 163,533 $ 165,255
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................... 8,339 2,256
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments............................ 27,683 187,019 (43,358)
_________________________________________
Net increase in net assets resulting
from operations........................... 198,312 352,808 121,897
_________________________________________
DISTRIBUTIONS TO HOLDERS (Note 2):
Income...................................... (161,779) (164,193) (165,264)
Principal................................... (4,297)
_________________________________________
Total distributions......................... (161,779) (168,490) (165,264)
_________________________________________
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS - Redemptions of
100 and 67 units, respectively.............. (102,932) (66,688)
_________________________________________
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS......... (66,399) 117,630 (43,367)
NET ASSETS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR............... 3,226,873 3,109,243 3,152,610
_________________________________________
NET ASSETS AT END OF YEAR..................... $3,160,474 $3,226,873 $3,109,243
=========================================
PER UNIT:
Income distributions during year............ $50.96 $50.87 $50.85
=========================================
Principal distributions during year......... $1.35
=========================================
Net asset value at end of year.............. $1,025.13 $1,013.78 $956.69
=========================================
TRUST UNITS OUTSTANDING AT END OF YEAR........ 3,083 3,183 3,250
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 15
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW JERSEY TRUST)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as
a Unit Investment Trust. The following is a summary of significant
accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the
preparation of its financial statements. The policies are in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
(a) Securities are stated at value as determined by the Evaluator
based on bid side evaluations for the securities.
(b) The Fund is not subject to income taxes. Accordingly, no
provision for such taxes is required.
(c) Interest income is recorded as earned.
2. DISTRIBUTIONS
A distribution of net investment income is made to Holders each
month. Receipts other than interest, after deductions for
redemptions and applicable expenses, are also distributed
periodically.
3. NET CAPITAL
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cost of 3,083 units at Date of Deposit.............. $3,019,602
Less sales charge................................... 135,868
______________
Net amount applicable to Holders.................... 2,883,734
Redemptions of units - net cost of 167 units
redeemed less redemption amounts.................. (11,414)
Realized gain on securities sold or redeemed........ 10,595
Principal distributions............................. (4,297)
Unrealized appreciation of investments.............. 244,252
______________
Net capital applicable to Holders................... $3,122,870
==============
</TABLE>
4. INCOME TAXES
As of February 28, 1999, unrealized appreciation of investments, based
on cost for Federal income tax purposes, aggregated $244,252, all of
which related to appreciated securities. The cost of investment
securities for Federal income tax purposes was $2,875,010 at
February 28, 1999.
D - 16
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56
PORTFOLIO OF THE NEW JERSEY TRUST (INSURED)
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Rating Optional
Portfolio No. and Title of of Face Redemption
Securities(4) Issues(1) Amount Coupon Maturities(3) Provisions(3) Cost Value(2)
_____________ _________ ______ ______ _____________ _____________ ____ ________
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 New Jersey Health Care Facilities AAA $ 330,000 5.500% 2014 07/01/03 $ 320,159 $ 350,879
Financing Authority Revenue Bonds, The @ 102.000
Mountainside Hospital Issue, Ser. 1993
(MBIA Ins.)
2 New Jersey Health Care Facilities AAA 500,000 5.200 2018 None 464,190 485,225
Financing Authority Revenue Bonds,
Allegany Health System, Our Lady of
Lourdes Medical Center Issue, Ser. 1993
(MBIA Ins.)
3 New Jersey Hlth. Care Fac. Fin. Auth. AAA 500,000 5.500 2018 07/01/04 480,535 517,665
Rev. Bonds, Riverview Med. Ctr. Iss., @ 102.000
Ser. 1994 (AMBAC Ins.)
4 The Passaic Valley Wtr. Comm., NJ, AAA 500,000 5.000 2022 12/15/03 450,755 499,270
Wtr. Supply Sys. Rev. Rfdg. Bonds, Ser. @ 102.000
A (Financial Guaranty Ins.)
5 The Port Auth. of New York and New AAA 500,000 5.000 2022 01/15/04 451,045 493,190
Jersey Cons, Bonds, NInety-Second Ser. @ 101.000
(MBIA Ins.)
6 The Pollution Ctl. Fin. Auth. of Slem AAA 500,000 5.550 2033 11/01/03 476,930 519,730
Cnty., NJ, Poll. Ctl. Rev. Rfdg. Bonds @ 102.000
(Public Svc. Elec. & Gas Co. Proj),
Ser. 1993 C (MBIA Ins.)
7 The Town of West New York Municipal AAA 250,000 5.125 2017 12/15/04 231,396 253,303
Utilities Authority (Hudson County, New @ 102.000
Jersey), Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds,
Ser. 1993 (Financial Guaranty Ins.)
______________ ______________ ______________
TOTAL $3,080,000 $2,875,010 $3,119,262
============== ============== ==============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Portfolios on Page D - 28.
D - 17
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW YORK TRUST)
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
TRUST PROPERTY:
Investment in marketable securities - at value
(cost $3,321,677)(Note 1)...................... $3,581,693
Accrued interest receivable...................... 34,788
Cash............................................. 12,107
_____________
Total trust property................. 3,628,588
LESS LIABILITY - Accrued expenses.................. 1,411
_____________
NET ASSETS, REPRESENTED BY:
3,460 units of fractional undivided
interest outstanding (Note 3).................. $3,581,699
Undistributed net investment income.............. 45,478
_____________
$3,627,177
=============
UNIT VALUE ($3,627,177/3,460 units)................ $1,048.32
=============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 18
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW YORK TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
Interest income........................... $194,601 $195,500 $195,499
Trustee's fees and expenses............... (4,067) (5,889) (5,370)
Sponsors' fees............................ (1,280) (1,260) (1,306)
_________________________________________
Net investment income..................... 189,254 188,351 188,823
_________________________________________
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
ON INVESTMENTS:
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................. 4,650
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments.......................... 19,613 211,199 (37,090)
_________________________________________
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments.......................... 24,263 211,199 (37,090)
_________________________________________
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS........................... $213,517 $399,550 $151,733
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 19
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW YORK TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income....................... $ 189,254 $ 188,351 $ 188,823
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................... 4,650
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments............................ 19,613 211,199 (37,090)
_________________________________________
Net increase in net assets resulting
from operations........................... 213,517 399,550 151,733
_________________________________________
DISTRIBUTIONS TO HOLDERS (Note 2):
Income...................................... (188,802) (189,036) (188,860)
Principal................................... (4,048)
_________________________________________
Total distributions......................... (192,850) (189,036) (188,860)
_________________________________________
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS - Redemptions of
40 units, respectively...................... (42,631)
_________________________________________
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS......... (21,964) 210,514 (37,127)
NET ASSETS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR............... 3,649,141 3,438,627 3,475,754
_________________________________________
NET ASSETS AT END OF YEAR..................... $3,627,177 $3,649,141 $3,438,627
=========================================
PER UNIT:
Income distributions during year............ $54.15 $54.01 $53.96
=========================================
Principal distributions during year......... $1.17
=========================================
Net asset value at end of year.............. $1,048.32 $1,042.61 $982.46
=========================================
TRUST UNITS OUTSTANDING AT END OF YEAR........ 3,460 3,500 3,500
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 20
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (NEW YORK TRUST)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as
a Unit Investment Trust. The following is a summary of significant
accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the
preparation of its financial statements. The policies are in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
(a) Securities are stated at value as determined by the Evaluator
based on bid side evaluations for the securities.
(b) The Fund is not subject to income taxes. Accordingly, no
provision for such taxes is required.
(c) Interest income is recorded as earned.
2. DISTRIBUTIONS
A distribution of net investment income is made to Holders each
month. Receipts other than interest, after deductions for
redemptions and applicable expenses, are also distributed
periodically.
3. NET CAPITAL
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cost of 3,460 units at Date of Deposit.............. $3,481,530
Less sales charge................................... 156,669
______________
Net amount applicable to Holders.................... 3,324,861
Redemptions of units - net cost of 40 units
redeemed less redemption amounts.................. (3,780)
Realized gain on securities sold or redeemed........ 4,650
Principal distributions............................. (4,048)
Unrealized appreciation of investments.............. 260,016
______________
Net capital applicable to Holders................... $3,581,699
==============
</TABLE>
4. INCOME TAXES
As of February 28, 1999, unrealized appreciation of investments, based
on cost for Federal income tax purposes, aggregated $260,016, all of
which related to appreciated securities. The cost of investment
securities for Federal income tax purposes was $3,321,677 at
February 28, 1999.
D - 21
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56
PORTFOLIO OF THE NEW YORK TRUST (INSURED)
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Rating Optional
Portfolio No. and Title of of Face Redemption
Securities(4) Issues(1) Amount Coupon Maturities(3) Provisions(3) Cost Value(2)
_____________ _________ ______ ______ _____________ _____________ ____ ________
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 Town of Clifton, Park Water Auth., AAA $ 500,000 5.000% 2026 10/01/03 $ 441,745 $ 492,615
NY, Wtr. Sys. Rev. Bonds, Ser. 1993 A @ 102.000
(Financial Guaranty Ins.)
2 Metro Trans. Authority, NY, Commuter AAA 350,000 5.500 2017 07/01/02 334,491 362,390
Facility Revenue Bonds, Ser. 1992 A @ 100.000
(MBIA Ins.)
3 New York City, Health and Hospital AAA 500,000 5.750 2022 02/15/03 489,765 524,130
Corporation, Health System Bonds, @ 102.000
Ser. 1993 A (AMBAC Ins.)
4 New York City Municipal Water Finance AAA 500,000 5.750 2020 06/15/04 489,995 532,445
Authority Water and Sewer System Rev. @ 101.500
Bonds, Fiscal Ser. 1994 F (MBIA Ins.)
5 Dormitory Auth. of the State of New AAA 500,000 5.750 2022 07/01/02 486,340 519,745
York, Ins. Rev. Bonds, Upstate @ 102.000
Cmnty. Colleges, Ser 1992 A (Connie
Lee Ins.)
6 New York State Medical Care AAA 500,000 5.800 2022 02/15/03 493,120 524,355
Facilities Finance Agency, Mental @ 102.000
Health Services Facilities
Improvement Revenue Bonds, Ser. 1993
A (AMBAC Ins.)
7 The Port Auth. of New York and New AAA 105,000 5.250 2021 07/15/03 97,121 106,358
Jersey Cons. Bonds, Eighty-Seventh @ 101.000
Ser. (Financial Guaranty Ins.)
8 County of Suffolk, Water Authority, AAA 500,000 5.625 2016 06/01/02 489,100 519,655
New York, Water Sys. Refunding @ 102.000
Revenue Bonds, Ser. 1992 B (AMBAC
Ins.)
______________ ______________ ______________
TOTAL $3,455,000 $3,321,677 $3,581,693
============== ============== ==============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Portfolios on Page D - 28.
D - 22
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (PENNSYLVANIA TRUST)
STATEMENT OF CONDITION
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
TRUST PROPERTY:
Investment in marketable securities - at value
(cost $2,786,692)(Note 1)...................... $3,046,405
Accrued interest receivable...................... 28,388
Cash............................................. 16,474
_____________
Total trust property................. 3,091,267
LESS LIABILITY - Accrued expenses.................. 1,367
_____________
NET ASSETS, REPRESENTED BY:
2,951 units of fractional undivided
interest outstanding (Note 3).................. $3,048,639
Undistributed net investment income.............. 41,261
_____________
$3,089,900
=============
UNIT VALUE ($3,089,900/2,951 units)................ $1,047.07
=============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 23
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (PENNSYLVANIA TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28,..........
1999 1998 1997
_________________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
INVESTMENT INCOME:
Interest income........................... $174,551 $182,093 $181,813
Trustee's fees and expenses............... (3,773) (5,639) (5,153)
Sponsors' fees............................ (1,167) (1,170) (1,213)
_________________________________________
Net investment income..................... 169,611 175,284 175,447
_________________________________________
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS)
ON INVESTMENTS:
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed............................. 17,050
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments.......................... (567) 216,867 (54,285)
_________________________________________
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments.......................... 16,483 216,867 (54,285)
_________________________________________
NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS........................... $186,094 $392,151 $121,162
=========================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 24
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (PENNSYLVANIA TRUST)
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
.......Years Ended February 28....
1999 1998 1997
___________________________________
<S> <C> <C> <C>
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income.................. 169,611 $ 175,284 $ 175,447
Realized gain on securities sold
or redeemed.......................... 17,050
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation)
of investments....................... (567) 216,867 (54,285)
__________________________________
Net increase in net assets resulting
from operations...................... 186,094 392,151 121,162
_____________________________________
DISTRIBUTIONS TO HOLDERS (Note 2):
Income................................. (168,681) (175,209) (175,500)
Principal.............................. (6,105)
___________________________________
Total distributions.................... (174,786) (175,209) (175,500)
_____________________________________
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS - Redemptions of
299 units, respectively................ (313,200)
____________________________________
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS.... (301,892) 216,942 (54,338)
NET ASSETS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR.......... 3,391,792 3,174,850 3,229,188
_____________________________________
NET ASSETS AT END OF YEAR................ 3,089,900 $3,391,792 $3,174,850
=====================================
PER UNIT:
Income distributions during year....... $53.81 $53.91 $54.00
=====================================
Principal distributions during year.... $1.96
====================================
Net asset value at end of year......... $1,047.07 $1,043.63 $976.88
=====================================
TRUST UNITS OUTSTANDING AT END OF YEAR... 2,951 3,250 3,250
====================================
</TABLE>
See Notes to Financial Statements.
D - 25
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (PENNSYLVANIA TRUST)
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as
a Unit Investment Trust. The following is a summary of significant
accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the
preparation of its financial statements. The policies are in
conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
(a) Securities are stated at value as determined by the Evaluator
based on bid side evaluations for the securities.
(b) The Fund is not subject to income taxes. Accordingly, no
provision for such taxes is required.
(c) Interest income is recorded as earned.
2. DISTRIBUTIONS
A distribution of net investment income is made to Holders each
month. Receipts other than interest, after deductions for
redemptions and applicable expenses, are also distributed
periodically.
3. NET CAPITAL
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Cost of 2,951 units at Date of Deposit.............. $2,935,614
Less sales charge................................... 132,087
______________
Net amount applicable to Holders.................... 2,803,527
Redemptions of units - net cost of 299 units
redeemed less redemption amounts.................. (25,546)
Realized gain on securities sold or redeemed........ 17,050
Principal distributions............................. (6,105)
Unrealized appreciation of investments.............. 259,713
______________
Net capital applicable to Holders................... $3,048,639
==============
</TABLE>
4. INCOME TAXES
As of February 28, 1999, unrealized appreciation of investments, based
on cost for Federal income tax purposes, aggregated $259,713, all of
which related to appreciated securities. The cost of investment
securities for Federal income tax purposes was $2,786,692 at
February 28, 1999.
D - 26
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56
PORTFOLIO OF THE PENNSYLVANIA TRUST (INSURED)
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Rating Optional
Portfolio No. and Title of of Face Redemption
Securities(4) Issues(1) Amount Coupon Maturities(3) Provisions(3) Cost Value(2)
_____________ _________ ______ ______ _____________ _____________ ____ ________
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1 Armstrong Cnty. Hosp. Auth., Hosp. AAA $ 500,000 6.250% 2013 06/01/02 $ 513,225 $ 542,210
Rev. Bonds (St Francis Med. Ctr. @ 102.000
Proj.), Ser. 1992 A (AMBAC Ins.)
2 Dauphin County General Authority AAA 500,000 5.500 2023 07/01/03 468,920 513,420
Hospital Revenue Bonds, HAPSCO Group, @ 102.000
Inc. Tax - Exempt Loan Program (The
Western Pennsylvania Hospital
Project), Ser. 1993 A (MBIA Ins.)
3 Delaware County Authority, (Cmmnwlth. AAA 500,000 5.300 2020 12/15/03 456,710 502,225
of PA) Hospital Revenue Bonds (Croser @ 102.000
Chester Medical Center), Ser. 1994
(MBIA Ins.)
4 Lehigh County Industrial Development AAA 455,000 5.500 2027 02/15/04 425,557 471,489
Authority, Pennsylvania, Pollution @ 102.000
Control Revenue Refunding Bonds, Ser.
1994 A (PA Power and Light Company
Project)(MBIA Ins.)
5 Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Coop. AAA 450,000 5.625 2023 06/15/03 429,795 468,319
Auth., Spec. Tax Rev. Bonds (City of @ 100.000
Philadelphia Funding Prog.), Ser. 1993
(MBIA Ins.)
6 Pennsylvania Higher Educl. Fac. Auth, AAA 500,000 5.250 2018 07/15/03 452,285 505,370
Rev. Bonds (Widener Univ.), Ser. 1993 @ 102.000
A (Connie Lee Ins.)
7 Public Parking Authority of AAA 40,000 5.875 2012 12/01/02 40,200 43,372
Pittsburgh, PA, Parking System Revenue @ 102.000
Bonds, Ser. 1992 A (Financial Guaranty
Ins.)
______________ ______________ ______________
TOTAL $2,945,000 $2,786,692 $3,046,405
============== ============== ==============
</TABLE>
See Notes to Portfolios on Page D - 28.
D - 27
<PAGE>
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS - MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES - 56 (CALIFORNIA, FLORIDA, NEW JERSEY ,NEW YORK AND
PENNSYLVANIA TRUSTS)
NOTES TO PORTFOLIOS
AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 1999
(1) The ratings of the bonds are by Standard & Poor's Ratings
Group, or by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. if followed by
"(m)", or by Fitch Investors Service, Inc. if followed by
"(f)"; "NR" indicates that this bond is not currently rated by
any of the above-mentioned rating services. These ratings have
been furnished by the Evaluator but not confirmed with
the rating agencies.
(2) See Notes to Financial Statements.
(3) Optional redemption provisions, which may be exercised in whole
or in part, are initially at prices of par plus a premium, then
subsequently at prices declining to par. Certain securities may
provide for redemption at par prior or in addition to any
optional or mandatory redemption dates or maturity, for
example, through the operation of a maintenance and replacement
fund, if proceeds are not able to be used as contemplated, the
project is condemned or sold or the project is destroyed and
insurance proceeds are used to redeem the securities. Many of
the securities are also subject to mandatory sinking fund
redemption commencing on dates which may be prior to the date
on which securities may be optionally redeemed. Sinking fund
redemptions are at par and redeem only part of the issue. Some
of the securities have mandatory sinking funds which contain
optional provisions permitting the issuer to increase the
principal amount of securities called on a mandatory redemption
date. The sinking fund redemptions with optional provisions
may, and optional refunding redemptions generally will, occur
at times when the redeemed securities have an offering side
evaluation which represents a premium over par. To the extent
that the securities were acquired at a price higher than the
redemption price, this will represent a loss of capital when
compared with the Public Offering Price of the Units when
acquired. Distributions will generally be reduced by the amount
of the income which would otherwise have been paid with respect
to redeemed securities and there will be distributed to Holders
any principal amount and premium received on such redemption
after satisfying any redemption requests for Units received by
the Fund. The estimated current return may be affected by
redemptions.
(4) All Securities are insured either on an individual basis or by
portfolio insurance, by a municipal bond insurance company
which has been assigned "AAA" claims paying ability by
Standard & Poor's. Accordingly, Standard & Poor's has assigned
"AAA" ratings to the Securities. Securities covered by
portfolio insurance are rated "AAA" only as long as they
remain in this Trust.
(5) Bonds with aggregate face amounts of $305,000 and $180,000 for the
California and Florida Trusts, respectively, have been pre-refunded
and are expected to be called for redemption on the optional
redemption provision dates shown.
D - 28
<PAGE>
Defined
Asset FundsSM
HAVE QUESTIONS ? MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND
Request the most MULTISTATE SERIES--56
recent free Information (A Unit Investment Trust)
Supplement that gives more ---------------------------------------
details about the Fund, This Prospectus does not contain
by calling: complete information about the
The Bank of New York investment company filed with the
1-800-221-7771 Securities and Exchange Commission in
Washington, D.C. under the:
o Securities Act of 1933 (file no.
33-51981) and
o Investment Company Act of 1940 (file
no. 811-1777).
TO OBTAIN COPIES AT PRESCRIBED RATES--
WRITE: Public Reference Section of the
Commission
450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20549-6009
CALL: 1-800-SEC-0330.
VISIT: http://www.sec.gov.
---------------------------------------
No person is authorized to give any
information or representations about
this Fund not contained in this
Prospectus or the Information
Supplement, and you should not rely on
any other information.
---------------------------------------
When units of this Fund are no longer
available, this Prospectus may be used
as a preliminary prospectus for a
future series, but some of the
information in this Prospectus will be
changed for that series.
Units of any future series may not be
sold nor may offers to buy be accepted
until that series has become effective
with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. No units can be sold in any
State where a sale would be illegal.
14757--5/99
<PAGE>
MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND
MULTISTATE SERIES
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS
CONTENTS OF REGISTRATION STATEMENT
This Post-Effective Amendment to the Registration Statement on Form S-6
comprises the following papers and documents:
The facing sheet of Form S-6.
The cross-reference sheet (incorporated by reference to the Cross-Reference
Sheet to the Registration Statement of Defined Asset Funds Municipal Insured
Series, 1933 Act File No. 33-54565).
The Prospectus.
The Signatures.
The following exhibits:
1.1.1--Form of Standard Terms and Conditions of Trust Effective as of
October 21, 1993 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.1.1 to the
Registration Statement of Municipal Investment Trust Fund,
Multistate Series--48, 1933 Act File No. 33-50247).
4.1 --Consent of the Evaluator.
5.1 --Consent of independent accountants.
9.1 --Information Supplement (incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 4 to Exhibit 9.1 to the Registration Statement of
Municipal Investment Trust Fund, Insured Series--207, 1933 Act File
No. 33-54037).
R-1
<PAGE>
MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND
MULTISTATE SERIES--56
DEFINED ASSET FUNDS
SIGNATURES
PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, THE REGISTRANT,
MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND, MULTISTATE SERIES--56, DEFINED ASSET FUNDS,
CERTIFIES THAT IT MEETS ALL OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR EFFECTIVENESS OF THIS
REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO RULE 485(B) UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
AND HAS DULY CAUSED THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT OR AMENDMENT TO THE REGISTRATION
STATEMENT TO BE SIGNED ON ITS BEHALF BY THE UNDERSIGNED THEREUNTO DULY
AUTHORIZED IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK AND STATE OF NEW YORK ON THE 19TH DAY OF MAY,
1999.
SIGNATURES APPEAR ON PAGES R-3, R-4, R-5, R-6 AND R-7.
A majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Merrill Lynch,
Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated has signed this Registration Statement or
Amendment to the Registration Statement pursuant to Powers of Attorney
authorizing the person signing this Registration Statement or Amendment to the
Registration Statement to do so on behalf of such members.
A majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Salomon Smith Barney
Inc. has signed this Registration Statement or Amendment to the Registration
Statement pursuant to Powers of Attorney authorizing the person signing this
Registration Statement or Amendment to the Registration Statement to do so on
behalf of such members.
A majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Prudential
Securities Incorporated has signed this Registration Statement or Amendment to
the Registration Statement pursuant to Powers of Attorney authorizing the person
signing this Registration Statement or Amendment to the Registration Statement
to do so on behalf of such members.
A majority of the members of the Executive Committee of the Board of
Directors of PaineWebber Incorporated has signed this Registration Statement or
Amendment to the Registration Statement pursuant to Powers of Attorney
authorizing the person signing this Registration Statement or Amendment to the
Registration Statement to do so on behalf of such members.
A majority of the members of the Board of Directors of Dean Witter Reynolds
Inc. has signed this Registration Statement or Amendment to the Registration
Statement pursuant to Powers of Attorney authorizing the person signing this
Registration Statement or Amendment to the Registration Statement to do so on
behalf of such members.
R-2
<PAGE>
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED
DEPOSITOR
By the following persons, who constitute Powers of Attorney have been filed
a majority of under
the Board of Directors of Merrill Form SE and the following 1933 Act
Lynch, Pierce, File
Fenner & Smith Incorporated: Number: 333-70593
HERBERT M. ALLISON, JR.
GEORGE A. SCHIEREN
JOHN L. STEFFENS
By J. DAVID MEGLEN
(As authorized signatory for Merrill Lynch, Pierce,
Fenner & Smith Incorporated and
Attorney-in-fact for the persons listed above)
R-3
<PAGE>
SALOMON SMITH BARNEY INC.
DEPOSITOR
By the following persons, who constitute a majority of Powers of Attorney
the Board of Directors of Salomon Smith Barney Inc.: have been filed
under the 1933 Act
File Numbers:
333-63417 and
333-63033
MICHAEL A. CARPENTER
DERYCK C. MAUGHAN
By GINA LEMON
(As authorized signatory for
Salomon Smith Barney Inc. and
Attorney-in-fact for the persons listed above)
R-4
<PAGE>
PRUDENTIAL SECURITIES INCORPORATED
DEPOSITOR
By the following persons, who constitute a majority of Powers of Attorney
the Board of Directors of Prudential Securities have been filed
Incorporated: under Form SE and
the following 1933
Act File Numbers:
33-41631 and
333-15919
ROBERT C. GOLDEN
ALAN D. HOGAN
A. LAURENCE NORTON, JR.
LELAND B. PATON
VINCENT T. PICA II
MARTIN PFINSGRAFF
HARDWICK SIMMONS
LEE B. SPENCER, JR.
BRIAN M. STORMS
By RICHARD R. HOFFMANN
(As authorized signatory for Prudential Securities
Incorporated and Attorney-in-fact for the persons
listed above)
R-5
<PAGE>
PAINEWEBBER INCORPORATED
DEPOSITOR
By the following persons, who constitute Powers of Attorney have been filed
the Board of Directors of PaineWebber under
Incorporated: the following 1933 Act File
Number: 33-55073
MARGO N. ALEXANDER
TERRY L. ATKINSON
BRIAN M. BAREFOOT
STEVEN P. BAUM
MICHAEL CULP
REGINA A. DOLAN
JOSEPH J. GRANO, JR.
EDWARD M. KERSCHNER
JAMES P. MacGILVRAY
DONALD B. MARRON
ROBERT H. SILVER
MARK B. SUTTON
By
ROBERT E. HOLLEY
(As authorized signatory for
PaineWebber Incorporated
and Attorney-in-fact for the persons listed above)
R-6
<PAGE>
DEAN WITTER REYNOLDS INC.
DEPOSITOR
By the following persons, who constitute Powers of Attorney have been filed
a majority of under Form SE and the following 1933
the Board of Directors of Dean Witter Act File Numbers: 33-17085 and
Reynolds Inc.: 333-13039
RICHARD M. DeMARTINI
ROBERT J. DWYER
CHRISTINE A. EDWARDS
JAMES F. HIGGINS
MITCHELL M. MERIN
STEPHEN R. MILLER
RICHARD F. POWERS III
PHILIP J. PURCELL
THOMAS C. SCHNEIDER
WILLIAM B. SMITH
By
MICHAEL D. BROWNE
(As authorized signatory for
Dean Witter Reynolds Inc.
and Attorney-in-fact for the persons listed above)
R-7
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 4.1
STANDARD & POOR'S
A DIVISION OF THE McGRAW-HILL COMPANIES
J. J. KENNY
65 BROADWAY
NEW YORK, N.Y. 10006-2551
TELEPHONE (212) 770-4422
FAX 212/797-8681
May 19, 1999
Frank A. Ciccotto, Jr.
Vice President
Tax-Exempt Evaluations
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated
Defined Asset Funds
P.O. Box 9051
Princeton, New Jersey 08543-9051
The Bank of New York
101 Barclay Street
New York, New York 10286
RE: MUNICIPAL INVESTMENT TRUST FUND,
MULTISTATE SERIES--56, DEFINED ASSET FUNDS
Gentlemen:
We have examined the post-effective Amendment to the Registration Statement
File No. 33-51981 for the above-captioned trust. We hereby acknowledge that
Kenny S&P Evaluation Services, a division of J. J. Kenny Co., Inc. is currently
acting as the evaluator for the trust. We hereby consent to the use in the
Amendment of the reference to Kenny S&P Evaluation Services, a division of J. J.
Kenny Co., Inc. as evaluator.
In addition, we hereby confirm that the ratings indicated in the
above-referenced Amendment to the Registration Statement for the respective
bonds comprising the trust portfolio are the ratings currently indicated in our
KENNYBASE database.
You are hereby authorized to file copies of this letter with the Securities
and Exchange Commission.
Sincerely,
FRANK A. CICCOTTO
Vice President
<PAGE>
Exhibit 5.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Sponsors and Trustee of
Defined Asset Funds--Municipal Investment Trust Fund--Multistate Series--56
(California, Florida, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania Trusts):
We consent to the use in this Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to Registration
Statement No. 33-51981 of our opinion dated May 2, 1999 appearing in the
Prospectus, which is part of such Registration Statement, and to the reference
to us under the heading 'Miscellaneous--Auditors' in such Prospectus.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
New York, N.Y.
May 19, 1999
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<ARTICLE> 6
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<NUMBER> 2
<NAME> New Jersey Trust
<MULTIPLIER>1
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> YEAR
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<PERIOD-END> Feb-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 2,875,010
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 3,119,262
<RECEIVABLES> 32,369
<ASSETS-OTHER> 10,220
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<OTHER-ITEMS-LIABILITIES> 1,377
<TOTAL-LIABILITIES> 1,377
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<PAID-IN-CAPITAL-COMMON> 2,878,618
<SHARES-COMMON-STOCK> 3,083
<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 3,183
<ACCUMULATED-NII-CURRENT> 37,604
<OVERDISTRIBUTION-NII> 0
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<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 244,252
<NET-ASSETS> 3,160,474
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<INTEREST-INCOME> 167,224
<OTHER-INCOME> 0
<EXPENSES-NET> (4,934)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 162,290
<REALIZED-GAINS-CURRENT> 8,339
<APPREC-INCREASE-CURRENT> 27,683
<NET-CHANGE-FROM-OPS> 198,312
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<NUMBER-OF-SHARES-REDEEMED> 100
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<NET-CHANGE-IN-ASSETS> (66,399)
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<OVERDISTRIB-NII-PRIOR> 0
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</TABLE>
<TABLE> <S> <C>
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<NAME> New York Trust
<MULTIPLIER>1
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<PERIOD-END> Feb-28-1999
<INVESTMENTS-AT-COST> 3,321,677
<INVESTMENTS-AT-VALUE> 3,581,693
<RECEIVABLES> 34,788
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<SHARES-COMMON-PRIOR> 3,500
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<ACCUM-APPREC-OR-DEPREC> 260,016
<NET-ASSETS> 3,627,177
<DIVIDEND-INCOME> 0
<INTEREST-INCOME> 194,601
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<EXPENSES-NET> (5,347)
<NET-INVESTMENT-INCOME> 189,254
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</TABLE>
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</TABLE>
