Aflac Press Releases

Aflac Partners with ScottsMiracle-Gro for NASCAR Races in 2010

11/4/2009 1:01:00 PM

Aflac Partners with ScottsMiracle-Gro for NASCAR Races in 201011/4/2009 1:01:00 PMScotts Makes Leap Back Into Sprint Cup with Sponsorship of Carl Edwards

COLUMBUS, Ga., Nov. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Aflac, primary sponsor of Carl Edwards and the No. 99 Aflac Ford Fusion, has announced a partnership with ScottsMiracle-Gro, giving the company primary sponsorship for six Sprint Cup races in the 2010 season. The partnership extends Scotts relationship with Carl Edwards, who earned his first Sprint Cup victory in 2005 in the Scotts-sponsored car.

Scotts currently is the co-primary sponsor of Carl Edwards in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

"Aflac and Scotts are two great companies that have supported me during my career," said Edwards. "I earned my first Cup victory in a Scotts car and am looking forward to driving for them again in the Sprint Cup Series in 2010."

"Our involvement in NASCAR not only allows us to sponsor a premier driver in Carl Edwards, but also affords us the opportunity to team up with premier brands such as Scotts," said Keith Farley, Motorsports Marketing Manager at Aflac. "This is truly a winning partnership for everyone involved."

The Scotts paint schemes will appear on the No. 99 Ford Fusion for the following races: Daytona Shootout (February), Atlanta Motor Speedway (March), Bristol Motor Speedway (March), Texas Motor Speedway (April), Richmond International Raceway (May), and Charlotte Motor Speedway (May).

"The Scotts Company is thrilled to partner with Aflac, Carl Edwards and get back into Cup racing," said Jim Shertzer, Sponsorship Manager at The Scotts Company. "Our company has a great relationship with Carl Edwards and we're excited to kick-off spring in Daytona in the Scotts Turf Builder car in 2010."

The 2010 season will mark the sixth consecutive season that Edwards will compete full time in both the Nationwide and Sprint Cup Series.

About Aflac

For more than 50 years, Aflac products have given policyholders the opportunity to direct cash where it is needed most when a life-interrupting medical event causes financial challenges. As the number one provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States and the number one insurance company in terms of individual insurance policies in force in Japan, Aflac insurance products provide protection to more than 40 million people worldwide. Aflac has been recognized by Ethisphere magazine as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for three consecutive years and was also named by the Reputation Institute as the Most Reputable Company in the Global Insurance Industry for two consecutive years. In 2009 Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for the eleventh consecutive year. Fortune magazine also ranked Aflac No. 1 on its global list of the Most Admired Companies in the Life and Health Insurance category. Aflac appears on Hispanic Enterprise magazine's list of the 50 Best Companies for Supplier Diversity and on Black Enterprise magazine's list of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity. Aflac was also named by Forbes magazine as America's Best-Managed Company in the Insurance category. Aflac Incorporated is a Fortune 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFL. To find out more about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

About ScottsMiracle-Gro

With nearly $3 billion in worldwide sales and more than 8,000 associates, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, The Scotts Company LLC, is the world's largest marketer of branded consumer products for lawn and garden care, with products for professional horticulture as well. The Company's brands are the most recognized in the industry. In the U.S., the Company's Scotts®, Miracle-Gro®, and Ortho® brands are market-leading in their categories, as is the consumer Roundup® brand, which is marketed in North America and most of Europe exclusively by Scotts and owned by Monsanto. In the U.S. the company operates Scotts LawnService®, the second largest residential lawn care service business. In Europe, the Company's brands include Weedol®, Pathclear®, Evergreen®, Levington®, Miracle-Gro®, KB®, Fertiligene® and Substral®. For additional information, visit us at www.scotts.com.

About Roush Fenway Racing

Roush Fenway Racing is NASCAR's largest team operating nine motorsports teams. Five teams in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with drivers Matt Kenseth, Jamie McMurray, Greg Biffle, Carl Edwards and David Ragan; three teams (with seven drivers) in the Nationwide Series with Kenseth, Biffle, Edwards, Ragan, Erik Darnell, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Colin Braun; and one in the Camping World Truck Series with Braun. For more information on any of the Roush Fenway Racing teams, log on to www.RoushFenway.com. For sponsorship inquiries, please contact Robin Johnson at (704)720-4645.

Media Contacts:
Tim Turner
Aflac Incorporated
706.243.5594
trturner@aflac.com

SOURCE Aflac

Tim Turner of Aflac Incorporated, +1-706-243-5594, trturner@aflac.com

Aflac Duck Makes It Easier to Give This Holiday Season

10/30/2009 8:02:00 AM

Aflac Duck Makes It Easier to Give This Holiday Season10/30/2009 8:02:00 AM

COLUMBUS, Ga., Oct. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Aflac, the company that pays policyholders cash benefits when they have been injured or become ill, and Macy's Department Stores are helping Americans who want to give back, even in a down economy. For the ninth consecutive year, Aflac and Macy's Department Stores are selling the annual plush Holiday Duck to fight pediatric cancer. This year's soon-to-be collector's item is dressed as a green holiday tree complete with ornaments and a golden star that lights up. It even quacks its attention-grabbing "Aflaaac" when squeezed. They go on sale on Sunday, November 1st at participating Macy's and at aflacholidayduck.com.

"Aflac understands that many families who routinely make charity a part of their holiday traditions are struggling this year," Aflac's Manager of Cause and Marketing Philanthropy, Buffy Swinehart, said. "The Aflac Duck, which is always there in times of need, offers fans with tight budgets a chance to give back in a meaningful way."

The prices are unchanged from last year at $10 for the 6-inch duck and $15 for the 10-inch version with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the nearest of 37 participating pediatric cancer hospitals in the region where it is sold. Since its initial appearance in 2001, the Aflac Holiday Duck has raised more than $2.2 million for pediatric cancer research and treatment.

"We are delighted to once again partner with Aflac to raise funds for pediatric cancer research," said Michael Krauter, Macy's President and Regional Director of Stores in Atlanta. "The Aflac Ducks have become a holiday collectible for both our customers and associates. With 212 Macy's stores taking part in this initiative; we will be able to support 37 children's hospitals across the nation."

Aflac makes pediatric cancer research and the Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service in Atlanta its primary charitable cause, donating more than $50 million since 1998. On January 1, 2010, the Aflac Duck will celebrate its 10th birthday, while Aflac marks its 55th year serving American supplemental insurance consumers.

About Aflac

For more than 50 years, Aflac products have given policyholders the opportunity to direct cash where it is needed most when a life-interrupting medical event causes financial challenges. As the number one provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States and the number one insurance company in terms of individual insurance policies in force in Japan, Aflac insurance products provide protection to more than 40 million people worldwide. In 2009, Aflac was recognized by Ethisphere magazine as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the third consecutive year and was also named by the Reputation Institute as the Most Reputable Company in the Global Insurance Industry for the second consecutive year. In 2009 Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for the eleventh consecutive year. Fortune magazine also ranked Aflac No. 1 on its global list of America's Most Admired Companies in the Life and Health Insurance category. Aflac appears on Hispanic Enterprise magazine's list of the 50 Best Companies for Supplier Diversity and on Black Enterprise magazine's list of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity. Aflac was also named by Forbes magazine as America's Best-Managed Company in the Insurance category. Aflac Incorporated is a Fortune 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFL. To find out more about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

About Macy's

Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Macy's stores and macys.com offer distinctive assortments, including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy's is known for such epic events as Macy's 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Building on a 150-year tradition, Macy's helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities that make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy's media materials, images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at www.macys.com/pressroom.

Media Contacts:
Laura Kane
Aflac Incorporated
706.596.3493
706-593-0786 (cell)
lkane@aflac.com

Jon A. Sullivan
Aflac Incorporated
706.596.3493
706-573-7610 (cell)
jsullivan@aflac.com

Analyst and Investment Contact:
Kenneth S. Janke Jr.
Aflac Incorporated
1.800.235.2667, Option 3
Fax: 706.324.6330
kjanke@aflac.com

Macy's Contact:
Melissa Goff
Media Relations & Cause Marketing
Southeast Region I Macy's
305.577.2171
Melissa.Goff@macys.com

SOURCE: Aflac

Aflac Incorporated Announces Third Quarter Results, Declares Fourth Quarter Cash Dividend

10/28/2009 4:07:00 PM

Aflac Incorporated Announces Third Quarter Results, Declares Fourth Quarter Cash Dividend10/28/2009 4:07:00 PM

COLUMBUS, Ga., Oct. 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) today reported its third quarter results.

Reflecting the benefit from a stronger yen/dollar exchange rate, total revenues rose 22.6% to $4.5 billion during the third quarter of 2009, compared with a year ago. Net earnings were $363 million, or $.77 per diluted share, compared with $100 million, or $.21 per share, a year ago.

Net earnings in the third quarter of 2009 included after-tax realized investment losses of $226 million, or $.48 per diluted share, compared with realized investment losses of $389 million, or $.81 per share in the third quarter of 2008. Of the realized investment losses in the third quarter of 2009, $212 million resulted from impairment losses on perpetual, or so-called "hybrid," securities of four issuers. The impairment loss on the perpetual securities was determined using the equity impairment method because their credit ratings are below investment grade. No impairment charges will be recorded on a statutory accounting basis for these perpetual securities because Aflac's credit analysis suggests that the issuers of the perpetual securities that were impaired on a GAAP basis will be able to meet their contractual obligations for payment. The company also realized investment losses of $22 million from the impairment of a collateralized debt obligation and $5 million primarily from the impairment of collateralized mortgage obligations. In addition, the company realized $13 million of investment gains from sales and redemptions of investment securities.

Aflac believes that an analysis of operating earnings, a non-GAAP financial measure, is vitally important to an understanding of the company's underlying profitability drivers. Aflac defines operating earnings as the profits derived from operations before realized investment gains and losses, the impact from ASC 815 (or hedging activities, formerly referred to as SFAS 133), and nonrecurring items. Management uses operating earnings to evaluate the financial performance of Aflac's insurance operations because realized gains and losses, the impact from ASC 815, and nonrecurring items tend to be driven by general economic conditions and events, and therefore may obscure the underlying fundamentals and trends in Aflac's insurance operations.

Furthermore, because a significant portion of Aflac's business is in Japan, where the functional currency is the Japanese yen, the company believes it is equally important to understand the impact on operating earnings from translating yen into dollars. Aflac Japan's yen-denominated income statement is translated from yen into dollars using an average exchange rate for the reporting period, and the balance sheet is translated using the exchange rate at the end of the period. However, except for a limited number of transactions, the company does not actually convert yen into dollars. As a result, Aflac views foreign currency as a financial reporting issue and not as an economic event for the company or its shareholders. Because changes in exchange rates distort the growth rates of operations, readers of Aflac's financial statements are also encouraged to evaluate financial performance excluding the impact of foreign currency translation. The chart toward the end of this release presents a comparison of selected income statement items with and without foreign currency changes to illustrate the effect of currency.

Operating earnings in the third quarter were $589 million, compared with $493 million in the third quarter of 2008. Operating earnings per diluted share rose 22.5% to $1.25, compared with $1.02 a year ago. The stronger yen/dollar exchange rate increased operating earnings per diluted share by $.09 during the quarter. Excluding the impact from the stronger yen, operating earnings per share increased 13.7%.

Results for the first nine months of 2009 also benefited from the stronger yen. Total revenues rose 11.1% to $13.7 billion, compared with $12.3 billion a year ago. Net earnings were $1.2 billion, or $2.66 per diluted share, compared with $1.1 billion, or $2.19 per share, for the first nine months of 2008. Operating earnings for the first nine months of 2009 were $1.7 billion, or $3.67 per diluted share, compared with $1.5 billion, or $3.02 per share, in 2008. Excluding the benefit of $.23 per share from the stronger yen, operating earnings per diluted share rose 13.9% for the first nine months of 2009.

Total investments and cash at the end of September 2009 were $71.6 billion, compared with $65.6 billion at June 30, 2009. The increase in total investments and cash reflected a stronger yen at the end of the period and improvement in the fair values of the company's investments, compared with invested asset values at the end of the second quarter of 2009. Gross unrealized losses on investment securities classified as available for sale were $3.8 billion at September 30, 2009, compared with $4.9 billion at June 30, 2009.

Shareholders' equity was $7.9 billion at September 30, 2009, compared with $6.4 billion at June 30, 2009. Shareholders' equity at September 30, 2009, included a net unrealized loss on investment securities of $1.1 billion, compared with a net unrealized loss of $2.1 billion at the end of June 2009. Shareholders' equity per share was $16.85 at the end of the third quarter of 2009, compared with $13.58 per share at the end of the second quarter of 2009. The annualized return on average shareholders' equity in the third quarter was 20.4%. On an operating basis (excluding realized investment losses, the impact of ASC 815 on net earnings, and unrealized investment gains/losses in shareholders' equity), the annualized return on average shareholders' equity was 27.0% for the third quarter of 2009.

AFLAC JAPAN

In the third quarter, Aflac Japan's premium income in yen rose 3.4%, and net investment income declined 2.0%. Investment income growth in yen terms was suppressed by the stronger yen/dollar exchange rate because approximately 33% of Aflac Japan's third quarter investment income was dollar-denominated. Excluding the impact of the stronger yen, net investment income increased 2.9% in the quarter. Total revenues in yen were up 2.6%. Due to continued improvement in the benefit ratio, the pretax operating profit margin expanded from 18.3% to 20.0%. As a result, pretax operating earnings in yen increased 11.8%. For the first nine months, premium income in yen increased 3.4%, and net investment income was down .6%. Total revenues were up 2.8%, and pretax operating earnings grew 10.6%.

The average yen/dollar exchange rate in the third quarter of 2009 was 93.56, or 15.1% stronger than the average rate of 107.70 in the third quarter of 2008. For the first nine months, the average exchange rate was 94.79, or 11.6% stronger than the rate of 105.75 a year ago. Aflac Japan's growth rates in dollar terms for both the third quarter and first nine months of the year were magnified as a result of the stronger average yen/dollar exchange rates.

Reflecting the stronger yen, premium income in dollars rose 18.9% to $3.1 billion in the third quarter. Net investment income was up 12.7% to $568 million. Total revenues increased 18.0% to $3.6 billion. Pretax operating earnings advanced 28.7% to $725 million. For the first nine months of the year, premium income was $9.0 billion, or 15.4% higher than a year ago. Net investment income rose 10.9% to $1.7 billion. Total revenues were up 14.7% to $10.7 billion. Pretax operating earnings were $2.1 billion, or 23.4% higher than a year ago.

Aflac Japan's total new annualized premium sales increased 6.5% to ¥30.0 billion, or $320 million in the third quarter. For the first nine months of 2009, total new annualized premium sales were up 3.7% to ¥87.5 billion, or $922 million. The increase in third quarter sales reflected strong results in the medical and ordinary life insurance product categories. Although Aflac Japan's revised medical product was just introduced in late August, the initial response from consumers was very positive. As a result, medical sales rose 13.8% in the third quarter. The ordinary life category was again led by strong child endowment sales. In addition, sales through the bank channel continued to improve. Bank channel sales in the third quarter rose 66.1%, compared with a year ago, to a record ¥2.2 billion.

AFLAC U.S.

Aflac U.S. premium income increased 3.0% to $1.1 billion, and net investment income was down 4.4% to $123 million. Total revenues rose 2.2% to $1.2 billion in the third quarter. Pretax operating earnings were $216 million, an increase of 5.7%. For the first nine months of the year, premium income rose 3.6% to $3.3 billion. Net investment income declined .4% to $375 million. Total revenues were up 3.2% to $3.7 billion, and pretax operating earnings rose 5.6% to $617 million.

Aflac U.S. total new annualized premium sales continued to reflect weak economic conditions in the United States. In the third quarter, total new sales declined 7.2% to $342 million. For the nine months, total new sales were $1.0 billion, or 6.4% lower than a year ago. However, growth in the number of new payroll accounts remained strong and encouraging. Newly established payroll accounts rose 15.0% in the third quarter and 11.5% for the first nine months of the year. New agent recruitment also remained solid. Newly recruited agents rose 9.4% during the third quarter to more than 7,000. For the first nine months, new agent recruitment was 16.4% higher than a year ago.

DIVIDEND

The board of directors declared the fourth quarter cash dividend. The fourth quarter dividend of $.28 per share is payable on December 1, 2009, to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 18, 2009.

OUTLOOK

Commenting on the company's third quarter results, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Daniel P. Amos stated: "I continue to be encouraged by our financial and operating performance so far this year, especially in light of the weak economic conditions. Although net earnings continued to reflect larger-than-usual realized investment losses, the losses in the third quarter were significantly lower than a year ago. In addition, Aflac's operating earnings growth was again robust and consistent with our objective for the year. I am also very pleased that our overall capital position remained strong. Despite pressure from credit rating downgrades on some of our investments, we estimate that our risk-based capital ratio was 405% at the end of September, which exceeds our internal target.

"We remain cautious on the outlook for new sales in the United States due to ongoing economic weakness. It's clear that Aflac U.S. new annualized premium sales will fall short of our annual objective of flat to 5% growth this year. However, through new agent recruitment, effective training programs and new payroll account growth, we continue to believe we are positioning Aflac U.S. for a better sales year in 2010. In our largest market, we believe Aflac Japan will achieve its annual objective of flat sales to a 5% increase for the full year. With a tremendous consumer response to our recently introduced products and continued growth through the bank channel, we also believe we can extend Aflac Japan's sales momentum into 2010. Overall, we have great confidence in our business model and in the need for our products in Japan and the United States.

"We are also confident we will achieve our 2009 objective of a 13% to 15% increase in operating earnings per diluted share, excluding the impact of foreign currency. If the yen averages 90 to 95 to the dollar in the last three months of the year, we would expect reported operating earnings to be in the range of $1.08 to $1.16 per diluted share in the fourth quarter. Under that scenario, we would expect full-year operating earnings per diluted share to be in the range of $4.75 to $4.83. For 2010, our objective remains a 9% to 12% increase in operating earnings per diluted share before the impact of the yen/dollar exchange rate. Although we are keenly focused on achieving our 2009 and 2010 earnings targets, our primary objective is to maintain a strong balance sheet that our customers and owners can rely on in this challenging environment."

ABOUT AFLAC

A copy of Aflac's Financial Analysts Briefing (FAB) supplement for the third quarter of 2009 can be found on the "Investors" page at aflac.com, along with a complete listing of Aflac's investment holdings in the financial sector and a separate listing of the company's investments in perpetual securities.

Aflac Incorporated will webcast its third quarter conference call via the "Investors" page of aflac.com at 9:00 a.m. (EDT) on Thursday, October 29.

        AFLAC INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED INCOME STATEMENT
       (UNAUDITED - IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT FOR SHARE AND PER-SHARE AMOUNTS)

    THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,          2009      2008      % Change
                                              ----      ----      --------
    Total revenues                          $4,526     $3,691       22.6%

    Benefits and claims                      2,817      2,551       10.4

    Total acquisition and operating
     expenses                                1,160        992       16.9

    Earnings before income taxes               549        148      270.6

    Income taxes                               186         48

    Net earnings                              $363       $100      263.1%

    Net earnings per share - basic            $.78       $.21      271.4%

    Net earnings per share - diluted           .77        .21      266.7

    Shares used to compute earnings
     per share (000):
      Basic                                466,586    475,357       (1.8)%
      Diluted                              469,714    480,745       (2.3)

    Dividends paid per share                  $.28       $.24       16.7%

        AFLAC INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED INCOME STATEMENT
       (UNAUDITED - IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT FOR SHARE AND PER-SHARE AMOUNTS)

    NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,         2009      2008      % Change
                                            ----      ----      --------
    Total revenues                       $13,657    $12,294       11.1%

    Benefits and claims                    8,351      7,664        9.0

    Total acquisition and operating
     expenses                              3,413      3,016       13.1

    Earnings before income taxes           1,893      1,614       17.3

    Income taxes                             648        557

    Net earnings                          $1,245     $1,057       17.8%

    Net earnings per share - basic         $2.67      $2.22       20.3%

    Net earnings per share - diluted        2.66       2.19       21.5

    Shares used to compute earnings
     per share (000):
      Basic                              466,362    476,076       (2.0)%
      Diluted                            468,378    482,113       (2.8)

    Dividends paid per share                $.84       $.72       16.7%

          AFLAC INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED BALANCE SHEET
              (UNAUDITED - IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT FOR SHARE AMOUNTS)

    SEPTEMBER 30,                             2009      2008    % Change
                                              ----      ----    --------
    Assets:

    Total investments and cash             $71,625   $60,727      17.9%

    Deferred policy acquisition costs        8,552     7,445      14.9

    Other assets                             2,439     2,285       6.7

        Total assets                       $82,616   $70,457      17.3%

    Liabilities and shareholders' equity:

    Policy liabilities                     $69,543   $58,175      19.5%

    Notes payable                            2,231     1,568      42.3

    Other liabilities                        2,960     4,214     (29.8)

    Shareholders' equity                     7,882     6,500      21.3

        Total liabilities and
         shareholders' equity              $82,616   $70,457      17.3%

    Shares outstanding at end of
     period (000)                          467,777   476,553      (1.8)%

             RECONCILIATION OF OPERATING EARNINGS TO NET EARNINGS
            (UNAUDITED - IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT FOR PER-SHARE AMOUNTS)

    THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,             2009      2008   % Change
                                                 ----      ----   --------
    Operating earnings                           $589      $493     19.6%

    Reconciling items, net of tax:
        Realized investment gains (losses)       (226)     (389)
        Impact from ASC 815 (formerly SFAS 133)     -        (4)
        Extinguishment of debt                      -         -

    Net earnings                                 $363      $100    263.1%

    Operating earnings per diluted share        $1.25     $1.02     22.5%

    Reconciling items, net of tax:
        Realized investment gains (losses)       (.48)     (.81)
        Impact from ASC 815 (formerly SFAS 133)     -         -
        Extinguishment of debt                      -         -

    Net earnings per diluted share               $.77      $.21    266.7%

           RECONCILIATION OF OPERATING EARNINGS TO NET EARNINGS
          (UNAUDITED - IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT FOR PER-SHARE AMOUNTS)

    NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,               2009     2008   % Change
                                                  ----     ----   --------
    Operating earnings                          $1,719   $1,455    18.1%

    Reconciling items, net of tax:
        Realized investment gains (losses)        (482)    (394)
        Impact from ASC 815 (formerly SFAS 133)     (3)      (4)
        Extinguishment of debt                      11        -

    Net earnings                                $1,245   $1,057    17.8%

    Operating earnings per diluted share         $3.67    $3.02    21.5%

    Reconciling items, net of tax:
        Realized investment gains (losses)       (1.02)    (.82)
        Impact from ASC 815 (formerly SFAS 133)   (.01)    (.01)
        Extinguishment of debt                     .02        -

    Net earnings per diluted share               $2.66    $2.19    21.5%

            EFFECT OF FOREIGN CURRENCY ON OPERATING RESULTS(1)
                 (SELECTED PERCENTAGE CHANGES, UNAUDITED)

                                             Including    Excluding
                                             Currency     Currency
    THREE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009    Changes      Changes(2)
                                             ---------    ----------
    Premium income                             14.2%         3.2%

    Net investment income                       8.6           .8

    Total benefits and expenses                12.3          1.6

    Operating earnings                         19.6         11.0

    Operating earnings per diluted share       22.5         13.7

    (1) The numbers in this table are presented on an operating basis,
        as previously described.
    (2) Amounts excluding currency changes were determined using the
        same yen/dollar exchange rate for the current period as the
        comparable period in the prior year.

            EFFECT OF FOREIGN CURRENCY ON OPERATING RESULTS(1)
                 (SELECTED PERCENTAGE CHANGES, UNAUDITED)

                                             Including    Excluding
                                             Currency     Currency
    NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009     Changes      Changes(2)
                                             ---------    ----------
    Premium income                             11.9%        3.5%

    Net investment income                       7.7         1.7

    Total benefits and expenses                10.1         1.9

    Operating earnings                         18.1        10.8

    Operating earnings per diluted share       21.5        13.9

    (1) The numbers in this table are presented on an operating basis,
        as previously described.
    (2) Amounts excluding currency changes were determined using the
        same yen/dollar exchange rate for the current period as the
        comparable period in the prior year.

            2009 OPERATING EARNINGS PER SHARE SCENARIOS
            -------------------------------------------

       Average       Annual
       Exchange     Operating       % Growth         Yen
         Rate          EPS          Over 2008       Impact
       --------        ---          ---------       ------

          85      $5.04 - 5.12     26.3 - 28.3%      $.53

          90       4.87 - 4.96     22.1 - 24.3        .37

          95       4.73 - 4.81     18.5 - 20.6        .22

         100       4.59 - 4.68     15.0 - 17.3        .09

      103.46*      4.51 - 4.59     13.0 - 15.0          -

         105       4.47 - 4.55     12.0 - 14.0       (.04)

         110       4.37 - 4.44      9.5 - 11.3       (.15)

     *Actual 2008 weighted-average exchange rate

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a "safe harbor" to encourage companies to provide prospective information, so long as those informational statements are identified as forward-looking and are accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those included in the forward-looking statements. We desire to take advantage of these provisions. This document contains cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected herein, and in any other statements made by company officials in communications with the financial community and contained in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Forward-looking statements are not based on historical information and relate to future operations, strategies, financial results or other developments. Furthermore, forward-looking information is subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties. In particular, statements containing words such as "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "goal," "objective," "may," "should," "estimate," "intends," "projects," "will," "assumes," "potential," "target" or similar words as well as specific projections of future results, generally qualify as forward-looking. Aflac undertakes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements. We caution readers that the following factors, in addition to other factors mentioned from time to time, could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements: difficult conditions in global capital markets and the economy generally; governmental actions for the purpose of stabilizing the financial markets; defaults and downgrades in certain securities in our investment portfolio; impairment of financial institutions; credit and other risks associated with Aflac's investment in perpetual securities; differing judgments applied to investment valuations; subjective determinations of amount of impairments taken on our investments; realization of unrealized losses; limited availability of acceptable yen-denominated investments; concentration of our investments in any particular sector; concentration of business in Japan; ongoing changes in our industry; exposure to significant financial and capital markets risk; fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates; significant changes in investment yield rates; deviations in actual experience from pricing and reserving assumptions; subsidiaries' ability to pay dividends to the Parent Company; changes in regulation by governmental authorities; ability to attract and retain qualified sales associates and employees; ability to continue to develop and implement improvements in information technology systems; changes in U.S. and/or Japanese accounting standards; decreases in our financial strength or debt ratings; level and outcome of litigation; ability to effectively manage key executive succession; catastrophic events; and failure of internal controls or corporate governance policies and procedures.

Analyst and investor contact - Kenneth S. Janke Jr., 800.235.2667 - option 3, FAX: 706.324.6330, or kjanke@aflac.com

Media contact - Laura Kane, 706.596.3493, FAX: 706.320.2288, or lkane@aflac.com

SOURCE: Aflac Incorporated

Aflac Incorporated to Release Third Quarter Results on October 28, 2009

10/21/2009 11:50:00 AM

Aflac Incorporated to Release Third Quarter Results on October 28, 200910/21/2009 11:50:00 AM

COLUMBUS, Ga., Oct. 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) announced today that it will release third quarter financial results after the market closes on October 28, 2009.

In conjunction with the earnings release, Aflac Incorporated will webcast a conference call scheduled for 9:00 a.m. (EDT) on October 29, 2009. During the teleconference, Aflac Incorporated Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dan Amos will discuss third quarter results and the outlook for the remainder of 2009. Other Aflac executives will be available to answer questions, including Aflac Incorporated President and Chief Financial Officer Kriss Cloninger III; President and Chief Operating Officer of Aflac Japan Tohru Tonoike; President of Aflac and Chief Operating Officer of Aflac U.S. Paul S. Amos II; and Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer Jerry Jeffery.

To listen to the third quarter conference call webcast, visit aflac.com and click on the Investors page. Registration is required, so please allow five to seven minutes to sign up prior to the scheduled start time.

Analyst and investor contact - Kenneth S. Janke Jr., 800.235.2667 - option 3,

FAX: 706.324.6330, or kjanke@aflac.com

Media contact - Laura Kane, 706.596.3493, FAX: 706.320.2288, or lkane@aflac.com

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090422/CL03654LOGO )

SOURCE Aflac Incorporated

Analyst and investor: Kenneth S. Janke Jr., 1-800-235-2667 - option 3, Fax: +1-706-324-6330, kjanke@aflac.com, Media: Laura Kane, +1-706-596-3493, Fax: +1-706-320-2288, lkane@aflac.com

Aflac Helps Business Owners Reduce Costs, Increase Employee Benefits

10/20/2009 9:45:00 AM

Aflac Helps Business Owners Reduce Costs, Increase Employee Benefits10/20/2009 9:45:00 AMGroup short-term disability insurance policy adds guaranteed-issue, with credit for pre-existing conditions and a portability option

COLUMBUS, Ga., Oct. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Managing the cost of employee benefits is one of the greatest challenges businesses face today. In fact, recent Aflac surveys of business owners found that 62 percent of respondents said it's more difficult than a year ago to offer strong benefits packages. At the same time, 60 percent of respondents said the productivity of their workforce declines when employees are dealing with an illness or accident in the family.

In response to changing market demands and employers' needs, Aflac has enhanced its group short-term disability (GSTD) policy, allowing businesses to offer competitive, quality benefits to employees, at no direct cost to the company. Aflac's GSTD features include:

Guaranteed-issue: The monthly benefit has been increased to a maximum of $3,000 for those who qualify, subject to certain requirements. Full underwriting is not necessary.
Credit for pre-existing conditions: If the GSTD policy replaces other group short-term disability coverage, employees receive credit toward Aflac's pre-existing conditions limitation clause. This is based on the number of months the previous policy was in place for similar benefit amounts.
Low participation requirement: The participation requirement is 30 percent, based on a minimum of 100 employees.
Portability: Employees have the option to obtain an individually-owned short-term disability insurance policy if they change employers, subject to certain requirements.

Aflac's GSTD policy is an effective way to provide income protection to employees through cash benefits if they're unable to work due to a covered illness or off-the-job injury, and helps to attract and retain a productive workforce.

"Today's rising health care costs and slowing economic growth have made it increasingly difficult for employers to offer strong employee benefits packages," said Karen Riedel, second vice president, director of Aflac Product Marketing. "In response to this, Aflac has revised its GSTD policy to allow employers to improve their breadth of benefit offerings with no additional impact to their bottom lines, while helping to bring much-needed peace of mind to their valuable employees."

Survey Methodology

The Aflac small business survey was conducted by Accelerant Research among a sample of 512 decision-makers at U.S. small businesses with 5 to 99 employees and annual revenues of at least $1,000,000 via an online survey between March 9 and 12, 2009. The Aflac "Why Supplemental" survey was conducted by Accelerant Research among a sample of 1,154 decision-makers at U.S. companies ranging from 2 to 5,000+ employees via an online survey between the dates of (need to confirm dates).

About Aflac

For more than 50 years, Aflac products have given policyholders the opportunity to direct cash where it is needed most when a life-interrupting medical event causes financial challenges. As the number one provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States and the number one insurance company in terms of individual insurance policies in force in Japan, Aflac insurance products provide protection to more than 40 million people worldwide. In 2009, Aflac was recognized by Ethisphere magazine as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the third consecutive year and was also named by the Reputation Institute as the Most Reputable Company in the Global Insurance Industry for the second consecutive year. In 2009 Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for the eleventh consecutive year. Fortune magazine also ranked Aflac No. 1 on its global list of the Most Admired Companies in the Life and Health Insurance category. Aflac appears on Hispanic Enterprise magazine's list of the 50 Best Companies for Supplier Diversity and on Black Enterprise magazine's list of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity. Aflac was also named by Forbes magazine as America's Best-Managed Company in the Insurance category. Aflac Incorporated is a Fortune 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFL. To find out more about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

Media Contact:
Darcy Brito
Aflac
706.320.2358
dbrito@aflac.com

SOURCE: Aflac

Aflac 'Causes Campaign on Facebook' Raises $1.16 Million for Fight Against Pediatric Cancer

10/7/2009 10:05:00 AM

Aflac 'Causes Campaign on Facebook' Raises $1.16 Million for Fight Against Pediatric Cancer10/7/2009 10:05:00 AMMore Than 851,000 Members Join the Aflac Cancer Center Cause

COLUMBUS, Ga., Oct. 7 Aflac (NYSE: AFL) announced that it has raised more than $1.16 million for the Aflac Cancer Center through a matching grant campaign with Causes on Facebook, making it the largest sponsored campaign in the history of Causes. The effort also resulted in 851,215 new members joining the Aflac Cancer Center Cause, helping to generate awareness and financial support during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

The Causes application on Facebook has more than 85 million users who have created over 300,000 charitable causes that have benefited 60,000 nonprofits in the United States and Canada. Donors have used the Causes application on Facebook to give more than $14 million to these organizations. Prior to the launch of Aflac's pediatric cancer Cause, the largest matching grant on a Facebook Cause was $100,000.

"Thanks to Aflac's campaign to raise money for childhood cancer and blood disorders on Causes on Facebook, children at the Aflac Cancer Center will be assured cutting edge treatment and clinical research to get them back to being kids," said Dr. William G. Woods, Director of the Aflac Cancer Center. "With every dollar raised we offer new hope for our kids and their families."

"Our goal is to find a cure," said Aflac chairman and CEO Dan Amos. "We want to thank the more than 851,000 people who rose to the challenge and joined Aflac's fight against pediatric cancer. With their help we can continue the progress that has seen survival rates soar from 20 percent in the 1980's to 80 percent today."

Aflac Chairman and CEO Dan Amos personally contributed $100,000 to the cause, and his donation, like all the others, was matched dollar-for-dollar by Aflac. NASCAR driver Carl Edwards, who is sponsored by Aflac, responded to Amos's gesture by contributing his portion of his team's earnings from the September 6th race at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

"Aflac's $1 million initiative is the largest sponsored cause that we have ever seen on Facebook and it demonstrates the growing philanthropic power of Causes," said Joe Green, founder of Causes. "This matching grant is a success not only because of the money raised, but also because 851,215 individuals were empowered to make a difference through peer to peer activism. We're delighted that Aflac chose our application to generate awareness and that together, we were so successful in producing potentially life-saving results for children with cancer."

Each year the Aflac Cancer Center treats more than 350 new cancer patients. It also provides the largest sickle cell disease program in America, with 1,635 active cases and has cured more children of sickle cell disease than any treatment center in the nation. In addition to funding research and treatment, Aflac contributions serve other critical needs, including new facilities, a new state-of-the-art pediatric research building, and endowments for the Family Support Team and Fellowship Program. In August, the Aflac Cancer Center announced that Aflac had surpassed $50 million in donations to this cause.

About Aflac:

For more than 50 years, Aflac products have given policyholders the opportunity to direct cash where it is needed most when a life-interrupting medical event causes financial challenges. As the number one provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States and the number one insurance company in terms of individual insurance policies in force in Japan, Aflac insurance products provide protection to more than 40 million people worldwide. In 2009, Aflac was recognized by Ethisphere magazine as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the third consecutive year and was also named by the Reputation Institute as the Most Reputable Company in the Global Insurance Industry for the second consecutive year. In 2009 Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for the eleventh consecutive year. Fortune magazine also ranked Aflac No. 1 on its global list of America's Most Admired Companies in the Life and Health Insurance category. Aflac appears on Hispanic Enterprise magazine's list of the 50 Best Companies for Supplier Diversity and on Black Enterprise magazine's list of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity. Aflac was also named by Forbes magazine as America's Best-Managed Company in the Insurance category. Aflac Incorporated is a Fortune 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFL. To find out more about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

About Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta:

The Aflac Cancer Center and Blood Disorders Service of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is a national leader among childhood cancer, hematology, and blood and marrow transplant programs, serving infants to young adults. Recognized as one of the top childhood cancer centers in the country by U.S.News & World Report, the Aflac Cancer Center treats more than 350 new cancer patients each year and follows more than 2,500 patients with sickle cell disease, hemophilia and other blood disorders. Visit www.aflaccancercenter.org or call 404-785-1112 or 888-785-1112 for more information.

Media Contacts:

Laura Kane
Aflac Incorporated
706.596.3493
lkane@aflac.com

Jon A. Sullivan
Aflac Incorporated
706.763.4813
jsullivan@aflac.com

Analyst and Investment Contact:

Kenneth S. Janke Jr.
Aflac Incorporated
1.800.235.2667, Option 3
Fax: 706.324.6330
kjanke@aflac.com

SOURCE: Aflac

Aflac Completes Acquisition of Continental American Insurance Company

10/1/2009 7:31:00 AM

Aflac Completes Acquisition of Continental American Insurance Company10/1/2009 7:31:00 AM

COLUMBUS, Ga., Oct. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Aflac Incorporated (NYSE: AFL) announced today that it has completed its acquisition of Continental American Insurance Company (CAIC). The purchase of CAIC for $100 million was funded with internal capital.

Regarding this acquisition, President of Aflac and Chief Operating Officer of Aflac U.S. Paul S. Amos II said: "For nearly three decades, CAIC has developed an innovative product line that complements our current products very well. By adding CAIC's group policies to our roster of individually underwritten insurance offerings, we have positioned our sales force to serve a wider variety of customers and brokers with more choices than ever before.

"I'm looking forward to working with Chris Goodall. As CEO of CAIC, Chris has provided focused leadership that has benefited CAIC's employees and customers, and we believe his leadership will continue to benefit us as CAIC and Aflac join forces. CAIC shares Aflac's strong set of values, corporate culture and commitment to service. We anticipate a smooth transition, and once fully integrated, we expect that this purchase will modestly benefit 2010 consolidated earnings."

About CAIC

Originally founded as Carolina Continental Insurance Company in 1980, CAIC specializes in offering voluntary group insurance products that are distributed by insurance brokers at the worksite. CAIC is rated A- (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Based on statutory accounting statements filed with the state insurance departments, CAIC produced total revenues of $79 million and net income of $7 million in 2008. At the end of 2008, CAIC's admitted assets were $104 million and capital and surplus was $33 million. For reporting purposes under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), CAIC's future financial results will be consolidated into the Aflac U.S. reporting segment for Aflac Incorporated and subsidiaries.

About Aflac

SOURCE: Aflac Incorporated

Analyst and investor contact:
Kenneth S. Janke Jr.
+1-800-235-2667 - option 3
FAX: +1-706-3246330
or
kjanke@aflac.com
or
Media contact:
Laura Kane
706.596.3493
FAX: 706.320.2288
or
lkane@aflac.com

3-Year-Old Yankees Fan and His Red Sox-loving Donor Inspire Bone Marrow Drive

9/26/2009 8:01:00 AM

3-Year-Old Yankees Fan and His Red Sox-loving Donor Inspire Bone Marrow Drive9/26/2009 8:01:00 AMAflac, Be The Match Registry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center - The Official Hospital of the Boston Red Sox, and the Boston Red Sox to Hold Bone Marrow Drive

COLUMBUS, Ga., Sept. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Aflac today announced that it has joined with the Be The Match bone marrow registry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and the Boston Red Sox to host a free bone marrow drive at CollegeFest 2009, the biggest back-to-school festival in New England. The event will take place in Boston's Hynes Convention Center on September 26th (from Noon-7pm) and September 27th (from Noon-6pm).

The drive at CollegeFest this weekend is part of Aflac's nationwide bone marrow initiative, which was prompted by avid Boston Red Sox fan and Aflac Sales Coordinator Steve Karas who was identified as a perfect bone marrow match for a young New York Yankees fan, Matthew Welling. Matthew was suffering from a debilitating disease called osteopetrosis, and his only hope for survival was a bone marrow transplant. Karas answered the call, and his selfless act started a movement within Aflac. Working with Be The Match, the national bone marrow donor registry, Aflac President and COO Paul Amos has since arranged for multiple bone marrow drives and thousands of Aflac employees and sales agents have joined the donor registry as a result.

"In the past few decades, bone marrow transplants have become an increasingly successful treatment option. Even with a registry of millions, many patients cannot find a match," said Amos. "We're privileged to be joining with the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and the Boston Red Sox to help generate awareness and to increase the size and diversity of the Be The Match Registry."

In addition to serving as a bone marrow drive, the booth at CollegeFest will also feature opportunities for students to interact with Red Sox Hall of Famer Luis Tiant and team mascot, Wally the Green Monster. Students attending will also be able to take photos with one of the Red Sox World Series Trophies and could receive a plush Aflac Duck or free Fenway Park tour tickets.

"As an organization near the heart of the community, we know well our responsibility to our neighbors - both those we know and those we have yet to meet," said Larry Lucchino, president/CEO of the Boston Red Sox. "As a cancer survivor and beneficiary of an experimental treatment involving bone marrow, I know firsthand the importance of advancing this cause. We are proud to join together with Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, the Official Hospital of the Boston Red Sox, Aflac, and the Be The Match Registry this Saturday and Sunday to try to make a difference and help address the need for more donors by appealing to our local spirited college students."

"We have the privilege of seeing firsthand how the generosity of bone marrow donors translates into a life saving therapy for many patients," notes Dr. David Avigan, director of bone marrow transplant at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. "This drive is an opportunity to provide the ultimate gift for patients suffering from blood cancers and other diseases."

Every year, more than 10,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with life-threatening diseases for which the best or only hope of a cure is a bone marrow transplant from an unrelated donor. The National Marrow Donor Program(R) (NMDP), which operates the Be The Match Registry, supports this weekend's drive as an opportunity to educate local college students about the need and effectiveness of bone marrow transplants.

"The first step in helping patients in need of a marrow transplant is building awareness that transplant works, it saves lives every day. And anyone can help by joining the Be The Match Registry, hosting a drive, contributing to our Patient Assistance Fund or helping us reach more people with our message," said Dr. Jeffrey W, Chell, CEO, NMDP.

Registration at CollegeFest 2009 is free of charge and involves completing a health history form and giving a swab of cheek cells. All donor registrations will be conducted by representatives from the Rhode Island Blood center, a local affiliate of the Be The Match Registry.

To learn more about joining the Be The Match Registry, please visit Aflac's corporate philanthropy web page or BeTheMatch.org/join.

About Aflac:

For more than 50 years, Aflac products have given policyholders the opportunity to direct cash where it is needed most when a life-interrupting medical event causes financial challenges. As the number one provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States and the number one insurance company in terms of individual insurance policies in force in Japan, Aflac insurance products provide protection to more than 40 million people worldwide. In 2009, Aflac was recognized by Ethisphere magazine as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the third consecutive year and was also named by the Reputation Institute as the Most Reputable Company in the Global Insurance Industry for the second consecutive year. In 2009 Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for the eleventh consecutive year. Fortune magazine also ranked Aflac No. 1 on its global list of America's Most Admired Companies in the Life and Health Insurance category. Aflac appears on Hispanic Enterprise magazine's list of the 50 Best Companies for Supplier Diversity and on Black Enterprise magazine's list of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity. Aflac was also named by Forbes magazine as America's Best-Managed Company in the Insurance category. Aflac Incorporated is a Fortune 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFL. To find out more about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

About Be The Match:

Be The Match is a movement that engages a growing community of people inspired to help patients who need a marrow or umbilical cord blood transplant. The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), a leader in the field of marrow and cord blood transplantation, created Be The Match to provide opportunities for the public to become involved in saving the lives of people with leukemia, lymphoma and other life-threatening diseases. Volunteers can join the Be The Match Registry - the world's largest and most diverse listing of potential adult marrow donors and donated cord blood units - as well as contribute financially to Be The Match Foundation or give their time. Be The Match Foundation supports the NMDP by raising funds to grow the Be The Match Registry, help patients with transplant costs and advance medical research. Since operations began in 1987, the NMDP has provided more than 35,000 transplants to help give patients a second chance at life. For more information, visit BeTheMatch.org or call 1 (800) MARROW-2.

About Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center:

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is a patient care, teaching and research affiliate of Harvard Medical School, and consistently ranks among the top four in National Institutes of Health funding among independent hospitals nationwide. BIDMC is clinically affiliated with the Joslin Diabetes Center and is a research partner of Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center. BIDMC is the official hospital of the Boston Red Sox. For more information, visit www.bidmc.org.

About The Boston Red Sox:

A Boston and New England institution since the organization's inception in 1901, the Boston Red Sox and its players are currently involved in numerous charitable organizations throughout New England. The goal of this participation and activity is to harness the passion of Red Sox fans and transform this energy into a vehicle for positive change in the community. Each year the Red Sox donate to over 4,500 organizations throughout New England.

Contact:
Laura Kane
Aflac Incorporated
706.596.3493
lkane@aflac.com

Jon A. Sullivan
Aflac Incorporated
706.763.4813
jsullivan@aflac.com

SOURCE Aflac

Aflac Earns a Spot on 2009 InformationWeek 500 List of Top Technology Innovators Across America

9/15/2009 9:05:00 AM

Aflac Earns a Spot on 2009 InformationWeek 500 List of Top Technology Innovators Across America9/15/2009 9:05:00 AMInsurer's Client Central 2.0 Application Improves Customer Relations Experience

COLUMBUS, Ga., Sept. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Aflac, the leading provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States, today announced that it has been named to the 2009 InformationWeek 500 list of the nation's most innovative users of business technology. The 2009 InformationWeek 500 companies were revealed Sept. 14, at an awards ceremony at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point, California.

Aflac, which is committed to providing the best service possible in response to the more than 12 million annual calls received at its customer service center, was nominated for its Client Central 2.0 application, a .Net-based, rich-client application that integrates information from several systems in an innovative graphical user interface (GUI) experience. The application allows Aflac's customer service representatives to quickly review customer information, policy data, recent claims and calls to effectively answer policyholders' questions.

"We are honored to be included on this prestigious list for the seventh time," said Gerald Shields, Aflac senior vice president and chief information officer. "It just shows that great things can happen when you consistently hire talented people, provide them with the tools they need to do their jobs and give them the freedom to be creative. With Client Central 2.0, we can capture, track and analyze customer retention data to better identify potential lost customers and avoid revenue loss. This is significant for our business, but ultimately Aflac's customers are the winners."

"For over 20 years, the InformationWeek 500 has honored the most innovative users of business technology," said InformationWeek Editor-in-Chief Rob Preston. "Year after year, InformationWeek 500 companies harness technology to improve efficiency, boost productivity, drive revenue and establish a competitive advantage. We applaud this year's winners, and the CIOs and other executives whose ingenuity and risk-taking are at the center of business technology innovation."

InformationWeek's annual 500 list identifies and honors the nation's most innovative users of information technology. Now in its 21st year, the list also tracks the technology, strategies, investments and administrative practices of America's best-known companies. Top winners have included Conway, National Semiconductor, Kimberly-Clark, Hilton Hotels and Unum. The InformationWeek 500 rankings are unique among corporate rankings because they spotlight the power of innovation in information technology, rather than simply identifying the biggest IT spenders.

Additional details about the InformationWeek 500 can be found online at www.informationweek.com/iw500/.

About Aflac (http://www.aflac.com)

For more than 50 years, Aflac products have given policyholders the opportunity to direct cash where it is needed most when a life-interrupting medical event causes financial challenges. As the number one provider of guaranteed-renewable insurance in the United States and the number one insurance company in terms of individual insurance policies in force in Japan, Aflac insurance products provide protection to more than 40 million people worldwide. In 2009, Aflac was recognized by Ethisphere magazine as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the third consecutive year and was also named by the Reputation Institute as the Most Reputable Company in the Global Insurance Industry for the second consecutive year. In 2009 Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for the eleventh consecutive year. Fortune magazine also ranked Aflac No. 1 on its global list of the Most Admired Companies in the Life and Health Insurance category. Aflac appears on Hispanic Enterprise magazine's list of the 50 Best Companies for Supplier Diversity and on Black Enterprise magazine's list of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity. Aflac was also named by Forbes magazine as America's Best-Managed Company in the Insurance category. Aflac Incorporated is a Fortune 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFL. To find out more about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

About InformationWeek Business Technology Network (http://www.informationweek.com/)

The InformationWeek Business Technology Network provides IT executives with unique analysis and tools that parallel their work flow -- from the defining and framing of objectives through to the evaluation and recommendation of solutions. Anchored by InformationWeek, the multimedia powerhouse that looks across the enterprise, the network scales across the most critical technology categories with online properties like DarkReading.com (security), IntelligentEnterprise.com (application architecture), Network Computing (networking and communications) and PlugintotheCloud.com (cloud computing). The network also provides focused content for key IT targets, such as CIOs, developers, and SMBs with Dr. Dobb's InformationWeek Global CIO and bMighty.com, as well as vital vertical industries with InformationWeek Financial Services, Government and Healthcare. With content at the nucleus of our information distribution strategy, IT professionals turn to our network of expert voices, research and communities to stay informed, get advice and research technologies to make strategic business decisions.

About TechWeb (http://www.techweb.com/aboutus)

TechWeb, the global leader in business technology media, is an innovative business focused on serving the needs of technology decision-makers and marketers worldwide. TechWeb produces the most respected and consumed media brands in the business technology market. Today, more than 13.3 million* business technology professionals actively engage in our communities created around our global face-to-face events Interop; Web 2.0; Black Hat and VoiceCon; online resources such as the InformationWeek.com, Light Reading, Intelligent Enterprise, bMighty.com, and Advanced Trading; and the market leading, award-winning InformationWeek, and Wall Street and Technology magazines. TechWeb also provides end-to-end services ranging from next-generation performance marketing, integrated media, market research and analyst services.

TechWeb is a division of United Business Media, a global provider of news distribution and specialist information services with a market capitalization of more than $2.5 billion.

*13.3 million business decision-makers: based on number of monthly connections across TechWeb brands.

Media Contact:
Tim Turner
Public Relations Analyst
706.243.5594
trturner@aflac.com

SOURCE: Aflac

BusinessWeek Magazine Names Aflac a Best Place to Launch a Career

9/4/2009 12:13:00 PM

BusinessWeek Magazine Names Aflac a Best Place to Launch a Career9/4/2009 12:13:00 PM

COLUMBUS, Ga., Sept. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Aflac has been named a Best Place to Launch a Career by BusinessWeek magazine. In a special online report, the magazine noted company benefits and advancement opportunities through leadership development training as favorites among new professionals entering the workforce.

In determining the top companies, BusinessWeek includes feedback from directors of undergraduate career services, a questionnaire completed by finalists about pay, benefits, retention and training programs, data from its survey of U.S. undergrads about the finalists at the top of their list of most desirable employers.

"Aflac believes if you treat your employees right, they will take care of the business," Aflac Chairman and CEO Dan Amos said. "We have practiced this philosophy for more than 50 years, and we believe that it is a major reason why we are considered a great place to launch a career."

Aflac has a University Relations program dedicated to helping the company successfully attract the most outstanding new talent. Through this program, the company offers paid internships and co-ops, including housing for college students. Additionally, Aflac's on-site career development courses and Leadership Academy are counted among the top training programs in the country.

BusinessWeek's special online report, including a complete listing of the top 100 companies can be found at www.businessweek.com.

About Aflac

In 2009, Aflac was recognized by Ethisphere magazine as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for the third consecutive year and was also named by the Reputation Institute as the Most Reputable Company in the Global Insurance Industry for the second consecutive year. In 2009 Fortune magazine recognized Aflac as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America for the eleventh consecutive year. Fortune magazine also ranked Aflac No. 1 on its global list of America's Most Admired Companies in the Life and Health Insurance category. Aflac appears on Hispanic Enterprise magazine's list of the 50 Best Companies for Supplier Diversity and on Black Enterprise magazine's list of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity. Aflac was also named by Forbes magazine as America's Best-Managed Company in the Insurance category.

Aflac Incorporated is a Fortune 500 company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol AFL. To find out more about Aflac, visit aflac.com.

Media Contacts:
Laura Kane
Aflac Incorporated
706.596.3493
lkane@aflac.com

Jon A. Sullivan
Aflac Incorporated
706.763.4813
jsullivan@aflac.com

Analyst and Investment Contact:
Kenneth S. Janke Jr.
Aflac Incorporated
1.800.235.2667, Option 3; Fax: 706.324.6330
kjanke@aflac.com

SOURCE Aflac

http://www.aflac.com