Years ago, Henry purchased a deferred annuity with a single premium payment of $25,000. He never took any distributions or withdrawals and today, the annuity's value is $53,000. The contract provides for a traditional death benefit guarantee. If Henry were to die today, what death benefit would the contract pay? (Search Chapter 1)

a. $25,000

b. $28,000

c. $53,000

d. $78,000