Which statement is incorrect concerning a tax shelter annuity (TSA)?

The statement that annual investment gains are included in participants' gross income is inaccurate in the context of tax shelter annuities (TSAs). In a TSA, the investment gains are tax-deferred, meaning that participants do not include these gains in their gross income until they take distributions. This is a key feature of TSAs, which allows for the growth of investments without immediate tax implications, thereby enabling a more advantageous accumulation of funds for retirement.

Moreover, contributions to TSAs are made on a tax-deferred basis, meaning they reduce taxable income at the time of contribution. Taxes on these funds, including any gains accrued during the investment period, are deferred until the participant begins to withdraw funds, typically during retirement when they may be in a lower tax bracket. It is also essential to note that TSAs are primarily available to employees of nonprofit organizations and certain other eligible groups, solidifying their unique role in retirement planning for these individuals. Distributions from TSAs are indeed taxable, reinforcing the deferred tax advantage during the accumulation phase.