Rider
An add-on to a life (or health) policy that changes benefits or costs.
Plain definition
On life insurance, a rider is an optional attachment—waiver of premium, accelerated death benefit, child term, or guaranteed insurability—that alters the base contract. Riders have their own rules, costs, and expiry conditions.
Why it matters
Riders can fill a specific gap cheaply, but they also add complexity at claim time. Each rider must be evaluated on its own terms.
Example
A waiver-of-premium rider may continue coverage without premium payments if you become totally disabled, as defined in the rider—not colloquial “can’t work.”
Common misunderstanding
Riders are not free extras bundled for marketing. They often increase premium and may expire at certain ages.
Policy language always controls. This is educational content, not advice. See our disclaimer.