What is a Life Insurance Rider and Why Should You Consider Adding It to Your Policy?

When you buy life insurance, you’re adding extra coverage that helps protect your loved ones. But did you know you can make your policy even better with something called a life insurance rider?  

Many policy owners don’t realize what riders are or how they work. It is an add-on to your policy. Adding a rider is like expanding your financial toolkit—just like you'd add tools for specific needs, riders fine-tune your policy to fit your life better. 

Riders are optional add-ons to a life insurance policy that may let you customize your coverage, whether it’s extra protection, additional benefits, or help during unexpected events like disability. The best part? Riders may be available to help your insurance grow as you and your family grow. 

How do life insurance riders work? 

Riders let you add extra protection and flexibility to your policy. It’s all about giving you peace of mind. When you buy a life insurance policy, you can ask your agent about riders. They’ll help you choose the ones that are right for you. 

What are some benefits of riders? 

Riders May: 

• Add more protection to help your family 
  Riders allow you to customize your life insurance policy to better fit your family's specific needs. That could mean more financial help for your loved ones if something happens to you. 

• Help cover kids or a spouse 
  You can add coverage for your children. It’s an easy way to make sure they’re protected too. This can provide critical financial help for funeral expenses in the event of a tragedy.  

• Keep your policy active if money gets tight 
  Some riders cover your payments if you become disabled or lose your income. Your coverage stays in place when you need it most. These riders protect your long-term coverage by taking care of your premiums—so you don’t have to choose between financial hardship and insurance security.  

• Add more coverage later  
  This is especially good if you experience major life changes like marriage, children, or buying a home. Life riders are a smart way to make your life insurance work harder for you. 

What are the most common life insurance riders? 

Life insurance riders that may be added include: 

• Accidental Death Benefit – May pay extra money if you die in an accident. 

• Child Term Rider – Adds coverage for your kids, often up to a certain age. 

• Term Insurance Rider – Adds more coverage for a set time. 

• Waiver of Premium – If you become disabled, a Waiver of Premium may help you keep your life insurance policy going without making you pay.  

Consider this: 

Riders aren’t one-size-fits-all. You’ll want to think about your family, job, health, and future plans. Talking to a licensed Kemper Life agent can help you choose the best riders for your situation. 

Riders may seem small, but they can make a big difference when life changes.  

Protecting What Matters Most 

Kemper Life riders offer flexibility to enhance your protection affordably, so your loved ones stay protected no matter what stage of life you’re in.   

Need help figuring out which riders are right for you? Your local Kemper Life agent can come to your home and help you choose a rider that fits your evolving needs and budget. They’ll answer all your questions and help you feel confident about protecting your future, so you can enjoy your future with peace of mind. 

"Kemper Life is the brand name for insurance products issued by subsidiary insurance companies controlled by Kemper Corporation. Each subsidiary of Kemper Corporation is solely responsible for the insurance products it underwrites and issues.  

This material is for informational purposes. Consider your own financial circumstances carefully before making a decision and consult with your tax, legal, or estate planning professional. "

*All insurance products are subject to state availability, issue limitations and contractual terms and conditions. Each company has sole financial responsibility for its own products.  Please contact your agent or nearest district office for more information.