Life insurance riders explained: which add-ons are worth a look

• Waiver of premium: your premiums are waived if you become disabled and cannot work.
• Accelerated death benefit: lets you access part of the benefit if you are diagnosed with a qualifying terminal illness. Some are included at no extra cost.
• Child rider: provides a small amount of coverage on your children.
• Term conversion: lets you convert a term policy to permanent coverage without a new health exam.

Ask what each rider costs and what it actually pays, and whether it is already included. Riders only help if you understand the conditions for using them.

• Your goals for the policy
• Your budget
• Existing disability or other coverage

• The life insurance medical exam: what to expect
• A life insurance check-up: five questions to ask every few years
• Who pays for your funeral? How families cover final expenses