What is a life insurance rider?

A rider is an optional add-on provision that customizes your policy with extra benefits, usually for an additional premium. Common riders include the waiver of premium rider (waives payments if you become disabled), the accelerated death benefit rider (lets you access a portion of your death benefit early if diagnosed with a terminal illness), and the child rider (extends coverage to your children). Riders let you tailor a policy to your specific needs without buying a separate policy.