
Term life insurance with a spouse rider is a type of life insurance policy that covers two people, typically a married couple, for a specified period.
This type of policy provides financial protection to the surviving spouse in the event of the primary policyholder's death.
The spouse rider can be added to a term life insurance policy for an additional premium, which varies depending on the insurance company and policy terms.
A common range for the additional premium is between 10% to 30% of the primary policy's premium.
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What is Term Life Insurance with Spouse Rider?
Term life insurance with a spouse rider provides coverage for both you and your partner, giving you peace of mind in case something happens to either of you.
A spouse rider extends coverage to your partner, allowing you to provide a death benefit if they pass away. This can be especially helpful if your partner's health status inhibits them from purchasing affordable life insurance.

The cost of a spouse rider varies by insurance company, but it can be a worthwhile investment if it gives you financial and emotional comfort. You'll need to consider whether you can afford the cost of the rider and if it's worth the added expense.
Some life insurance policies, like the Gerber Life Family Plan, offer the option to add a spouse rider to your existing policy, making it easy to add coverage for your partner. This can be a convenient option if you already have a life insurance policy in place.
A spouse rider can provide modest protection to cover expenses such as medical bills or funeral costs, giving you one less thing to worry about in a difficult time. This can be especially important if you're not sure how you'll cover these costs without the added income from your partner's life insurance policy.
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Are Spousal Riders Worth It?
A spousal rider may not be the best option for everyone, especially if your spouse is in good health.

In fact, a separate term life insurance policy for your spouse may be more beneficial, considering their risk class and age can impact the premium cost.
You'll also need to factor in the medical exam required for the rider, which could increase the premium.
Losing coverage is a significant disadvantage of spousal riders.
If the primary insured individual passes away, the rider no longer applies, leaving your spouse to find new coverage, which can be costly.
Similarly, if the marriage ends through a divorce, the rider won't cover your spouse, putting them back at square one.
Purchasing life insurance coverage for both spouses ensures that you're both covered, regardless of death or divorce.
In most cases, a spousal rider won't save you much money on monthly premiums, and you'll find that life insurance policies for your spouse can be surprisingly affordable.
With term life insurance policies, you'll have hundreds of options to choose from, giving you a better chance of finding the most advantageous coverage for yourself.
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Calculating Coverage and Costs

Certain life insurance riders, like accelerated death benefits, might come at a minimal or even zero cost.
The price of a spouse rider, on the other hand, can vary depending on the insurance company, but it's often an additional cost.
To get a more accurate quote, you'll need to consider the specific rider and insurance company you're working with.
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How Much Coverage Do I Need?
You and your partner should sit down and discuss what you believe to be the most beneficial option for you two.
To determine the right coverage, calculate all your loans and debts, considering how many people rely on your income if both of you work.
Considering how many people rely on your income is a crucial factor, as hundreds of spouses suffer through the grief of losing their spouse and struggle to pay bills.
You should also think about whether one of you could live off a single income, and various other factors come into play when trying to locate the most advantageous coverage for you and your loved ones.
Every year, many spouses find themselves dealing with bills they can't pay after losing their partner, so it's essential to avoid this situation and talk to a life insurance agent for guidance.
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What Are Insurance Riders Costs?

Insurance riders can add significant value to your policy at a relatively low cost. Certain riders, like accelerated death benefits, might come at no extra cost.
The cost of an insurance rider depends on the type of rider and the insurance company offering it. This means that quotes can vary significantly.
Some riders, like a spouse rider, come with an additional cost, but can be beneficial for individuals who struggle to find affordable standalone life insurance.
Understanding Spousal Rider Options
Spousal Rider Options can provide a safety net for your loved ones, especially if your spouse has a health condition that makes it difficult to obtain affordable standalone life insurance.
The Spouse's Paid-Up Insurance Purchase Option (SPPO) rider gives your spouse the right to purchase a new paid-up life insurance policy on their life, without providing evidence of insurability. This can be an effective estate planning tool.
This rider may serve to insure someone who is otherwise uninsurable, and it's included in most New York Life policies at no additional cost.
The cost of a spouse rider varies depending on the insurance company, but it can be a worthwhile investment for those who can afford it.
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Spouse's Paid-Up Insurance Option
The Spouse's Paid-Up Insurance Purchase Option (SPPO) is a valuable rider that can give your spouse the right to purchase a new paid-up life insurance policy on their life without providing evidence of insurability. This means they can be insured even if they're otherwise uninsurable.
This rider can be an effective estate planning tool and is included in most New York Life policies at no additional cost. It's a great benefit to have, especially if your spouse has a pre-existing health condition that makes it difficult for them to get affordable standalone life insurance.
The SPPO rider is particularly useful if you die first, as it allows your spouse to purchase a new policy without having to go through the underwriting process. This can be a huge relief, especially if your spouse is older or has a health condition that would make it hard for them to qualify for a new policy.
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Spousal Insured Rider
A spousal insured rider extends coverage to your spouse, providing a death benefit if they pass away.
This rider is helpful if your spouse's health status inhibits them from purchasing affordable life insurance, but it won't provide the same level of coverage as an independent policy.
The rider does offer modest protection to cover expenses such as medical bills or funeral costs, which can be a significant relief in a difficult time.
Your spouse won't have to take a medical exam for the rider, but their age and risk class may impact the premium cost.
In most cases, purchasing a separate term life insurance policy for your spouse is more beneficial and affordable than a spousal rider.
Do You Need an Insurance Rider?
You might be wondering if you really need an insurance rider. To decide, think about your immediate and future needs. Consider whether you need the extra coverage from the rider right now or if you'll need it later on.
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A rider can provide more protection if certain circumstances arise, or give you greater flexibility on how you can use your benefits. This can be especially helpful if you're concerned about your financial situation or want peace of mind.
The cost of a rider is something to consider. You should ask yourself if you can comfortably afford it. Not having it might make you worry, so think about whether it's worth the extra expense.
If you have a family, you might want to consider a rider that covers your spouse and/or child(ren). This can give you added peace of mind and protect your loved ones in case something happens to you.
Family Insurance Plans
A family insurance plan can provide flexible coverage at a price that's right for you. This type of plan is designed to meet the needs of your family, including your spouse.
A spousal insured rider is a great option to consider, as it extends coverage to your spouse even if they're not in good health. This rider provides modest protection to cover expenses like medical bills or funeral costs.
Having a family insurance plan can give you peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones will be taken care of if something happens to you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should both husband and wife get term life insurance?
Generally, both spouses should consider term life insurance, especially if one is the primary earner or they have dependent children. This ensures the family's financial stability in case of an unexpected event
Sources
- https://www.newyorklife.com/articles/your-policy-your-way
- https://www.lifeant.com/what-is-a-spousal-rider/
- https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/life-insurance/life-insurance-riders/
- https://www.gerberlife.com/learn/about-life-insurance-riders
- https://hinermangroup.com/spouse-riders-on-life-insurance-policies/
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