How a Living Benefits Rider Can Support You in Tough Times

October 9, 2025

Life rarely unfolds exactly as we plan. Even with the best intentions and preparation, unexpected challenges — like a serious illness or sudden loss of income — can leave families feeling financially and emotionally overwhelmed. That’s where a living benefits rider can make all the difference.

A living benefits rider is an optional feature you can add to a life insurance policy that allows you to access a portion of your death benefit if you’re diagnosed with a qualifying chronic or terminal illness. It’s designed to provide flexibility and financial relief when you need it most — not years later.

How a Living Benefits Rider Works

A living benefits rider allows policyholders to use part of their life insurance benefits early to help manage serious health or financial challenges. Health issues may include a diagnosis of a chronic illness that limits daily activities or a terminal illness with a shortened life expectancy. Instead of waiting until a policy pays out after death, this rider gives access to funds that can be used for medical care, home modifications, or even maintaining household expenses.

In other words, it’s about support, not penalty. The funds you access reduce the death benefit later, but they can make a crucial difference in the present — helping you focus on recovery and time with loved ones rather than financial stress.

Why It Matters When Life Takes a Turn

The reality is that serious illness can affect any family. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 129 million people in the United States have at least one major chronic disease, such as heart disease or cancer, which are leading causes of death and disability. For many households, these diagnoses don’t just bring physical and emotional strain — they can upend financial stability.

A living benefits rider helps bridge that gap. Imagine a single parent who’s been diagnosed with cancer and must take months off work for treatment. Without a steady income, bills and everyday expenses can quickly accumulate. With a living benefits rider, that parent could access a portion of their policy’s value to pay medical costs, cover the mortgage, or maintain a normal life for their children.

This flexibility brings peace of mind — a reminder that life insurance isn’t only about protecting loved ones in the future. It’s also about providing strength and stability during life’s most challenging moments.

How 1891 Financial Life Supports Members Beyond the Policy

At 1891 Financial Life, the goal has always been to go beyond standard insurance solutions. The Society’s not-for-profit mission focuses on walking alongside members through life’s ups and downs — offering more than financial protection, but a true sense of community.

Adding a living benefits rider fits seamlessly into that philosophy. It’s one of many ways 1891 Financial Life helps members feel supported in both ordinary and extraordinary times. Through member programs, volunteer opportunities, and fraternal benefits, 1891 fosters a culture of compassion — where families know they’re never alone in facing challenges.

A Rider That Offers Real-Life Relief

When life takes an unexpected turn, a living benefits rider can provide real-time financial flexibility and emotional reassurance. It’s not just about accessing money — it’s about reclaiming peace of mind and dignity when the future feels uncertain.

About 1891 Financial Life

Our culture is about looking out for you, for others, for family, for the community. That is how we go “Beyond Life Insurance.”

At 1891 Financial Life, we don’t just sell policies, we offer possibilities. We pride ourselves on giving back to the communities that we serve by providing quality and comprehensive insurance solutions. We are a not-for-profit life insurance Society, which means the sales from these financial service products help fund member benefits, along with social, educational, and volunteer programs designed to respond to community needs. In 2023, 1891 Financial Life was listed by Forbes as one of "The World's Best Life Insurance Companies."

Our portfolio is extensive, ranging from various life insurance policies to our annuities — financial vehicles designed to support your lifetime income needs, no matter what stage of life you’re in.