Introduction:

In this blog, we will explore the top-term insurance plans that offer an additional layer of protection through accelerated death benefit riders.

By combining the benefits of term insurance with coverage against unforeseen accidents, these plans ensure enhanced financial security for you and your loved ones. Read on to discover the finest term plans with accelerated death benefit riders that provide peace of mind and safeguard your future.

What is an accelerated death benefit rider?

An accelerated death benefit rider, also known as a terminal illness rider, is an optional addition to a life insurance policy that allows the policyholder to receive a portion of the death benefit in advance if diagnosed with a qualifying serious illness, often a terminal one. The amount received through the rider is deducted from the total death benefit.  It provides funds to cover various expenses, including medical treatments and end-of-life care.

How does an accelerated death benefit rider work?

When a policyholder is diagnosed with a terminal illness, they can apply to their insurance company for an accelerated death benefit along with a medical proof of life expectancy of less than one year after getting diagnosed with the respective terminal illness diseases. The insurance company will then review the application and determine if the policyholder meets the criteria for the rider. If approved, the policyholder will receive a lump sum payment from the insurance company, which can be used to cover any expenses related to their illness.

Why is an accelerated death benefit rider important in term insurance?

When faced with a serious illness, such as a terminal condition, the first concern that arises is often the cost of medical treatment. Terminal illnesses, including heart and liver diseases, often come with substantial medical expenses. Even treatments for various cancers can be financially draining, requiring multiple doses and running into significant costs. While health insurance policies cover hospitalisation expenses, they may not cover the costs of medications and other specialised treatments.

Having an accelerated death benefit rider within a term insurance plan becomes essential in such situations. It provides a lump sum payout that can be used to cover comprehensive medical expenses and mortality-related costs. This additional coverage beyond traditional health insurance plans offers individuals the necessary financial support during a challenging period, ensuring they can access quality medical care without the added burden of excessive expenses.

How much does an accelerated death benefit rider cost?

The cost of an accelerated death benefit rider varies depending on the insurance company and the terms of the policy. Many companies also offer this add-on- as a built in feature in their policies and hence charge no extra premium for it, otherwise also it is typically a very nominal additional premium that is added to the monthly premium payment.

Is an accelerated death benefit rider right for me?

If you are concerned about the cost of medical treatment if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, an accelerated death benefit rider may be a good option for you. It can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you will have financial resources to cover your medical expenses. However, it is important to carefully consider the terms of the rider and the cost before you decide if it is right for you.

If you have any questions about accelerated death benefit riders, you can always speak to our experts and connect with them on a free advisory call here at Ditto. They can help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of the rider and determine if it is right for your needs.

Best term Insurance plans with Accelerated Death Benefit rider:

Insurance Company

HDFC Life

ICICI Prudential Life

Max Life

Plan Name

Click 2 Protect 3D Plus

iProtect Smart

Online Term Plan Plus

Minimum Age at Entry

18 years

18 years

18 years

Maximum Age at Entry

65 years

65 years

60 years

Policy Term

5-40 years

5-40 years

10-40 years

Premium Payment Term

Regular Pay, Limited Pay, Single Pay

Regular Pay, Limited Pay, Single Pay

Regular Pay, Limited Pay

Terminal Illness Rider Available?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Coverage Amount for Terminal Illness

Up to 100% of the base sum assured

Up to 100% of the base sum assured

Up to 100% of the base sum assured

  1. HDFC Life Click 2 Protect 3D Plus : The HDFC Life Click 2 Protect 3D Plus plan offers comprehensive coverage with the option of an accelerated death benefit rider. It has a minimum age at entry of 18 years and a maximum age at entry of 65 years. The policy term ranges from 5 to 40 years, and you can choose from regular pay, limited pay, or single pay premium payment terms, covering up to 100% of the base sum assured in case of a terminal illness.
  2. ICICI Prudential Life iProtect Smart: The ICICI Prudential Life iProtect Smart plan is designed to provide enhanced protection with the flexibility of an accelerated death benefit rider. The minimum age at entry is 18 years, and the maximum age at entry is 65 years. The policy term ranges from 5 to 40 years, and you have the option of regular pay, limited pay, or single pay premium payment terms, offering coverage up to 100% of the base sum assured for terminal illness.
  3. Max Life Online Term Plan Plus: The Max Life Online Term Plan Plus is a reliable term insurance plan that focuses on providing financial security. It has a minimum age at entry of 18 years and a maximum age at entry of 60 years. The policy term ranges from 10 to 40 years, and you can choose between regular pay and limited pay premium payment terms, ensuring coverage up to 100% of the base sum assured in the event of a terminal illness.

In summary, all three plans offer similar features and benefits. They all provide coverage for a maximum of 40 years, have a minimum age at entry of 18 years, and offer a terminal illness rider. The main difference between the plans is the maximum age at entry. HDFC Life Click 2 Protect 3D Plus has the highest maximum age at entry of 65 years, while Max Life Online Term Plan Plus has the lowest maximum age at entry of 60 years.

CTA

Conclusion

In conclusion, term plans with an accelerated death benefit rider offer significant advantages for individuals seeking financial security during terminal illnesses. These plans, available from various insurance providers, provide policyholders with the option to access a portion of their death benefit in advance. This early payout can help cover medical expenses and end-of-life care, easing the financial burden during challenging times. Consider exploring different term plans with an accelerated death benefit rider to find the one that best suits your needs and provides the necessary support and protection for you and your family.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are all term insurance plans equipped with an accelerated death benefit rider?

No, not all term insurance plans include an accelerated death benefit rider. It's important to carefully review the policy details and select a plan that offers this rider as an optional feature.

Can the accelerated death benefit rider be added to an existing term insurance policy?

In most cases, the accelerated death benefit rider can be added to an existing term insurance policy, subject to the terms and conditions set by the insurance provider.

Is there a waiting period before the accelerated death benefit rider becomes effective?

Yes, there is typically a waiting period specified by the insurance provider before the accelerated death benefit rider can be utilized, usually ranging from a few months to a year.

Is the accelerated death benefit rider available to individuals of all age groups?

The availability of the accelerated death benefit rider and the eligibility criteria may vary among insurance providers. It's important to review the terms and conditions of the specific policy.

Can the accelerated death benefit rider be used for any purpose?

The accelerated death benefit rider can typically be used at the policyholder's discretion, including covering medical expenses, hospice care, or fulfilling other financial obligations during a terminal illness.

Is the accelerated death benefit rider available for both single and joint life-term insurance plans?

The availability of the accelerated death benefit rider may vary based on the type of term insurance plan. It's essential to check with the insurance provider to determine if it is applicable to your specific plan.

What are the criteria for qualifying as a terminal illness under the accelerated death benefit rider?

The criteria for qualifying as a terminal illness may vary among insurance providers. Typically, it refers to a diagnosed illness where the life expectancy is limited, often defined as 12 months or less.

Does the accelerated death benefit rider have an impact on the premium amount?

The accelerated death benefit rider may have an additional cost associated with it, which could affect the overall premium amount for the term insurance policy. It's important to consider the financial implications.