---
title: "What Is Income Rider? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "An income rider is an optional annuity feature that guarantees a stream of lifetime income, often based on an income base that grows at a stated rate...."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/income-rider
publisher: Epic Life Group
apply: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply
quote: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote
---

Annuity terms

# Income Rider

An income rider is an optional annuity feature that guarantees a stream of lifetime income, often based on an income base that grows at a stated rate. It usually costs an annual fee.

## Why it matters

Income riders let an owner plan retirement income without giving up the account value up front. The income base is often not the same as the cash value, and it may not be available for withdrawal. Fees, growth rates, and payout percentages differ by carrier, and many riders require a waiting period or a specific start age. Ask how the payout is calculated and what happens to the money at death. Guarantees rely on the insurer's ability to pay.

Source: [investor.gov](https://www.investor.gov/introduction-investing/investing-basics/investment-products/annuities)

[Read next, for familiesAnnuities explained: fixed, fixed-index, MYGA, income riders and surrender charges](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/annuities)

## Where we use this term

-   [Fixed vs fixed index annuity: how do they work and who do they fit?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/fixed-vs-fixed-index-annuity)

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