Eligibility and Who Can Apply
The Department of Veterans Affairs offers life insurance to eligible veterans, service members, and certain surviving spouses. You must have served on active duty, be a current reservist or National Guard member, or be a surviving spouse of a veteran who died in service. Eligibility also depends on your service‑connected disability rating and whether you have a pre‑existing condition that the VA does not cover.
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VA Life Insurance Programs Overview
The VA provides three main programs: Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI), Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI), and Family Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (FSGLI). SGLI is automatic for active duty members, VGLI lets you convert SGLI after discharge, and FSGLI covers spouses and children of service members who die while on active duty.
Key Differences
- SGLI: Up to $400,000 coverage, premium deducted from pay.
- VGLI: Up to $400,000, premiums paid directly; rates increase with age.
- FSGLI: Up to $100,000 for spouses, $10,000 for children, no cost to the family.
Steps to Purchase VA Life Insurance
1Verify eligibility – Use the VA's online portal or call the VA Benefits Hotline to confirm you qualify for SGLI, VGLI, or FSGLI.
2Gather required documents – You'll need your DD‑214, Social Security number, and, for VGLI, a recent medical exam if you have a significant health condition.
3Choose a coverage amount – Consider your financial obligations, such as mortgage, dependents, and debt. The VA allows you to select any amount up to the program maximum.
4Complete the application – Submit the appropriate form (SGLI‑1, VGLI‑1, or FSGLI‑1) through eBenefits, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office.
5Pay the premium – For SGLI, premiums are deducted automatically; for VGLI, you'll set up a payment method online or by phone.
6Receive confirmation – The VA will send a policy certificate and explain the claims process.
Cost Considerations
Premiums are age‑based and differ by program. SGLI rates are fixed by law; VGLI rates increase each year you remain enrolled, reflecting the typical rise in health‑insurance costs as you age. FSGLI is provided at no charge to the family, though the coverage limits are lower.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Missing the 120‑day window to convert SGLI to VGLI results in loss of coverage. Keep your mailing address updated in the VA system to receive renewal notices. If you have a pre‑existing condition, the VA may limit coverage or require additional underwriting, so disclose all health information promptly.
Comparison Table
| Program | Maximum Coverage | Premium Source | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| SGLI | $400,000 | Payroll deduction | Active duty service members |
| VGLI | $400,000 | Direct payment | Former SGLI participants, up to 120 days after discharge |
| FSGLI | $100,000 (spouse) / $10,000 (child) | None (free) | Families of service members who die on active duty |