Why it matters
You can switch to VGLI within 1 year and 120 days of leaving. Apply within 240 days and you skip the health questions. VGLI is term coverage from $10,000 to $500,000, but no more than your SGLI amount.
Veterans with a service connected disability rating, even 0 percent, may qualify for VALife. It is up to $40,000 of whole life with no health questions. You can also compare a private policy to see what fits.
- SGLI coverage lasts 120 days after you leave the military. You can convert to VGLI within 1 year and 120 days, or to a private policy within 120 days without a health exam.
- VGLI needs no health review if you apply within 240 days of leaving. After that you must show you are in good health.
- VALife offers up to $40,000 of whole life in $10,000 steps. Full coverage starts 2 years after you apply. If you die in those 2 years, your family gets premiums paid plus interest.
What an insurer may ask you
Have these ready. Being honest up front gets you a real price and avoids problems at claim time.
- Your discharge date
- Current SGLI amount
- Service connected disability rating
- Health, age, and tobacco use
- Current job
Common questions
How long do I have to convert SGLI to VGLI?
1 year and 120 days after you leave. Apply within 240 days to skip the health review.
How much VGLI can I get?
From $10,000 to $500,000, up to the SGLI amount you had when you left.
What is VALife?
Whole life from the VA for veterans with a service connected rating. Up to $40,000. No health questions. Full coverage starts after 2 years.
Can I raise my VGLI later?
If you are under the max, you can add $25,000 one year after you get VGLI, then every 5 years, until age 60.
