---
title: Life insurance after you leave the military | Veterans
url: https://coverfolk.com/veterans/after-separation
updated: 2026-10-08
---

# Life insurance after you leave the military

Updated October 8, 2026[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

Your SGLI stays free for 120 days after you leave, then it ends. Move fast to keep coverage through VGLI, a private policy, or both.

VA gives you 4 ways to keep life insurance when you leave. Each one has a time limit. Act early so you do not lose an option.

Option 1 is VGLI. Apply within 240 days and VA will not look at your health. Option 2 is the free SGLI Disability Extension for up to 2 years if you are totally disabled. Option 3 is turning SGLI into a private permanent policy within 120 days with no health proof.

Option 4 is to get both VGLI and a private policy. This helps if you want more than VGLI gives. A private company may check your health and may charge more.

VGLI is term coverage that you renew every 5 years. Private term covers a set time, often 10 to 30 years, and the price stays the same. Private whole life costs more but builds cash value. Pick based on your health and your budget.

## Key facts

* SGLI free coverage ends 120 days after you leave.
* VGLI with no health review: apply within 240 days.
* Final VGLI deadline: 1 year and 120 days after you leave.
* SGLI to private permanent policy with no health proof: within 120 days.
* Private insurers often price by gender and tobacco use. VGLI does not.

## At a glance

| Coverage | SGLI while serving (monthly) | VGLI age 29 and younger (monthly) | VGLI age 30 to 34 (monthly) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| **$100,000** | $6.00 | $6.00 | $8.00 |
| **$250,000** | $13.50 | $15.00 | $20.00 |
| **$500,000** | $26.00 | $30.00 | $40.00 |

SGLI totals include the $1 TSGLI charge, from the VA SGLI page. VGLI rates as of July 1, 2025, from the VA VGLI page. Checked October 7, 2026.

## Common questions

Should I pick VGLI or a private policy?

VA says to apply for VGLI right away even if you want private coverage. That way you keep the no health review window open.

Is VGLI good if I am healthy?

VA says private term may fit if you are healthy and want a price that stays the same. VGLI may fit if you have a health condition linked to service.

Can I switch VGLI to a private plan later?

Yes. VA says you can switch VGLI to a private permanent policy at any time with a participating company and no medical exam.

## Sources

1. [Life insurance if you have preexisting conditions, VA](https://www.va.gov/resources/life-insurance-if-you-have-preexisting-conditions/)
2. [Compare VGLI to other life insurance options, VA](https://www.va.gov/resources/compare-vgli-to-other-life-insurance-options/)
3. [Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI), VA](https://www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/vgli/)
4. [Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI), VA](https://www.va.gov/life-insurance/options-eligibility/sgli/)