Life insurance typically provides financial security for the family in case of unexpected events. However, life insurance for veterans is quite unique. Serving in the military is an honor and a privilege. It is also a risky and demanding job. Veterans risk their lives and well-being to protect the country, and they deserve the best protection in return.
Veterans often have unique needs and requirements that differ from those of civilians. Veterans’ life insurance is a type of life insurance designed specifically for military members and veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several life insurance options for veterans and their families.
Types of Veterans Life Insurance Policies
There are several types of Veterans Life Insurance policies available to veterans and their families. The following are the most popular policies:
- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI): SGLI is a low-cost, term life insurance policy that is available to active duty military members, members of the National Guard and Reserve, and some other eligible individuals. SGLI provides coverage of up to $400,000, and the premium is deducted from the service member’s pay. SGLI is renewable for up to two years after separation from the military.
- Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI): VGLI is a term life insurance policy that is available to veterans who have been discharged from the military. VGLI premiums are based on the age of the veteran and the amount of coverage desired. The policy is renewable for life, and the coverage amount can be up to the amount of SGLI coverage the veteran had before separation.
- Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI): FSGLI is a life insurance policy that is available to spouses and dependent children of service members. FSGLI provides coverage of up to $100,000 for spouses and $10,000 for dependent children.
- Service-Disabled Veterans’ Insurance (S-DVI): S-DVI is a life insurance policy that is available to veterans who have been rated as service-connected disabled by the VA. S-DVI provides coverage of up to $10,000 and is renewable for life.
- Veterans Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI): VMLI is a life insurance policy that is available to veterans who have a service-connected disability and are approved for a VA home loan. VMLI provides coverage that will pay off the mortgage in case of the veteran’s death. The policy provides coverage up to the outstanding balance of the VA mortgage and is payable to the mortgage holder.
Benefits of Veterans Life Insurance
Veterans Life Insurance provides several benefits that make it an essential component of a veteran’s financial planning. Some of the benefits of Veterans Life Insurance include:
- Veterans life insurance provides financial security for the family in case of the veteran’s untimely death. The insurance will provide a death benefit or payout that can help the family pay for expenses such as funeral costs, mortgage, and other bills.
- Low-cost premiums: The premiums for Veterans Life Insurance are lower compared to other types of life insurance policies. This makes it an affordable option for veterans and their families.
- No medical exam required: Veterans Life Insurance policies do not require a medical exam, making it easier for veterans to qualify for coverage.
- Portability: Veterans can transfer their SGLI coverage to VGLI when they leave the military. This allows them to continue their coverage at an affordable rate without the need for a medical exam.
- To leave a legacy: Life insurance can also be used to leave a legacy for the veteran’s family. The death benefit can be used to fund educational expenses, start a business, or any other purpose the veteran chooses.
- To ease the transition to civilian life: Veterans often face significant challenges when transitioning to civilian life. Life insurance can provide peace of mind during this transition and help the veteran and their family focus on other important aspects of their lives.
- To cover medical expenses: Veterans who have service-connected disabilities may need medical treatment that can be costly. Life insurance can help cover these expenses and ensure that the veteran receives the necessary medical care.
Eligibility for Veterans Life Insurance
The eligibility requirements for Veterans Life Insurance policies vary based on the type of policy. Generally, to be eligible for this type of insurance, you must be a veteran or active duty service member who has been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
To learn more about eligibility and how to apply for veterans’ life insurance, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website at www.va.gov.com