Applying for VGLI when you separate or retire
How do I apply for VGLI when I leave the military?
When you leave the military, you can apply for Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) within 1 year and 120 days from your discharge for up to the amount of coverage you had through SGLI.
Learn more about VGLI
You can also convert your SGLI policy into a civilian policy within 120 days from the date you left the military.
Get the list of participating companies and learn how to convert to an individual policy
Can I get a free extension of my SGLI coverage if I’m disabled when I leave the military?
You may be able to keep your coverage for up to 2 years after the date you left the military if you meet either of the requirements listed here.
At least 1 of these must be true:
- You’re totally disabled at the time of your discharge and unable to work, or
- No matter your work status, you’ve had 1 of these conditions:
- Total loss of hearing in both ears
- Loss of speech that leaves you unable to talk—even in a whisper—without the help of an artificial device
- Permanent (long-lasting) loss of use of both of your hands, feet, or eyes, or 1 hand and 1 foot, or 1 hand or foot and 1 eye
How do I apply for an SGLI Disability Extension?
You’ll need to apply for the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Disability Extension (SGLI-DE).
To apply, fill out the SGLI Disability Extension Application (SGLV 8715) and send it to the OSGLI address listed on the application.
Get SGLV 8715 to download
If you get approved, you’ll receive a notice 20 months after your separation date letting you know that your SGLI-DE will end and that you now have the option to pay a premium for Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI).
If you pay the premium, you’ll be able to keep your life insurance coverage for as long as you keep paying the premiums.
Learn more about VGLI
What if I need help with my claim?
If you have questions about Servicemembers’ or Veterans’ Group Life Insurance, you can call the Office of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (OSGLI) at 800-419-1473, or email the Prudential Insurance Company.
Which forms would my family member need?
- To request an advance insurance payment for a service member who’s terminally ill, a family member would file a Claim for Accelerated Benefits (SGLV 8284). Get SGLV 8284 to download
- To receive an insurance payment after a service member has died, a family member would file a Claim for Death Benefits (SGLV 8283). Get SGVL 8283 to download
- To help a service member get short-term financial support while recovering from a traumatic injury, a family member would work with the service member to file an Application for TSGLI Benefits (SGLV 8600). Get SGLV 8600 to download
