At this point of time there are eight life insurance programs in existence for service members and veterans. Of these, only four are open for new entrants:  

Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (SDVI)

Veterans, who left service on or after April 24th, 1951, and, who have a service connected disability may apply for SDVI as long as they do it within 2 years from the date of their award for a service-connected disability. This insurance value is up to $10,000.

Veterans, who are totally disabled can apply for their premiums to be waivered, and an additional $10,000 of coverage. However, the premiums for the additional $10,000 cannot be waived. To apply for the premium waiver and the additional $10,000 of coverage, veterans must meet the following criteria:        

• They must have a SDVI policy
• They must be under the age of 65
• They must meet the requirements for total disability
• They must apply within one year of notification of meeting total disability requirements

Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)

This insurance is for severely disabled veterans, who have been approved for Specially Adapted Housing Grants. All that is required of the veteran is to provide the required information and to not decline the offer. This insurance is payable only to the mortgage company and is for up to $90,000. When the mortgage is paid off, the insurance is automatically terminated. If the veteran sells the home, the insurance can be used on another mortgage.

Service Members' Group Life Insurance (SGLI)

SGLI is for active duty service members and for amounts up to $250,000. A rider policy called the Family Service members' Group Life Insurance (FSGLI). Under FSGLI, dependent children are automatically covered for $10,000, with not premium. Spouses may be covered for up to $100,000, but not to exceed the amount of coverage selected by the veteran in his/her SGLI. FSGLI for spouses are charged a premium.

Veterans' Group Life Insurance(VGLI)

SGLI can be converted to VGLI when service members depart the service. Before converting to VGLI, the veteran should look at commercial life insurance policies, which can be quite competitive.

Accelerated Death Benefits for SGLI, FSGLI, VGLI: Terminally ill patients with nine months or less to live may receive up to 50% of their coverage amount in advance.

For more information on these life insurance policies, go to http://www.insurance.va.gov or call 1-800-669-8477