SGLI Explained: What it is and when it ends.

Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is the life insurance you carry while on active duty. It is automatic, inexpensive, and covers almost everyone in uniform. It is also temporary, so knowing how it ends matters as much as knowing what it covers.

SGLI Coverage and Costs Explained

SGLI provides up to $500,000 in coverage. The premium is deducted directly from your pay. Because it is a group policy subsidized by the government, the cost is very low regardless of your age or health. Your family can also be covered through Family SGLI while you serve. See life insurance for military families for how spouse and child coverage works.

The 120-Day End

The most important thing to know about SGLI is that it is temporary. When you leave the military, your SGLI coverage continues for 120 days at no cost to you. On day 121, your coverage ends completely. What comes next is covered in what happens when you leave the service.

What to Do Before It Ends

You need a replacement policy in place before your 120 days run out. If you wait until day 120 to apply for private coverage, you may have a gap in protection while the new policy goes through medical underwriting. We recommend starting the process 30 to 60 days before you separate.

You have two main paths. You can convert to VGLI with no health questions if you apply within the deadline, or you can buy a private term policy, which often costs less over time if you are healthy. For the full set of choices, start with veteran life insurance, explained.

Frequently Asked Questions