The VA offers several life insurance programs for service members, veterans, and their families. This 2026 guide compares your options — from automatic SGLI coverage on active duty to VGLI after separation, plus VALife for disabled veterans.
VA life insurance programs at a glance
| Program | Who qualifies | Max coverage |
|---|---|---|
| SGLI | Active duty, Reserve, Guard | $500,000 |
| FSGLI | Spouse/children of SGLI members | $100K spouse / $10K child |
| TSGLI | SGLI-insured w/ traumatic injury | $25K–$100K lump sum |
| VGLI | Separating service members | $500,000 |
| VALife | Veterans 0–80, any rated disability | $40,000 (whole life) |
| S-DVI (closed to new) | Pre-2023 disabled vets | $10,000 |
| VMLI | Vets w/ SAH grant | $200,000 |
SGLI: Active-duty coverage
SGLI covers active service members automatically at $500,000 for just $26 per month. Coverage extends 120 days after separation. Read the full SGLI guide for premium tables.
VGLI: Post-separation term coverage
VGLI continues SGLI-style term coverage after separation. Apply within 240 days for guaranteed acceptance. Premiums rise with age — younger veterans often save with private term.
VALife: For service-connected veterans
VALife launched in 2023 as the new whole-life policy for veterans with any VA disability rating from 0% to 100%. Key features:
- Up to $40,000 in whole-life coverage.
- Guaranteed acceptance regardless of health.
- Available to any veteran under age 81 with a service-connected rating.
- 2-year waiting period before full death benefit pays out. Premiums during that time are returned plus interest if you pass away.
VMLI: Mortgage protection for SAH grant recipients
Veterans' Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI) pays off your mortgage if you die. You qualify if you received a Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant. Coverage maxes at $200,000.
Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-DVI)
S-DVI is closed to new applications as of January 1, 2023. VALife replaced it. Existing S-DVI policies remain in force.
Which VA life insurance is right for you?
- On active duty? Keep your full $500K SGLI.
- Separating soon? Apply for VGLI within 240 days — or compare with private term life.
- Service-connected disability? Add VALife for guaranteed $40K of whole-life coverage.
- Received an SAH grant? Apply for VMLI to protect your mortgage.
Related guides
Compare programs at the VA life insurance hub.