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Life Insurance Resources for Veterans

Navigating life after military service comes with its own set of unique challenges, one of which is securing the right life insurance. Check out AmFi Life’s hub for Veteran’s Life Insurance, providing valuable information and guidance on life insurance options tailored specifically for those who have served. Here, you’ll find insights into the various types of life insurance available, detailed comparisons between Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) and private policies, and tips for converting your existing coverage.

 

What is the purpose of life insurance?

Life insurance serves as a financial safety net for your loved ones in the event of your passing. It helps cover various expenses such as funeral costs, outstanding debts, and ongoing living expenses for your family.

For veterans, life insurance can provide peace of mind knowing that their family’s financial future is protected, allowing them to focus on transitioning to civilian life without added stress. Additionally, it can serve as a means to leave a legacy or support charitable causes that are important to you.

DIME Formula

The DIME formula is a common method used to determine how much life insurance coverage is necessary. DIME stands for Debt, Income, Mortgage, and Education, which are the four main factors that are considered when calculating life insurance coverage.

Once you have these four figures, add them together. This will give you a rough estimate of the life insurance coverage that you need.

Here's how to calculate life insurance coverage using the DIME formula:

Debt

Add up all your debts, including mortgages, car loans, credit card balances, student loans, and any other outstanding debts.

Income

Determine how much income your family would need if you were to pass away. This includes both your current income and any future income that you would have

Mortage

Calculate how much it would cost to pay off your mortgage in case of your passing.

Education

If you have children, consider how much it would cost to pay for their education, including college expenses.

Other Considerations :

  • Consider if there is any “hidden income” that should also be planned for. Hidden income is income that you receive through your employment but that isn’t part of your gross wages. It includes things like your employer’s subsidy or your health insurance premium, the matching contribution to your 401(k) plan, and any other perks both large and small. This is an often-overlooked insurance need but can be significant.
  • If you want to create an inheritance or make a charitable contribution, buy enough life insurance to achieve those goals.
  • Plan for expenses that arise at death. These include the funeral costs, taxes and administrative costs associated with winding up an estate and passing property to heirs. At a minimum, plan for $15,000.
  • Consider additional factors such as your age, health, and lifestyle to help you determine your specific needs. If you are a first responder or other hero, you may want more coverage.

What are the different types of life insurance for veterans?

Veterans have access to a variety of life insurance options, each with its own set of benefits and coverage features. The most common option is Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI), a renewable term life insurance policy available to veterans who have recently separated from service. VGLI allows you to convert your Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) to a lifelong plan without requiring a medical exam, ensuring continuous coverage.

In addition to VGLI, veterans can also explore individual policies. These private insurance policies, such as Universal Life Insurance, Accident Insurance Coverage, and Level Term Life Insurance, offer more customization and potentially lower rates based on your health and lifestyle.

Single man researching life insurance on laptop

Is SGLI/VGLI enough for me?

Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) is a convenient option for many veterans, offering a seamless transition from military to civilian life with minimal administrative hassle. VGLI provides renewable term life insurance coverage, which means that as long as you continue to pay premiums, your coverage will remain in force.

However, it’s important to evaluate whether VGLI alone meets your financial and family needs. VGLI premiums can increase with age, and the coverage limits might not be sufficient for everyone. Private life insurance policies often provide more flexible terms, potentially lower premiums, and higher coverage amounts, depending on your circumstances. Assessing your financial goals, health status, and family needs can help determine if a combination of VGLI and private insurance is the best strategy for you.

How much does VGLI cost?

The cost of Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) is determined by several factors, including your age and the amount of coverage you select. Premiums are typically higher than those of private policies because VGLI does not require a medical exam for coverage, making it a convenient option for those with health concerns. Rates increase in five-year age brackets, so it’s important to review the premium schedule and consider whether it fits into your long-term financial plan. Comparing the costs and benefits of VGLI with private life insurance policies can help you make an informed decision.

Will VLGI cover my family, or should I consider other options?

Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) is designed to provide life insurance coverage for veterans only and does not extend to family members. This means that your spouse and children will not be covered under your VGLI policy. If you seek comprehensive coverage that includes your family, you will need to explore additional life insurance options.

 

VGLI offers coverage amounts ranging from $10,000 to $400,000, in increments of $10,000. While this can provide a substantial benefit, it may not be sufficient to fully cover all financial needs of a family in the event of the veteran’s death. Factors such as mortgage payments, education expenses, and ongoing living costs for dependents should be considered when determining if VGLI alone is adequate.

For more comprehensive family coverage, AmFi Life’s policies can offer higher coverage amounts and customizable options to secure your family’s financial future. Policies can be tailored to your needs and may offer better rates and benefits based on your health and lifestyle.

Do I need life insurance if I’m single?

Life insurance can still be beneficial even if you’re single. It can help cover any outstanding debts, such as student loans or mortgages, ensuring that your estate is not burdened with unpaid bills. Additionally, life insurance can provide for dependents who rely on you financially, such as aging parents or siblings. Having a policy in place can offer peace of mind knowing that your final expenses will be covered, no matter who relies on you financially.

How does converting my VGLI to a private policy work?

Converting your Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) to a private policy involves several steps designed to ensure a smooth transition. First, you’ll need to select a new life insurance provider that offers policies tailored to your needs. Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll typically be required to undergo a medical examination as part of the underwriting process. This assessment helps determine your eligibility and the premium rates for your new policy.

After your new policy is approved and issued, it’s crucial to coordinate the termination of your VGLI coverage. Ensure that your new private life insurance policy is active and in force before canceling your VGLI to avoid any gaps in coverage. It’s advisable to work closely with your new insurance provider during this transition to ensure all necessary steps are followed, providing continuous protection for you and your family.

 

Can I cancel my VGLI at any time?

Yes, you can cancel your Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) at any time. To do so, you must notify the Office of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (OSGLI) in writing. Once canceled, you will no longer be covered under the VGLI policy, and any future claims will not be paid out. It’s important to have a new life insurance policy in place before canceling VGLI to ensure continuous coverage and avoid any financial gaps for your beneficiaries.

Additional Resources for Veterans

Quick Answers to Common Life Insurance Questions

Click below to find answers to our most commonly asked questions. If you don’t find your answer please contact us directly and one of our representatives will be happy to address your specific concerns.