SOLIDARITY AGENCY · COVERAGE EDUCATION

Life Insurance for Veterans: VA and Private Coverage

Published September 30, 2026 · Solidarity Agency, LLC

Leaving the military, retiring, or receiving a disability rating can raise new questions about protecting your family. Start with what you already own and the expenses your loved ones would face. A private policy may supplement existing benefits, but a coverage review should consider your VA options too.

VALife and VGLI serve different needs

VALife is guaranteed-acceptance whole life insurance for eligible Veterans with service-connected disabilities. It offers up to $40,000 of coverage, with full benefits beginning after a two-year waiting period. During that period, a death results in a return of premiums plus interest. The premium does not increase while the policy is maintained. Check the VA’s current eligibility rules before applying.

VGLI lets eligible former service members continue coverage after military service. Application deadlines matter: the VA generally allows applications within one year and 120 days of separation, with no health review when applying within 240 days. Rates depend on age and coverage amount. Review future costs and the current VA rules before comparing it with private coverage.

What to ask a private insurer

Tell the broker about your diagnoses, medications, treatment, and existing policies. Ask how the insurer evaluates your specific history; a percentage rating is not enough information to promise approval. Get the benefit start date, premium schedule, and any limitations in writing.

• Is this term, whole life, or universal life?
• When does the full death benefit begin?
• Which premiums and benefits are guaranteed?
• What happens if my needs or budget change?
• Is this option available in my state?

A checklist for your Veteran coverage review

Gather your VA or military coverage information, private policy statements, beneficiary names, and a comfortable monthly budget. List the obligations your family would need help with, such as housing, childcare, and final expenses. Discuss which benefits already address those needs and which gaps remain.

Keep current coverage while reviewing alternatives. Ask about replacement costs and new policy conditions before making a decision. Solidarity Agency is an independent, disabled Veteran-owned agency and is not affiliated with the VA or any government program.