SGLI for National Guard and Reserve
Ready Reserve - If you are returning to your unit with at least 12 months of
service remaining, your SGLI coverage will automatically go to the maximum SGLI coverage of
$400,000. SGLI coverage will default to this level regardless of your coverage level while you
were on active duty. If you do not wish to have the maximum coverage you must complete VA Form
SGLV 8286, “Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Election & Certificate” (
http://www.insurance.va.gov/sgliSite/forms/8286.htm)
to either select a lesser amount of coverage or to decline having the coverage. You should complete
the form upon return to your unit and give it to your personnel clerk.
The same is true of your Family SGLI coverage, which automatically goes to the maximum
coverage of $100,000. If you want less than the maximum Family SGLI coverage or no Family SGLI
coverage, you must complete VA Form SGLV 8286A “Family Coverage Election (FSGLI)” (
http://www.insurance.va.gov/sglisite/forms/8286A_2010-12-22.pdf)
and give it to your unit’s personnel clerk upon your return to your unit.
Your coverage for dependent children ($10,000) is also in effect as long you have full-time
SGLI coverage.
Individual Ready Reserve - If you are assigned to the IRR you will not be entitled to
full-time SGLI. The following provisions apply:
- Your SGLI will continue for 120-days from your date of discharge from active duty, then it will
cease.
- You are eligible for part-time SGLI that provides coverage only for the actual time you are on
inactive duty for training.
- Also you are eligible to apply for VGLI or to apply for permanent insurance with a commercial
insurance company participating in the SGLI Conversion Pool.
- Follow this link to view information about converting your SGLI policy:
http://www.insurance.va.gov/sglisite/sgli/sgli.htm
IRR Exception: You are eligible for SGLI coverage if your are in an IRR status
that has you assigned to a unit and scheduled to drill at least 12 times a year, even though you
are in a non-pay status. Examples of this kind of IRR duty are the VTU status in the Naval
Reserve and IMA status in the Army Reserve. In this case, you can maintain full-time SGLI and
Family SGLI coverage.
Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI) is a disability rider to the SGLI
program that provides automatic traumatic injury coverage to all service members covered under the
SGLI program who suffer sever losses due to traumatic injuries. TSGLI payments range from
$25,000 to a maximum of $100,000 depending on the type and severity of injury.
Date Last Reviewed: May 25, 2011
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