When it comes to protecting your family’s financial future, life insurance is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Yet, many military families assume that Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) will always provide the best solution.

The truth? Some common misunderstandings could leave you and your loved ones underinsured—or paying more than necessary over time. Here’s how you can make the best choice and why the Uniformed Services Benefit Association® (USBA®) has been a trusted military life insurance provider since 1959.

Myth #1: SGLI Coverage Lasts Forever

SGLI is excellent coverage during active duty, but many service members don’t realize it ends 120 days after separation. While VGLI offers a way to continue coverage, it isn’t your only option—and may not be the best fit for your long-term needs.

What You Can Do

Instead of simply defaulting to VGLI, compare your options. USBA offers group term and whole life insurance policies designed for military families. Some plans provide higher coverage amounts than VGLI, and depending on your situation, USBA’s group rates could be more competitive over time.

Myth #2: VGLI Is the Most Affordable Option

While VGLI is available without medical underwriting if you apply within 120 days of separation, waiting beyond this period means you’ll need to provide evidence of good health to qualify. Additionally, VGLI coverage is limited to the amount you had through SGLI, meaning you cannot increase your coverage beyond what you carried while serving. Furthermore, VGLI rates increase every five years—meaning your premiums could become significantly higher as you age.

A Smarter Alternative

With USBA’s group life insurance, some policies offer coverage amounts of up to $750,000 and predictable premiums, allowing you to increase your coverage beyond SGLI limits if necessary, aiding military families in planning with confidence. Additionally, applying early might secure better rates, depending on your age and health.

Myth #3: Your Spouse and Children Are Automatically Covered

Many assume that SGLI also fully protects their spouse and children. However, FSGLI (Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance) only covers spouses up to $100,000 and dependent children up to $10,000—which may not be enough.

How USBA Helps

USBA simplifies extending coverage to your spouse and children with additional group life insurance options. This means you can customize a plan that provides the financial security your family needs.

Myth #4: Military Life Insurance Has a War Clause

A common concern is that military life insurance won’t pay out if a service member dies in combat.

The Truth About USBA

Unlike some insurance providers that historically included war clauses, USBA was one of the first companies to eliminate the “war clause” from all of our military life insurance policies. That means USBA has NEVER excluded coverage for military members, even in combat zones.

Myth #5: You Can Always Get Life Insurance Later

Some service members think they can wait until they separate or retire before getting additional coverage. However, waiting can mean higher costs or difficulty qualifying if health issues arise.

Plan Now for the Future

Applying for USBA group life insurance while you’re still serving allows you to benefit from preferred rates and ensure a smooth transition after separation. With options for both term and whole life insurance, USBA helps you secure flexible coverage for every stage of military life.

Why Military Families Trust USBA

Since 1959, USBA has been dedicated to serving military families with affordable, no-war-clause life insurance options and excellent customer service. With flexible plans, competitive group rates, and the ability to cover spouses and children, USBA makes it easier to build a financial safety net for your loved ones.

Find the right coverage for your family today: USBA Life Insurance