VGLI Life Insurance for Massachusetts Veterans: Rates & Enrollment
Last reviewed: August 2026
Quick Answer
Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI) is a low-cost federal insurance program offering coverage up to $400,000 for veterans and surviving family members. Massachusetts veterans have 120 days after discharge to enroll without a medical exam. Premiums are age-based and locked at conversion; rates are among the lowest available in the private market. No state-specific additions or surcharges apply to VGLI.
Key Facts
- •VGLI provides low-cost life insurance for veterans up to age 60 with renewable coverage.
- •Massachusetts veterans have 120 days after discharge to apply without medical exam.
- •Premiums are based on age and coverage amount; rates are federally set and affordable.
- •Coverage amounts range from $10,000 to $400,000 in $10,000 increments.
- •Eligible dependents can convert to Survivors' Benefit Plan coverage.
Federal Eligibility Requirements
VGLI eligibility is governed by 38 U.S.C. § 1965 and applies to all servicemembers with active SGLI coverage who separate with an honorable or general discharge (under honorable conditions). Veterans must have been covered by Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) at the time of separation. All service eras qualify, including Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard members.
The critical enrollment window is 120 days following discharge. During this period, veterans may convert to VGLI without providing medical evidence of insurability—no health questionnaire or exam required. This guaranteed-issue conversion right applies regardless of health status at discharge. After the initial 120-day window closes, veterans can still apply but must submit medical evidence and undergo underwriting, which may result in denial or rating restrictions.
Age limits apply: VGLI is available to veterans under age 60 at conversion. Once enrolled, the policy remains in force as long as premiums are paid, even after age 60. Surviving spouses and dependent children may also be eligible for coverage conversion under specific circumstances outlined in 38 C.F.R. § 9.2. Dependents generally have the same 120-day conversion window.
There are no income or asset limits for VGLI. All honorably discharged servicemembers with prior SGLI coverage qualify regardless of financial circumstances. Veterans receiving service-connected disability compensation, those with other insurance, and those in excellent or poor health are all eligible. Presumptive conditions do not apply to VGLI eligibility—this is a group insurance product, not a service-connected benefit.
Benefit Amounts
VGLI coverage amounts in 2024 range from a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $400,000, available in $10,000 increments. Monthly premiums are calculated per $1,000 of coverage and vary by age band at the time of conversion.
2024 Sample Monthly Rates per $1,000 of Coverage (by age at conversion):
Age 29 and under: $0.07 Age 30–34: $0.08 Age 35–39: $0.10 Age 40–44: $0.14 Age 45–49: $0.19 Age 50–54: $0.26 Age 55–59: $0.35
Example: A 35-year-old veteran electing $200,000 coverage pays approximately $20 per month (200 × $0.10). Rates are locked at the time of conversion and do not increase with age as long as premiums remain current. Annual COLA adjustments do not apply to VGLI rates, making them stable and predictable.
Beneficiary designations determine who receives the death benefit. Veterans may name one or more beneficiaries, or allow the benefit to pass to estate. Changes to beneficiary status can be made at any time through online portals or written request to the VA.
Massachusetts Benefits on Top of Federal
Massachusetts has no state-specific additions or supplemental life insurance programs for veterans purchasing VGLI. This is entirely a federal program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Massachusetts does not impose state income tax on VGLI death benefits, federal life insurance proceeds, or federal disability compensation generally—this provides a modest tax advantage compared to commercial life insurance in states that do tax such benefits.
However, Massachusetts offers separate state-level veterans benefits through the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, including educational assistance, health services, and home loan programs. These are distinct from VGLI and operate independently. Some Massachusetts counties maintain veterans service offices that can help veterans understand VGLI options and complete enrollment, though these offices do not administer VGLI itself.
Massachusetts veterans should be aware that VGLI stacks seamlessly with other federal benefits. A veteran receiving VA disability compensation can maintain VGLI coverage simultaneously. Similarly, veterans covered under federal employee health plans or military retiree benefits can carry VGLI as supplemental coverage. The state does not restrict VGLI eligibility based on residency, employment status, or participation in state programs.
For comprehensive veterans services in Massachusetts, contact the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, which can connect veterans to additional state resources and local county veterans service officers. These agencies can explain how VGLI fits within a broader benefits portfolio.
How to Apply
Federal VA Application
To apply for VGLI, Massachusetts veterans should visit the official VA website at va.gov/life-insurance and select the VGLI option. The primary enrollment method is online through VA.gov or the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP) system.
Required documents include: proof of SGLI coverage at discharge, discharge papers (DD Form 214 or equivalent), valid state ID or passport, and beneficiary information (names, Social Security numbers, and relationships). No medical exam or health questionnaire is required during the 120-day guaranteed-issue conversion window.
The VA requires completion of VA Form 8714 (Application for Veterans Group Life Insurance). This form is available online at va.gov/find-forms, or veterans can request a copy by phone. The form asks for basic identifying information, desired coverage amount ($10,000–$400,000 in $10,000 increments), beneficiary designation, and payment method.
Veterans may apply online at va.gov/life-insurance, which is the fastest method. Alternatively, mail the completed VA Form 8714 along with supporting documents to the Office of Group Life Insurance, 290 W Mountain View Avenue, Black Hawk, Colorado 80422. Processing typically takes 10–15 business days online; mailed applications may take 4–6 weeks.
To check application status, veterans can call the VA at 1-800-419-1473 or log in to VA.gov to view pending or approved applications. Once approved, premiums are automatically deducted from the veteran's bank account or military pay (if still receiving federal payments). Confirmation of coverage and premium payment schedules are mailed to the veteran's address on file.
State Application
Massachusetts does not administer a state-specific VGLI program; enrollment is entirely federal. However, Massachusetts county veterans service offices can provide free guidance on VGLI eligibility and help veterans access the federal application process.
To locate your local county veterans service officer, contact the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services at 508-929-4640 or visit mass.gov/veterans. The department maintains links to county-level veterans service offices in all 14 Massachusetts counties, including Essex, Suffolk, Middlesex, Worcester, and others.
County veterans service officers (CVSOs) are federally recognized advocates who provide free assistance completing federal benefits applications, including VGLI forms. They can review your DD Form 214, answer questions about coverage options, and help you submit applications online or by mail. Many offices offer in-person appointments; contact your local CVSO to schedule.
Alternatively, you can work directly with the VA's VGLI program without state intermediaries. Call 1-800-419-1473 (toll-free nationwide) to speak with a VA benefits counselor who can walk you through online enrollment or mail-in application. They can answer questions about coverage amounts, premiums for your age bracket, and beneficiary options.
Processing typically takes 10–15 business days for online applications and 4–6 weeks for mailed forms. Once approved, you will receive a certificate of coverage and billing information. Ensure your contact information is current with the VA to receive notices and premium statements.
Common Reasons for Denial
VGLI applications are rarely denied during the 120-day guaranteed-issue conversion window, but claims are denied or delayed for other reasons. The most common issues include: failure to enroll within the 120-day deadline (loses guaranteed-issue right; post-deadline applications require medical underwriting and may be denied for pre-existing conditions), applying after age 60 (VGLI closes at age 59, day 364), and non-payment of premiums.
When applying after the guaranteed-issue period ends, denied applications often stem from undisclosed health conditions or medical history inconsistencies. The VA will request a medical questionnaire and may deny coverage if applicants fail to disclose serious illnesses, surgeries, or medications that existed before discharge. Applicants with cancer, heart disease, diabetes diagnosed pre-discharge, or psychiatric conditions have faced denials if not disclosed.
Another common reason for denial is incomplete or inaccurate documentation. Applications rejected due to missing or illegible DD Form 214 information, incorrect Social Security numbers, or invalid discharge character must be resubmitted with corrected documents. Providing the wrong discharge character (general discharge vs. honorable) may render an applicant ineligible; only honorable or general discharges (under honorable conditions) qualify.
To build a stronger initial claim, enroll during the 120-day guaranteed-issue window whenever possible—this eliminates medical underwriting entirely. Ensure all personal information matches your military discharge papers exactly. Submit VA Form 8714 completely and accurately, and include a copy of your DD Form 214 even if not explicitly required. If applying post-120 days, disclose all health conditions honestly to avoid later claims disputes. Consider consulting a county veterans service officer who can review your application before submission and flag potential issues.
If You Are Denied: The Appeals Process
VGLI appeals are governed by 38 U.S.C. § 1967 and VA regulations at 38 C.F.R. § 9.2. The three federal appeal lanes are the Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review (HLR), and Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA), each with distinct timelines and processes.
Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) is the first step if you receive a denial letter. You have one year from the date of your denial to file. In a Supplemental Claim, you submit new or previously overlooked evidence that directly addresses the reason for denial. This lane works best if you have new medical evidence, corrected documentation, or additional proof of SGLI coverage at discharge. Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks. No hearing is granted; the VA reviews your file and issues a new decision.
Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996) is available within one year of denial and is appropriate if you believe the VA made a factual or legal error in its decision—not missing evidence. An HLR involves a senior VA reviewer examining the same evidence without new information. This lane is fastest, often resolving in 3–4 weeks. A hearing is optional; many veterans proceed without one, though requesting one may strengthen your case.
Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) is the final federal appeal stage. You have one year from denial to appeal to the BVA by filing VA Form 10182 (Notice of Disagreement) or requesting a hearing. The BVA will review all prior evidence and may conduct an in-person or video hearing if requested. BVA appeals take 9–18 months depending on the docket queue. This lane is best for complex eligibility disputes or when prior appeals have failed.
Free help is available through any VA-accredited veterans service organization (VSO), including state departments of veterans affairs and county veterans service officers. Massachusetts CVSOs provide free representation at no cost and can guide you through any appeal lane. Contact the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services or your local county CVSO for assistance.
Free VGLI guidance is available from Massachusetts county veterans service officers and the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services. Contact your local veterans service office at mass.gov/veterans or call 508-929-4640 for free help understanding VGLI eligibility and completing your application. No fees apply.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 120-day conversion window and why does it matter?
The 120-day conversion window is the period immediately following your discharge during which you can enroll in VGLI without providing medical evidence. This guaranteed-issue right is critical because it means the VA cannot deny your application or charge higher premiums based on health conditions—no medical exam or health questionnaire is required. After 120 days, VGLI applications remain possible but require full medical underwriting. You must answer detailed health questions, disclose pre-existing conditions, and the VA can deny you or impose coverage restrictions based on your health history. Massachusetts veterans should submit VGLI applications within the 120-day period to ensure automatic approval. If you miss this window, you can still apply, but approval is not guaranteed and may take longer.
Can I increase my VGLI coverage amount after enrollment?
Yes, Massachusetts veterans can request an increase in VGLI coverage amount after initial enrollment, but the process differs from initial conversion. Increases within one year of discharge can be approved without medical evidence up to the maximum of $400,000 coverage (in $10,000 increments). After one year, any request for an increase in coverage requires medical underwriting and completion of a health questionnaire. The VA may approve, deny, or approve with restrictions based on health status. Premium rates for increased coverage are locked at the age you request the increase. To request an increase, contact the VA at 1-800-419-1473 or submit a written request through VA.gov. Note that you cannot reduce coverage below the minimum of $10,000 without terminating the policy entirely.
What happens if I stop paying my VGLI premiums?
If VGLI premiums are not paid, your coverage will lapse. The VA typically provides a 30-day grace period for payment after the due date, during which your coverage remains in effect. If premiums remain unpaid after the grace period expires, your VGLI policy terminates. Once terminated, you cannot simply resume paying—reinstatement requires a new application with full medical underwriting, which may be denied based on health conditions that have developed since your original coverage date. To avoid lapse, ensure your bank account information is current or pay premiums manually through VA.gov. If your coverage lapses unintentionally, contact the VA immediately at 1-800-419-1473 to request reinstatement. Reinstatement applications must be submitted within a reasonable time and are not guaranteed. Massachusetts veterans should treat VGLI premiums as a mandatory monthly expense to maintain protection.
Can my spouse or dependents get VGLI coverage in Massachusetts?
Yes, but only in specific circumstances. Your spouse and dependent children may be eligible to convert SGLI Family Coverage to VGLI Survivor Benefit Plan (Family Coverage), which provides life insurance for dependents under age 23 (or up to age 25 if enrolled full-time in college). This conversion must occur within the same 120-day period following your discharge and requires no medical exam. After 120 days, dependent coverage applications require medical evidence and underwriting. Your spouse cannot obtain their own standalone VGLI policy; only servicemembers and separated veterans qualify for individual coverage. However, if your spouse is a veteran, they can apply for their own VGLI based on their military service and discharge. For dependent coverage questions, contact the VA at 1-800-419-1473 or your Massachusetts county veterans service office.
How do I change my beneficiary on my VGLI policy?
Beneficiary changes can be made at any time during the life of your VGLI policy and are free. The most efficient method is to log into your VA.gov account and update beneficiary information directly through the online portal. Alternatively, complete VA Form 1024 (Available for online filing) or VA Form 8716 (Designation of Beneficiary—VGLI) and mail to the Office of Group Life Insurance, 290 W Mountain View Avenue, Black Hawk, Colorado 80422. You can name one primary beneficiary, one or more contingent beneficiaries, or allow the benefit to pass to your estate. If you do not designate a beneficiary, the benefit is distributed according to the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Act, typically to your surviving spouse, then children, then parents. Consider updating your beneficiary if you marry, divorce, have children, or experience other life changes. Massachusetts residents can also request assistance from their county veterans service office to complete beneficiary forms.
Related Benefits in Massachusetts
Sources & References
- 38 U.S.C. § 1965 — Establishes VGLI eligibility and conversion rights for servicemembers.
- 38 C.F.R. § 9.2 — Defines VGLI coverage amounts, age limits, and premium calculations.
- 38 U.S.C. § 1967 — Governs VGLI claims procedures and beneficiary designation rules.
VA benefit rules and state programmes change. Verify at va.gov or with a free Veterans Service Officer.
Editorial standards: This guide is reviewed against primary government sources and cites 3 statutes. Last reviewed August 2026. Scheduled for re-verification by August 2027.
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