VGLI Life Insurance for Texas Veterans: Rates & Enrollment
Last reviewed: July 2026
Quick Answer
VGLI (Veterans' Group Life Insurance) provides term life insurance coverage up to $400,000 for Texas veterans and former service members at group rates without medical underwriting. Monthly premiums for 2024 range from approximately $10.47 to $537.56 depending on age and coverage level. Texas offers no additional state-level life insurance benefit; VGLI is a purely federal program administered by the VA Office of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance.
Key Facts
- •VGLI provides up to $400,000 in life insurance for veterans without medical underwriting.
- •Texas veterans must apply within 120 days of discharge or loss of SGLI coverage.
- •Monthly premiums are based on age and coverage amount, not health status.
- •VGLI is convertible to commercial life insurance if coverage lapses.
- •Surviving spouses and dependents can continue coverage under conversion options.
Federal Eligibility Requirements
Veterans qualify for VGLI if they had SGLI (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance) coverage while on active duty, in the Reserve, or with the National Guard, and their coverage ends due to discharge or separation from service.
Veterans must apply within 120 days of discharge or loss of SGLI eligibility to obtain VGLI without medical underwriting. This 120-day window is critical: after this period, applicants must submit to a medical examination and evidence of insurability, which may result in denial if health conditions have developed.
VGLI covers all veterans regardless of discharge status, provided they held SGLI immediately before separation. There is no service-connected disability requirement; all former SGLI holders are eligible. Coverage amounts range from the minimum of $10,000 to the maximum of $400,000 in $10,000 increments. Veterans may elect coverage equal to their SGLI amount or less.
Spouses and dependents cannot directly hold VGLI but may be designated as beneficiaries. If a veteran dies, surviving spouses and dependent children become eligible for the Survivor Benefit Plan (if elected) and may convert VGLI to a commercial policy under conversion provisions. Dependent eligibility for VGLI conversion requires meeting family relationship definitions under 38 U.S.C. § 1965(b).
There are no income or asset limits for VGLI eligibility. The only disqualification is failure to apply within the initial 120-day window without subsequently proving insurability through medical examination. Applicants with preexisting conditions or recent health changes should apply immediately to preserve the automatic eligibility window.
Benefit Amounts
VGLI monthly premiums for 2024 are calculated by age and coverage amount. Premiums are gender-neutral and based on eight age brackets:
$10,000 Coverage: Ages 29 and under $10.47/month; ages 30–34 $12.59/month; ages 35–39 $15.78/month; ages 40–44 $22.41/month; ages 45–49 $33.45/month; ages 50–54 $51.12/month; ages 55–59 $79.74/month; ages 60–64 $120.67/month; ages 65+ $190.13/month.
$400,000 Coverage: Ages 29 and under $418.88/month; ages 30–34 $503.60/month; ages 35–39 $631.20/month; ages 40–44 $896.40/month; ages 45–49 $1,338.00/month; ages 50–54 $2,044.80/month; ages 55–59 $3,189.60/month; ages 60–64 $4,826.80/month; ages 65+ $7,605.20/month.
Rates scale linearly between minimum and maximum coverage amounts. Premiums are deducted monthly from VA payments if the veteran receives compensation or pension; otherwise, direct billing applies. Annual COLA adjustments occur each December. Rates are guaranteed level throughout the veteran's lifetime once elected; VGLI does not increase based on age or health status changes.
Texas Benefits on Top of Federal
Texas provides no additional state-level life insurance benefit specifically for veterans holding VGLI. VGLI is exclusively a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance, and no state statute creates a complementary or supplemental state life insurance product.
However, Texas does offer broader veterans benefits that may indirectly support life insurance planning. Texas Property Code § 41.002 provides property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, and Texas Tax Code § 11.431 exempts disabled veterans from certain ad valorem taxes. These tax savings can free household income to help pay VGLI premiums. Additionally, Texas Veterans Commission operates county veterans service offices throughout the state that provide free counseling on federal benefits, including guidance on VGLI coverage amounts and conversion options.
Texas does not impose a state income tax, which may reduce the overall tax burden on veterans receiving VA compensation and thus increase disposable income available for life insurance premiums. Veterans in Texas should focus on federal VGLI options rather than seeking state alternatives, as VGLI is the most cost-effective group term life insurance available to service members and veterans.
Veterans in Texas who allow VGLI coverage to lapse may convert to a commercial life insurance policy through the conversion privilege, but this conversion is a federal provision, not a state benefit. County veterans service offices in Texas can help veterans understand the conversion process and locate commercial carriers offering these conversions.
How to Apply
Federal VA Application
Texas veterans apply for VGLI through the VA Office of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance at https://www.benefits.va.gov/vgli or by telephone at 1-800-419-1473. No state-specific application process exists; all applications go directly to the federal VA office.
Veterans must submit VA Form 8714-1 (Application for VGLI) or complete the online application at the VA VGLI portal. Required documents include: certificate of discharge (Form DD 214), proof of military service, and a completed beneficiary designation form (VA Form 8714-2). Veterans applying within 120 days of discharge do not need medical underwriting; those applying after the deadline must complete a health questionnaire and may be required to submit medical records.
Applying online through the VA VGLI website is the fastest method. Veterans enter their service information, elect coverage amounts, designate beneficiaries, and authorize monthly premium deductions from VA payments. The system confirms immediate coverage effective the date of election. Paper applications sent by mail take 2–4 weeks for processing.
After submission, the VA VGLI office sends a policy certificate and premium billing information within 10 business days. Veterans can check application status by calling 1-800-419-1473 or logging into their VA online account. Coverage becomes effective the first day of the following month after the VA receives a completed application.
Veterans who miss the 120-day deadline must submit medical evidence of insurability on VA Form 8714-3 (Application for VGLI – Outside 120-Day Period). This form and supporting medical records should be mailed to the VA VGLI office at the address provided on the form. Processing time for outside-deadline applications is 4–6 weeks and is contingent on underwriting approval.
State Application
Texas has no state-specific VGLI application process. All applications are federal through the VA Office of Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance. However, Texas County Veterans Service Offices provide free counseling to help veterans understand VGLI eligibility, coverage options, and the application process.
Veterans in Texas can contact their county veterans service office to obtain information about VGLI, request assistance in completing applications, and receive guidance on beneficiary designations. County offices are located in most Texas counties and are staffed by accredited veterans service officers (VSOs) certified by the VA. These offices do not collect application fees and provide services at no cost.
To find the county veterans service office nearest you, visit the Texas Veterans Commission website at https://www.tvc.texas.gov and search the office locator by county. Alternatively, call the Texas Veterans Commission main office at 1-800-252-8387.
County VSOs can help veterans with: understanding the 120-day deadline and the importance of timely application; choosing appropriate coverage amounts; completing beneficiary forms; obtaining discharge paperwork if lost; and resolving coverage issues after approval. VSOs can also advise on interactions between VGLI and other VA benefits such as disability compensation and survivor benefits.
While the state does not administer VGLI, Texas County Veterans Service Offices are essential resources for free, expert guidance. Veterans should contact their local office before applying to ensure they understand the application, avoid missing deadlines, and maximize their coverage choices. No in-person application is required; online and mail-in federal applications are available, but county VSOs can assist with preparation.
Common Reasons for Denial
VGLI applications are rarely denied within the 120-day window because coverage is automatic without medical underwriting for those with prior SGLI. However, denials and coverage delays occur in these scenarios:
Missing the 120-Day Deadline: This is the most common reason for coverage denial. Veterans who fail to apply within 120 days of discharge must submit medical evidence of insurability. If medical records show disqualifying health conditions (uncontrolled diabetes, recent cancer diagnosis, severe cardiac disease), the VA may deny coverage or impose exclusions or rated amounts. Veterans should apply immediately upon discharge.
Incorrect Discharge Status: Veterans with dishonorable discharge are ineligible for VGLI. Discharges marked as "dishonorable" or "bad conduct" from court-martial proceedings disqualify applicants. However, general discharges under honorable conditions are eligible. Veterans unsure of their discharge status should request a Character of Discharge review from the VA or their branch of service.
Failure to Designate Coverage Amount or Beneficiary: Applications submitted without electing coverage amount or naming a beneficiary are returned incomplete. The VA requires explicit coverage election (e.g., $100,000) and a named beneficiary. Ambiguous or missing beneficiary information causes processing delays.
Missing or Invalid Discharge Documentation: Applications without a DD 214 or valid proof of service delay processing. Veterans should obtain certified copies of their DD 214 before applying. The VA National Personnel Records Center can provide certified copies if the original is lost.
Health Questionnaire Errors (Late Applicants): Veterans applying after 120 days must complete medical questionnaires. Incomplete health history, missing dates of medical treatment, or unclear statements about preexisting conditions often trigger medical record requests and denials. Veterans should gather medical records in advance and provide complete, accurate health history.
To strengthen an initial application: apply within 120 days; provide a certified DD 214; clearly elect a specific coverage amount ($50,000, $100,000, etc.); name a clear beneficiary; and verify that military service dates are accurate. For outside-deadline applications, compile complete medical records and obtain a nexus letter from your treating physician if applicable.
If You Are Denied: The Appeals Process
VGLI claim denials are relatively rare for timely applications (within 120 days) but may occur for outside-deadline (after 120 days) medical underwriting denials. Appeals follow the three-lane VA appeal process established under 38 U.S.C. § 7104:
Supplemental Claim (Lane One): A veteran may file a Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) within one year of the original denial if new and relevant evidence is available. For VGLI outside-deadline denials, this lane is appropriate if the veteran obtains updated medical records showing improved health or if the initial medical records were incomplete. File at https://www.va.gov/disability/file-an-appeal/supplemental-claim/. Processing time is 4–6 weeks. This lane is best if the denial was based on incomplete medical evidence.
Higher-Level Review (Lane Two): A veteran may request a Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996) within one year of the denial. A senior rater re-examines the original evidence without new submissions. This lane is appropriate if the veteran believes the initial underwriting decision misinterpreted medical records. File at https://www.va.gov/disability/file-an-appeal/higher-level-review/. Processing time is 4–6 weeks. No new evidence is accepted in this lane.
Board of Veterans' Appeals (Lane Three): A veteran may appeal to the BVA (VA Form 10182 or Statement in Support of Claim) within one year of the denial or after either prior appeal lane. The BVA conducts a de novo review and may grant a hearing before a Veterans Law Judge. This lane is appropriate for complex medical disputes or if prior appeals were unsuccessful. File at https://www.va.gov/disability/file-an-appeal/board-of-veterans-appeals/. Processing time is 9–18 months depending on workload and whether a hearing is requested. This is the final administrative appeal before federal court.
All three lanes are free. Veterans may represent themselves or obtain free assistance from an accredited veterans service officer (VSO) through county veterans service offices in Texas or national VSOs. Accredited VSOs can file appeals, obtain medical records, and represent veterans before the BVA without charge. To find a free VSO, contact the Texas Veterans Commission at https://www.tvc.texas.gov or call 1-800-252-8387.
Need help understanding VGLI or completing your application? Contact a free veterans service officer at your county veterans service office in Texas. Find your office at https://www.tvc.texas.gov or call 1-800-252-8387. VSOs provide no-cost counseling on VGLI eligibility, coverage options, and appeals.
Get notified when VA benefit rates change
Benefit rates and eligibility rules update — usually each January. We'll let you know when they do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 120-day deadline for VGLI, and what happens if I miss it?
VGLI must be applied for within 120 days of discharge or loss of SGLI coverage to obtain automatic coverage without medical underwriting. If you miss this deadline, you may still apply but must complete a medical questionnaire and submit evidence of insurability. The VA will review your health history, and coverage may be denied, delayed, or issued with exclusions if medical conditions developed after discharge. For example, if you are diagnosed with heart disease after discharge, the VA may deny VGLI or limit coverage to exclude cardiac-related death. The 120-day window is automatic and non-renewable; once missed, you cannot regain automatic eligibility. This is why applying immediately upon discharge is critical. Even if you are still on active duty or in a transition period, request discharge paperwork and apply during your final 120 days of service.
Can I change my VGLI coverage amount or beneficiary after enrollment?
Yes, you may increase or decrease your VGLI coverage amount and change your beneficiary at any time while the policy is in force. Coverage increases up to the maximum of $400,000 do not require medical underwriting if requested within 10 years of initial election or within 31 days of a qualifying life event (marriage, birth of child, etc.). Coverage decreases can be made at any time by contacting the VA VGLI office. Beneficiary changes require a completed VA Form 8714-2 (Beneficiary Designation Form) submitted to the VA VGLI office. Process changes online at https://www.benefits.va.gov/vgli or by calling 1-800-419-1473. Changes to beneficiary designation take effect the date the VA receives your form. If you wish to increase coverage beyond the automatic eligibility windows, you must submit medical evidence of insurability and may be denied if health has declined.
What happens to my VGLI coverage if I stop paying premiums or miss a payment?
VGLI policies lapse if premiums are not paid within 31 days after the due date. If you receive VA compensation or pension, premiums are deducted automatically, so lapses are unlikely unless benefits are suspended or terminated. If you are on direct billing, it is your responsibility to pay by the due date. If your policy lapses, you have 31 days to reinstate it by paying all back premiums. After 31 days, reinstatement requires submission of a new application with medical evidence of insurability, and coverage may be denied or limited based on your current health. To avoid lapse, ensure your mailing address and payment method are current with the VA VGLI office. If you cannot afford premiums, consider electing a lower coverage amount rather than allowing the policy to lapse entirely. Conversion to a commercial life insurance policy is available if VGLI lapses, but commercial rates are higher.
Is VGLI coverage portable if I move outside of Texas or the United States?
Yes, VGLI coverage is portable and follows you anywhere within the United States and US territories. There are no residency restrictions; Texas veterans who move to another state retain full VGLI coverage without modification. Premiums remain the same regardless of state of residence because VGLI is a federal program. However, VGLI coverage does not extend to permanent residence outside the United States. If you move abroad permanently, your VGLI policy will terminate 6 months after you establish non-US residence. During the 6-month period, you have the opportunity to convert your VGLI to a commercial life insurance policy available from insurers operating in your country of residence. If you anticipate permanent relocation, contact the VA VGLI office at 1-800-419-1473 before moving to discuss conversion options. For temporary absences (military assignments, travel, extended employment abroad), VGLI remains in force.
Can my surviving spouse or children continue VGLI coverage if I die, and what is the conversion process?
You cannot designate a spouse or child as a VGLI policyholder; VGLI is individual coverage tied to the veteran. However, surviving family members have conversion rights. If you die while VGLI is in force, your surviving spouse and dependent children (defined as unmarried children under age 23, or age 25 if enrolled full-time in an accredited educational institution) may convert your VGLI coverage to a commercial life insurance policy with participating insurers. The surviving family must apply for conversion within 120 days of your death without medical underwriting; after 120 days, conversion requires medical evidence of insurability. Conversion rates are not subsidized and are higher than VGLI rates because they are commercial rates based on individual health. Conversion application materials are sent automatically to your beneficiary upon your death. Your surviving spouse may also be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) if your death is service-connected. Designating your spouse and children as beneficiaries on your VGLI policy ensures they receive death benefits and are notified of conversion rights. Contact the VA VGLI office to confirm your beneficiary designation is current and accurate.
Related Benefits in Texas
Sources & References
- 38 U.S.C. § 1965 — Establishes VGLI eligibility and coverage rules for veterans
- 38 C.F.R. § 9.2 — Defines VGLI premium rates, payment terms, and conversion provisions
- Public Law 89–362 — Original statute creating Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance program
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 July 2026. Scheduled for re-verification by July 2027.
See our editorial policy for how content is created and verified, or report an inaccuracy.