WRIGHT-PATTERON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- Blanket changes to the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance go into effect March 1, and Airmen have until the end of March to adjust their insurance coverage even if they’ve previously declined or reduced coverage.
If no action is taken, Airmen will remain enrolled in the SGLI maximum coverage policy of $500,000 and see a $30 monthly deduction on their leave and earnings statement beginning in April.
To reduce or completely decline coverage, current servicemembers must log into MilConnect and access the SGLI online enrollment system, known as SOES. Coverage elections can be made in April and beyond, but reimbursements will not be offered on premiums already paid.
SGLI policies are available in $50,000 coverage increments up to the $500,000 cap. The lowest available premium is $4 per month, while the two new tiers are $27 per month for $450,000 of coverage and $30 per month for maximum coverage. In the event of a qualifying claim, the policy would pay out over the course of 36 months or as a single check.
Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance maximum coverage amounts are not impacted by this change in law, nor are previous elections of spousal coverage. Dependent children are automatically covered by an active SGLI policy.
There are no required steps for Airmen who wish to maintain the full $500,000 insurance coverage, but all servicemembers are encouraged to log in to SOES and ensure their beneficiary information is up to date.
The changes come as part of the Supporting Families of the Fallen Act, signed by President Joe Biden Oct. 17, 2022. Prior to this Act, policy options for SGLI and Veterans Group Life Insurance were last updated in 2005. The increase is intended to mirror changes to the nationwide cost of living.
For more information, visit www.benefits.va.gov/insurance/sgli-increase-faqs.asp.