Term Life Insurance for Veterans.
A 20- or 30-year private term policy is the most cost-effective way for most healthy veterans to replace SGLI/VGLI long-term. Here's how underwriting actually works.
Term life insurance for veterans is, mechanically, the same product civilians buy: a defined coverage window (10–30 years) at a locked-in premium. What's different is underwriting — specifically, how carriers handle service-connected conditions, deployment history, and the patterns common in military medical records.
The good news: most carriers underwrite stable service-connected conditions fairly. The art is matching you to the right carrier the first time, so we don't waste an application on one that will rate-up your file.
Key points for your situation.
20-year term is the most common veteran fit
Aligns with mortgage years and child dependency window. Locks in premium during your highest-stakes financial decade.
30-year term works if you're separating young
Locking in 30 years at age 28–35 captures the lowest lifetime cost. Premium difference vs. 20-year is often surprisingly small.
PTSD and stable mental health are insurable
Carriers vary widely. Stable, treated, employed = often standard rate. We know which carriers consistently underwrite this fairly.
Sleep apnea with CPAP compliance
Common across both veterans and truckers. Compliance documentation = preferred or standard rates with the right carrier.
Deployment-related conditions are case-by-case
Most are insurable; some recent diagnoses or active treatment can complicate. We'll preview before applying.
VA disability rating doesn't directly factor
Underwriters care about the underlying condition, not the rating itself. A 60% rating tied to stable conditions can still produce excellent rates.
Top questions on this scenario.
What's a realistic premium for a 35-year-old veteran?
Healthy non-smoker can typically secure $500K of 20-year term for $25–$45/month. PTSD or service-connected conditions can shift this to $40–$70/month range with the right carrier.
Will my VA records be pulled?
Carriers can request VA records during underwriting with your authorization. Most will request the Attending Physician Statement (APS) for any active conditions noted on the application.
Should I disclose every service-connected condition?
Yes — always. Misrepresentation can void the policy at claim time. We'll help you frame service-connected disclosures accurately.
Can I stack term coverage with VGLI?
Absolutely. Many veterans keep VGLI at a low tier (e.g., $50K) as a portable safety net and layer 20- or 30-year private term ($300K–$1M) on top.
What about S-DVI?
Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance has limits but can be a useful layer for service-connected disabled veterans. We'll explain when to pursue it alongside private coverage.
Start with the free Will Kit. No pressure, no obligation.
We'll mail your kit, then schedule a 15-minute review whenever you're ready.