Does SGLI Cover Suicide?

Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is a low-cost term life insurance program offered to active duty and retired military members. When it comes to suicide, understanding SGLI's coverage is essential.

SGLI Coverage for Suicide

Does SGLI cover suicide?

Yes, SGLI provides full coverage for suicide death, regardless of the time of service or the circumstances surrounding the death.

This means that if a servicemember dies by suicide, their beneficiaries will receive the full amount of their SGLI coverage.

Important Considerations

While SGLI covers suicide, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

Waiting period: There is a 12-month waiting period for members who increase their SGLI coverage. If a member dies by suicide during this period, their beneficiaries will receive only the amount of coverage they had prior to increasing.

Mental health treatment: SGLI encourages servicemembers to seek mental health treatment. If a member seeks treatment for suicidal thoughts or behaviors, it will not affect their coverage.

Benefits of SGLI

SGLI provides several benefits, including:

Affordable premiums: Premiums are deducted directly from a servicemember's pay, making them convenient and affordable.

Guaranteed coverage: Coverage is guaranteed, regardless of health history or occupation.

Tax-free benefits: Benefits paid to beneficiaries are tax-free.

Additional Information

For more information on SGLI and suicide coverage, visit the following resources:

Resource	Link
Department of Veterans Affairs: SGLI Benefits	www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate/benefits-sgl.pdf
Department of Defense: Suicide Prevention	www.militaryonesource.mil/suicide-prevention/

Success Stories

SGLI has provided peace of mind and financial assistance to numerous beneficiaries:

Family of a fallen soldier: A soldier's family received over $400,000 in SGLI benefits after his tragic death by suicide.

Spouse of a retiree: The spouse of a retired servicemember received $250,000 in SGLI benefits, ensuring her financial security.

Parents of a National Guardsman: The parents of a National Guardsman received $100,000 in SGLI benefits, helping them cover funeral expenses and other costs.

FAQs

Q: What happens if a servicemember dies by suicide during the waiting period?

A: Beneficiaries will receive only the amount of coverage the servicemember had prior to increasing.

Q: Does SGLI cover suicide if the servicemember was seeking treatment?

A: Yes, SGLI coverage is not affected by seeking mental health treatment.

Q: Are SGLI benefits taxable?

A: No, SGLI benefits are tax-free.

Does SGLI Cover Suicide?