VA Form 29-380
Designation of Beneficiary (NSLI)
You hold an NSLI policy and need to designate or update your beneficiary.
- Who fills it
- veteran
- Journey phase
- Specialty Benefits
- Estimated time
- 10-15 minutes.
- When to file
- After any life event affecting your beneficiary preferences.
Official VA form page: https://www.benefits.va.gov/insurance/forms/forms.htm
Gather before you start
- ▸NSLI policy number
- ▸Beneficiary information
Attach with the form
Section I - Policy Information
Blocks 1-3NSLI policy number, insured name, SSNPII
Your NSLI policy number from policy documents. NSLI policy numbers often begin with "V" (e.g., V-12345678).
(NSLI policy number, e.g., V-12345678)
Common mistakes
- ×Not knowing your NSLI policy number - contact VA Insurance Center Philadelphia at 1-800-669-8477.
Section II - Beneficiary Designation
Blocks 4-10Primary and contingent beneficiariesPII
Designate beneficiaries with full information as on VA Form 29-336.
(beneficiary legal names, SSNs, percentages)
Common mistakes
- ×Older veterans not knowing their NSLI policy is still in force - many NSLI policies remain active and have significant cash values.
Section III - Insured Signature
Blocks 11-12Insured signature and datePII
Sign and date. Mail to VA Insurance Center, Philadelphia.
(signature/date)
Common mistakes
- ×Family members not knowing a deceased veteran had an NSLI policy - check with VA Insurance Center after a veteran dies.
Statutory and regulatory authority
- 38 USC 1922 - S-DVI authority (replaced by VALife under 38 USC 1922B for new applicants).