SGLV Form 8286
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate
Who fills it
service-member-active
Journey phase
Specialty Benefits
Estimated time
15-20 minutes.
When to file
During active duty whenever coverage or beneficiary needs updating. Must be completed at accession (enlistment) and updated as circumstances change.
You are on active duty and need to elect/change SGLI coverage or update your beneficiary designation.
Gather before you start
—Desired coverage amount (up to $500,000)
—Beneficiary information (name, SSN, relationship, percentage)
—FSGLI election for spouse and children (VA Form 8721)
Section I - Service Member Identification
Blocks 1-4Name, SSN, branch, rank, unitPII
Your active-duty identification information.
Example
(legal name, SSN, branch, rank)
Common mistakes
- Not updating after a name change (marriage) - the SGLI must match legal name.
Section II - Coverage Election
Blocks 5-6SGLI coverage amount elected or waiver
Elect coverage in $50,000 increments up to $500,000. All SM are automatically enrolled at maximum $500,000 unless they waive or reduce. IMPORTANT: Waiving SGLI is generally a very bad financial decision - premiums are very low ($30/month for $500,000) and this coverage is extraordinarily difficult to replace if you leave service.
Example
e.g., $500,000 full coverage (recommended)
Common mistakes
- Reducing or waiving SGLI to save the monthly premium - the savings are minimal vs. the coverage value.
- Not knowing SGLI continues 120 days after separation at no charge before you must elect VGLI or let it lapse.
Authority
38 USC 1967 - Who may obtain SGLI coverage.
Section III - Beneficiary Designation
Blocks 7-12Primary and contingent beneficiariesPII
Designate beneficiaries with legal names, SSNs, relationships, and percentage splits. Update whenever life circumstances change.
Example
(beneficiary names, SSNs, percentages)
Common mistakes
- Not updating after marriage or divorce - ex-spouse remains the beneficiary if not changed.
- Naming minor children without trust arrangements - minors cannot directly receive insurance proceeds.
Section IV - Service Member Signature
Blocks 13-14Service member signature and datePII
Sign and submit through your unit S1/Personnel office.
Example
(signature/date)
Common mistakes
- Not keeping a copy of your SGLI election form - important for VGLI conversion after separation.
Statutory & regulatory authority
38 USC 1965 - SGLI definitions and authority.
38 USC 1967 - Who may obtain SGLI coverage.