Best Life Insurance for Military Retirees 2026

Best Life Insurance for Military Retirees 2026

After years of service, military retirees deserve financial peace as strong as the commitment they showed their country. Yet one of the biggest surprises many face after retirement is losing the low-cost life insurance they’ve always counted on through SGLI (Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance).

When you retire, that SGLI coverage stops—and while you can convert it to VGLI (Veterans’ Group Life Insurance), the rates increase sharply every five years and there’s no option to lock in a lifetime price. For many retirees, a private life-insurance policy offers far better long-term value and flexibility.

Why Military Retirees Need Private Life Insurance

Whether you’re retiring from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard, your family’s financial security doesn’t end with service. Replacing your SGLI ensures your spouse, children, or grandchildren remain protected against unexpected loss—and helps you leave a lasting legacy.

• 💵 Replace income: Protect your spouse if pension or VA benefits stop after your passing.
• 🏠 Pay off debt or mortgage: Ensure your family keeps the home you worked hard to build.
• 🎓 Provide for family goals: Fund education or inheritance gifts for children or grandchildren.
• 🕊️ Cover final expenses: Avoid leaving funeral costs to loved ones.

Unlike VGLI, private life insurance allows you to lock in a fixed premium for life—and to customize the coverage amount, policy type, and beneficiaries to fit your exact needs.

Types of Life Insurance That Work Best for Military Retirees

1. Term Life Insurance

Ideal for retirees under 65 who want the highest coverage at the lowest price. You can choose 10-, 15-, or 20-year terms—often for less than VGLI premiums.

2. Guaranteed Universal Life (GUL)

Offers lifetime protection without the high cost of traditional whole life. Think of it as “term for life.” It’s a popular choice for veterans wanting predictable rates and permanent coverage.

3. Whole Life Insurance

Builds cash value and never expires as long as premiums are paid. Perfect if you want to leave money to heirs or cover estate taxes later in life.

4. Final Expense Insurance

Small, affordable policies ($10K–$25K) meant to cover funeral costs and small debts—ideal if you just want simple peace of mind.

Mintco Financial: Fiduciary Guidance, Not Sales Pitches

Mintco Financial proudly serves veterans and retirees across the U.S. as independent fiduciary advisors. We don’t represent one company—we compare multiple highly rated carriers to find your best rate and the right coverage type for your stage of life.

Our advisors take the time to explain your options in plain English, helping you decide whether to supplement your VGLI, replace it entirely, or build a long-term plan that includes retirement and estate strategies. Everything can be done by phone or secure video call from the comfort of your home.

When to Get Started

The earlier you replace your SGLI, the lower your rates will be. If you wait several years after retiring, premiums rise with age and health changes. We recommend reviewing your coverage within 6 months of retirement—or even sooner if you’re transitioning to civilian life.

Your service protected the country. Now it’s time to protect your family’s future.

Mintco Financial — Independent fiduciary advisors helping military retirees nationwide find peace of mind through clear, affordable life-insurance planning.