Life Insurance Built for Veterans —
By a Fellow Marine
As a USMC veteran, I understand what the VA actually covers — and where it falls short. I'll give you the straight truth about VA burial benefits, VGLI, and your private coverage options. No jargon. No pressure.
The VA Burial Allowance: What It Is — and What It Isn't
Many veterans believe the VA covers funeral costs in full. The figures below are sourced directly from VA.gov and are effective October 1, 2025. Eligibility conditions apply.
Non-Service-Connected Death
For veterans who do not die from a service-connected disability, the VA may pay up to $1,002 toward burial costs and up to $1,002 toward a plot or interment if not buried in a national cemetery.
Verify at VA.gov →Service-Connected Death
For veterans who die as a result of a service-connected disability, the VA may pay up to $2,000 toward burial costs. For deaths on or after September 11, 2001. Eligibility conditions apply.
Verify at VA.gov →National Cemetery Burial
The plot and opening/closing are provided at no cost for eligible veterans. This does not cover funeral home services, casket, transportation, or memorial services.
Verify at VA.gov →What Most Veterans Get Wrong
The VA provides important benefits — but common misconceptions leave veteran families unprepared. Here's the straight truth.
"The VA pays for my funeral"
The VA provides a partial reimbursement — up to $1,002 for most veterans. The average funeral costs over 8x that amount.
"National cemetery = fully covered"
The plot and opening/closing are free for eligible veterans. Funeral home services, casket, and transportation are not included.
"VGLI covers everything"
VGLI premiums increase every 5 years as you age and build no cash value. If you stop paying, coverage lapses.
"My rating = full burial benefits"
A disability rating alone does not qualify for the service-connected burial allowance. The death itself must be service-connected.
A Fellow Veteran.
An Independent Agent.
I Served Too
United States Marine Corps veteran. I understand the VA, SGLI, VGLI, and every gap in between — from personal experience, not a brochure.
100% Independent Agent
Not captive to one carrier. I shop multiple top-rated carriers to find the best rate for your age, health, and goals.
Straight Talk, No Pressure
No sales tactics. No quotas. No jargon. I'll explain your options clearly and let you decide.
Disability-Friendly
I know which carriers are most favorable for veterans with specific ratings and conditions. I cannot guarantee outcomes, but I know where to look.
Top Carriers. Best Rates. Your Choice.
As an independent agent I'm appointed with the industry's leading carriers — to find a competitive option for your situation.
Carrier availability varies by state and product. Not all carriers available in all states.
Veteran Life Insurance FAQ
A VA disability rating is not automatically disqualifying for private life insurance. Underwriting decisions are made individually by each carrier based on your specific health conditions, medical history, lifestyle, and other factors. Many veterans with ratings qualify at standard or preferred rates. Others may receive a rated policy (higher premium) or a decline from certain carriers. I work with multiple carriers and can help identify which may be most favorable for your profile — but I cannot guarantee any specific underwriting outcome. The only way to know is to apply.
VGLI (Veterans Group Life Insurance) premiums increase in 5-year age brackets and build no cash value — it is pure term coverage. For younger, healthier veterans, private term or permanent insurance is often available at level premiums with better long-term value. For older veterans or those with significant health conditions that make private underwriting difficult, VGLI's guaranteed renewability may be worth retaining. The right answer depends on your age, health, budget, and how long you need coverage. I will compare both options side by side with current quotes — no obligation.
No. VA burial allowances must be applied for by an eligible claimant — typically a surviving spouse, child, parent, or the estate of the veteran — within applicable deadlines following the veteran's death. The VA does not automatically initiate payment or contact your family. Benefits are not guaranteed and depend on meeting specific eligibility criteria. For current eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, and how to apply, refer directly to: va.gov/burials-memorials/veterans-burial-allowance. Benefit amounts and eligibility criteria are subject to change — verify current information with the VA.
Ready to Protect
Your Family?
Takes less than 10 minutes. No obligation. No medical exam required for most plans. Coverage can start as soon as today.
Fill out the form below and Adam will reach out within 24 hours to discuss your coverage options.