At what time should verification of beneficiaries for Servicemember's Group Life Insurance (SGLI) be completed?

Verification of beneficiaries for Servicemember's Group Life Insurance (SGLI) should be completed prior to separation. This requirement ensures that servicemembers have the opportunity to review and update their beneficiary designations before they transition out of military service. Given the potential life changes and responsibilities that can arise during and after a military career, it is critical that individuals ensure their SGLI beneficiaries reflect their current intentions, especially as separation might involve significant changes in personal circumstances. Having the verification completed ahead of time allows servicemembers to have peace of mind that their life insurance benefits will go to the intended recipients in the event of their passing.

While initial enrollment and career advancement may warrant updates to beneficiary designations, the most crucial time to verify this information is right before separation, as this is when the servicemember might no longer have the same coverage or benefits associated with their military status. Conducting this verification annually or during career advancement is helpful but does not address the immediate need to ensure beneficiaries are up-to-date right before leaving the service.