Reply #4: SGLI [View All]

If you are in the service (AD or Reserve) you pretty much have to have SGLI. It is up to the individual to pick the amount of coverage that they want.

As far as benefits to surviving spouses and children: There is the Social Security Survivors benefit that all children that loose a parent are eligible for. The amount is dependent on gross earnings just like your SS would be when you reach 65.

The VA offers tuition assistance and money to the surviving spouse. The total copensation that is available is documented in the Decedent affairs manuals of each service.

The 6K you refer to is the initial death benefit that must be presented to the surviving spouse or parenteral unit within I believe 72 hours of notification.

The surviving spouse is eligible for the 55% retirement IF both the service member and spouse sign up for it. THere is a portion of the service members retainer pay with-held each month to fund this. (essentially a insurance policy).

As a person that retired from the mility and one that lost a spouse, the military is much better at providing benefits then my wifes employeer was.