If you are a veteran or a family member, you may have some unclaimed VA life insurance benefits that you are not aware of. The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has millions of dollars lying around for years that have either not been claimed or have not been delivered to the right address. In this article, we will explain what these benefits are, how to know if you are eligible, and how to claim them.
What are unclaimed VA life insurance benefits?
Unclaimed VA life insurance benefits are money that was supposed to be paid to veterans or their designated beneficiaries, but for some reason has not yet been claimed. These funds usually come from the following reasons:
- Death benefits: The amount received after death under an insurance policy.
- Dividends: Additional dividends received by policyholders.
- Premium refunds: Excess paid or refunded amounts.
- This amount remains unclaimed because:
- Addresses changed, and checks were returned.
- The family or beneficiary was not aware of the policy.
- Records were incomplete or not updated promptly.
How much money lies unclaimed?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Unclaimed Amount | Approximately $33 million |
| Average Payout | Between $5 and $750 |
| Where to Search | VA’s Unclaimed Funds Search Tool |
| Required Information | The veteran’s full name, date of birth, and death, and (if possible) the insurance policy number |
| Contact Support | Toll-Free Number: 1-800-669-8477 |
Which insurance policies may have unclaimed benefits?
- United States Government Life Insurance (USGLI)
- National Service Life Insurance (NSLI)
- Veterans Special Life Insurance (VSLI)
- Veterans’ Reopened Insurance (VRI)
- Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (SDVI)
Note: SGLI (Servicemembers Group Life Insurance) and VGLI (Veterans Group Life Insurance) policies are not included.
How to check eligibility?
1. Gather the necessary information:
- Veteran’s full name (as it appears on military records)
- Date of birth and death
- Insurance policy number (if available)
2. Visit the VA website:
- Visit the VA Unclaimed Funds Search Tool
- Enter the name and view potential matches
3. Contact:
- If a match is found, call the VA toll-free number 1-800-669-8477 for verification and information on the claims process.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Find Your Benefits?
Step 1: Prove relationship to the veteran
- Spouse: Marriage certificate
- Children: Birth certificate
- Other legal heirs: Court documents or will
Step 2: Prepare the required documents
- Government-issued ID
- Veteran’s death certificate
- Insurance policy (if available)
- Relationship documents mentioned above
Step 3: Fill out the claim form
- Download the form from the VA website or get it by post
- Fill and submit the form along with all documents (online or by post)
Step 4: Follow up
- After sending the form, call 1-800-669-8477 to find out if the application was received
- If more information is asked, send it immediately
How to avoid fraud?
- Use only the official contact (e.g., 1-800-669-8477)
- Don’t pay any fees: VA does not charge for these services
- Be careful: Be cautious if someone asks you to provide bank or personal information
Conclusion
Unclaimed VA life insurance benefits are a right you or your family may have missed due to a lack of information. The process is not complicated, and with a little effort, you can recover the money that belongs to you or your loved one.
FAQs
Q1. What types of policies may have unclaimed funds?
A1. USGLI, NSLI, VSLI, VRI, and S-DVI.
Q2. 2. Are SGLI and VGLI included?
A2. No, they are excluded from the unclaimed database.
Q3. Do I need a policy number to search?
A3. No, just the veteran’s full name and date of birth/death is enough.
Q4. How long does it take to process a claim?
A4. It varies—contact the VA at 1-800-669-8477 for current timelines.
Q5. What if I don’t have all the required documents?
A5. Contact the VA; they can guide you on alternatives.