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Fill out SGLV-8286 (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate) online

SGLV-8286 is the official form used by servicemembers to designate beneficiaries for their Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI) coverage. SGLI provides low-cost group life insurance to eligible members of the uniformed services. Without a valid beneficiary designation on file, SGLI proceeds are distributed according to a default order of precedence established by law.

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SGLV-8286 (Servicemembers' Group L[...]surance Election and Certificate) - simplepdf.com
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How to fill out SGLV-8286 (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate)

1

Enter servicemember information

Provide your full name, Social Security number, branch of service, rank/grade, date of birth, and current duty station or unit address.

2

Select your coverage election

Indicate whether you want the maximum SGLI coverage, a reduced amount in increments of $50,000, or no coverage. You may also elect or decline Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) coverage.

3

Designate your beneficiaries

List each beneficiary full legal name, Social Security number, relationship, address, and the percentage share they should receive. You may designate individuals, trusts, or organizations. Shares must total 100%. You may also name contingent beneficiaries.

4

Sign and have the form witnessed

Sign and date the form. An officer or noncommissioned officer must witness your signature and sign the form. Submit the original to your personnel office.

About SGLV-8286 (Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Election and Certificate)

Who needs this form

Active-duty members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force, and commissioned members of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Public Health Service (PHS). Also applies to Ready Reserve and National Guard members with SGLI coverage who want to designate or change their beneficiaries.

Where to submit

Submit the completed form to your unit personnel office or administrative section (S-1, orderly room, or equivalent). The form must be witnessed by an officer or noncommissioned officer. Your branch of service retains the original; keep a copy for your records and inform your beneficiaries.

Source and content freshness

Official source (www.benefits.va.gov)
  • Reviewed: 2026-02-24
  • Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Not updating the form after major life events (marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a beneficiary)
  • Failing to specify percentage shares that total exactly 100%
  • Using nicknames or incomplete names instead of full legal names for beneficiaries
  • Not having the form properly witnessed by an authorized official

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What happens if I do not file an SGLV-8286?
If no valid beneficiary designation is on file, SGLI proceeds are paid in the default order of precedence established by law: (1) to your surviving spouse, (2) to your children in equal shares, (3) to your parents in equal shares, (4) to the executor or administrator of your estate, (5) to your next of kin. Filing this form ensures your wishes are followed.

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