Les/family,spouse Sgli

[DevilDog]

Has anyone ever had deductions they didn't request/authorize? Recent LES shows a lump sum debt payment of $55 covering the last 10 months along with $5.50 for month of September, all for "FAM SER GROUP LIFE INSURANCE". I know what it is, but I only signed for SGLI for myself which is being deducted also. I'm in the process of adressing the issue, but as you would know it I have to wait for key personnel to return from leave. Anyone ever experienced this?

[SteveLord]

See your readiness NCO. I *think* he would have some paperwork that you could fill out and mail to the state.

Also, print copies of all those LESs where this is happening for proof.

Realize this, the army will take their sweet time straightening out money they owe you, but will always catch on if they ever pay you too much.

[matthew.ritchie]

Unless specifically declined in a separate form, FSGLI is automatically deducted when you sign up for SGLI. This is not a bug, it's a feature. The DoD did this on purpose. It's a little bit paternalistic, but it's a firm nudge to get Soldiers to get life insurance for themselves and their families. That's why your SGLI default is the max amount -- if you don't specifically request for something else, you're getting covered for the full $400k. Use form SGLV 8286 (http://www.insurance.va.gov/sgliSite/forms/8286(09-07).pdf) to change your own SGLI coverage, and use SGLV 8285a (http://www.insurance.va.gov/sgliSite/forms/8286a(07-06).pdf) for FSGLI coverage changes. Submit these forms to your unit clerk or Readiness NCO.

Before you cancel the FSGLI, take a hard, sober look at your life insurance coverage from other sources, and see if it's enough. If your wife/husband dropped dead today, how much money would you need to maintain your current lifestyle? Stay-at-home moms need coverage too, because if she dies you'll need to hire daycare, and get other support to make up for all the work she does. Go to www.usaa.com or some other insurance company site and use the insurance calculators. The vast majority of people are underinsured, and it only becomes apparent once a tragedy occurs. The rule of thumb is that a person with schoolage children needs about $500k of life insurance to take care of the family.