VA Form 29-0152: Convert Your Government Life Insurance

VA Form 29-0152: Convert Your Government Life Insurance – Veterans and policyholders with legacy Government Life Insurance term policies can use VA Form 29-0152 to convert all or part of their coverage to a permanent plan. This official VA form applies specifically to older Government Life Insurance programs, primarily National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) term policies from the World War II era.

These policies differ from modern Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) and Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI). Conversion through this form stays within the VA-administered program and does not require evidence of good health when the policy qualifies.

Download the Official Form
Download VA Form 29-0152 (PDF) – Application for Conversion (Government Life Insurance) (Revised July 2024, OMB Control No. 2900-0149, expires 07/31/2027)

What Is VA Form 29-0152?

VA Form 29-0152 is the official application used to convert term insurance under Government Life Insurance programs to a permanent plan of insurance. The VA administers these legacy policies separately from SGLI and VGLI.

Policyholders may convert in multiples of $500, with a minimum of $1,000. You can convert the entire amount or only a portion and may choose to keep some term coverage in place. The form is required unless you submit a detailed written request that includes the desired plan and amount.

Who Should Use VA Form 29-0152?

This form is intended for individuals who hold active or eligible term policies under legacy Government Life Insurance programs, mainly:

  • National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) “V” term policies
  • Other older Government Life Insurance term policies still in force

Approximately 67,880 NSLI policies remain active today. These policies originated between 1940 and 1951 and carry a maximum basic face amount of $10,000 (plus any paid-up additions purchased with dividends).

Note: This form does not apply to SGLI or VGLI conversions to commercial permanent policies. Those use a separate process outlined in VA Pamphlet SGL-133.

Benefits of Converting Term Government Life Insurance to a Permanent Plan

Converting offers several long-term advantages, especially as policyholders age:

  • Fixed premiums for life (term premiums rise significantly at older ages)
  • Builds cash value that can be borrowed against or surrendered
  • Guaranteed conversion without a medical exam or proof of good health (when eligible)
  • Lifelong coverage instead of coverage that ends at a set term
  • Potential dividends on participating policies
  • Better alignment with estate planning and final expense needs

Early conversion typically results in lower premiums and greater cash value accumulation over time.

Permanent Plans Available Through VA Form 29-0152

You may select from the following permanent plans on the form:

  • Ordinary Life
  • 20 Payment Life
  • 30 Payment Life
  • 20 Year Endowment
  • Endowment at Age 60
  • Endowment at Age 65
  • Modified Life 65
  • Modified Life 70

Each plan has different premium structures, cash value growth, and maturity features. Review your current age, financial situation, and long-term goals when choosing.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing VA Form 29-0152

Complete every item on the form. Use the latest version (July 2024). If you have multiple policies, submit a separate form for each policy number.

Key sections include:

  1. Policy Number — Enter the full insurance policy number, including the letter prefix (required).
  2. Insured’s Name and Mailing Address — Provide complete current mailing address for insurance purposes.
  3. VA Claim Number — Include if you have one (required when applicable).
  4. Social Security Number.
  5. Daytime Telephone Number (with area code).
  6. Permanent Plan Selection — Check the desired plan(s) and enter the amount to convert (multiples of $500, minimum $1,000). Indicate whether you want to continue any remaining term coverage.
  7. Method of Premium Payment — Choose direct payment, deduction from VA compensation/pension, allotment, or VA MATIC (automatic bank deduction). Specify monthly or annual for direct pay.
  8. First Premium Amount.
  9. Disability Questions — Answer whether you are currently disabled and provide details if applicable.
  10. Signature and Date — Sign and date the application.

Do not return your policy with the form. Answer all questions completely.

Tip: Review VA Pamphlet 29-73-1 (available through VA Insurance) for additional guidance on completing insurance forms.

How to Submit VA Form 29-0152?

The VA strongly recommends the fastest and most secure method:

Preferred Method – Secure Document Upload
Upload your completed form and any supporting documents at:
https://insurance.va.gov/Home/IDU

Mail Option
Department of Veterans Affairs
Insurance Center
PO Box 5209
Janesville, WI 53547-5209

Keep copies of the completed form and any confirmation for your records.

Important Tips for a Successful Government Life Insurance Conversion

  • Convert as early as possible to lock in lower premiums and maximize cash value growth.
  • If your term policy has lapsed but remains eligible for reinstatement, submit the reinstatement application (VA Form 29-352) and conversion form together.
  • Carefully consider your current premium payment ability and long-term insurance needs.
  • Permanent plans provide valuable living benefits (loans and cash value) that term insurance does not.
  • Contact VA Insurance before submitting if you have questions about your specific policy’s eligibility or options.
  • Track your submission and follow up if you do not receive confirmation within a reasonable time.

Related VA Life Insurance Forms and Official Resources

Here are trusted, current resources for veterans with legacy Government Life Insurance:

Frequently Asked Questions About VA Form 29-0152

Can I convert only part of my term policy?
Yes. You may convert any amount in multiples of $500 (minimum $1,000) and keep the remainder as term coverage if desired.

Do I need a medical exam to convert?
No. Eligible term policies convert to permanent plans without evidence of good health.

What happens if my policy has lapsed?
You may need to reinstate first (if eligible) before or at the same time as conversion. Contact VA Insurance for your policy’s status.

How long does the conversion process take?
Processing times vary. Using the secure upload portal generally provides faster confirmation than mail.

Can I change my permanent plan later?
Certain changes may be possible using additional forms (such as VA Form 29-1549 for some plan changes). Discuss options with VA Insurance staff.

Additional Help and Support

For questions about your Government Life Insurance policy or assistance completing VA Form 29-0152:

Always use official VA sources and verify the most current information directly with the VA Insurance Center for your specific policy. This guide is for informational purposes and is based on publicly available official VA resources as of 2026.