VA Form 29-8485a: Modified Life Insurance Replacement – Veterans holding a Modified Life National Service Life Insurance policy face an important decision as they approach their 70th birthday. The VA Form 29-8485a allows eligible policyholders to replace the reduced portion of their coverage with a new Ordinary Life policy without a medical exam.
What Is VA Form 29-8485a?
VA Form 29-8485a is the official Application for Ordinary Life Insurance—Replacement Insurance for Modified Life Reduced at Age 70. This form enables veterans with a Modified Life policy to apply for replacement coverage for the portion of insurance that automatically reduces the day before their 70th birthday.
The current revision date is October 2024, and it supersedes earlier versions. The form is specifically for National Service Life Insurance (NSLI) policyholders.
Understanding Modified Life Insurance Reduced at Age 70
Modified Life at Age 70 is a permanent plan of insurance offering lower premiums than standard Ordinary Life. It provides full coverage until the day before the policyholder’s 70th birthday, at which point the face amount reduces by half. The premium stays the same, but coverage drops.
Key features of Modified Life at Age 70:
- Available on most NSLI programs (except “K”).
- Must be purchased before insurance age 69.
- Lower initial premiums.
- Automatic 50% reduction in face amount the day before age 70.
- Policy continues to earn cash and loan values.
This reduction can create a coverage gap for veterans and their families. The replacement option via VA Form 29-8485a helps maintain protection.
Who Should Use VA Form 29-8485a?
You should consider this form if you:
- Hold an active Modified Life Reduced at Age 70 NSLI policy.
- Are approaching your 70th birthday.
- Want to replace the reduced half of your coverage with Ordinary Life insurance.
- Wish to avoid a medical examination for the replacement.
Important deadline: Submit the completed VA Form 29-8485a and the initial premium before your 70th birthday.
How to Complete and Submit VA Form 29-8485a?
- Download the form — Get the latest version directly from the official source.
Download VA Form 29-8485a (PDF) - Provide required information — Include your insurance file number, personal details, mailing address, telephone number, email, and the amount of insurance you wish to replace.
- Sign and date — The insured must sign in ink.
- Submit with initial premium — Mail to the VA Insurance Center in Janesville, WI, or use the secure online document upload service at https://insurance.va.gov/home/IDU for faster processing.
Beneficiary designations from your Modified Life policy typically carry over to the new policy unless changed in writing.
Benefits of Replacing Coverage with Ordinary Life
- Maintain full face amount protection after age 70.
- Permanent coverage with level premiums for life.
- Builds cash and loan values.
- No medical underwriting required for the replacement.
This replacement helps ensure your loved ones remain financially protected without interruption.
Common Questions About VA Form 29-8485a
Is there a medical exam required?
No medical examination is needed for this replacement application.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
The reduction occurs automatically, and you may lose the opportunity to replace the coverage at these favorable terms.
Where can I get help?
Contact VA Life Insurance directly or visit the official VA Insurance website for assistance with your policy.
Additional VA Life Insurance Resources
For more details on VA life insurance plans, visit the official VA Life Insurance Plans page.
Veterans should review their specific policy details and consult with a VA representative before deciding. This article is for informational purposes and does not replace official VA guidance.
Ready to apply?
Download VA Form 29-8485a PDF Now
Act before your 70th birthday to secure continuous coverage for your family. For the most current information, always refer to VA.gov resources.