Join Kevin Gormley, CFP®, CPA, PFS and Charlie Mattingly, CFP®, MBA from Leading Edge Financial Planning for a discussion on life insurance options available to Southwest Airlines pilots. This video breaks down the differences between term insurance and Group Variable Universal Life (GVUL) insurance options, helping you make informed choices during SWA Open Enrollment 2026.
GVUL, or Group Variable Universal Life, is a type of life insurance policy that combines life insurance protection with investment options. It is designed to provide financial protection for the insured while allowing the policyholder to build cash value through investment growth. The less imputed income is due to the fact that the premiums for the policy are covered by the employer, which reduces the taxable income for the employee. This can lead to a lower tax burden for the employee, as the premiums are deducted from their paycheck before taxes are calculated. Additionally, GVUL policies often offer tax-deferred benefits, which can be beneficial for long-term financial plans.
Whether you’re a young pilot with kids, a high earner focused on tax efficiency, or someone with potential health issues looking to protect your family’s future, this episode may provide the clarity and confidence you need to choose wisely.
Key Topics Covered
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- SWA Life Insurance Open Enrollment Overview
- Insurance Options for Young Families
- Regular Plan Life Insurance Options
- BenefitsPlus Life Insurance Options
- Group Variable Universal Life (GVUL) Insurance Overview and Medical Exam Requirements
- Cost Comparison of Term and GVUL Insurance
- Maximum Coverage and Tax Implications
- Legal and Disclaimer Information
Actionable Takeaways:
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- Review the cost differences between GVUL and term life insurance using the example of a 50-year-old pilot with $500,000 of additional coverage.
- Understand the insurance options for pilots on the regular health plan.
- Explore coverage options for those on Benefits Plus health plans, which offer up to 10x annual base pay, capped at $2.95 million.
- Learn how GVUL insurance options may help some pilots depending on their health insurance plan, the pilot’s health, and their family’s financial planning needs.
- Life insurance decisions may feel complex, but the right strategy can bring peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Take time this open enrollment season to align your coverage with your goals, because preparation today may protect your tomorrow.
Connect with Kevin Gormley
📧 kevin@leadingedgeplanning.com 
865-217-7779
Connect with Charlie Mattingly
📧 charlie@leadingedgeplanning.com 865-240-2292
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Please remember that past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product made reference to directly or indirectly in this video will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), or be suitable for your portfolio. Moreover, you should not assume that any information or any corresponding discussions serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from Leading Edge Financial Planning personnel. The opinions expressed are those of Leading Edge Financial Planning and are subject to change at any time due to the changes in market or economic conditions.
