Business Details
Trusted Life Insurance and Annuity Solutions
Founded in 1892, GCU Life Insurance began as a fraternal benefit society to protect Rusin immigrant families through life insurance and annuity products. Over 130 years, we have grown into a multi-billion-dollar organization while maintaining our core mission of safeguarding families and strengthening communities. Our nonprofit status ensures resources are reinvested into member benefits rather than shareholder profits.We offer competitive term and whole life insurance, fixed annuities, and financial planning tools tailored to life stages like growing families, retirement, and education savings. Our commitment to faith-based fraternalism includes $1.2 million in charitable donations and over 44,950 community service hours in 2023. With AM Best financial ratings and a network of local agents, we combine tradition with modern financial solutions to serve members nationwide.
Services
Life Insurance
Annuities
Financial Planning
Community Programs
Member Benefits
Highlights and features
- 133 years of experience protecting families with life insurance and annuities
- Nonprofit structure prioritizes member benefits over shareholder profits
- Community investment through $1.2M+ annual charitable donations
- AM Best financial strength ratings ensure policyholder security
- Local agents provide personalized financial planning solutions
Associations and certifications
- AM Best
Services
Life Insurance
GCU offers customizable term and whole life insurance policies to protect families during critical life stages. Term life provides affordable coverage for specific periods, while whole life offers permanent protection with cash value accumulation. Policies help cover debts, replace income, and fund future needs like college education.
Annuities
Our fixed deferred and indexed annuities provide secure retirement income solutions. These tax-deferred vehicles guarantee principal protection while offering growth potential through competitive interest rates. Annuities help create predictable income streams to complement Social Security and retirement savings.
Financial Planning
GCU's financial planning services address life milestones through integrated insurance and investment products. We help members plan for retirement, college education, and unexpected life events using Coverdell Education Savings Accounts and customized insurance-annuity combinations.
Community Programs
Through GoGive! initiatives, we fund local projects and scholarships while supporting national charities. Our members have received over $1M in educational scholarships, and we've contributed $1.2M+ annually to community causes since 2023.
Member Benefits
Members access exclusive benefits including Byzantine Parish Coordinator support, St. Nicholas Chapel events, and fraternal programs promoting social, athletic, and spiritual growth. These services strengthen community connections while providing practical financial protection.
People
Jeremy Stephenson
President/CEO
Jeremy Stephenson leads GCU's strategic vision, combining 30+ years of insurance experience with commitment to fraternal values. He oversees product development and community initiatives while maintaining financial stability.
Tim Demetres
Chief Financial Officer
Tim Demetres manages GCU's financial operations, ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining AM Best ratings. With 25+ years in insurance finance, he oversees investment strategies and actuarial functions.
Theodore M. Trbovich
General Counsel
Attorney Theodore Trbovich provides legal oversight for GCU's operations. He ensures policy compliance with state regulations while protecting member interests through ethical business practices.
Fr. Valerian M. Michlik
Spiritual Advisor
Fr. Valerian Michlik guides GCU's faith-based initiatives, connecting modern operations with Byzantine Catholic heritage. He oversees chapel programs and spiritual aspects of member services.
George Kofel
National Director
George Kofel chairs GCU's Board of Directors, balancing governance with community engagement. He ensures strategic alignment between financial goals and fraternal mission priorities.
Questions
What types of life insurance does GCU offer?
GCU provides both term life insurance for temporary coverage and whole life insurance for permanent protection with cash value accumulation.
How is GCU different from other insurers?
As a nonprofit fraternal benefit society, we reinvest resources into member benefits and community programs rather than distributing profits to shareholders.
Do you offer retirement income solutions?
Yes, our fixed deferred and indexed annuities provide secure retirement income streams with guaranteed principal protection and competitive interest rates.
Can I get help with college savings plans?
We offer Coverdell Education Savings Accounts to help members save for qualified education expenses with tax-deferred growth potential.
What community programs do you support?
Through GoGive! initiatives, we fund local projects, provide scholarships, and support national charities while maintaining St. Nicholas Chapel.
How do I find a local GCU agent?
Use our online agent locator or call 855.306.0607 to connect with a licensed agent who will create personalized protection and savings plans.
