How Does the GI Bill® Work?

Military service personnel are an important asset to any nation and deserve respect as well as strong financial support for their future. That's where the GI Bill® comes in! It was created back in the early 1940s to help veterans transition to civilian life with ease. If you are a service member, veteran, or eligible family wondering how does the GI Bill® work and the benefits associated with it, keep on reading. 

Brief History of GI Bill® 

Right after World War 1 ended, the veterans' switch to civilian life didn't go well. Having little to no financial assistance and benefits, they couldn’t meet their ends properly. 

To help all these frustrated military personnel, Congress stepped in and then passed the Bonus Act of 1924. It assured veterans a bonus based on the number of days they served in the war. However, the money wouldn't be paid until 1945, which was a long time. 

Fast-forward to World War 2. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was determined to improve the lives of war-returning veterans. 

The former American Legion National Commander and Republican National Chairman, Harry W. Colmery, then proposed a compelling idea. He extended the benefits to both male and female veterans, which became the first draft of the GI Bill®, also known as the Serviceman Adjustment Act. 

Types of the GI Bill®

There are different types of GI Bill® that you can explore depending upon your services, such as: 

• Post-9/11 GI Bill: This is one of the most commonly used GI Bill® types. It provides educational and housing benefits to active duty members and their families or dependents who served 90 days or more on the job after September 10, 2001. 
• Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD): This bill is directed at veterans and service members who have served a minimum 2 years of active duty. It's a 36-month benefit that's paid directly to the candidate to cover educational expenses such as fees, books, tuition, and housing. 
• The Yellow Ribbon Program: The Yellow Ribbon Program is part of the Post 9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 that pays for the higher education of veterans and their families, whether it's private, out-of-state, or foreign school, something that the Post 9/11 GI Bill® doesn't cover. 

How Does the GI Bill® Work?

Typically, the GI Bill® is a collection of federal programs that provide financial assistance to veterans, active duty members, and their dependents so they can earn a college education or vocational training. Here's an overview of the benefits of GI Bill®:

• 50% to 100% fees to cover your educational expenses in either in-state or out-of-state institutions.
• A monthly housing allowance/stipend that helps you pay for your accommodation within the duration of your study.
• Up to $1,000 each year so you can purchase your books or other needed supplies. 

Eligibility Criteria for GI Bill®

Now that you are aware of how does the GI Bill® work and its benefits, you must be wondering about the eligibility criteria. If so, here's an overview: 

• Served 90 days on active duty on or after September 10, 2001
• Received a Purple Heart right after September 10, 2001
• Served for a minimum of 30 continuous days after September 10, 2001, but had to leave due to some service-related disability 
• Were honorably discharged after any amount of service 

How to Apply for GI Bill®? 

The application process for the GI Bill® is pretty straightforward; just follow the given tips, and you are good to go: 

• First, call +18884424551 or you may also visit the va.gov website to learn about your eligibility for the GI Bill®. 
• If you fulfill the mentioned requirements, send an application either via mail or online or find the regional in-person office, whatever is convenient for you. 
• Within 30 days, the VA will scrutinize your details, and in case you qualify, you will get the Certification of Eligibility (COE) Decision Letter. 
• Simply visit your university or college, submit the COE to the administration, and get registered for further education. 

FAQs 

How long does the VA take to make a decision about GI Bill®? 

The VA takes around 30 days to process your GI Bill® application, which means if you qualify, you will get your education funds after that time. 

Can I transfer my GI Bill® benefits to my family? 

Yes, eligible service members can transfer unused GI Bill® benefits to their family members, such as spouses or children, under specific conditions. 

Can I use GI Bill® for online courses? 

Yes, you can utilize the GI Bill® for online courses; however, the housing allowance may be lower compared to in-person classes or education. 

Conclusion 

The answer to how does the GI Bill® works is simple. It helps veterans, active duty members, and their dependents to earn higher education without worrying about financial obstacles. 

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