Don't Be in a Rush!!!

The application process began May 1 for the New Post-9/11 GI Bill. Some news resources are making it sound as if the New GI Bill starts today. IT DOESN"T. What starts today is the VA application process. But, what is most important to know is that there is no rush. You need to carefully weigh the benefits of the Montgomery GI Bill against the benefits of the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

In an Armed Forces Press Service article Keith Wilson (Director of Education Service for the Veterans Benefits Administration) stated:

“The important thing to remember is that this is one of several programs we administer, all of which have different eligibility criteria,” Wilson said. “The program that is best for the individual veteran is not always going to be the Post-9/11 GI Bill.”

Among questions Wilson encourages people to consider when making the decision are:

-- Which benefit will pay more? This needs to factor in, not just what VA pays, but also the impact on any other educational assistance the person receives. For example, if the student attends school in one of the many states that offers veterans free tuition or receives another form of state or campus aid, will switching to the Post-9/11 benefit change that?

-- What tier of benefit are they eligible for under the Post-9/11 GI Bill? The program includes three payments: tuition and fees, a living allowance, and a book and supply stipend. But current active-duty members can’t receive the living allowance.

-- What type of training do they want to pursue? Not all training covered by the Montgomery GI Bill, for example, is covered by the Post-9/11 bill. The new benefit, for example, doesn’t cover technical school training.

-- How long do you expect to take to use the benefit? The Post-9/11 GI Bill pays out benefits for 15 years, five years longer than the Montgomery GI Bill benefit.

-- Do you plan to attend school less than full-time? It will affect whether you receive the housing allowance under the Post-9/11 benefit.

-- Do you plan to transfer your unused benefits to an immediate family member? Only the Post-9/11 benefit offers that option.

“There are a series of things, both monetary and non-monetary, that individuals need to consider,” Wilson said.

Wilson encourages anyone eyeing the new Post-9/11 program to read up about it on the VA Web site. Those who need additional assistance can click on a link on the site to e-mail VA officials with a question, or can talk with a VA benefits counselor by calling 1-888-GI-BILL-1 toll-free, he said.

“We’re emphasizing education so people understand the full range of our educational programs,” Wilson said. “We really want to be sure we tailor the best program to the individual.”

So - Word the wise, take your time, because making a choice now locks you in to either GI Bill version. Your choice now may severely limit your options later.

Here are some links you may find helpful:

• Official VA GI Bill Website
• Post 9/11 GI Bill FAQ

• Guide to Comparing the Two GI Bills

You can also call teh VA directly at 1-888-GIBILL-1 to speak to a representative who can help you determine your best option.

Comments

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[NTaylor]

Tyrone & SGT Koch,

You need to first complete the application process. VA may determine you are eligible for the new Post 9/11 GI Bill. As for the transferability, it's actually up to Dept. of Defense on whether they would approve the transfer of benefits and how much can be transferred. For that information, you need to contact your unit's Education Service Officer.

[meakav]

I think what they meant is to weigh your options as there are at least 3 states that offer free tuition already to veteran, I think one of them is Illinois, the only thing is thatt there is no living allowance just tuition. If you live in another states that don't offer free tuition then Post 9/11 gi bill is your best option.

[SGT Koch]

I retired 16 Feb 06 with 22 1/2yrs
service. I never got the Montgomery GI Bill so can I qualify for this and can I transfer it to my daughter who starts college this fall?

[Heywood_Jablomee]

"Don't be in a rush!!!"
“The program that is best for the individual veteran is not always going to be the Post-9/11 GI Bill.”

I don't understand this. How can another program be better for me if I want to attend college. Isn't the reason for the new Post-9/11 GI Bill to pay for any state tuition of my choice?

What other program can be better for me than that??

[Tyrone Crowder]

I retired on 1 April 2002. Ami I eligible for the post 9/11 GI bill?

Thanks