Navigating the GI Bill Application Process

Some of our readers have been asking for guidance on how to apply for VA education benefits. The application process for the Post-9/11 GI Bill is actually no different from other recent versions. But there are some subtle details you should be aware of.

I have posted a factsheet with step-by-step instructions and helpful details on the process - The Post-9/11 GI Bill Application Process.

Comments

[Jim Drago]

Applying for, and receiving, the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) for the Post 9/11 GI Bill is relatively easy. What is less clear is how to transfer it to your dependents now that the policy is out. One must go to the DOD website where they easily designate one more of their dependents for up to 36 months, if entitled. But no where does anything say what should happen next? Will I receive something, from the Army in my case, certifying that my dependents are eligible to receive my benefit? The VA coordinator at the university my kids will go to states that he needs a COE and a supplemental application (found on the university's VA website) before he can pay their tuition and other stipends. Would be helpful if the DOD website where we tranfer our benefit explained what happens next.