The GI Bill benefits are among the most valuable education benefits available to veterans, service members, and their families. Whether you want to earn a college degree, complete a certification, or gain hands-on skills through vocational training, GI Bill® benefits can support your educational goals. In this blog post, we break down what is GI Bill benefits are, different types of GI Bill education benefits, how to qualify, how to apply, and how to make the most of every dollar. If you or a family member is connected to the military, this is a must-read guide to maximizing your education benefits.
What Are GI Bill Benefits and How Do They Help?
The GI Bill, established in 1944, has grown into a comprehensive education benefits program. It offers financial support for tuition, fees, housing, books, and more, helping eligible service members and veterans pay for both traditional universities and alternative education options such as trade schools and
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) manages the GI Bill program and provides tools like the GI Bill Comparison Tool to help users get the most from their benefits. Eligible service members and veterans can use these benefits for up to 36 months of education through programs such as the Montgomery GI Bill, Post-9/11 GI Bill, and others for selected reserve and active duty members.
What is the Montgomery GI Bill?
The Montgomery GI Bill is divided into two parts: Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD) and Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR). This benefit provides education assistance to service members based on their duty status.
The Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty helps veterans who have served at least two years of active duty and meet specific eligibility criteria. Benefits can be used for college degrees, non-college degree programs, on-the-job training, flight training, and more. The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve applies to members of the Army National Guard, Selected Reserve, and other reserve components. While the benefit amounts are lower than other education benefits, it still provide critical support for education or training.
What Education Benefits Are Offered by VA?
The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a variety of education and training benefits tailored to different service members. The Post-9/11 GI Bill, for instance, provides full tuition and fees for public in-state schools, a monthly housing allowance, and an annual stipend for books and supplies.
Other education benefits offered by VA include the Veterans Educational Assistance Act, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Education Assistance Program (DEA). These programs support not just veterans but also qualifying veterans and their families.
Who is Eligible for GI Bill Benefits?
Eligibility varies depending on the specific GI Bill program. For the Montgomery GI Bill, eligibility typically requires a minimum service obligation, an honorable discharge, and a high school diploma or equivalent.
For the Post-9/11 GI Bill, veterans who served at least 90 days after September 11 may be eligible. In some cases, dependents can also receive benefits through the Transfer Benefits provision. Always check your certificate of eligibility to verify your status.
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How to Apply for GI Bill Benefits?
To apply for the GI Bill, complete VA Form 22-1990 online via the VA website or submit a paper application. After submission, you’ll receive a certificate of eligibility, which confirms your education benefit.
You can use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to find the school or program that best fits your goals and available benefits. Applying for GI benefits is straightforward, with support from VA representatives and your school’s certifying official.
How Can Dependents Use GI Bill Benefits?
Dependents of veterans may also receive GI Bill benefits under certain conditions. Through the Transfer Benefits option, eligible service members can transfer unused benefits to military spouses or children.
This provision is especially helpful for family planning. By transferring benefits early and coordinating with the VA, veterans can ensure their education benefits are fully utilized by their loved ones.
What is the Forever GI Bill?
The Forever GI Bill, officially called the Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act, was signed into law in 2017 and expanded education benefits for veterans. One of its most notable changes is that benefits do not expire for those discharged after January 1, 2013.
This means veterans now have a lifetime to use their benefits, offering greater flexibility. It also restores benefits and provides relief to students affected by school closures or program shutdowns, ensuring they can continue their education or training without losing out.
How Do You Use Your Benefits Wisely?
To use your benefits wisely, research programs, compare costs using the GI Bill Comparison Tool, and consult your school’s VA certifying official. Look into whether programs align with your long-term goals and if they qualify for full VA support.
Be sure to plan. Start by gathering important documents like your certificate of eligibility. Know how much of your 36 months of education benefits remain, and check your benefits statement on the VA portal.
What Education Assistance is Available for the Selected Reserve?
The Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR) offers education assistance to members of the Selected Reserve, including the Army National Guard and other reserve components. Eligible reservists can receive support for a variety of education and training programs.
While the benefit amounts may be lower than the Post-9/11 GI Bill, MGIB-SR still provides a meaningful education benefit. It’s particularly helpful for those juggling part-time service and civilian careers, providing flexible support for continuing education.
Final Thoughts
Your GI Bill® benefits are more than just financial support—they’re an investment in your future.
Whether you’re pursuing a degree, certification, or hands-on training, understanding how to use your education benefits fully is key. Programs like the Montgomery GI Bill, Post-9/11 GI Bill, or Selected Reserve can help ensure your long-term success. Stay informed, explore all your options, and take the next step toward a meaningful career path.
Looking for more ways to stretch your military benefits beyond education? Contact us to discover exclusive discounts, perks, and savings for veterans and their families. It’s one more way to make your service go even further.
