Posted in Uncategorized on August 4, 2017
Tags: college, military, veterans benefits
When your EAS is approaching, or you’ve been separated from the U.S. Armed Forces for some time and are considering your next step, it’s important to carefully review the educational and training benefits available to benefit your future. Whether you’re wanting to return to (or attend for the first time) a college classroom, or want to learn more about a professional-level hands-on vocation, there are resources and funds available to help make this a reality.
One of the best-known educational benefits is the GI Bill, a benefit available to veterans for a certain time period (typically within 15 years after separation) that pays the veteran’s tuition and potentially living assistance for attending school after being honorably discharged or retiring. The veteran will have paid monthly into the system during his or her service time, and then receives a substantially higher return on the investment to use towards continuing education in a VA-approved institution for up to 36 months (the months do not have to be consecutive). In some cases, these funds may also provide assistance for buying
your materials and textbooks, and also paying for your housing while attending school.
There are numerous variations on the GI Bill that an active duty servicemember, reservist, or veteran should review and understand to see which would be most beneficial to his or her goals and situation (you can talk to you Education Service Officer, your nearest Veteran Service Officer, or use the VA’s online GI Bill Comparison Tool). For example, you may be eligible for the:
- Post-9/11 Bill (Chapter 33)
- Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP) GI Bill (Chapter 1607)
- Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
- Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Bill (with special services for veterans with service-related disabilities)
- On-the-Job Training and Apprenticeships in the private sector
Additionally, active duty and reservists may be eligible for the Montgomery GI Bill, also known as Chapter 30, a program that assists active duty servicemembers who have completed a minimum service obligation and have enrolled, paying $100 per month for 12 months. These funds are dedicated to helping them pursue higher education degrees, certificates, and other education and training while still serving. Active duty and reservists may also be eligible for the Post-9/11 Bill so it’s important to understand the differences between the two programs.
Educational institutions do not recognize funds from the GI Bill as financial aid as it is typically paid directly to the veteran. Once you’ve applied for the Post-9/11 bill, been accepted, and enrolled in your approved institution, you may also notice a “VAED TREAS 310” deposit to your account, which is the VA Book and Supply Stipend of up to $1,000 annually (or $500 per semester). This fund is paid out approximately two weeks prior to the first day of classes at the rate of $41.67 per credit hour enrolled; the amount you receive depends on how many classes you are taking. These non-taxable funds are yours to spend as you see fit, as the VA does not require receipts from the recipient. Similarly, the GI Bill pays a pro-rated Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) – based on the local Basic Allowance for Housing for that area – in the month following each month of enrollment (you will receive the payment at the first of the month following each month you’ve been enrolled).
Veterans looking to learn more vocational or hand-on skills – including jobs like firefighter, union plumber, and hotel management – can leverage numerous educational benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill and on-the-job apprentice programs. These programs allow veterans to learn a trade or skill through training on the job rather than by attending a formal program of classroom-based instruction for a degree or certificate. A veteran generally enters into a training contract for a specific period with an employer, is paid a percentage of a journeyman wage, and at the end of the training period, the gains job certification or journeyman status. If the veteran is using the GI Bill, he is she is also most likely eligible for the monthly housing allowance.
In some cases, the benefits of the Post-9/11 GI Bill may be transferrable to an active-duty servicemember or reservist’s spouse or child, or split them between the two. This option is only applicable while the servicemember is in active duty, and all 36 months of benefits, or any remaining benefits, may be transferred. The Department of Defense (DoD) rather than the VA determines whether or not you can transfer benefits to your family, but once the DoD approves the transfer, the new beneficiaries apply for them at VA. There are also two national survivor and dependent scholarships available – The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship (Fry Scholarship) and The Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program – as well as scholarships and state-level education benefits for survivors.
The VA education and training webpage, along with your nearest VA regional benefits office and Veteran Service Officer, can connect you with a long list of tools and services that can help you transition to civilian life, continue your education, choose your next best step, and get your skill set and resume career-ready. There may be additional educational benefits for you or your dependents that are unique to your state, so be sure to ask about those opportunities when meeting with a counselor, or check with your state’s Department of Veteran Affairs.
While the transition to civilian life can seem a bit daunting, there is a large network of resources and other veterans waiting to assist you, who have been in your shoes, and want to see you succeed. By leveraging these resources, you can make the most of the benefits your service had earned and make your life after the military successful and rewarding.
Written by Megan Hammons
FAQs
What are the different types of Veteran education benefits? ›
- Post-9/11 GI Bill.
- Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty (MGIB-AD)
- Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)
- National Call to Service (NCS)
- Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA)
- Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP)
The program offers up to 45 months of education benefits. If you are the child, you generally must use your benefits between the ages of 18 and 26. If you are the spouse, your benefits end 10 years from the date VA finds you eligible or from the date of death of your spouse.
How much is Chapter 35 benefits 2023? ›We'll pay you up to the monthly rate listed here based on your scheduled clock hours: Full-time enrollment: $1,401 for each full month. 3/4-time enrollment: $1,107 for each full month. 1/2-time enrollment: $812 for each full month.
Are VA education benefits considered financial aid? ›No. You do not have to report VA education benefits on the FAFSA. However, you do need to report non-education VA benefits on the FAFSA. Non-education benefits include: disability, death pension, dependency indemnity compensation and/or VA Work-Study allowances.
How can I maximize my VA education benefits? ›- Save your benefits for your most expensive tuition bill.
- Take at least one class per semester in person.
- Earn as many credits as you can per semester.
- Beware of misleading schools.
- Submit the FAFSA.
Under VEVRAA, a veteran may be classified as a ''disabled veteran,'' ''recently separated veteran,'' ''active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran,'' or ''Armed Forces service medal veteran. ''
What is the 10 year rule for VA? ›If the Veteran's eligibility was due to a service-connected disability rated as totally disabling, they must have had this rating: For at least 10 years before their death, or. Since their release from active duty and for at least 5 years immediately before their death, or.
Do you have to pay back VA education benefits? ›By law, you are responsible for any debt incurred while receiving benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. VA is required by law to recoup any debt. You are responsible for keeping track of your tuition and fee account balance.
What disqualifies you from VA benefits? ›If you've received an other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable discharge, you may not be eligible for VA benefits.
What age does Chapter 35 benefits end? ›How Long Am I Eligible For? Children of a veteran who wish to receive benefits for attending school or job training must be between the ages of 18 and 26. In certain instances, it is possible to begin before age 18 and to continue after age 26.
How many months does Chapter 35 benefits pay for? ›
Chapter 35 Benefit Description
The DEA program provides up to 45 months of education and training benefits to eligible dependents of certain veterans. These benefits may be used for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training.
Offers education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or of Veterans who died while on active duty or because of a service-related condition. Monthly stipend does not pay Tuition and Fees.
Can I get financial aid if my dad is a veteran? ›As the dependent of a veteran or an active duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces, you may be entitled to financial assistance to help you meet your educational goals. Dependents are certainly welcome and eligible to apply for general financial aid as well, including Pell Grants and Stafford Loans.
Does Pell Grant Count VA disability? ›Educational Financial Aid and Your VA Disability Benefits
Yes, any disability compensation is counted on the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), considered untaxed income and benefits.
The VA pays the monthly amount directly to the student. Currently, the monthly payment for full-time training is $1,265. Spouses and children qualify for slightly different benefits under the DEA. Children may use their benefits between ages 18 and 26.
Will VA education benefits increase in 2022? ›By law, the GI Bill rate increase is tied to the average cost increase of undergraduate tuition in the U.S. For the 2022-2023 school year, that increase will average 1.3%. More than 80% of those taking advantage of their GI Bill benefits are doing so through the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
How much is Chapter 33 book stipend? ›Money for books and supplies
You may be eligible for up to $1,000 each academic year for books and supplies. We base your payment on how many courses you're enrolled in for the year and the percentage of benefits you're eligible for. We'll pay this money to you at the beginning of each term.
If the DoD approves the Transfer of Entitlement (TOE), your spouse or dependent children can apply for up to 36 months of benefits, and may be able to get money for: Tuition. Housing. Books and supplies.
What does the N in veteran mean? ›N -- Never. I say never because we should never forget our veterans who have served and paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Does a DD214 make you a veteran? ›Since the DD Form 214 is issued to those leaving the active military as well as to members of the National Guard and Reserves completing their initial active duty for training, possession of this document does not necessarily mean the student is a veteran.
How many years of service are you considered a veteran? ›
"As long as you were deployed on active duty for at least 180 days and you didn't get a dishonorable discharge or a bad conduct discharge coming off those orders, then you could be considered a veteran," said Army Sgt.
What is the VA age 55 rule? ›Revaluating VA Disability Ratings
Once you turn 55, you are typically "protected" and will no longer have to attend an exam to prove that your condition has not changed unless there is reason to suspect fraud. This is sometimes called the 55-year rule.
2023 VA disability pay rates, which are effective December 1, 2022, have a year over year increase of 8.7% based on the latest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
At what age does VA disability stop? ›Your VA benefits will last for your whole life. Even if your disability is classified as less than total and not permanent, if you've been collecting benefits for 20 years or more, the amount of your benefit won't go down.
Can the VA garnish my Social Security? ›Federal agencies like the SBA, FmHA, VA, USDA and RDA can also offset 15% of a person's Social Security. There is no statute of limitations and this offset can occur decades after the debt became due.
Can VA disability be garnished for credit card debt? ›Generally no, debt collectors can't take your Social Security or VA benefits directly out of your bank account or prepaid card. After a debt collector sues you for the debt and wins a judgment, it can get a court order for your bank or credit union to turn over money from your account or prepaid card.
Is VA education debt forgiven? ›Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Because VA is a federal government entity, VA employees with federal student loans may be eligible for this national loan forgiveness program. Visit the program's website for more information.
There is no minimum credit score requirement. Instead, VA requires a lender to review the entire loan profile. For more information, see the complete VA credit guidelines at www.benefits.va.gov/warms/pam26_7.asp. How Can You Start the Process?
What is the 5 year rule for VA disability? ›The VA disability 5 year rule allows the VA to ex-examine your VA disability rating within 5 years of your initial examination if your condition is expected to improve over time. However, the VA may still change your disability rating past the 5-year deadline if your condition has significantly improved.
What is the easiest disability to claim for VA? ›- Mental Health Conditions. Mental health conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and somatic disorder are considered high-value claims. ...
- Scars. ...
- Musculoskeletal Conditions. ...
- Presumptive Disorders. ...
- Tinnitus.
Do you have to pay taxes on Chapter 35? ›
If I received chapter 35 VA educational benefits do I still file my 1098-T for school? Payments you receive for education, training, or subsistence under any law administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are tax free. Do not include these payments as income on your federal tax return.
How many months can you get Chapter 35? ›You can receive payments under Chapter 35 for a maximum of 45 months of full time benefit.
What is the 8 year rule for VA disability? ›If you are rated as totally disabled as a result of a service-connected disability for at least eight continuous years preceding death, your spouse is entitled to an additional $246. An additional $286 is payable for each dependent child.
How much money do you get for Chapter 35? ›...
EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 1, 2019.
| Training Time | Monthly rate |
|---|---|
| Full time | $873.00 |
| ¾ time | $657.00 |
| ½ time | $436.00 |
If you're the child or spouse of a Veteran or service member who has died, is captured or missing, or has disabilities, you may be able to get help paying for school or job training through the DEA program—also called Chapter 35.
How many times can you use Chapter 35? ›3.04 DUAL ELIGIBILITY FOR CHAPTER 35 CHILDREN.
Although a dependent child with eligibility from multiple parents may elect to receive concurrent benefits (i.e. twice the full-time monthly rate), the child is still limited to a maximum of 45 or 36 months combined depending upon when chapter 35 was first used.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) helps you pay for school or job training. If you've served on active duty after September 10, 2001, you may qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33). Find out if you can get this education benefit.
Do veterans get Chapter 35 benefits? ›You may be eligible for VA education benefits (Chapter 35 benefits) if you're the child or spouse of a Veteran and one of these descriptions listed is true of the Veteran. One of these must be true: The Veteran is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or.
What is Chapter 32 VA benefits? ›VEAP (also called Chapter 32) is a $2-to-$1 government-match program for educational assistance. If you entered service for the first time between January 1, 1977, and June 30, 1985, and put money into a VEAP account, you may be eligible.
What 4 types of help did the GI Bill offer Veterans? ›Officially the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, the G.I. Bill was created to help veterans of World War II. It established hospitals, made low-interest mortgages available and granted stipends covering tuition and expenses for veterans attending college or trade schools.
What are special Veterans benefits? ›
Veterans may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), in conjunction with, or as an alternative to VA disability payments. They may also use the Medicaid and Medicare health benefits that come with SSI/SSDI to supplement VA health services.
What are the VA disability categories? ›Special VA disability compensation programs include: individual unemployability, automobile allowance, clothing allowance, prestabilization, hospitalization, convalescence, dental, and birth defects.
Can you use two VA education benefits at the same time? ›3.01 BAR TO TRAINING UNDER MULTIPLE PROGRAMS.
The law prohibits concurrent payment of education benefits under more than one law administered by VA and concurrent payment of education benefits and certain other federal benefit programs. However, there is no bar between receipt of VA education benefits and Pell grants.
The Joseph Maxwell Cleland and Robert Joseph Dole Memorial Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2022—A package of veterans' legislation to improve access to health care at VA and in the community, including mental health care; improve care for veterans in rural areas; bolster services for aging veterans; improve ...
How much is GI Bill monthly housing allowance? ›The Post-9/11 GI Bill also pays a Monthly Housing Allowance based on the ZIP code of the location of the school or campus you are attending the majority of your classes. This stipend currently averages $1,833 a month, but can exceed $2,700 depending on where you go to school.
How do I get the $16728 Social Security bonus? ›Who is eligible for Social Security bonus? For every year that you delay claiming past full retirement age, your monthly benefits will get an 8% “bonus.” That amounts to a whopping 24% if you wait to file until age 70.
Do veterans get extra money from Social Security? ›Since 1957, if you had military service earnings for active duty (including active duty for training), you may have extra Social Security wage credits added to your earnings record.
What is the VA 55 year old rule? ›Revaluating VA Disability Ratings
Once you turn 55, you are typically "protected" and will no longer have to attend an exam to prove that your condition has not changed unless there is reason to suspect fraud. This is sometimes called the 55-year rule.