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Military

From the Montgomery GI Bill to the Post-9/11 GI Bill and Veterans Assistance Programs, U.S. military service members are eligible for valuable education benefits. Some military education benefits are specifically designed for active-duty service members, and allow them to take campus-based or online courses during their off duty hours. Other programs, such as earning college credit by taking DANTES exams can benefit all active duty, veteran, and reserve service members. Finally, veteran education programs can help vets transition into civilian life and start new careers by earning a college degree.

Some military education benefits even extend to spouses and family members. As military families relocate along with service members, it can be difficult for family members to enroll in and complete degree programs. Military education programs are available to provide assistance to spouses and dependents of service members who are working toward a degree.

> Post 911 GI Bill Video

10 steps to the new GI bill
How to Take Advantage of Your GI Bill Benefits

1. Meet your newest benefit
The new GI Bill, formerly known as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, was created to overhaul the existing education benefit, the Montgomery GI Bill, and remedy some of its outdated features. This new benefit includes tuition payments made directly to schools, a housing allowance, and a book/supply stipend.

2. Get ready.
The new benefit goes into effect August 1, 2009. You can apply at anytime.

3. Know your eligibility.
Air Force, Navy, Army, and Marines on active duty may use their benefits, as can service members who are training overseas. Veterans with at least 90 days of active service after 9/11/2001 are eligible for the new GI Bill. National Guard and Reserves members with 3 years of active duty service after 9/11/2001 now qualify.

4. Check your benefit amount.
You earn a percentage of your maximum benefit based on length of active duty service. Knowing your benefit amount can help you determine which degree or training program makes the most sense for your career at this time.

5. Decide on a program.
Find out your options for education or training and make sure the program is approved for VA benefits. If you have a school in mind, the school’s financial aid office should also be able to help you. If you’re undecided, check out all the degree programs available.

6. Apply for your benefit.
Fill out a Veterans Online Application (VONAPP) through the Department of Veterans Affairs and select Form 22-1990. As long as service requirements are met, it doesn’t matter if you participated in the old GI Bill program. Also, you can apply for your benefit before deciding on a program.

7. Get your housing allowance.
You can qualify for a monthly housing allowance equal to the amount available to an E-5 with dependents. Active duty military, half-time or less students, or online students without a residency program requirement are not eligible

8. Remember your book stipend.
The new GI Bill includes a maximum annual book stipend of $1,000.

9. Pay your taxes.
You have to do this anyway--but you don’t pay taxes on your new GI Bill benefits.

10. Don’t delay your dream.
Your eligibility for the new GI Bill ends 15 years from your date of service/active duty discharge. When life happens, 15 years go by quickly. Start your dream today.
Information from www.GIbill.com