Am I Entitled to the Post 9/11 GI Bill, and How Do I Apply For It?

Hi Crystal, It sounds like you are eligible for at least some benefits from the Post 9/11 GI Bill, but I can’t say if you are eligible for full benefits without knowing how long you were on active duty the other 2 times you were called up.  To be eligible for the full benefits you must have been on active duty for a full 36 months, if your other 2 times were for one year each time, then you would be eligible for the full benefits of the Post 9/11 GI Bill.

The 12 months of active duty service in your most recent call up entitles you to 60 percent of the benefits available under the Post 9/11 GI Bill, and then your additional months of active duty will add to that until you have your full benefits with 36 months of active duty service.

You may apply for your benefits several ways.  You can go online at VONAPPS and apply, you can call 1-888-442-4551 and apply with a VA representative, or you may contact the VA certifying official at the school you are thinking of attending.  They are normally located in the Registrar’s office, or in the financial aid office, and they can often assist you in filling out the paperwork and submitting it.  You will receive a Certificate of Eligibility back from the VA, which you will show the Registrar’s office at any school you plan to attend.  The certificate will let you and the school know what benefits you are eligible for.

I might also suggest that you think about attending a school that is a part of the Yellow Ribbon Program.  You will have to apply for the program at the school, but you may be eligible for additional assistance if you qualify for the program.  I am sure there are quite a few Yellow Ribbon Program schools in Georgia.