How Do I Apply for the Post 9/11 GI Bill One-Time Rural Benefit?

First Holli, you would qualify only if you come from an area where the population is less than six people per square mile as evidenced by the last census, and you either relocated to go to school or you travel by air to attend school because land transportation isn’t available. If these conditions apply to you, then you could apply for the one-time $500 Post 9/11 GI Bill rural payment benefit.

To get your $500, you have to either send in a request, in the form of a letter, to the VA requesting your rural benefit payment or enter the information in the remarks section of your application when you apply for Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits. Depending on your status, it will  be either VA Form 22-1990 (veteran) or 22-1990e (dependent).

In the Remarks Section, enter your statement requesting the one-time $500 rural benefit along with your home address and your school address. You will also need to send in supporting documentation with your application, such as a copy of an electric bill or property tax statement proving you live where you say you do. Once the VA verifies your information and that you qualify for the benefit, they will make the payment to you.