New GI Bill Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Post-9/11 GI Bill?

A: Signed into law in July of 2008, the new Post-9/11 GI Bill offers a set of benefits to servicemembers who have served on active duty for 90 or more days since Sept. 10, 2001, including current and previously activated National Guard and Reserve members. The new GI Bill goes into effect on August 1, 2009.

Q: What specific benefits does the Post-9/11 GI Bill offer?

A: The new GI Bill offers up to 100 percent tuition and fee coverage, a monthly housing stipend, up to $1,000 a year for books and supplies, and the option to transfer benefits to one or more dependents. Also, servicemembers who reside in rural counties with 6 people or fewer per square mile may qualify for a one-time relocation payment of $500.

Q: How are the new GI Bill benefits determined?

A: Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit payments are structured on a tiered-based system and determined by the amount of creditable active-duty service you have since Sept. 10, 2001. Because Guard or Selected Reserve members and Veterans enjoy the bulk of the benefits, active duty members are encouraged to use their Tuition Assistance benefits while on active duty and wait until the conclusion of their service before applying for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.

Q: How are benefits paid for qualifying college, university, vocational, or technical programs?

A: According to the new GI Bill stipulations, the Veterans Administration sends tuition and fee payments directly to your school of choice. Payments cannot exceed the highest undergraduate tuition and fee rates at a state-operated institution of higher learning. For campus-based schools, the state where your school is located determines the benefit, not your state of residence.

Q: What is the Yellow Ribbon Program provision of the Post-9/11 GI Bill?

A: Out-of-pocket tuition and fees associated with education programs can exceed Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. Schools that enter into the Yellow Ribbon Program agree to fund up to 50 percent of those additional costs. The VA will then match every dollar that the school agrees to pay, with the combined pay out not to exceed the full amount of the school's fees.

Q: Can I transfer my benefits to my dependents under the new GI Bill?

A: Under authorization of the Department of Defense, servicemembers who have served at least 6 years in the Armed Forces and who agree to an additional 4-year commitment can transfer unused benefits to a spouse or other dependent. Additional eligibility requirements may apply at the discretion of the Department of Defense.

Q: Which types of training are covered under the Post-9/11 GI Bill?

A: The new GI Bill covers all degree programs and certificate programs offered by degree-granting institutions--also known as Institutions of Higher Learning (IHLs). In addition, the new GI Bill covers tutorial assistance, work-study programs, and distance learning. The Bill may also cover flight training, correspondence courses, entrepreneurship training, and co-op training, if these programs are offered by an IHL. Certificates and diplomas granted by institutions that do not grant degrees are not covered by the Post-9/11 Bill.

Q: What features should I consider when choosing a GI Bill program?

A: Your choice of a GI Bill program is permanent, so there are several factors to consider. These include the type of training you plan to undertake; the amount of benefits you can receive under each program; if you plan on extending your benefits by 12 months; and the costs of the college, university, technical, or vocational programs that interest you. If you are unsure which program is the best choice for you, contact a Veterans Benefits Counselor at 1-888-GI-BILL-1.