Eligibility: Who Can Use the GI Bill?

In order to use the GI Bill, you must have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard for at least 90 days. Also, you must not have been separated from the military by way of dishonorable discharge. If you do not begin using the GI Bill benefits within 10 years of discharge from the service, under the old Montgomery GI Bill, they are lost. Under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you must use them within 15 years.

Taking Full Advantage of Your GI Bill

How much you can get from the GI Bill depends on the version you use and the amount of active duty that you have served. If you have served at least 36 months of active duty (3 years), you are eligible for full benefits. If you have served at least 90 days, but less than 36 months, you are eligible for a percentage of GI Bill benefits, starting at 40 percent and going up. The tuition calculation depends on whether you use the old Montgomery GI Bill or the new Post-9/11 GI Bill.

How to Verify Your GI Bill Eligibility

After applying, you should have your university complete a GI Bill verification form certifying that you are a student and send it to the appropriate GI Bill office at the VA. After your benefits are activated, you can go to the Web Automated Verification of Enrollment (WAVE) page of the VA Web site to check your status and provide ongoing verification of your enrollment. Knowing how to use the GI Bill WAVE is key to ensuring that your continued education is covered.

If I Have the GI Bill, Can I Transfer It to My Dependent?

As of August 1, 2009, servicemembers and veterans who are eligible for the GI Bill may be able to transfer their benefits. Spouses may use the transfered benefit immediately, and dependents need to wait until their sponsor has completed 10 years of service. Details about this new change in policy will be forthcoming from the Department of Defense.