How the GI Bill Changed After 9/11

How the GI Bill Changed After 9/11

In 2008 the new post 9/11 GI Bill was signed into law. The new bill went into effect on August 1, 2009 and offers new educational benefits for military veterans. The benefits are provided to servicemen who served on active duty for 90 days or more after September 10, 2001.

The post-9/11 benefits are tiered based on the amount of time spent in active duty after 9/11. The new educational benefits include up to 100% tuition and fee coverage. If eligible, the VA will pay tuition and fees directly to the student's school. The tuition and fee payments are capped at the highest tuition and fee rates at a state operated college or university.

Post 9/11 GI Bill Housing Stipend

Eligible veterans also have the ability to receive a housing stipend as they pursue their post-Military education. The stipend is based on the school’s zip code. Payments average around $1,200 a month, but can go as high as $2,700 a month. Students are not required to live on campus to receive benefits.

The new benefits include a book stipend of up to $1,000 for veteran members or members of the Guard and Selected Reserve. The payment is made at the beginning of the term and the amount paid depends on the number of credit hours taken. Active members are not eligible for this stipend.

One-time Relocation Allowance

There is also a one-time relocation allowance included in the new bill. Eligible veterans receive a $500 payment to help them move from a rural area to attend school. There are specific requirements that must be met in order to qualify for this benefit. Candidates must reside in a county with 6 persons or less per square mile. Students must either physically relocate 500 miles to attend school, or travel by air to physically attend school if no transportation by land is available.

Individuals who have served 6 years after August 1, 2009 and have signed up for 4 more years of active duty have the ability to transfer benefits to their spouse. Eligible members can transfer benefits to their dependents after they have reached their 10 year anniversary.

Veterans who are eligible can receive up to $2,000 for a certification or licensing exam, work-study programs, and $100 a month for tutorial assistance.

The post-9/11 GI Bill and other veterans scholarships offers eligible veterans more flexibility and enables them to reach their educational goals. Many individuals have taken advantage of the new benefits and more are likely to in the future.