Did you miss the 2022 GI Bill Summit? VA Education Service leadership answered your GI Bill benefits questions at the first-ever event.

2022-03-08T13:44:02-05:00

On April 14, 2022, Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Education Service (EDU) leadership hosted its first ever GI Bill® Summit, connecting virtually with GI Bill students and the Veteran community to provide updates on Digital GI Bill modernization efforts and answer GI Bill questions submitted on RallyPoint.

The GI Bill Summit was hosted on VA’s Post-9/11 GI Bill Facebook page and featured:

» Opening remarks from EDU Acting Executive Director Mary Glenn
» Question and Answer session with EDU leadership
» Facebook Live chat interaction, answering education benefits questions on the spot
» Showcases of various VA education programs including VRRAP and VET TEC
» Spotlights of Veterans Claims Examiners and a School Certifying Official

In case you missed it, you can watch the recording of the 2022 GI Bill Summit here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0E5tw0zd4DY

In addition, VA’s Digital GI Bill team hosted a usability testing session with over 600 School Certifying Officials to test out new functionalities being developed to support the Digital GI Bill modernization effort. These new features are focused on making a better experience for Veterans, Service members, their families, and the school administrators and VA staff who support them.

Over the past few weeks, VA answered more than 250 education benefits questions submitted to the 2022 GI Bill Summit: RallyPoint Q&A. Topics included monthly enrollment verification requirements, Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA), transfer of entitlement, expiring COVID-19 protections of benefits, and more.

On behalf of the VA EDU leadership, we thank you for your engagement and participation in the GI Bill Summit. Your questions and feedback are invaluable as we work to improve your education benefits experience, and we look forward to continuing these types of conversations with you in the future.

If you have any additional questions, please utilize the GI Bill hotline at 888-GIBILL- [login to see] ) between 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Central Time, Monday-Friday. For students outside the U.S., call 00 [login to see] . You can also ask us a question via Ask VA (https://ask.va.gov) or reach out to us through our Post- 9/11 GI Bill Facebook page (https://rly.pt/346jg4T).

2022 GI Bill Summit

Hear VBA Education Service leadership answer education benefits questions submitted by Veterans, Service members, and their families on RallyPoint: https://w...

Response by Cpl Vic Burk made Mar 8 at 2022 1:50 PM

2022-03-08T13:50:04-05:00

I used my GI Bill long ago! It made my time in the Marines all the more worth while (I would have joined even without it)

Response by CPO Keith Blandin made Mar 9 at 2022 6:19 PM

2022-03-09T18:19:10-05:00

Why do online students only get 50% BAH when we are doing school all the same as those attending brick and mortar schools. Living in a very rural area, online college is my only option for education. What is the reasoning for this and are there plans to give full BAH to online students?

Response by PO1 Haley Stanczyk made Mar 9 at 2022 7:06 PM

2022-03-09T19:06:44-05:00

Can benefits be explained for those getting a PhD where the program pays even a stipend? Are you able to still get BAH? It’s difficult to understand how the GI Bill is used in these situations.

Response by PO3 Christopher Wymer made Mar 9 at 2022 7:27 PM

2022-03-09T19:27:36-05:00

I joined in 1989 when the GI Bill was only $10,800. I got out in 2004 and had to take out student loans to pay for my degree. I found out in 2004 enlisted were getting $250k for college. Seems unfair that I have student loan debt now when I could have been upgraded to the newest GI Bill.

Response by TSgt Paul Pascoe made Mar 9 at 2022 8:05 PM

2022-03-09T20:05:55-05:00

Why can't veterans transfer Post 911 GI benefits to dependents that were not given any during active duty?

Response by FA Michael Ray made Mar 9 at 2022 8:14 PM

2022-03-09T20:14:37-05:00

After working 4 years in the bowels of a ship, 8-12 hrs a day, breathing toxic fuel oil and diesel fuel fumes, I developed Tremor which I didn't associate until later with the fact that the fumes, confirmed by MSDS sheets which I submitted, caused the Tremor, I applied for a % settlement. I was turned down and told by a service officer that I would never get a settlement because I was the first one who had ever claimed such a thing. It's a pain in the butt to continue the paperwork to try again so I gave up. I was tested repeatedly by doctors who affirmed I had Tremor and it was likely caused by those fumes and using that fluid to wash parts daily. I deserve a settlement.

Response by MSgt Edward Cruz made Mar 9 at 2022 8:17 PM

2022-03-09T20:17:38-05:00

Why won't the VA education program extend our benefits prior to 2013? I was not ready to use my benefit until later in life amd now I'm forced to leave money on the table working on a second Masters wanting to apply the remaining benefits towards a PHD.

Response by Cpl Edward Bassett made Mar 9 at 2022 8:28 PM

2022-03-09T20:28:04-05:00

To whom it may concern,

My name is Edward A. Bassett & I am generating this letter because what I have been through with the VA for my Son’s Education Benefits for his College Education has been very unreasonable and my Claim Denied, Appeals, Denied without any explanation why.
I was born in Los Angeles, California on November 14th, 1948. I was brought up as a very Red Blooded American and I became an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. At 13 years of age, I ended my activities with the Boy Scouts of America with 6 Eagle Palms and just about every award that could be given to a Boy Scout at the time period.

I Volunteered for the United States Marine Corps in 10-01-1968 & served my tour in Vietnam in 1969. I was released from active duty with the USMC I June of 1972. With an honorable Discharge a & as a Corporal.

I have always been a very Patriotic Person who believed so much in our country, that I would die if necessary to protect our country.
I am not nor have I ever aspired to be a Terrorist or against the United States of America. Even now that I feel that no matter how loyal I am or was, the USA VBA has not done its part to help us who served their country to the best of their ability. Even though I have had my disagreements with Congress in the present time, I am loyal to the USA.

Since my separation from the USMC several of my friends & acquaintances have filed for Exposure to Agent Orange Pesticides during their tour in Vietnam. I had never actually felt that I was harmed by this Exposure until several years later.
Through some of these people, my private doctors, & employees of the VA, I was told that I could be compensated and given treatment for illnesses I have been experiencing & could be compensated for them.

I July of 2019 I filed a Claim with the VA for my being Exposed to Agent Orange. After several evaluations by VA doctors & private doctors a like have said the my body organs have been attacked by a Chronic Illness called Sarcoidosis.
All of these doctors say that these symptoms can be caused by my past Exposure to Agent Orange.
I have (from instruction by the VA of Manila) submitted at least 85 pages of medical reports, diagnosis, prescriptions, doctors note * recommendations etc… (all of the Medical documentation I had).
As a result of this Claim & the Medical information from both VA & Private doctors, I was Assessed to be 100% Disabled.

My primary question is, what does 100% disability mean to the VA???
I have a college aged son who is presently attending IE University in Madrid, Spain. He is enrolled in a Bachelor’s of Business Administration Degree program & is a fulltime student there.
When he applied & was accepted to this University the first thing we did was to call the CHOOSE VA & ask them if the IE University was an Accredited school by the Veterans Administration. Their answer was a positive one and they said yes.
Patrick E. Bassett (my Son) then did what he needed to do to accept his offer at IE University and he filed an Education Benefits Claim, with the VBA for his COE (Certificate of Eligibility).
He was only given 30% Education Benefits by the VBA & we contest that he is entitled to 100% Education Benefits. I Appealed this decision because I was told and I found publications that say that a Dependent of a Service Member who has been assessed to be 100% disabled due to a service-related injury is entitled to 100% Full-Time Education Benefits, inclusive of Tuition.

This is something that I enlisted in the USMC to get as an award for my service, my future, & my potential family’s Education Benefits. It is a shame that I have been fight f This assistance is much appreciated but or these Education Benefits for my Son for the past 2.5 years, to no avail. Not only do I receive the Denial notification I also do not receive any explanation for why this Claim has been denied.

I have been arguing this issue with the VBA for over 2.5 years now. He is finally receiving a Sustenance Assistance from the GIBILL. We do appreciate what Patrick is receiving from the GIBILL but it does not cover his ,Tuition payment. I still have to pay the University for his yearly Tuition payment & I really cannot afford to do this.

I am 73 years of age and retired. I collect funds from this retirement plus the funds from my Agent Orange Claim. The addition of Patrick’s Tuition to this is just overwhelming me and triggering my PTSD symptoms.

I need the Full-Time Benefit that I believe I deserve and earned during my time in service in the USMC & international service in Vietnam where I was exposed to Agent Orange.

We living here in the Philippines and wishing to use our Veteran Benefits are at a Hugh Disadvantage. We do not have the access to the assistance offered by the VA. The time difference between the USA & the Philippines, the mail system, the ability to communicate & to know who to communicate with is greatly restricted.
Our ability to fill out the correct VA form, how to fill it out properly, & who to send it to has also been a problem. I have been told that your decision has been sent to you by mail & if I do receive it, it can be as much as 3 months or more late.
The system for VA Claims is not very efficient here in the Philippines at all. I have submitted some documents 3 to 4 times before I even get an acknowledgement that it has bee received. Those acknowledgements are few and far between.
I have called and spoken several time to a VBA member who I tell I am the father of Patrick E. Bassett and I give them his and my details to verify that I a who I say I am and they will not discuss the topic with me because they say that they need to talk to him.
When I have to talk to him to call the VBA and let them know that they can discuss an issue with me, the fact that he is in Madrid, Spain, I am in the Philippines & the VBA is in the USA (with several time zones) the communication issues are compounded.
When do I need to call him?
when does he need to call them?
When & what time did they need to be called?
All of these things are just things that the normal person did not need to do.
I decided to try to understand that these same obstacles were be fronting the VBA too. The time that changed my mind about VBA’s attitude and need to help changed when I received some messages from them without any explanation it Claim or Appeal was just denied.
When the VA in Manila gave me a Federal Benefits Booklet from CHOOSE VA that described a Veterans Benefits for a Spouse or Dependent of a Veteran who has suffered a service-related injury & has bee assessed to be 100% disabled, their dependent is eligible for 100% Full-Time Education Benefits.
There it is, in your own words, the Benefit that I have been asking for, for at least two years. I wondered then & I am still wondering how can they deny my son this Education Benefit.
I was released from the USMC in June of 1972 a
& I did not even apply for the Agent Orange Benefit until June of 2019. I actually saved the US VA hundreds of thousand dollars in Agent Orange fee’s that were owed to me. At least they could take care of my son’s Education Benefits that he & I are entitled too.

This disappointment that I have received from the VBA has triggered my PTSD and I have become depressed, sleepless nights, headaches, nightmares ,lethargic, easily angered, shortness of breath etc….
The VBA is so proud of what they feel they are doing to help Veterans with PTSD, I can show you that their means of solving problems and the lack of communication hurts us and even triggers a higher degree of PTSD.

I have become a very disgruntled Veteran who firmly believes that the VA of the USA has almost completely forgotten the typical Vietnam Veteran. This new benefit just earlier this week that was advertised showing more support for Veterans who were exposed to toxic agents and other harmful exposure for Veterans serving in Iran, Iraq, Saudi, and other places. There is nothing said about Vietnam Veterans who were Exposed to Dangerous toxins / pesticides like Agent Orange in Vietnam.

The USA treats their Veterans bad & the Veterans from the Vietnam War Era even worse.

If you have any questions about this message or comments for or against what I say here please let me know. Especially if you have a resolution for my continued inquiry for my son’s Education Benefits..
My e mail address is: [login to see]
My cell phone is: + [login to see] 61

I have also attached a detailed information document about myself and my son (Patrick E. Bassett).

Regards,

Edward A. Bassett

Response by PO1 Tony Lee made Mar 9 at 2022 8:34 PM

2022-03-09T20:34:15-05:00

I am a Vietnam-Era veteran. I never used my GI Bill, due to living in southern Europe after retiring from the Navy. Is there any way to ensure those who, for one reason or another, didn't use their GI Bill but could pass the benefits to another, or even use it themselves? Thanks

Response by HN Derrick Hilll made Mar 9 at 2022 8:37 PM

2022-03-09T20:37:31-05:00

Why is it that I have bought into the MGIB and was forced to sign everything over to have the post 9/11 bill? When I go to use it why is it that there is a delimitation date when education is ongoing and why is it that you guys can't pay for veterans to be able to have the housing all all throughout school and the month that is in between time from break to classes?

I was told that I can either be in school or work but I can't do both. In between my school schedule I had one month of time where I wasn't in school during both semesters. That needs to be fixed.

Response by PO2 Thaddeus Clay made Mar 9 at 2022 9:41 PM

2022-03-09T21:41:04-05:00

Pegging the MHA rate to the national average for online education programs places unnecessary limitations on Veteran mobility. Using the average, despite the dynamics surrounding urbanization, competitive job markets, and cost of living is a fundamentally and statistically flawed approach. This should be part of today’s larger discussion given the accelerated adoption of online programs from respectable/prestigious institutions.

What is the VA doing, if anything, to address this issue? In my opinion, a more targeted rate might be where a Veteran is signed up for benefits in addition to proof of residency. Let’s be honest, $900 dollars in a Tier 1/Tier 2 city - where the actual job markets are located - might not even get you a room.

Response by SSgt Logan Figueroa made Mar 9 at 2022 10:16 PM

2022-03-09T22:16:11-05:00

While attending classes in 2015, the VAED cut all of my GI BIll benefits from 100% to 70%, which forced me to drop out, lose my home, my vehicle, and my belongings in storage. I was 4 months away from graduating with a degree in Cardiovascular Technology but was unable to finish. In 2020 they finally realized and admitted to making a mistake, paying me back the money they took from my employment wages, but the benefits and time was wasted because of their mistake. Shouldn't my GI Bill benefits be fully reinstated? They're 100% at fault for the loss of that time and the benefits.

Response by SSgt Corey Stinnett made Mar 9 at 2022 10:30 PM

2022-03-09T22:30:17-05:00

I served 1988-1998 and exited with my Montgomery GI Bill. I went on partial disability in 1998 and by 2006, i went on short-term disability followed by long-term disability in 2008. I was never able to take advantage of my GI Bill due to a troubled 7 year career after ther military caused by PTSD. Am i simply out of luck from my cash investment made into the Montgomery GI Bill? Can i pass on those benefits to my kids/grandkids, get reimbursed the $1300 investment, or do i just count it as a loss of my sacrificed Airman Basic pay?

Response by Lt Col Gary Ci made Mar 9 at 2022 10:41 PM

2022-03-09T22:41:05-05:00

Question for the GI bill summit:
Has there been or will there be any progress on affording transferability of gi bill benefits to single service members who served honorably and for full duration like married counterparts but simply didn’t have a dependent during active service in order to transfer benefit to. I like some others married or had children after retiring and would greatly appreciate chance to share benefit I earned with my child; this situation seems unfairly punitive for a mere family timing issue. Thanks for consideration and feedback.

Response by PO2 Angeliyah Fredette made Mar 9 at 2022 10:56 PM

2022-03-09T22:56:27-05:00

Can you extend your Post 9/11 GI Bill to cover BAH and tuition if it expires during the semester you are currently in? Thank you.

Response by PO3 Aneka Jackson made Mar 9 at 2022 11:02 PM

2022-03-09T23:02:09-05:00

GI Bill - I used portion of GI Bill and was later diagnosed service connected MDD which rendered me unable to use entire benefit. Can I use remaining benefit after 10 years OR transfer remaining benefit to dependent?

Response by SPC Morgan Durroh made Mar 9 at 2022 11:18 PM

2022-03-09T23:18:37-05:00

Can serious considerations be put in place for not just Covid-19 protections for the GI Bill but also for schools that are not having in person classes for the upcoming semester due to the pandemic. I major in Public Health and they are choosing to remain online/virtual meet times for classes until further notice. Most classes meet more than twice a week for this major and I would just hope that this is considered in the decision in whether to extend the protection for MHA.

Response by PO3 Aneka Jackson made Mar 9 at 2022 11:28 PM

2022-03-09T23:28:52-05:00

GI Bill - I used a portion of my GI Bill and was later diagnosed service connected MDD which rendered me unable to use entire benefit? Can I use remaining benefit after 10 years OR transfer remaining benefit to dependent child?

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 9 at 2022 11:45 PM

2022-03-09T23:45:24-05:00

GI Bill Modernization– Any thoughts on updating the GI Bill to provide additional transfer benefits to those retired Veterans who were not able to meet the minimal time in service requirements and not able to transfer their educational benefits to their children? Many Veterans with 20 plus years of service were not able to transfer their educational benefits because they did not have the minimal time remaining in the service due to mandatory retirement. It is as if family timing issues are disadvantaging the service member; in these many cases the incentive for requiring additional time served does not make sense since these service members already have had a full military career. Would encourage the DoD/VA to provide those retired Veterans the ability to transfer GI Bill educational benefits to their dependents.

Response by MSgt Maria Ramirez made Mar 10 at 2022 1:05 AM

2022-03-10T01:05:59-05:00

Will I be reimbursed for an unused MGIB? While still active duty I transferred my VEAP to MGIB. I had to pay $2700 first since I had stopped my VEAP allotment. After my retirement I was not able to convert my MGIB to Post 9/11 GIB. Can I transfer my unused benefits to my child?

Response by CPL Keith Baylor made Mar 10 at 2022 3:19 AM

2022-03-10T03:19:55-05:00

How much help does disable Veterans get toward their education from GI Bill?

Response by SFC William Lucas made Mar 10 at 2022 3:42 AM

2022-03-10T03:42:24-05:00

Hi, when I enlisted I turned down a bonus in exchange for the Army College Fund (ACF). Later I transferred my GiBill to my kids. My daughter has used the first half and my son is starting to use the 2nd half. Over the last several years (since 2015) I submitted paperwork and ask if my kids were getting the extra benefit of my ACF. After several calls and emails I never got an answer. How can I tell if my daughter got any extra benefit of the ACF? If she didn't, is it to late? I gave up a lot back then since I was barely making $300 a month, so I am hoping they can benefit from it now. Thank you.

Response by LT Rodney Flores made Mar 10 at 2022 4:38 AM

2022-03-10T04:38:54-05:00

I was on a Naval ROTC scholarship for college, then did 4 years of active duty and resigned my commission as a lieutenant. I was on the inactive reserve list for 4 years after that to fulfill my commitment. Seven years later I rejoined the Navy as a reservist for 2 years. Would I have GI benefits available that I could share with my kids?

Response by CPT David Gowel made Mar 10 at 2022 6:50 AM

2022-03-10T06:50:45-05:00

Thanks for taking our questions! I have 2: 1) can a service connected disabled veteran extend eligibility for GI bill benefits due to medical conditions (if so, for how long, under what conditions, etc.) and 2) under DEA how long do spouses have eligibility to use benefits?

Response by MSgt Julia Laughlin made Mar 10 at 2022 7:09 AM

2022-03-10T07:09:37-05:00

did the 10 year limitation of using our education benefits change to a longer period to use our GI BILL after retiring or leaving the service?

Response by Sgt Caley Brown made Mar 10 at 2022 7:21 AM

2022-03-10T07:21:21-05:00

Is there a way for a veteran with 4 years time in service with a 100% disability rating to transfer their Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits to their child?

Response by MSgt Stacie Farrow made Mar 10 at 2022 8:26 AM

2022-03-10T08:26:11-05:00

When I retired, I opted into the Post 911 program. I've since timed out of using the remaining months and no other of my beneficiaries are interested in further education. Is there a chance that the time limits are removed so that the retiree, me, could use the remaining education benefits? I'd love to go back to school and use my remaining Post 911 months.

Response by PO1 Kam Presley II made Mar 10 at 2022 9:25 AM

2022-03-10T09:25:35-05:00

My question is about being able to transfer G.I.Bill benefits to dependents after retiring from service. I had an issue while I was active duty in the Navy where I was denied being able to transfer my G.I. Bill as I didn't meet the time of service requirements at the time. Is this something that could change in the future with being able to expand transfer opportunities?

Response by PO1 Kam Presley II made Mar 10 at 2022 9:27 AM

2022-03-10T09:27:31-05:00

Response by SPC Cherish Finchis made Mar 10 at 2022 10:18 AM

2022-03-10T10:18:38-05:00

What about the Veterans who had degrees with ITT Tech and the fact that the degrees are not recognized? I exhausted all my benefits at ITT Tech and had to use Vocational Rehabilitation to finish my Bachelor along with Student Loans that I was paying back up until this past year when I finally got my 100% disability. Will my benefits be reinstated? Is there anyway to recoup any money I paid into my loans?

Response by SSG Tom Grindstaff made Mar 10 at 2022 10:47 AM

2022-03-10T10:47:31-05:00

Is there any possibility that the Post-911 GI-Bill 15 year requirement will be retroactively dropped for veterans separating prior to 2013, and did not get to use their benefits?

I enlisted in 1999 under Student Loan Repayment, and had to waive participation in the Montgomery GI Bill at the time, and when I separated in 2005 was under the impression that I was done with the GI-Bill. I found out, after some investigation, in 2015 that I qualified for the Post-911 GI Bill, but had to use the benefits within 15 years of separation. Due to where I was in my career, over the next 5 years, I was unable to work with my employer to take the time to go back to school. Now I am in a different situation, but it's too late for me to use the benefits that I earned. I understand that the 15 year requirement has been dropped for all veterans that separated after 2013, and that those of us separating or serving prior to that are not included for budget reasons, which is sad for a number of reasons.

Response by A1C Theresa Schwartz made Mar 10 at 2022 11:21 AM

2022-03-10T11:21:08-05:00

Having bought into the MGIB and not having a chance to use it within the 10 years, I would like to be able to access that now.

Response by TSgt Amiee Williams made Mar 10 at 2022 12:33 PM

2022-03-10T12:33:34-05:00

Who is talking to congress about changing it so that online students receive housing allowance for their location and not half of the national average?

Response by SSG Linda Kelly made Mar 10 at 2022 6:10 PM

2022-03-10T18:10:17-05:00

MY QUESTION IS I JOIN THE ARMY RESERVE IN 1980 STAY IN UNTIL 1997. When i join i pay into the Montgomery GI bill. I never use it. In 1997 I went into AGR going through orientation i join to pay into it again MGIB and didn't use it. I got deploy in 2008-2009. The it became the GI BILL. I did use it and got my BA. But what I want to know is what happen to the MGIB monies i pay and can I still use it. Or get it refunded?

Response by PO2 Saifeddin Ahmad made Mar 10 at 2022 7:42 PM

2022-03-10T19:42:27-05:00

I have a unique situation and I do appreciate an advice. I have purchased Montgomery GI Bill when I was on active duty back in 1996. It cost me $100 each month for a whole 12 months.
I separated from active duty to reserve commitment in 2000. In 2003 I became disabled due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Did I lose my Purchased GI Bill? Can I transfer it to my child since I can not use it? Thank you.

Response by PO2 James Tucker made Mar 11 at 2022 10:41 AM

2022-03-11T10:41:39-05:00

I would request that the 10-year limit to start receiving benefits be eliminated or extended. I departed service in 1997 and was unable to start any education until 2012. My deposits were forfeit and I have been denied any GI Bill assistance since. This 10-year limitation is an arbitrary hurdle that is denying veterans needed education assistance that they were vested by sacrificing monetary allotments from their first years minimum salary.

Response by LCpl Jeffrey Paden made Mar 11 at 2022 2:59 PM

2022-03-11T14:59:06-05:00

My question is this. When I was discharged it was a General under Honorable. I elected to pay for my GI Bill. With my discharge I found out my GI Bill was inaccessible. I could not use it and I was not given back my original cost put into the GI Bill. I went in 1988 to 1992 and served in the Persian Gulf War. When we came back the unit was standing down for new aircraft and training . I was overweigh and didn't meet the PFT as required, was considered a good Marine. How do I get my money back or get the GI bill use ?

Response by Cpl Edward Bassett made Mar 11 at 2022 6:30 PM

2022-03-11T18:30:33-05:00

What is the outcome so far?
No one has told me why 100% disability does not get the full-time Education Benefit for may Son.

Response by Capt Joshua Atkinson made Mar 13 at 2022 4:57 PM

2022-03-13T16:57:48-04:00

how does the Gi Bill pay for certification training now?

Response by Cpl Edward Bassett made Mar 14 at 2022 6:33 PM

2022-03-14T18:33:49-04:00

I also want to thank !SG Dan Capri for his supporting message. Now can anyone explain to me how to take this question further?
I want to get an answer from the VBA and they need to take heed that I have written to Congress of the USA & addressed this complaint to Nancy Pelosi & the MEDIA of the USA.

Response by Debra Barrett made Mar 15 at 2022 12:50 PM

2022-03-15T12:50:09-04:00

Why do we have to list ALL the programs listed in WEAMS with the count of unsupported if there are no supported students? That is a lot of extra work for a small school who has few supported students using VA funds.

Response by SrA Lana Kratz made Mar 15 at 2022 12:52 PM

2022-03-15T12:52:42-04:00

Spouse was approved/granted for Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship near end of GI Bill while working toward B.S. in IT, he immediately tried to roll into that scholarship to pay was told his cutoff date (15 yrs) to use his GI Bill had lapsed and the scholarship couldn’t be used. Have to write Congress rep on this one- no luck VA Reps; ridiculous! The scholarship states it allows up to 9 mos. Extra to “extend their Post-9/11 GI Bill.”

Response by PO3 Madeline Sitting Holy made Mar 15 at 2022 12:52 PM

2022-03-15T12:52:49-04:00

Edith Nourse Rogers STEM scholarship, is there a chance that this will be made to be used for veterans going into graduate programs. Since, it is not transferable to family members and can only be used if getting an undergraduate degree. I am in an MPH program and have had to take out student loans but I still have some benefit left on my Edith Nourse Roger's STEM scholarship but I can't use it for a graduate program.

Response by SPC Andrew Cundiff made Mar 15 at 2022 1:02 PM

2022-03-15T13:02:46-04:00

Hello, I went through a nasty divorce a few years ago and lost about $18k in education benefits. $12k of that included my overdue pandemic stimulus and was seized by the VA this year when I filed my taxes. Is there any recourse for someone like me to try and recoup lost funds due to extreme emotional distress or life events that take them out of school? My family and I are on our last legs and only continue to exist because of the kindness of others.

Response by MSgt Edward Cruz made Mar 15 at 2022 1:06 PM

2022-03-15T13:06:04-04:00

My name is Edward Cruz and my question: Why am I forced to leave 15 months of 9-11 benefits on the table because my delimitin could not be extended. My date is April 21, 2022. I am completing my second Masters, I was not ready or prepared to return to school until 2018 because I was fighting for my total and permanent rating and the case was awarded successfully on my behalf. I was simply asking for a two year extension additional to apply towards my PhD. This is a very unfair decision. I do suffer from several malaise which made it hard to return to school early in including assimilating a return to work and a young family. Why must the VA only focus only medical amd even that is not sufficient.

Response by COL William Macken made Mar 15 at 2022 1:08 PM

2022-03-15T13:08:09-04:00

Can you explain the rationale for limiting GI Bill use to 15 years (from date of discharge) for those Veterans separating prior to 1 January 2013? Those separating after 1 January 2013 have no time limit. Assume this also applies to transferability of GI Bill benefits to family members/dependents? thanks

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 1:08 PM

2022-03-15T13:08:22-04:00

As a reservist who has went on a deployment for 208 days and other AT orders. Will the post 911 cover all tuition and housing so that I can go to school full time and quite my job? And will I still be able to use that benefit when my reserve military contract is up?

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 1:09 PM

2022-03-15T13:09:41-04:00

https://www.military.com/daily-news/2021/07/13/court-ruling-may-let-veterans-access-both-montgomery-and-post-9-11-gi-bill-benefits.html

A little misleading, you direct questions in RP to the "Splashthat" weblink which redirects you here.

Question: What is the VA doing to extend benefits for 12 months due to this court ruling as soon below, capping the max benefit at 48 months.

That's my question.

Court Ruling May Let Veterans Access Both Montgomery and Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits

An appeals court sustained a previous ruling that said an Army officer could receive the maximum amount of benefits from both programs, capped at 48 months.

Response by PVT Wesley Winslette made Mar 15 at 2022 1:11 PM

2022-03-15T13:11:11-04:00

I have 16 months of school left to complete my Bachelor's degree in information technology. I only have 7 months left of benefits. Can the GI Bill be extended so I don't have to come out of pocket?
How much is BAH with online classes? Is it still 50% or is it 100% due to the pandemic?

Response by TSgt Tpm McKenna made Mar 15 at 2022 1:14 PM

2022-03-15T13:14:12-04:00

Is there a plan in place to extend Post 9/11 for those veterans that are in the middle of a degree program? Post 9/11 will keep veterans out of debt and will help place in good paying jobs when finished. I, for example, would like to teach school, which at the moment has a nationwide shortage of teachers. Thank you for this webinar.

Response by SFC Pamela Kreisler made Mar 15 at 2022 1:14 PM

2022-03-15T13:14:24-04:00

I am writing about the Post 911 GI Bill and monthly housing allowance (MHA). I am going to school where there are trimesters. Inside those trimesters they also have an 8-week A and 8-week B. I was originally signed up for spring semester 2022 for 11 credits the entire term. The school moved my 5-credit class to the 8-week course of the term. I had that 5-credit course in 8 weeks. I don’t see why I should be penalized by not getting the full benefits for the entire 4 months just because I had to get it done in 8 weeks. For the spring term, my semester credit total is 11 credits, and it shouldn’t matter that I didn’t get to have the other 8 weeks to do it. (It is meant to be a 16-week session. So basically by my school putting all 5 credits in an 8-week course, I lose out on my MHA benefits for the 2 months.

Response by SMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 1:15 PM

2022-03-15T13:15:11-04:00

I have divided up my educational benefits between 3 children; therefore, the 36 total months of benefits won’t complete their degree plan at a 4 yr University. My understanding is that a new change in law requires universities to charge only the in-state rate to students using Post 9/11 benefits upon exhaustion of their allocation of benefits. Can you confirm if this is true, especially as it relates to The University of South Carolina (Columbia main campus).

Response by PO1 Brian Tuczynski made Mar 15 at 2022 1:16 PM

2022-03-15T13:16:54-04:00

Why is the VA fighting so hard against the multiple legal victories by Mr. Rudisill that granted veterans with qualifying periods of service the ability to use both GI Bills up to a combined 48 month limit? If a Veteran earned it, the VA needs to pay it. The statutory reading is reasonable and the courts are behind Mr. Rudisill's claim, but the VA continues to deny these benefits to Veterans.

Response by SSG April Brock made Mar 15 at 2022 1:20 PM

2022-03-15T13:20:46-04:00

My school closed down in March 2019. 6 mths before I was due to graduate.

Why is there a policy regarding this very issue for only 2015-2017? Will that policy be changed so that everyone else that’s affected by this or has been affected by this is not left out to hang dry? Will there be a better option for veterans out in place?

We earned our benefits and we should be protected against situations like this but we are not.

Response by SGT(P) Cristal G. made Mar 15 at 2022 1:21 PM

2022-03-15T13:21:12-04:00

What are the changes FTNG T32 503f active duty term of more than 6 + consecutive tours?

Response by SSgt Rachel Kimbrough made Mar 15 at 2022 1:22 PM

2022-03-15T13:22:09-04:00

One Instance during a semester, I lost my brother and the workload of my classes became too much. So I had to contact my school to drop a class and the VA. It was brought to my attention that there is a one time forgiveness under certain circumstances. Could you please mention what can be done for people who may have had such circumstances and they have to drop a class or classes, and they fear having to pay out of pocket.

Response by SrA Philip Davenport made Mar 15 at 2022 1:22 PM

2022-03-15T13:22:42-04:00

Is there an intent to evaluate the cost of living in Florida as the BAH no longer covers the cost to hold a mortgage / rent in the state.

Response by CPL David Sharp made Mar 15 at 2022 1:25 PM

2022-03-15T13:25:26-04:00

My 15 year mark where the GI Bill expired since my term of service isn't under the "Forever GI Bill" was Feb 15th 2022. I also exhauasted my GI Bill benefit at that same time. However, I was also granted the STEM scholarship but then told I couldn't use it because of the 15 year experiation. There is nothing in the letter of approval for the STEM scholarship that states limitations based on the 15 year mark. Why would I have even been approved in the first place for it if I wouldn't be able to use it? I've since had to quit college because I was told I would be getting something and now not getting it. Can somebody clarify?

Response by SFC Barbara Malone-Verduin made Mar 15 at 2022 1:29 PM

2022-03-15T13:29:12-04:00

Why can't everyone receive the GI Bill for an infinite amount of time? Why should some of us get cut off at 10 or 15 years after retirement? Most of us did our due diligence in service above and beyond 20+ years, including participating in one or more deployments. I finally had some sparks of motivation to start school while trying to heal from PTSD and other service-connected issues. But now time is running out to use my GI BILL and I won't be able to finish it financially due to time. I gave my TIME and then some to the military and deployments. Why shouldn't I receive all the time I need for my education, like those who are granted infinite time to use their GI BILL in the most recent GI BILL rules? I think that decision should be applicable to ALL RETIRED MILITARY WHO ESPECIALLY SERVED 20 YEARS + AND DEPLOYED TO WAR ZONES. My hope is that the VA reconsider this rule to all GI BILL recipients who served in war zones, especially those of us who retired with 20+ years and SACRAFICED A LOT!!!!!

Response by SFC Barbara Malone-Verduin made Mar 15 at 2022 1:30 PM

2022-03-15T13:30:04-04:00

Response by SrA Tiffany Walker made Mar 15 at 2022 1:32 PM

2022-03-15T13:32:25-04:00

Hi! I graduated in 2015 from ITT Technical Institute right before they closed permanently. I was using my post 9/11 benefits. Since other students are getting their loans discharged, does this mean we can get that money back in post 9/11 GI bill credit? This is particularly a question for students like me who have exhausted their benefits. Thanks!

Response by Cpl Sara Roe made Mar 15 at 2022 1:33 PM

2022-03-15T13:33:16-04:00

My GI Bill money expires this summer and I haven’t used all of it. I start nursing school in august. Is there nothing I can do to extend the time I can use it? I earned this money, I don’t think it’s exactly fair it expires

Response by SCPO Heather Friedrich made Mar 15 at 2022 1:33 PM

2022-03-15T13:33:22-04:00

Why Does post 911 GI Bill not cover developmental math courses but will cover developmental courses in other subjects?

Response by PO2 Holly Hogan made Mar 15 at 2022 1:34 PM

2022-03-15T13:34:05-04:00

What can I do if my school isn't reporting me correctly?

Response by PO3 Bri Morris made Mar 15 at 2022 1:34 PM

2022-03-15T13:34:52-04:00

The GI Bill does not cover expenses when you are not in school. I went straight to college with very little help from anyone when I first got out of active duty service. I served for 4 years but there was very little in place to help me transition to civilian life. I worked full time, went to school full time, made the honor roll at my college, and I damaged my mental health even more on top of everything else that I had already been through. People who are college students and don't necessarily have a place to go during the summer months deserve more financial support for housing- just like other college students do.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 1:35 PM

2022-03-15T13:35:47-04:00

Why do I have to wait until the following month to receive my BAH from the previous month, then to only receive half the amount when it pertains to the first and last month of the semester? I though housing allowance was based off of the rent prices in the area in which you lived which determines the amount that you should receive each month. Why am I only getting half the amount if my rent is the same price every month?

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 1:36 PM

2022-03-15T13:36:51-04:00

I'm currently attending an MBA program and will have 18 credits left to graduate after I used up my remaining 36 months of eligibility for the Post 9/11 GI Bill for the first half of my degree program. I retired from the Navy in 2008 and signed up for the Montgomery GI Bill upon enlisting back in 1988. I called to speak to a VA representative but they are telling me that I am not eligible for VOC Rehab or any other educational benefit. Is there something in place to extend Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits to complete a degree not to exceed a year?

Response by SFC William Calvert made Mar 15 at 2022 1:37 PM

2022-03-15T13:37:16-04:00

Once post 9/11 benefits run out is there any other way to receive assistance for college?

Response by SSgt Kayla Gordon made Mar 15 at 2022 1:37 PM

2022-03-15T13:37:46-04:00

Is the VA going to raise MHA rates to meet the rising costs of living?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 1:38 PM

2022-03-15T13:38:22-04:00

Why is the BAH I receive at the beginning and end of the semester half the price when my rent price is fixed each month? It should be based on rent prices, not how many days I attend school.

Response by MSgt Freddy Cantu made Mar 15 at 2022 1:41 PM

2022-03-15T13:41:03-04:00

Is there anything being pushed through to extend the COVID-19 housing benefits? Most veterans such as myself find it much easier to attend college online. There are several colleges that are still requiring you to be vaccinated, which forces us in the position to do online schooling.

Response by SGT C Robles made Mar 15 at 2022 1:47 PM

2022-03-15T13:47:28-04:00

I am currently enrolled in classes full-time. My my Post 911 (prior to 2013) benefits expire 06/20/22; although I still have 9 months of unused benefits. Is it possible for me to extend my benefits to the end of the year so that I may complete my degree program?

Response by SSgt Chanitria Garnett made Mar 15 at 2022 1:48 PM

2022-03-15T13:48:05-04:00

Hello,
I have a question in reference to Public Law 116-128 and Public Law 116-140. In August of 2020, I was enrolled in 3 online and and 1 in person. A few days before the semester started, I was informed that my in-person class changed to online. There were no more in-person classes for me to enroll in due to the last minute change. Therefore, I was forced to be online only. Should I have still been receiving the full MHA rate or just the online rate? This occurred during the COVID pandemic due to lack of instructor availability for the course.

Thank you!

Response by LT Molly Howard made Mar 15 at 2022 1:52 PM

2022-03-15T13:52:53-04:00

Please consider adding back GI benefits due to pandemic considerations
I had to withdraw from a course due to the strain at home and work (I’m a critical care APRN)
I’m now paying out of pocket for the courses I had to drop to support my workplace and family (3 elementary-aged kids sent home for distance learning, deployed spouse, and being responsible for the swift implementation of covid practices across 6 critical care units… it was impossible without dropping. )
Wish I could bet those benefits back. Covid wasn’t an issue when I signed up for those classes. Would love those 4-5 months worth of benefits back

Response by SSgt Jennell Martin made Mar 15 at 2022 1:53 PM

2022-03-15T13:53:43-04:00

Why are housing allowance payments pro rated for days when students are not in class. If the semester is in full swing, the students do not have control over what days they have classes and when they don't, and the need for housing exists whether or not the students are on break, or not. Pro rating payments is like saying, well since you did not have class that day, you must not need to pay your mortgage/ rent. I still have to pay my full mortgage whether I have class for half of the month, or the full month. As a full time student, pro rated housing payments cause a serious point of stress during the semester. Knowing that even though I am full time, I will not receive the full payments when there are breaks during the semester. What is the difficulty in paying students during breaks and days off, as these are built in parts of the semester. Students should not be punished for the school having breaks, something completely out of their control. Breaks are a chance for students to re charge and refresh, this should not be an opportunity to take away benefits from GI Bill students.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 2:12 PM

2022-03-15T14:12:40-04:00

Less of a question, and more of a suggestion... Soldiers who attain GI Bill benefits, via active duty service, and then transition to the reserves and pursue school full time, suffer an undue "penalty" for this choice of continued service while in school, via the recoupment of GI Bill benefits (BAH funds), while on active duty orders. No other form of employment leads to a loss of some/ all of BAH funds, and it doesn't seem reasonable that working for the Army Reserves, on temporary active duty orders, should lead to that loss either. Some sort of provision needs to be made that allows for, perhaps, orders to active duty work of less than 30 days, would not automatically lead to a reduction in BAH payments. These regular BAH payments are key to soldiers in school, and their financial wellbeing, and regular reductions in payments (and the paper work needed to handle them), lead to an undue burden. I understand the origin of the policy, limiting BAH payments while using GI Bill benefits on active duty, but, when on "active duty' for short durations, this policy seems misguided. Fixing this small issue would greatly simplify the lives of citizen soldiers and reduce the time and efforts spent by them, and VA representatives, in handling the stop/ restart/ ... cycle of benefits. Thank you for your time and consideration. -SSG Hanna, James

Response by MSgt Keith Hicks made Mar 15 at 2022 2:12 PM

2022-03-15T14:12:47-04:00

Why is the STEM framed in such a way that multiple requests are required and with expiration or "must use dates" that fall before the end of a members graduation window if the cost doesn't exceed the $30K cap?

Response by SrA Kendra Nell made Mar 15 at 2022 2:13 PM

2022-03-15T14:13:18-04:00

During 2020-2022 because of COVID, I was unable to attend school, wasting my precious remaining years of benefit. Is there anything that can be done to extend it? My 15 years is up next year, and I won’t be able to get my degree in time…

Response by CPL David Sharp made Mar 15 at 2022 2:15 PM

2022-03-15T14:15:56-04:00

My 15-year mark where the GI Bill expired since my term of service isn't under the "Forever GI Bill" was Feb 15th, 2022. I also exhausted my GI Bill benefit at that same time. However, I was also granted the STEM scholarship which I was planning to use after Feb 15th, but then told I was told I couldn't use it because of the 15-year expiration. There is nothing in the letter of approval for the STEM scholarship that states limitations based on the 15-year mark. Why would I have even been approved in the first place for it if I wouldn't be able to use it? I've since had to quit college because I was told I would be getting something and now not getting it. Can somebody clarify?

Response by FN Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 2:25 PM

2022-03-15T14:25:09-04:00

My school had shut down during the pandemic and I had transferred schools. In doing so, I lost progress in my course of study. Is there any way to get an extension of my education benefits in order to cover me through through the courses that were not transferred? I have less than a year until I graduate.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 2:25 PM

2022-03-15T14:25:37-04:00

Hello,

I graduate from my class in October. But my Gi Benefits expire in July. How can i get my benefits extended?

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 2:26 PM

2022-03-15T14:26:47-04:00

Will VA be making amendments to adapt MHA benefits for students forced to continue their programs remotely? I am currently receiving MHA due to the relief bill. Most of my classmates are now pushing for the program to remain remote til the end. What will VA do for students that have committed to a program that may be converted to online only, through no action of their own? Will VA continue to give these students the MHA they deserve and had made their plans to attend school contingent upon?

Response by PO1 Gene Henley made Mar 15 at 2022 2:30 PM

2022-03-15T14:30:55-04:00

Simply stated, I have been unable to obtain a copy of my DD214. I have made many requests,and been responded with "Not available from archives. "

Response by PO1 Iemina Afoa made Mar 15 at 2022 2:35 PM

2022-03-15T14:35:10-04:00

My name is Iemina Afoa, and have been using the Post 9/11 benefits since retirement in 2004. In 2020, the VA issued me a COE for a degree I was about to begin. After completing three courses, the university let me know that the VA was not paying for the completed courses. As of today, the VA still has not paid the university for my completed courses. I am indebted ($3K) because of this issue. How do I get the VA to pay the university?

Response by CAPT Thomas Braden made Mar 15 at 2022 2:46 PM

2022-03-15T14:46:34-04:00

I would love to understand two parts of my GI bill: 1) why it’s not predictive? I should be able to see an LES-like pay statement and understand what exactly I have and will be paid (2) GI Bill pays retroactively at the end of each but my school bills differently, so me and every other GI Bill student are constantly in arrears and often accumulating late fees. Can’t the USG negotiate this with schools, ie mandate housing payments that align w GI Bill payments ?

Response by PO3 Crystal Trevino made Mar 15 at 2022 2:53 PM

2022-03-15T14:53:48-04:00

Good afternoon VA Officials,

Hello my name is Crystal Trevino. I have recently been accepted into USC's DPT Hybrid 3 year program. I am currently trying to navigate the education benefits process for grad school and need direction.

I am a veteran who has exactly 14 months and 16 days left on my Post-9/11 GI Bill as I used the rest during my time in undergrad. I understand I must fill out and submit the VA Form 22-1995 online to change my program in order to obtain the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and submit that to USC's Certifying Official before I can use my benefits at USC.

My wife will be transferring the remaining months over to me to cover the rest of the DPT Hybrid Program from her Post-9/11. She is currently serving in the Navy on active duty. She has completed the Transfer of Education Benefits form and it has been approved. I understand that I must now fill out and submit the VA Form 22-1990E online before I can use those benefits.

My question to you is how will my Post-9/11 benefits work during grad school exactly? Will there be any differences on how I will be able to use my personal benefits versus the ones my wife is transferring over to me? Can I complete the VA-Form 22-1990E now so that the benefits will be already be ready available to use when I need them? Also, will I only be able to tap into hers once mine are completely exhausted? Or do they just become one when transferred over into my name after I complete and submit the form?

I am not entirely sure at this point if it works differently for grad school than it did for when I was in undergrad.
It is from my understanding that for graduate school the VA will pay tuition benefits based on what the school reports my training to be. Is that correct?

Basically, I just want to be sure I have the exact number of months needed to cover the cost of the entire DPT Hybrid Program.

I am aware that the Post-9/11 will only cover up to $26,042.81 for tuition each year of the DPT Hybrid program since it is a private school and has an annual cap. Although, from what I have read that cost can be offset through the Yellow Ribbon Program based on a first come first serve basis and the amount awarded to the student can vary based on various factors.

I also understand that whatever tuition is left unpaid after the Post-9/11 and Yellow Ribbon benefits are paid out will have to be paid through other sources such as grants, loans, scholarships etc.

I know this was a very lengthy message and I hope it all makes sense. I am just needing guidance navigating the financial aspect of grad school to make sure I get it done the right way. I greatly appreciate your help.

Very Respectfully,
Crystal Trevino

Response by SP5 Devon Hand made Mar 15 at 2022 2:57 PM

2022-03-15T14:57:08-04:00

Not a question more of an issue regarding GI bill benefits accrued and the time sensitivity once a soldier retires. I had 18 months' worth of benefits left when I was medically discharged in July of 2021. In January 2022 I decided to return back to school. When I enrolled and received my eligibility letter it showed 18 months, but they would expire in March of 2023. I look at benefits as something we have earned for our service. With society always evolving, I think this policy should be looked at

Response by Capt Wayne Tully made Mar 15 at 2022 2:58 PM

2022-03-15T14:58:48-04:00

Do I have full access to VA Education Benifits? My active service was 07/1971 to 06/1978 including combat service Vietnam War with BLT 3/4 supporting 7th Fleet and Yon Kipper War of 1973 with 32 MAU supporting 6th Fleet. I was Honorable discharged and retired with permanent disability on 06/15/1978. .

Response by Maj Monica Hamilton made Mar 15 at 2022 2:58 PM

2022-03-15T14:58:49-04:00

If the 9/11 GI bill is to obtain a degree, what if you just want a certificate in a course that will not yield a degree. Especially when have a degree already AND, you only have approximately 4 or 5 months left of eligibility. Can you apply for a certificate course?

Response by SCPO Donald Ross made Mar 15 at 2022 3:06 PM

2022-03-15T15:06:56-04:00

I started an education program in January of 2022. I started late in life due to compteting career and family reasons. My GI Bill benefits expire in March of 2022. I still have 26 months of benefits left, is there anyway to extend them so I can use them to finish my degree?

Response by SGT Lucille Phillips made Mar 15 at 2022 3:11 PM

2022-03-15T15:11:52-04:00

The Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship states graduate students cannot apply; however, veterinary medicine is on the list. Can veterinary students apply? What if we do an internship, fellowship, or residency? I think I know but can you also define a "clinical training program?"

Response by Lt Col Raul Yordan made Mar 15 at 2022 3:16 PM

2022-03-15T15:16:24-04:00

How to extend GI Bill benefits beyond 15 years after service?

Response by Carla Onofri made Mar 15 at 2022 3:25 PM

2022-03-15T15:25:32-04:00

Must schools chose to do remote classes (zoom) and in person classes usually contradicts with work schedule and are bit usually available. Will the VA change the requirement to receive full MHA benefits for remote classes?

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 3:36 PM

2022-03-15T15:36:27-04:00

Why doesn't the Post 9/11 GI Bill give BAH in-between semesters if you can prove you will still be attending the next semester. Trying to rely on the housing stipend can get frustrating when you lose it for 3-4 months out of the year!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 3:47 PM

2022-03-15T15:47:34-04:00

Why can I not receive 100% BAH for a semester of schooling if my workload of full-time credit hours doesn't run continuously throughout the semester? If I am studying the same amount as another full-time student then why am I not granted the allowances of a full-time student? This makes maintaining housing difficult and limits class selections I can take.

Response by PO1 James McIntyre made Mar 15 at 2022 4:01 PM

2022-03-15T16:01:36-04:00

My benefits expire 7 months before I graduate with. Digital Cinematography degree. Digital Cinematography is a technology degree however I have heard that the Edith Rogers scholarship is not granted to Digital Cinematography students. Why is that? And, what are other options? I am too old to think about a student loan.

Response by SCPO Mike T. made Mar 15 at 2022 4:05 PM

2022-03-15T16:05:02-04:00

I've recently received my 100% P&T rating. I'd like to understand how Post-9/11 GI BIll benefits work in conjunction with Chap 35 benefits. Thanks!

Response by SGT Johnny Williams made Mar 15 at 2022 4:05 PM

2022-03-15T16:05:23-04:00

What can I do if my school permits
Veterans to enroll into programs not recognized on WEAMS?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 4:20 PM

2022-03-15T16:20:34-04:00

If I have 2 months left on my GI bill will my tuition be covered if my classes exceed 2 months?

Response by COL Charles Seitz made Mar 15 at 2022 4:20 PM

2022-03-15T16:20:43-04:00

I am the veteran who earned the post-911 benefits. I have about 3 months of benefits left. Each graduate class I take is about two months long. What happens when I have 1 month of benefits left and the last class I can take is two months long. Is everything prorated? MAH, tuition, and books?

Response by SSgt Gabriel Lanza made Mar 15 at 2022 4:21 PM

2022-03-15T16:21:25-04:00

Why does the Post 911 GI Bill only have a 15 year time limit for those who got out of the military in 2004? Why do those who got out of the military after me have a lifetime to use benefits? How is this consistent and fair?

Response by COL Charles Seitz made Mar 15 at 2022 4:25 PM

2022-03-15T16:25:13-04:00

I am the veteran using my post-911 benefits. I have 3 months remaining. Every graduate class I take is about two months long. So, for the last two month class I take before benefits run out, would the MAH, tuition, and books be pro-rated based on the number of days I have left? Thanks

Response by CPO Jacqueline Gordo made Mar 15 at 2022 4:26 PM

2022-03-15T16:26:47-04:00

Is there a way to extend the time to use my educational benefits beyond 10/15 years?

Response by Sgt Anthony Mulheron made Mar 15 at 2022 4:31 PM

2022-03-15T16:31:58-04:00

Will there be any update to allow veterans that have funds still available but are over the time period to use their GI Bill?

Response by Sgt Vincent Rodriguez made Mar 15 at 2022 4:46 PM

2022-03-15T16:46:44-04:00

Why does Ch 1606 and Post-9/11 GI Bill shared benefit entitlements, when Ch 1606 is a only small monthly stipend of $350 a month while full Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits are worth tens of thousands of dollars per semester?

Response by Sgt Vincent Rodriguez made Mar 15 at 2022 4:48 PM

2022-03-15T16:48:07-04:00

Why is there no guidelines to define the Rate of Pursuit at the graduate level?

Response by Issy Wilson made Mar 15 at 2022 5:00 PM

2022-03-15T17:00:52-04:00

I used my GI benefits for an out of state public university, it covered most of the costs but what type of VA loan can I get to cover my housing and dining student debts?

Response by Kathy Roach made Mar 15 at 2022 5:06 PM

2022-03-15T17:06:11-04:00

If we have to move, and I am not sure what city I will live in and there are Ogle Schools of Cosmetology branches near both cities we are looking at, can I apply to one and have it changed quickly to the other branch if it's the same company without a long delay? And how do I get the change of school form. I can only put one of the branches of schools I am applying to on the form so I don't know how that works if I list one and and hour away I end up going to the other branch. How would I fill that out on the form?

Response by PO1 Michele Will made Mar 15 at 2022 5:10 PM

2022-03-15T17:10:22-04:00

My question is, If we have already earned a degree (Associate, Bachelor, whichever), why are we not able to take courses we are interested in without being locked into a specific degree goal. I have two degrees and I would like to use up the rest of my GI Bill by taking interesting classes (Spanish, Art, etc) without being locked into a specific degree.

Response by Raeleen Blas made Mar 15 at 2022 5:11 PM

2022-03-15T17:11:36-04:00

For my education benefits I know there is more just one scholarship available to use. I am already using one, the Fry Scholarship and I am 19... am I able to use the other education scholarships once I have finished the max months from the Fry scholarship?

Response by SSgt Brock Cash made Mar 15 at 2022 5:16 PM

2022-03-15T17:16:42-04:00

I have two semesters left, graduating with a degree to teach elementary school, general education and special education. My benefit ends after one and I will be responsible for tuition and lose BAH. I will be teaching math, science, and technology. What my students learn is the foundation for the rest of their lives. Why am I not eligible for the STEM scholarship to extend the GI Bill but a degree in dog grooming qualifies as STEM related? Educators do not get enough respect and this is proof.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 5:17 PM

2022-03-15T17:17:39-04:00

I’m 100% disabled. I used up my GI Bill on a bachelors degree. I have lots of free time and I want to stay in school for the masters. How is this possible?

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 5:18 PM

2022-03-15T17:18:19-04:00

I have completed my degree and I have 3 months remaining on my GI bill. Is it possible to receive the remaining without going to school or would I have to attend school to receive the remaining.

Response by CPL Mark Reynolds made Mar 15 at 2022 5:41 PM

2022-03-15T17:41:55-04:00

I'm interested

Response by Sgt Lawrence Barber made Mar 15 at 2022 5:45 PM

2022-03-15T17:45:40-04:00

In the state of Maryland, particularly in Howard County, can I use a VA home loan to procure a home in a 55+ community? I have used this benefit when I was younger and now that I'm pushing 70+, I would like to know if this benefit is still available for me.
Also, what other VA Benefits can I take advantage of while I'm still living and after my passing?

Response by SSG Michelle Counts made Mar 15 at 2022 5:54 PM

2022-03-15T17:54:52-04:00

Why is the BAH rate lowered for students that attends an out of state university or college as an online student?

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 6:26 PM

2022-03-15T18:26:04-04:00

Why hasn't the VA made an effort to increase BAH in accordance with inflation? The fiscal and monetary policies of the federal government are costing the veterans pursuing education.

Response by SSG Rodney Johnson made Mar 15 at 2022 6:40 PM

2022-03-15T18:40:16-04:00

When you use your GI Bill to get your first degree. Why can’t I use chapter 31 to get an IT certification to help further my education? I was told I couldn’t do it.

Response by SrA Jennifer Hodge made Mar 15 at 2022 6:45 PM

2022-03-15T18:45:43-04:00

If the GI Bill provides BAH to support you with housing needs while in school, why is full BAH not provided for those who are still in the same location, still in school, and still in good standing? In other words, here is an example: The semester ends 10 Dec. Classes restart 23 Jan. I am still living at the same location. I'm still enrolled at the same school. I am still making a 4.0. Why is there only partial BAH instead of the full amount for those months? I didn't move anywhere, and this just makes life harder. It would make sense to prorate amounts to full if nothing changes... I still live there.

Response by PO3 Jennifer Ochoa made Mar 15 at 2022 7:06 PM

2022-03-15T19:06:10-04:00

I live in Phoenix, AZ and the cost of living has exponentially risen in the last year. So much so that the BAH I receive does not cover a one bedroom unit, I don’t think it reflects the BAH allowance of an E-5 if it cannot afford a one bedroom unit in Phoenix AZ. Is there a more efficient way to be able to reflect the current cost of housing in a particular area? How often do these BAH calculators get reviewed? Is there a retroactive compensation for not being given the current cost of housing BAH?

Response by Sgt John Morley made Mar 15 at 2022 8:36 PM

2022-03-15T20:36:00-04:00

I'm 75 YO and I have Parkinson's disease. I don't know where it came from. The Viet Nam war or the GULF WAR. I served in both and retired in 2005. I'm also designated as "HOUSEBOUND" . WHY IS IT TAKING A FULL YEAR as of March 16th ,2021, to get my proper coverage updated and awarded to me ARE YOU WAITING FOR MY DEATH ??? You keep advertising all the GI Benefits I've already erarned. BUT is this PART of the current administration philosophy of "THE ONLY GOOD VET IS A DEAD VET !! "

Response by SPC Jonathan Seager made Mar 15 at 2022 9:47 PM

2022-03-15T21:47:03-04:00

I was just curious if there were any thoughts on adjusting BAH to deal with the rate of inflation in recent years

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 9:51 PM

2022-03-15T21:51:42-04:00

Will the VA and State Approving Agency please reverse the reduction, and frankly RAISE our monthly housing rate due to skyrocketing rent in the Fort Worth, Texas region?

All GI Bill eligible/active attending students in Fort Worth, Texas received the below notification of a REDUCTION in our monthly housing allowance in the Fall on 2021. Why are rates being reduced when everything (rent, fuel, food, etc) in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex is only increasing in cost and projected furthermore to only rise due to the population influx and inflation. Students are forced to hold jobs while attending full time course loads caused by the insufficient BAH rate to actual cost of rent in Dallas/Fort Worth.

"Monthly housing allowance rate correction per the VA:

-Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) and the Fry Scholarship students that have used their VA education benefits before 8/1/2021 will continue to receive the old rate of $1821/month for the monthly housing allowance.

-Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) and the Fry Scholarship students that are using their VA education benefits for the first time on or after 8/1/2021 will receive the new rate $1653/month for the monthly housing allowance.”

PLEASE INFORM HOW TO PROPOSE A REVERSE AND RAISE OF BAH IN FORT WORTH, TX

Response by SPC My Nguyen made Mar 15 at 2022 9:52 PM

2022-03-15T21:52:15-04:00

Can Veterans get 100% BAH if they do full time internship with a Real Estate Company or with A Real Estate Agent of a Real Estate company?

Response by SSgt Bill Bailey made Mar 15 at 2022 10:38 PM

2022-03-15T22:38:41-04:00

Why is there a delimiting date for GI Bill holders? They’ve earned this benefit and should able to use it whenever it fits into their personal timeline. It should follow the member for life.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 15 at 2022 11:24 PM

2022-03-15T23:24:18-04:00

At my school, there are many courses offered in quarters rather than full semesters. These quarter classes have accelerated paces and require more time per week in class and study than typical semester-long classes. My university is small and has limited course offerings each semester. So it is nearly impossible to avoid mixing quarter and full-length courses. My school considers me a full-time student eligible to stay in the dorms throughout the semester. If I am enrolled in enough hours to qualify for BAH, why can't I receive payments from the beginning of the semester to its end?

Response by SrA Tatjana Lockhart made Mar 16 at 2022 1:47 AM

2022-03-16T01:47:31-04:00

Online students should get 100% of the housing allowance. I do not understand how Congress voted this into law, and knowing this, I don't know what to do to fight this.
-my major is not available in my local area of colleges and that's why I had to go online
-people who go online still need to afford housing just like everyone else, so I don't know what justifies taking away 50% of the housing allowance???
-most gibill students do not live on campus anyways and have housing to pay for so, again, I don't understand what it is that justifies online students to get half of housing allowance.
-We earned our benefits just like everyone else and should not be discriminated against just because of this.
-students that went to brick and mortar but had their programs shift online during covid still got to receive 100% of benefits while going online, while regular online program students STILL only were granted 50%

I want answers and I want to know what I can do to fight this injustice.

Response by Jackson Starkey made Mar 16 at 2022 3:20 AM

2022-03-16T03:20:07-04:00

I'm happy that GI Bill systems are being modernized with a greater extent of automation! The rollout of some of these changes, for example the automated monthly enrollment verification, seemed to overwhelm VA technical infrastructure, and I had trouble finding any updates/advice when I was unable to complete verification due to technical difficulties with the website. Is this an issue the VA is aware of, and are there plans to address this for future changes?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2022 5:45 AM

2022-03-16T05:45:58-04:00

Since we are considered brethren in arms, why can't those that don't desire to go to school, transfer those benefits to those that would desire to go, who may have consumed the benefits they were allotted? Secondly, the BAH should be in full for those doing online learning. With COVID-19, this is a safer route. Lastly, require schools to show members the other degrees available with taking one or two more classes. Many are unaware they can have an additional degree by taking a few courses more, for another degree. In many cases, no other classes are required, just apply for the conferral. I did it and have two Associates and two bachelors.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2022 5:47 AM

2022-03-16T05:47:01-04:00

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2022 5:54 AM

2022-03-16T05:54:56-04:00

Those that seek to capstone their educational journey with a doctorate degree should be allocated additional funding to complete the degree. I had 24 months left in my GI Bill and had to compress my doctorate journey into two years when the plan is 3 1/2 yrs. However, I would not have the funds to continue if I accepted that timeline. Many, do not use their GI Bill and tenure out of the 10-year timeline to use the benefit. This gives more Veterans the ability to obtain C-level positions [CEO, CFO, COO, etc] to create plans in the firm to reach back and have a quicker lane for Veteran employment. One helps the other.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2022 9:29 AM

2022-03-16T09:29:36-04:00

Currently, the Post-9/11 GI Bill policy only authorize service members of active duty and Selected Reserve transfer ability of unused education benefits to immediate family members.

1) Is a review being conducted to amend, remove or rewrite this limitation/restriction?

2) If an update to authorize who can transfer unused education benefits is approved and conducted, will the rewrite or amendment include 1) retirees, 2) those who did not retire but were honorably discharged with 100% service connected disability, and 3) those post discharged with now 100% service connected disability?

Response by SSG Earl Browne made Mar 16 at 2022 10:04 AM

2022-03-16T10:04:47-04:00

Why is there an expiration date for certain Post 911 recipients

Response by PFC Mike Saunders made Mar 16 at 2022 11:05 AM

2022-03-16T11:05:34-04:00

When I signed away my Post 9/11 GI Bill in favor of VR&E, I was told my GI Bill was gone. Come to find out, they gave it back. I tried using it, but got denied because I was past my delimiting date. However, if I go on http://www.va.gov right now, it will show that I still have 24 months. Why can't I appeal this? My current Masters Degree isn't doing me a whole hell of a lot of good, I could certainly use a degree that would ensure me a better chance at landing a FULL TIME JOB.

VA.gov Home | Veterans Affairs

Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you’ve earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member—like health care, disability, education, and more.

Response by MSgt Faith Lockhart made Mar 16 at 2022 11:09 AM

2022-03-16T11:09:31-04:00

I have two questions:
1. I would also like to know why attending online is any different than attending in person? I believe that online really helps those of us that have disabilities that may limit us from sitting in a classroom for hours at a time, or driving a distance to attend classes. Some disabilities have no certainty of when they may occur; some maybe constant, some may come on without notice, and others may be aggravated due to certain activities, etc. Taking online classes affords the veteran the opportunity to still receive their education, but at times that they are able to concentrate/focus on doing well in the classes. Also, it's costing the veteran to go online because we still have to pay for internet, electricity, have to have a computer, and at times an extra monitors, etc. How is attending in person any better/different, and what makes it different?
2. Why does the VA base the amount of funds received, off of the number of days you attended in a month. Whether you go 10 days or 30 days in that month, it's not due to the veteran, it's due to the semester, so why does the veteran have to suffer with the changing amounts that we receive. The bills do not stop whether I attend for the 10 days or the 30. It's confusing to even know just how much the monthly pay is. If we've paid into, and earned this benefit, then we should get the same across the board whether it's half the month, or the full month, and whether it's online, or in person. The VA seems to always want to find a way around not paying veterans properly, or giving them what they deserve, have earned, and are entitled to, and that's very sad for those of us who have served honorably, but are not valued, or compensated accordingly.

Response by PO2 Gavin Sowa made Mar 16 at 2022 1:08 PM

2022-03-16T13:08:27-04:00

Why does the STEM extension apply to premed and residency, but NOT medical school? Medicine is clearly one of the covered programs, and should be covered under the provision regarding "covered clinical training programs". However, when you appeal the denial, VA staff bring up not being an undergrad which is clearly not relevant to anyone who has read the requirements. Anyhow, thanks for hosting this forum!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2022 2:47 PM

2022-03-16T14:47:27-04:00

Why does the VA claim working on active orders as "double collecting" for under 30 days order (which do not pay a full housing allowance) while utilizing the GI bill benefits they already earned? One is a promised benefit of active service, and the other is a requirement. Is this a way to get free or discounted labor for reserve forces?

Specifically why is this in place for reservists in online school? These service-members already are underpaid for their earned benefits by 50 percent because they are supposed to have a job in addition to their full time schooling. So why are we penalizing them for continuing to serve part time when we already only pay them part time?

Response by COL Paul D made Mar 16 at 2022 3:12 PM

2022-03-16T15:12:29-04:00

I have submitted questions to the ELR as well as ask VA and often (if not most of the time) i get a response of "Use the SCO Handbook"... The SCO handbook hasn't been updated since October 2021 yet there have been key changes with both law and policy (i.e. rounding out policy) that don't coincide with what the SCO handbook has.
When will the SCO handbook be updated and can it be updated on a more frequent basis (perhaps even updated as a policy change is released)?

Response by Karin Day made Mar 16 at 2022 5:52 PM

2022-03-16T17:52:47-04:00

Why are education benefits that I qualified for but were unaware at the time not retro active? My dad is 100% disabled I am his caregiver and currently work two jobs to try and pay my student loan debt… I am just asking for the Army to pay now what they would have paid in 1996-2000. Please do the right thing now and let me take care of my father who served this country on the front lines in 2 foreign wars.

Response by SGT Michael Claycomb made Mar 16 at 2022 6:38 PM

2022-03-16T18:38:17-04:00

SCO Handbook is not regularly updated and is a key tool for SCOs to understand VA policy. It is showing the last updated date of October 29, 2021. When will this be updated again and can the frequency of updates better keep up with VA policy changes?

Response by PO2 Trevor Clack made Mar 16 at 2022 6:49 PM

2022-03-16T18:49:22-04:00

I started up school abroad (university of melbourne) with the intention of using my remaining 2 years of benefits but the school dropped support for the GI bill (after I was accepted of course). There were legislation changes that came into effect which violated Australian privacy laws.The school ultimately decided to drop support. Is there same way to re-enable it (lawyers talking to lawyers to resolve whatever dillema in the wording of the agreements), because without support, I'm going to go in debt as a high-fee paying international student.

There's a small blurb about the drop of support along with a contact email here: https://students.unimelb.edu.au/student-support/scholarships-and-financial-support/international-loan-programs-and-financial-aid

International loan programs and financial aid

Information about loan and financial aid programs from the U.S, Canada, Norway and Sweden, available to students at the University of Melbourne.

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 16 at 2022 8:19 PM

2022-03-16T20:19:53-04:00

What was the rationale to determine when service ended before January 1, 2013, the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) benefits expire 15 years after your last separation date from active service? Members who served before 9/11/2001 and for 10+ years after, but retired mere months prior to January 1, 2013, must use all of their benefits by that time or lose whatever's left. Those that retired in January 2013 converted to the Forever GI Bill.

Response by CPO Mignonette Agustino-Flora made Mar 16 at 2022 8:59 PM

2022-03-16T20:59:44-04:00

I am currently attending school where I have 2 more years left to graduate but DO NOT HAVE any program to certify my enrolment. Since I only have 21 days remaining of my Post 9/11 benefit to cover the next 2 years, I applied for VR&E program in October 2021 to cover the remaining years. I was assigned to a counselor who provided me with a “Positive Letter” after our first meeting in October 2021. A second counselor was assigned to me again in December 2021, and another one in January 2022. I repeatedly submitted all the required documents to each counselor as each took over the case. I had a virtual meeting with the 3rd counselor in February 2022 but as of now, I have not received any word or document to indicate that I can use the VR&E Program to continue my schooling.
Because I am totally confused of the VR&E Program, below are my questions:
1. Why change counselors (3 counselors in 3 months) and no progress?
2. When multiple counselors are assigned,
(a) why does the process seem to start again?
(b) Are the requirements submitted by the Veteran not PROVIDED/FORWARDED to the new counselor?
(c) Why not just continue what was left off i.e., completion and submission of the Rehabilitation Plan by the latest counselor after the Positive Letter has been issued?
3. Is there no required TIMEFRAME a counselor must adhere to submit the Rehabilitation Plan from the time of the Veteran’s application?
4. Can the VR&E Program process be streamlined to make it not so stressful and more transparent for a veteran to complete? It appears to me that after submission of requirements that they disappear into a BLACK HOLE.

Response by Samantha Uroza made Mar 16 at 2022 9:04 PM

2022-03-16T21:04:32-04:00

I am a dependent of someone who is still on active duty in the National Guard.
I’ve received their Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits for college, but was only given 12 months of the 36 given because he has two other dependents.
I believe it works that way to give all three of us 12 months of benefits out of the 36 given, correct?
Is there any way to extend my current benefits for further education?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2022 1:53 AM

2022-03-17T01:53:17-04:00

Will there be any exceptions to taking classes outside your degree plan.

I am in a full time nursing program but it is only worth 9 hours bc of the community college. I want to be full time and would have the time to take an extra class but there are only 6 nursing classes on the degree plan and no electives or anything due to the fact that everything must be completed before acceptance into the program. So for 4 semester I have to be a part time student even though there are many science classes I would love to take to further help me in my career.

Response by PVT William Evans made Mar 17 at 2022 5:06 AM

2022-03-17T05:06:13-04:00

I was given a General Discharge under honorable conditions, but since I've received my Discharge I haven't been allowed to use my
G.I. Bill..... How can I get this fired??

Response by SPC Yazmin Guy made Mar 17 at 2022 8:24 AM

2022-03-17T08:24:43-04:00

Why can I use the last month of my GI bill even after my delimiting date? Why tell me I received the STEM scholarship but take it away because of my delimiting date?

Response by PV2 Billy Flynn made Mar 17 at 2022 8:33 AM

2022-03-17T08:33:02-04:00

When will VA update the SCO Handbook? Policies on Rounding Out and reporting schedule changes have been modified, but the Handbook has not been updated since Oct, 2021. Students and School Certifying Officials needs to know how education benefits are processed.

Response by PO1 James Cocroft made Mar 17 at 2022 10:49 AM

2022-03-17T10:49:18-04:00

Why students that are 1/2 time do not receive BAH/MAH? Also, why didn't they grandfather people that had time left for the Post 9/11 GI Bill into the Forever GI Bill policy?

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 17 at 2022 10:55 AM

2022-03-17T10:55:01-04:00

I heard that VA launched an effort to modernize the GI Bill with a Digital GI Bill. What does this mean and how will it impact my access to benefits?

Response by PO3 Ash J made Mar 17 at 2022 12:16 PM

2022-03-17T12:16:54-04:00

I'm a semester away from attaining my Masters, but I only have two months left on my GI Bill. What options do I have because I'm just a few feet away from the finish line.

Response by PO3 Ash J made Mar 17 at 2022 12:18 PM

2022-03-17T12:18:19-04:00

I'm a semester away from graduating with my Masters, but I only have two months left of my GI Bill. What options do I have because I'm merely feet away from the finish line.

Response by SGT Josh Beers made Mar 17 at 2022 12:44 PM

2022-03-17T12:44:59-04:00

Why are the education benefits not for life of service member. Post 9/11 education benefits are far superior to my time (Montgomery GI Bill). I would like the opportunity to use them towards a second career.

Response by SPC Ugensky Jean made Mar 17 at 2022 1:29 PM

2022-03-17T13:29:20-04:00

Why do I got denied Voc. Rehab. just because I wanted to use my full GI Bill benefit and I did not want to settle down with a BS in Administrative studies? I wanted to get a master’s degree instead, to have better job satisfaction in the future, but I was told not to continue my education and I had to pay the last semester out of my pocket and student loan. Please someone help me. It’s not fair. Other veterans with my similar situation got approved. Why can’t it be me?

Respectfully,

Ugensky Jean MPS.
[login to see] [login to see] leave me a voicemail or a text if I don’t respond.

Response by SPC Ernesto Parolis made Mar 17 at 2022 2:06 PM

2022-03-17T14:06:12-04:00

I am using my post 9/11 Gi bill in getting my bachelors right now. I had some credits from active duty transferred to my college, so at the end of the degree, I will still have 10 months of GI bill left. I am planning to use it for an MBA in a public university, but 10 months of benefits are not going to be enough for the full program. So, my questions are: Is it any way to extend my GI bill so I can finish my MBA with no or little out-of-pocket cost? If that is the case, how can I extend it? If not, what other options do I have? Can the Yellow Ribbon program cover the rest of my costs?
Thank you very much.

Response by SPC Dwight Henry made Mar 17 at 2022 4:53 PM

2022-03-17T16:53:47-04:00

why don't we get paid during school breaks, when we still have rent to pay? how should we survive!!

Response by PO1 James Cocroft made Mar 17 at 2022 5:00 PM

2022-03-17T17:00:00-04:00

I would like to know, why a veteran that is attending school at 1/2 is not eligible for MHA/BAH? I would also like to know why people that had time remaining on the Post 9/11 GI Bill were not grandfathered in for the Forever GI BILL?

Response by Sheri Dover made Mar 17 at 2022 8:33 PM

2022-03-17T20:33:46-04:00

Vet Tec, VRRAP, and VR&E all allow students to take any trade school courses online, but CH 33 does not. These courses have been taught successfully during the Covid lockdown. Will VA start allowing non-college degree schools, especially programmer bootcamps, to offer distance courses?

Response by SP5 Juan Rodriguez made Mar 17 at 2022 9:46 PM

2022-03-17T21:46:45-04:00

i'm a vietnan and persian gulf veteran and i wou;d ;ike to ask if i can take on line study.thank you

Response by CPL Rhett Millsaps made Mar 17 at 2022 9:56 PM

2022-03-17T21:56:12-04:00

I was wondering if I could receive any benefits today, I had passed on my total disability benefits to my step daughter years ago, and she used it to become a teacher, getting her masters.
A wonderful benefit and I appreciate it very much, just asking if there is any turther benefit I could get to take some courses. Thank you for your answer.

Response by SPC N Z made Mar 18 at 2022 7:13 AM

2022-03-18T07:13:49-04:00

Why does VA take so long to pay vets each month? what legacy system are they using to not pay vets automatically on time?

Response by SPC N Z made Mar 18 at 2022 7:14 AM

2022-03-18T07:14:52-04:00

What legacy systems are VA-Education dept using that pay vets/beneficiaries so slow? why not automate?

Response by Michelle Baker made Mar 18 at 2022 9:52 AM

2022-03-18T09:52:00-04:00

Chapter 35 for Dependents can be used in Highschool for a dependent that has reached 18 y/o if the Highschool certifies with the VA. Why is there so much disconnect with the ELR's? My sons principal has been trying to certify my sons school time for over 4 months and the NC ELR sent an email stating the prinicipal cannot call because they are on a year long detail with the VA central office and send all questions to the NC state ELR email box. Which she did, but did not receive a reply. She completed the online training but it doesn't apply much to highschools. She has mailed it, faxed it, emailed it, called and sent an inquiry through AVA? Why is there no way for students or highschool certifying official to speak with anyone when there are problems like getting time certified? There is not anything the general Education hotline can do for this situation. This system is broken.

Response by Michelle Baker made Mar 18 at 2022 10:04 AM

2022-03-18T10:04:29-04:00

A student is able to use dependent Chapter 35 in a highschool when the dependent reaches 18 y/o and the HighSchool gets certified with the VA. The prinicipal at my son's highschool is the Certifying offical and she has been trying to certify my son's school time for over 4 months now. She has mailed the forms, emailed it, faxed it, signed up and sent an inquiry through AVA with no response and finally sent a voicemeil with the ELR. The NC ELR sent an email back to her stating they are not performing ELR duties at this time due to a year long detail with the central office and to send all questions to the NC state ELR email box. Which she has done with no reply back on her question of why they are not receiving the paperwork and what more she can do. She has completed the online certification but it did not address highschools very clearly. Why is there such a disconnect with the ELRs? and Why is there no way for a Student or High school certifying official to speak with and get help with certification issues? This is nothing that the general education benefits hotline will help you with.

Response by Melanie Glascoe made Mar 18 at 2022 12:41 PM

2022-03-18T12:41:12-04:00

SCO Handbook is not regularly updated and is a key tool for SCOs to understand VA policy. It is showing a last updated date of October 29, 2021. When will this be updated again, and can the frequency of updates better keep up with VA policy changes?

Response by Melanie Glascoe made Mar 18 at 2022 12:41 PM

2022-03-18T12:41:33-04:00

The REMOTE Act amended the policy for Rounding Out:
Section 4.a.2 states the “…eligible veteran or eligible person who is pursuing a program of education on less than a half-time basis during a period that is that is the last semester, term, or academic period…
Section 4.a.2.A states “the number of credits the veteran or person needs to complete the program of education is less than the number of credits that would constitute enrollment on a more than half-time basis…”
Section 4.a.2.B.ii states the veteran or person “… enrolls in an additional course…”

With this new policy:
- Is the goal of this policy to get students to just over half time enrollment so they get a small amount of MHA?
- Can more than one class be certified if needed to get to just over half time enrollment?
- Does the extra class(es) need to be within the original degree plan similar to the previous rounding out policy?

Response by Melanie Glascoe made Mar 18 at 2022 12:43 PM

2022-03-18T12:43:24-04:00

Adjustments for T/F. The communication/guidance for how to report tuition and fees in VAOnce has been inconsistent. We were originally told that the function of amending an adjustment to report tuition and fees was removed from VAOnce and that we just wait to submit student enrollment changes until after the term drop date when we also submit tuition and fees (November VA Office Hours). Then told at the January Office Hours that the process did not change and we should continue to submit student enrollment changes in a timely manner then submit tuition and fees after the drop period to meet the two certification rule.

We have continued to process certifications as directed in the January Office Hours without issue. Our regional ELRs then sent us this via email on 2/23/22:
1. You can no longer amend an adjustment
The VA-ONCE team updated VA-ONCE to block amendments on already adjusted certifications. If you have already submitted an adjustment and now need to amend with T&F here is a proposed fix action:
Terminate the certification, as a withdraw before the start of term. Recertify the initial enrollment with the correct credits as of the start of term AND the T&F charged for the term, along with the VA-ONCE standard remark: “Correcting previously terminated Enrollment…”.
Then, resubmit your adjustment along with the correct T&F.
Moving forward: Submit your initial enrollments as before. Then wait to submit adjustments until you are ready to report T&F for the term. I anticipate the SCOs greatest challenge will be submitting any adjustments within 30 days of the start of term, depending on census dates and T&F reports from other departments.

Terminating the certification and resubmitting would cause undue hardship to SCOs, students, and VA Processors. We believe this was bad advice, but shows even more that we NEED guidance on how to apply policy changes. How are we to report student enrollment changes in a timely manner and submit tuition and fees in VAOnce?

Response by Melanie Glascoe made Mar 18 at 2022 12:43 PM

2022-03-18T12:43:44-04:00

5. We are unable Inactivate or Delete VAO profile. We have tried multiple browsers. When will these features be restored?

Response by Melanie Glascoe made Mar 18 at 2022 12:44 PM

2022-03-18T12:44:27-04:00

Internet Explorer is going away June 2022. The VAO guidance still states IE as the browser to use. What browser will be required after IE is no longer available?

Response by SSG Larry Dale McCloud made Mar 18 at 2022 1:27 PM

2022-03-18T13:27:54-04:00

Why are the BAH benefits so low compared to the rent in the area of the veterans school? In My case I'm in Phoenix, Arizona. The average rent is $1800 per month for a 1 br apartment. And that's no utilities included. Why does the VA not cover utilitiesand internet for the veterans in school. I am required to do work online as well as in class. I do not get enough to cover all of the expenses I am required to have while being away from my home. So I'm spending extra money that I really don't have extra to spend. Why cam there not be a Stephen to assist the veterans with their expanses so that we can concentrate on our education not having to work 2 or 3 jobs and our education suffers.

Response by A1C Sarah Chan made Mar 18 at 2022 4:14 PM

2022-03-18T16:14:31-04:00

I too wonder why when almost every school offers fully online degrees and not just for-profit school, we still only receive half the national average rate. I selected my school carefully to ensure I could attend in person classes on a full time basis. Due to Covid-19 my satellite campus has closed indefinitely and I am forced to finish my degree online. The main campus classes are offered across town at a time that is impossible for me to commute as I have young children and work part-time. The school doesn't care because I am already a year into the two year program, it doesn't hurt them. Please stop punishing people that have work or have families for going to school online. We already have to prove our worth by completing more work and written assignments than those attending in person. We are working just as hard, if not harder than the person attending classes in the day time who may not have to work full time since they get the full rate. Also why should the rate be prorated per day? This often shaves a week off of living expenses for 8 week classes, reducing an already meager half payment to even less. Attending full time I often am paid 700 for the month, in comparison with when I was attending in person, I was receiving nearly 1600 for the same degree program. Something is seriously wrong with this in my opinion. It is just not a fair system.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2022 5:11 PM

2022-03-18T17:11:17-04:00

Can an exception to policy be made to allow medically retired SMs and those undergoing MEBs to transfer their GI Bill benefits to their dependent(s)? I was undergoing an MEB when my son was born, and it resulted in a medical retirement. Because of the early retirement, I didn't have the "retainability" required to transfer the benefits to him. Had my medical condition not been a factor, I could have easily accepted the additional four-year commitment, as I had planned on staying in the AF for as long as possible. But the AF took that option away from me, and as a result, I lost all ability to transfer my benefits.

Response by MSgt Kimberly Rowe made Mar 18 at 2022 7:34 PM

2022-03-18T19:34:33-04:00

Online college is a more reasonable option for many Active Duty and Veterans who are deployed, work long hours, affected by COVID, etc. When will GI Bill allow for the same benefits for a fully online student as they do for face-to-face students?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 18 at 2022 8:22 PM

2022-03-18T20:22:33-04:00

I am currently in my last year of my bachelor's degree in the San Jose, CA area and have been using my Ch 33 benefits. I noticed that the housing benefit for the neighboring San Francisco area has been increased. I could understand the previous difference of $400-500, but now the difference stands at over $850. I live in San Jose, and the changes in rent in 2021 (by %) are just about the same, if not more in this area. Although average rental prices might be slightly higher in San Francisco, it definitely does not warrant a $800+ difference between the two areas, especially with us not even being given an increase. I believe this is very unfair to the student veteran community who chose to go to school in the San Jose area as opposed to commuting a bit more to San Francisco. Is there anything that can be done to rectify this situation?