Is an unused GI Bill available for the grandchildren of a 100% total and permanently disabled veteran?

Ann Abel — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 10:00:25 -0400

I am a survivor spouse - my husband was %100 Total & Permanently Disabled! Is the GIBill available for his Grandchildren? He did not use and we did not know we could get it for our children when they went to college!

Response by Ann Abel made Aug 31 at 2023 10:05 AM

Ann Abel — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 10:05:25 -0400

Wishing information on GI-Bill

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Aug 31 at 2023 10:47 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 10:47:06 -0400

Short answer is no. Spouse and children only under some circumstances. The rules. https://www.va.gov/education/survivor-dependent-benefits/

VA education benefits for survivors and dependents | Veterans Affairs

Find out if you’re eligible for VA education benefits for dependents and survivors (also called Chapter 35 benefits). If you’re a dependent spouse or child—or the surviving spouse or child—of a Veteran, you may qualify for Chapter 35 benefits or job training through a GI Bill program.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Aug 31 at 2023 11:12 AM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:12:49 -0400

Since this question was unanswered and you came to RP for guidance I am concerned that you may not have dug into what you as a spouse may be authorized now that your Service member has passed. I recommend that you reach out to the DAV if you have not already.

Response by COL Randall C. made Aug 31 at 2023 11:35 AM

COL Randall C. — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:35:41 -0400

A qualified "Yes", but not in the way you are likely thinking. As to his grandchildren - No.

If your husband converted his GI Bill to the Post-9/11 GI Bill (called Chapter 33 benefits) and had an approved transferred to your child while he was in the service, you could. Based on your question, I assume he never did, however you can double-check by contacting a VA education counselor at [login to see] and confirming.

The qualified “Yes” is because as the spouse or child of a veteran that is “permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability”, you meet the basic eligibility for the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35 benefits)* as long as your son meets the age eligibility requirements (between the ages of 18 and 26).

Follow the link to find out the details of the program and how to apply.

As a related question – are you receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)*? If not, double-check the eligibility.
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* https://www.va.gov/education/survivor-dependent-benefits/dependents-education-assistance/
* https://www.va.gov/disability/dependency-indemnity-compensation/

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance | Veterans Affairs

Learn about the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program. If you’re the child or spouse of a Veteran or service member who has died, is captured or missing, or has disabilities, you may be able to get help paying for school or job training through the DEA program—also called Chapter 35. Find out if you’re eligible for this benefit.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Aug 31 at 2023 12:46 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 12:46:20 -0400

My apologies I was off line, the Col. did a great job of encapsulating the available support. God Speed. R.I.P. to your Service member.

Response by Ann Abel made Aug 31 at 2023 4:42 PM

Ann Abel — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:42:49 -0400

Yes