The Revamped Military Spouse Benefits Under The GI Bill

The GI Bill of Rights has been heralded as one of the most significant pieces of legislation ever produced by the federal government. The original bill officially titled the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, was an omnibus bill that imparted military spouse benefits to World War II veterans in the form of providing college or vocational education. Congress, in 2008 approved an extension of benefits to the then existing bill for military veterans serving since September 11, 2001. The present GI Bill, now renamed the Post 9-11 GI Bill, contains greatly expanded benefits, including full cost of education in any public college in the beneficiary's state of residence. In addition, the benefits include housing allowance and USD 1,000 a year stipend for books.

Military serving personnel and their families, including military veterans still have many questions regarding the revised benefits contained in the Post 9-11 GI Bill.

Here Are Answers To Some Frequently Asked Questions.

From When Is The New Bill In Effect And How Does One Apply?

The Post 9-11 GI Bill is in effect from August 1, 2009. Those who want to apply can download the VA Form 22-1990 from the Internet and follow the directions mentioned therein. The bill is not retroactive and covers only those classes and programs completed after July 31, 2009.

What Are The Eligibility Criteria?

The candidates must have served a minimum of 90 days active duty as a member of the Armed Forces after September 10, 2001. The eligibility also covers those who served as a result of a call or order to active duty from a reserve component such as the National Guard and Reserve. However, some exceptions apply, the details of which can be had from the Department of Veteran Affairs.

Are The Levels Of Benefits Uniform For Everyone Or Do They Vary Depending On The Length Of Service?

The amount of stipend and tuitions paid under the Post 9-11 GI Bill varies according to the length of service. Roughly, the Military Spouse Benefits vary from 40% for 90 or more days of service to 100% for 36 or more total months.

What Are The Military Spouse Benefits In The New Educational Assistance Program?

The Post 9-11 GI Bill benefits include up to 100% paid tuition, an allowance of up to $1,000 a year for books and a monthly housing stipend. If the beneficiary attends less than the full time, he or she will receive a proportionately less amount based on the units of study. There are certain additional benefits such as tutorial assistance up to $100 per month, a onetime payment of $500 for veterans to pursue a course with some applicable conditions for residence and travel to the place of study.

For any other clarifications on Military Spouse Benefits, you may refer to the website of The United States Department of Veteran Affairs.

The government has reposed faith in the armed forces personnel by revamping the GI Bill. A welcome part is the new bill expires after 15 years from the last discharge compared to 10 years in the earlier Montgomery GI Bill.