I am proud to report that on May 1, 2009, veterans may begin applying for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.  During the 110th Congress, the Congress passed and President Bush signed into law the Post-9/11 GI Bill, a legislative package that includes a landmark expansion of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, most commonly referred to as the “GI Bill.”

 This act provides for the single largest investment in college financial aid since the GI Bill of 1944 by fully restoring four-year college scholarships for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans.  Men and women in uniform who have served at least three months of active duty since September 11, 2001, will be eligible to receive financial assistance for tuition and fees, a financial stipend of up to $1,000 per year for books and supplies, and a housing allowance equivalent to housing costs in their area. 

 The Post-9/11 GI Bill links educational benefits to the length of active duty served since September 11, 2001.  Members who have served on active duty for three years or more will be qualified for the full educational benefits.  Those who have served between three months and three years of active duty will qualify for a portion of the full benefit.  For instance, those serving on active duty for three months will receive up to 40 percent of the educational benefits. 

 All members who serve on active duty, including members of the National Guard and reserves, will be eligible for benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.  This act will give veterans up to 15 years from their last period of active duty of at least 90 consecutive days to use their educational benefits.  And, in the coming months, the Department of Defense may offer veterans the opportunity to transfer benefits to spouses and children.  Visit gibill.va.gov for up-to-date information on this policy.

 Veterans may complete and submit their application online at gibill.va.gov.  Veterans who have selected a school may also mail their completed application to the VA Regional Processing Office for the region of that school’s physical address.  Veterans applying to a school in Missouri should send their application to Central Region, VA Regional Office, PO Box 66830, St. Louis, Missouri 63166-6830.  When their applications have been reviewed, veterans will receive a letter explaining the VA’s decision regarding their eligibility for the program.  The Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits will be processed on or after August 1, 2009.

 Veterans needing assistance with the application should call the VA toll-free at 1-888-442-4551.  Telephone assistance for those with hearing impairments is available by calling 1-800-829-4833.  Veterans may also visit gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/benefits.htm for more information about the GI Bill.

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