GI Bill
90+ days aggregate active duty after Sept 10, 2001 (or 30 days with disability discharge)
Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
Statute
38 U.S.C. Chapter 33
Eligibility
90+ days aggregate active duty after Sept 10, 2001 (or 30 days with disability discharge)
Benefits
- Tuition and fees (paid directly to school, up to in-state maximum or Yellow Ribbon)
- Monthly housing allowance (BAH E-5 rate for school zip code, online students get 50%)
- Books and supplies stipend ($1,000/year)
- 36 months of benefits (can be extended for STEM programs)
Transferability
Can transfer to spouse or children if 6+ years of service and 4-year commitment
Forever GI Bill
No expiration date for benefits (previously expired 15 years after separation)
Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30)
Statute
38 U.S.C. Chapter 30
Eligibility
Opted in during service (paid $100/month for 12 months)
Benefit
Fixed monthly rate (~$2,185/month full-time as of 2024)
Note
Can convert to Post-9/11 GI Bill if eligible — usually a better deal
VR&E — Veteran Readiness & Employment (Chapter 31)
Statute
38 U.S.C. Chapter 31 (Veteran Readiness and Employment, VR&E)
Eligibility
10%+ service-connected disability rating AND employment handicap
Benefits
- Full tuition (no cap unlike GI Bill)
- Books, supplies, equipment
- Monthly subsistence allowance
- Employment services, resume help, job placement
- Self-employment assistance for qualifying veterans
Note
Can be used AFTER GI Bill is exhausted. 48 months total entitlement across programs.