TMCnet News
ENROLLMENT FOR POST-9/11 G.I. BILL BENEFITS OPENS TODAYMay 26, 2009 (Congressional Documents and Publications/ContentWorks via COMTEX) -- Washington, May 1 - Veterans eligible for education benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill are able to apply online for benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs beginning Friday, May 1. Members of the military who have served on active duty since September 11, 2001, including activated reservists and members of the National Guard, are eligible to receive up to four academic years of education benefits, including stipends for housing and books. Veterans will have up to 15 years after they leave active duty to use their education benefits. Applicants can apply through an online form at http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-22-1990-ARE.pdf. Payments will be processed beginning August 1. "We have a responsibility to serve those who have bravely served us," said Congresswoman Betsy Markey. "The Post-9/11 GI Bill will provide more opportunities for our newest veterans. I am proud that Congress came together to pass a historic bill that will open doors for our veterans, strengthen our economy, and help military recruitment." Under the legislation: * Service members, including those returning from Iraq or Afghanistan, can receive up to 36 months of education benefits, including stipends for housing and books. * Veterans would have up to 15 years after they leave active duty to use their education benefits. * Veterans would have the ability to use their benefits for program fees, tuition, books and housing. * Veterans would be able to use the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program, in which the federal government will match, dollar for dollar, any voluntary additional contributions to veterans from institutions whose tuition is more expensive than the maximum educational assistance provided under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill. * Benefits are applicable for apprenticeships, vocational schools, and other non-traditional post-secondary educational settings. #DAL1234# |