Post 9/11 GI Bill provides more benefits

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Candy Miller
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  The Post 9/11 GI Bill has brought more benefits for military and veteran beneficiaries including tuition, basic allowance for housing, books and supplies, tutoring, availability, and certification. 

Sheppard personnel learned about the benefits and requirements of the Post 9/11 GI Bill during briefings Aug. 11 at the base theater. 

With the Post 9/11 GI Bill, qualified service members or veterans who have served after Sept. 10, 2001 are eligible for 36 months of education paid directly to the school, based on the highest cost of a state-supported school. 

Marlene Hall, Texas Veterans Commission, said the percentage of maximum benefits is dependent upon time in service and there are certain things to consider before applying for Chapter 33 and switching from Chapter 30, or Montgomery GI Bill. 

"Everyone's situation is different and you need to know which GI Bill benefits you the most," she said. "Consider what type of training you want and what type of training is covered in each GI Bill." 

She said the most frequently asked questions are related to the new benefit of transferring the tuition stipend to family members. Most servicemembers currently serving who have at least six years of military service are qualified to transfer their benefits. 

Tech. Sergeant William Bunkley, 82nd Communications Squadron, said he attended the briefing because he wanted to learn about transferring the benefits to pay for his family's education. 

Other popular changes include BAH equivalent to an E-5 with dependants, eligibility to use the benefits up to 15 years after last day of active duty and the Yellow Ribbon Program, which allows those eligible to attend private schools whose cost exceed the highest in-state rates at public institutions. 

"I am definitely going to switch to the Post 9/11 GI Bill because it caters to my family's needs," he said. "Ms. Hall helped me understand the differences between the two GI Bills and why the new GI Bill is right for me." 

For more information about the Post 9/11 GI Bill, visit the website gibill.va.gov, call the G.I. Bill hotline 1-800-gibill-1, or email Sheppard's education office at 82MSS/DPE@sheppard.af.mil.