New GI Bill expands educational opportunities

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rachel Martinez
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Servicemembers can now choose between the Montgomery GI Bill and the Post 9/11 GI Bill. 

Applications for the Post 9/11 GI Bill are currently being accepted; however benefits are only payable for education and training pursued on or after Aug. 1, 2009. 

Personal education goals will determine which version of the GI Bill is better for servicemembers, said Scott Field, Community College of the Air Force counselor for the 35th Force Support Squadron. 

"Depending on what your education goals are, one version might be better than the other," he said. "The money goes straight to you with the Montgomery GI Bill, but there is the potential for more money with the Post 9/11 GI Bill. 

"Each one covers different programs too," Mr. Field added. "I tell people that if you want to pursue multiple certifications to stick with the Montgomery GI Bill because it covers more. It always comes down to what your goals are." 

The Post 9/11 GI Bill opens up educational opportunities for those who were not eligible with or did not have the Montgomery GI Bill. Officers and enlisted members who elected not to contribute to the Montgomery GI Bill can receive benefits under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Additionally, the Post 9/11 GI Bill gives the option of transferring benefits to eligible dependents. 

The Department of Veterans Affairs is now accepting applications from servicemembers who elect to transition to the Post 9/11 GI Bill. To apply for the Post 9/11 benefits, servicemembers should visit the VA Web site. 

"The first step for those wanting the Post 9/11 GI Bill is to transition their benefits," said Mr. Field. "It's all spelled out on the VA Web site. 

"Servicemembers can keep the Montgomery GI Bill if they want to, but once they choose to transfer, there is no going back," he added. 

The staff at the education office can provide some information on GI Bill benefits, however the program is run by the VA and most information can be found on their Web site. 

"Know where the Web site is," encouraged Mr. Field. "If the answer to your question is not there, the VA is pretty good at getting back to you." 

For complete information on the Montgomery and Post 9/11 GI Bills, visit www.gibill.va.gov.