In a landmark shift following a 2024 Supreme Court ruling, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has unveiled a transformative update to GI Bill benefits. Effective immediately, Veterans with multiple periods of military service, such as those who reenlisted, may now qualify for up to 12 additional months of education benefits—raising the maximum to 48 months under the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and Post-9/11 GI Bill combined.
This change rectifies longstanding limitations that capped benefits at 36 months for those eligible under both programs. Veterans who previously waived MGIB benefits to use Post-9/11 GI Bill (PGIB) benefits now have new options to access additional entitlements.
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What’s Changed?
Prior to the Supreme Court decision, Veterans were required to waive their MGIB eligibility when opting for PGIB benefits. This decision often resulted in forfeited time and benefits. The ruling and subsequent VA updates have now overturned these restrictions:
Previous Policy:
- Veterans eligible for both MGIB and PGIB had to waive MGIB benefits to use PGIB.
- Total GI Bill entitlement was capped at 36 months.
- Waivers were irrevocable.
Updated Policy:
- Veterans can now retain MGIB eligibility while using PGIB benefits.
- Combined entitlement across MGIB and PGIB can reach up to 48 months.
- Prior waivers of MGIB benefits can be revoked, providing additional eligibility for benefits.
Who Qualifies?
The VA estimates that approximately 1.04 million Veterans and beneficiaries are eligible for additional benefits under this update. Veterans must meet the following criteria:
- Have completed at least two qualifying periods of service—one qualifying for MGIB and the other for PGIB.
- Previously waived MGIB benefits to access PGIB benefits.
The VA will automatically review and process claims for an estimated 660,000 Veterans, while the remainder will need to submit a claim to access their additional benefits.
Benefits of the New Policy
- Extended Benefits Period: Veterans can now receive up to 48 months of combined GI Bill benefits, offering additional time to pursue higher education or vocational training.
- Expiration Date Extensions: For eligible Veterans, VA will reinstate the time remaining on their MGIB benefits at the time of their election to switch to PGIB, plus an additional 90 days. Applications for recalculating expiration dates must be submitted by October 1, 2030.
- Retroactive Adjustments: Veterans whose MGIB or PGIB benefits were impacted by prior policies may receive retroactive eligibility adjustments, potentially unlocking months of additional benefits.
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Impact on Veterans’ Education
Since its inception, the Post-9/11 GI Bill has disbursed more than $143 billion to over 2.7 million beneficiaries, providing Veterans and their families with affordable education options. This update will significantly enhance educational opportunities, enabling Veterans to pursue advanced degrees, certifications, or additional training programs.
VA Under Secretary for Benefits Joshua Jacobs emphasized the importance of the policy change, stating, “Every Veteran has earned the right to get a good, affordable education—and under this new policy, many Veterans will get an additional 12 months of GI Bill benefits.”
Key Deadlines and Application Process
Expiration Date Recalculation:
- Eligible Veterans must apply for recalculations by October 1, 2030.
- Claims submitted after this date will follow standard expiration rules.
How to Apply:
Veterans seeking additional benefits or recalculated eligibility must complete VA Form 22-1995 and indicate a request for a “Rudisill review.”
Automatic Reviews:
- Claims made after August 15, 2018, will be automatically reviewed by the VA.
- Veterans with claims before this date must submit a new application for review.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Transfer My Additional Benefits to Family Members?
No changes have been made to transfer eligibility rules. The Department of Defense retains authority over benefit transfers, and existing requirements remain unchanged.
Will I Be Required to Repay MGIB Contributions?
No. Veterans who previously waived MGIB eligibility and received refunds of their $1,200 contribution will not be required to repay these funds.
Does This Affect My Veteran Readiness & Employment Benefits?
Yes. Veterans who qualify for retroactive PGIB entitlement may also receive adjustments to subsistence allowances under the Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) program.
Next Steps for Veterans
Veterans eager to take advantage of this opportunity should:
- Review their eligibility based on multiple service periods and previous benefit elections.
- Submit VA Form 22-1995 for additional benefits or recalculated eligibility.
- Monitor communications from the VA for automatic reviews or further guidance.
For more information or assistance, Veterans can submit inquiries through Ask VA or contact the VA education benefits hotline.
This updated policy reflects the VA’s commitment to providing Veterans with the resources they deserve. It’s a game-changing opportunity for many who served and sacrificed, reaffirming the nation’s promise to its heroes.
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