What You Need to Know About Veteran Education Payments
Some of the most asked questions regarding the Post-9/11 GI Bill® are about payments, when you get paid, and how it works. There are rules, of course, just like when you were in the military. If you have questions about when you'll get your money and what you should do if you have problems with them, here's what you need to know.
When can you expect your first payment?
The fastest way to get your G.I. Bill®️ housing payment is through direct deposit, which happens 7 to 10 business days after your school enrollment is verified.
You can waive the direct deposit and opt for a check instead. The check will come by mail and should arrive about 14 days after verification. You can request a replacement if you haven't received your check three weeks after it was issued. The replacement may take up to six weeks, however.
Why is the payment less than the monthly rate?
If you have a question about your payment amount, look closely before you call or email them. It may be a mistake, but it also may be due to a few of these reasons.
Partial attendance - If you attended classes for only part of the month, you are paid for that portion of the month. For example, if your monthly rate is $800 and you attended classes that started on the 15th, you'll receive $400 -- or half of the monthly rate.
Past overpayment - Just like when overpayment happened in the military, the VA will keep future payments to recoup any overpayments made in the past.
Reduced enrollment - In a similar situation as starting classes in the middle of the month, reducing your class load during the term will reduce payment.
How do I get an advance?
Depending on which G.I. Bill®️ program you are using, you may be able to get an advance payment. This option doesn't apply to most veterans because those using the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill®️ are not eligible for an advance payment.
If you're using one of the other G.I. Bill®️ programs, you may be eligible for an advance if you meet all of the requirements:
Be attending school at least half time
Have an advance payment request on file at the school
Have a break of at least 30 days before the start of the term
If you meet the requirements for an advance, check with whoever at your school oversees veteran benefits and see if they will receive the advance for you. This office is where you'll get the advance request form, and they'll keep it on file.
When you're deemed eligible, the VA will mail advance payment to the school, and you can pick it up. The payment will include the first full month and the first partial month. So, if your enrollment starts on September 18, the advance will cover the partial payment for September and October.
If you have additional questions, look for answers on the VA website.
Learn more about GI Bill® benefits and other resources available to veterans and military-connected students.