Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) Director Adam Hollier are coming together to assist veterans in obtaining the benefits to which they are entitled for their service. For many service members and their families, confirming their qualification for educational benefits under the GI Bill can be confusing and difficult.
“Part of honoring the sacrifices made by our service members and their families is ensuring that they are informed about benefits they have earned,” Nessel said. “Helping our veterans access their benefits is another impactful way we can say ‘thank you for your service’ while pointing them toward the educational opportunities and support that can improve their lives.”
The term GI Bill refers to any U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) education benefit earned by members of Active Duty, Selected Reserve, National Guard Armed Forces, and their families.
The legislation that falls under the GI Bill umbrella includes the Montgomery Bill and the Post-9/11 GI Bill. The way benefits are calculated is different for each program and eligibility for both programs will vary based on the veteran’s specific service. The Veterans Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits program is an additional program that veterans may qualify for.
Veterans may be able to use their VR&E benefits before turning to their GI Bill benefits. Some veterans may be eligible for both Post-9/11 and Montgomery Bill benefits but may only apply for one program. In such circumstances, the USDVA advises applicants to choose wisely because switching from one program to another after a decision has been made is prohibited. Eligible veterans should plan carefully to ensure that they can maximize their benefits.
“The MVAA is committed to helping Michigan veterans, service members and qualified family members get connected to their education benefits,” said Hollier. “Whether it’s assistance with paying tuition, choosing the right school or training program, and getting the career guidance they need to thrive in Michigan’s robust job market, the MVAA is here for you. I encourage all veterans and their family members take advantage of the education benefits they’ve earned for their service.”
The MVAA has its own GI Bill website (www.michigan.gov/mvaa/education/gi-bill) that provides additional information and resources with Michigan veterans in mind. Veterans can learn more about their earned benefits by calling the MVAA at 800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838).
The USDVA also has a comparison tool (www.va.gov/education/gi-bill-comparison-tool) to assist veterans in deciding how to use their benefits. The Department also has a dedicated phone number for questions about benefits and educational goals at 888-442-4551.
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