What Changes Can You Expect with the "Forever G.I. Bill"

Last week, the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act, known as the “Forever G.I. Bill,” was signed into law. This law will allow more Veterans to use the G.I. Bill, as well as give them more time to use it. Want to know more? Check out some of the specifics per the Department of Veterans Affairs below:

These provisions go into effect immediately:

• The 15-year time limit for using Post-9/11 G.I. Bill benefits is eliminated for those Veterans who left active duty on or after January 1, 2013, as well as qualifying dependents.
• Reservists who had eligibility under the Reserve Educational Assistance program (REAP) and who previously lost their eligibility under the program’s sunset provision will have their service credited toward the Post-9-11/G.I. Bill program.
• Certain work-studies will be permanently authorized. Previously, these had to be re-authorized by Congress every few years.
• The VetSuccess on Campus program will become available to students across the country.
• The VA will work to help Veterans more clearly identify schools that offer them priority enrollment.

Most of the changes enhance or expand education benefits for Veterans, Servicemembers, Families and Survivors. To see these changes, check out the Department of Veterans Affairs. You can also learn more through your installation’s Voluntary Education staff.

Still on active duty? Use the Tuition Assistance Program as intended and save your GI Bill Education Benefits for after your service.