The Post 9/11 GI Bill in 2010

Yesterday, the VA processed 8,716 Post 9/11 GI Bill applications and 8,220 applications to other military and veterans benefits programs. This is a jump from the amount processed weekly from just a few months ago. The VA has also closed the call centers on Thursdays and Fridays to allow the staff to be able to process applications more rapidly. While this is not the most optimal situation, already improvements are being shown for the Post 9/11 GI Bill in 2010.

The New GI Bill Application Process

One of the critical upgrades to the Post 9/11 GI Bill application process that the VA has mentioned and will hopefully activate this year is the process of 100% electronic facilitation. This means that employees can focus more on keeping the call centers available five days a week and addressing special cases instead of being weighed down by paper forms. The VA understands the frustration this places not only on their employees, but on the veterans, reserve, and active duty (and military dependents!) whose education relies on their financial aid, so it’s expected these positive changes will continue to advance the GI Bill’s process.

Meanwhile, Colleges and Universities are preparing for the flurry of student energy and activity that accompanies the coming term. The Veterans Benefits GI Bill blog has received comments by students receiving their Post 9/11 GI Bill funds and book stipends, indicative of the fact that the process is more efficient  than it was in 2009 for dependents and students.

Additional Military Benefits-School and Dependents

If you’re preparing your Post 9/11 GI Bill for 2010, here are some resources to check out:

• DegreeGo for college resources and online and campus schools
• GI Jane Benefits for military spouses
• The GI Bill page at the Department of Veteran Affairs

If you start school in Fall 2010, that’s an extra bonus that you’re getting a head start on your school preparation.