"New GI Bill" Applications Now Being Accepted

Washington, D.C. - Veterans eligible for education benefits under the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008, also known as the "New GI Bill," are able to apply for benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs online beginning today, Friday, May 1. Members of the military who have served on active duty since September 11, 2001, including activated reservists and members of the National Guard, receive up to four academic years of education benefits, including stipends for housing and books. Veterans will have up to 15 years after they leave active duty to use their education benefits.

Applicants can apply through an online form at http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-22-1990-ARE.pdf. Payments will be processed beginning August 1.

"It's our responsibility to serve those who served us," said Congressman John Barrow (GA-12.) "I'm proud to have co-sponsored this legislation in the House of Representatives. The original G.I. Bill educated a generation of veterans coming home after World War II, and helped create a thriving middle class. Our newest veterans deserve the same opportunities."

Under the legislation:

· Service members, including those returning from Iraq or Afghanistan, can receive up to 36 months of education benefits, including stipends for housing and books.
· Veterans would have up to 15 years after they leave active duty to use their education benefits.
· Veterans would have the ability to use their benefits for program fees, tuition, books and housing.
· Veterans would be able to use the Yellow Ribbon G.I. Education Enhancement Program, in which the federal government will match, dollar for dollar, any voluntary additional contributions to veterans from institutions whose tuition is more expensive than the maximum educational assistance provided under the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill.

· Benefits are applicable for apprenticeships, vocational schools, and other non-traditional post-secondary educational settings.