The Readjustment Act of 1944 otherwise known as the GI Bill, was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on June 22, of that year. Since then there have been hundreds of thousands of military veterans who have taken advantage of this education program. This piece of legislation has improved opportunities for service members for decades. President Roosevelt said in regards to those who serve our great nation “they have been compelled to make greater economic sacrifices than the rest of us, and are entitled to definite action to help take care of their special problems.” To determine if you are a service member eligible for a tuition reimbursement discount rate, reading about the Bill’s origins a good starting point .
Discount Requirements
There are two strict requirements besides the time frames below which determine eligibility. A service member must have received an honorable discharge and have either a high school diploma or the equivalent; GED. In some instances 12 hours of college credit may also apply. Beyond those requirements, years of active duty also be factors to determine eligibility. There are two “GI” Bills for post September 11th service members but can only be granted one. The Veterans Administration website has in depth information regarding the following requirements.
Time Frame Eligibility
Category I: Active duty was after June 30, 1985. Military pay was reduced by $100 for 12 months. Service was continuous for three years or 2 years if that was the enlistment agreed upon, or service member participated in the “2 by 4” program.
Category II: Active duty was served during the Vietnam era or before January 1, 1977 and service was performed for at least one day between October 19, 1984 and June 30, 1985 continuing active duty through June 30, 1988 or June 30, 1987 if in the Selected Reserves within one year of exiting active duty and served four years.
Category III: If a service member served after the Vietnam era and Persian Gulf time frame being active duty September 30, 1990 and separated involuntarily after February 2, 1991, or after September 30, 1993. Separation would also qualify if it falls under the VSI or SSB benefit programs. Military pay reduction in the amount of $1200 prior to separation is also a qualifying factor.
Category IV: Service member was on active duty October 9, 1996 and had funds in the VEAP account and elected the Montgomery GI Bill by October 9, 1997 or was on full time National Guard duty under title 32 between July 1, 1985 and November 28, 1989 and chose the Montgomery GI Bill between October 9, 1996 and July 8, 1987. A pay reduction in the amount of $100 per month or a $1200 lump sum contribution was made.
To determine if a service member is eligible for tuition reimbursement services they must fill out VA Form 22-1990. This will determine eligibility based on period of time served, duration and specific duties. Taking advantage of education reimbursement benefits is an entitlement all service members should consider. And by the way “Thank you for your service.”
