New GI Bill Becomes a Reality

By Bryant Jordan, Military.com

On Monday, June 30, 2008, President Bush signed legislation ushering in
a new era in GI Bill benefits. The legislation, which the Senate passed
overwhelmingly, is part of a $162 billion war spending bill.

The new GI Bill was framed by Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., who has long argued
that veterans deserve benefits that match those given to World War II
vets.  Then, returning GIs were covered for the full cost of tuition and
books for whatever college they entered; in addition they were paid a
monthly stipend.

Under the new GI Bill, payment rates will go up, but will be based on
the college or university costs in the service member’s state of
residence. Eligible students also will receive a monthly stipend for
books of up to $1,000 per year and a monthly housing allowance of about
$1,000. The housing stipend will be tied to the Pentagon’s basic
allowance for housing rates.

The new education benefits are forecasted to go into effect in mid-2009
and will be available to all service members and veterans - including
members of the Guard and Reserve - who have served on active duty for at
least 90 consecutive days since Sept. 11, 2001.

The benefits are paid in increments which are determined by the amount
of time served on active duty.

To view a list of FAQs for the new GI Bill, visit:
http://www.gibill2008.org/faq.html.

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VA Seeking OEF/OIF Veterans

Combat veterans are eligible for free medical care from the Veterans
Administration (VA) for most conditions for five years after they
separate from active duty. The VA is reaching out to veterans of
Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) who
have been discharged but have not contacted the VA about their benefits.
In addition to health care, other possible benefits include home loan
guarantees, education, training and life insurance. If you are - or if
you know - an OEF-OIF combat veteran who has not contacted the VA to
learn about these benefits, please contact the nearest VA facility or
visit: http://www.oefoif.va.gov/ for more information.

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