Veterans Information

You may qualify for benefits under on of the following chapters of the GI Bill:

Chapter 30

Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty Requirements:

• Members of the armed forces/active duty on or after July 1, 1985.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Pay reduced by $100 a month for the first 12 months of active duty.

Application:

• Complete and submit VA Form 22-1990.
• Submit a photocopy of DD Form 214, copy 4.

Chapter 35

Survivors‘ and Dependents Educational Assistance Program Beneficiary:

• Child or spouse of a veteran who has a 100 percent service-related disability.
• Child or widows whose parent’s/spouse’s death was service related

Application:

• Complete and submit VA Form 22-5490

Chapter 32

Post-Vietnam Era Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (VEAP) Requirements:

• Participated in voluntary, contributory matching programs set up for those entering the armed forces between January 1, 1997 and June 30, 1985.
• Active duty service at least 181 days.

Application:

• Complete and submit VA Form 22-1990
• Submit a photocopy of DD Form 214, copy 4.

Chapter 34/30

Vietnam-Era Conversion:

• Certain recent retirees that have Chapter 34 benefits remaining might qualify for Montgomery GI Bill benefits under the Chapter 34/30 conversion. To determine eligibility, contact the VA at: 1-888-442-4551.

Chapter 1606

Montgomery GI Bill National Guard or Selected Reserve Requirements:

• Reservists enlist/re-enlisted for six (6) years after June 30, 1985.
• High school Diploma or GED.
• Completed 180 days or reserve service.

Application:

• Contact your reserve unit to verify eligibility.
• Complete and submit VA Form 22-1999.

Period Of Eligibility

As a veteran, you have (10) years after your separation from service to use your GI Bill benefits.

If you are in the National Guard or Selected Reserve, your right to these benefits ends fourteen (14) years from the date you became eligible for the program. Benefits generally end on the day you leave the National Guard or Selected Reserves.

How to Begin:

• If you do not have a job, or if you are not working in the occupation of your choice, contact your local South Carolina Job Service Office. A Veterans Employment Representative should be able to assist you in finding an employer that can offer the kind of training you chose.
• If you are eligible for GI Bill benefits and you have recently been hired or promoted into a job that requires new skills, check with your supervisor, training officer, or human resources division to determine if you program is currently approved. Or, have your employer contact the State Approving Agency so the necessary steps can be taken to receive approval. Approval of a program can be backdated up to one year.
• Keep in mind that not all occupations can be approved.