The GI Bill has long served as a crucial resource for veterans seeking to further their education and transition successfully into civilian life. Recent changes to the GI Bill in 2025 have expanded its scope, offering new opportunities and benefits for those who served. Here’s a breakdown of the most important updates and how they can impact veterans and their families. 

GI Bill Expansion in 2025 

Starting in 2025, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has expanded access to GI Bill benefits for veterans with multiple periods of service. Previously, those eligible for both the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB-AD) and the Post-9/11 GI Bill were limited to 36 months of benefits. With the new expansion, veterans can now access up to 48 months of combined entitlement if they have served two or more qualifying periods of active duty. This significant increase allows for an additional year of educational benefits, helping more veterans achieve their educational and professional goals. 

Transferring the GI Bill to Family Members 

For many veterans, the ability to transfer unused GI Bill benefits to their spouse or children is a game-changer. Eligible service members can transfer their benefits if they meet specific service requirements and agree to additional service obligations. This transfer must be approved by the Department of Defense (DoD) while the service member is still in active duty. Once approved, family members can apply to use these benefits through the VA, ensuring that the educational needs of their loved ones are supported. You can read more about the transfer process at VA.gov.  

Understanding the GI Bill Housing Allowance 

One of the standout features of the Post-9/11 GI Bill is the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA). This allowance helps cover living expenses while veterans pursue their education. The MHA amount is based on the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for an E-5 with dependents, adjusted according to the location of the educational institution. It’s important to note that the MHA is prorated based on enrollment status and can change annually to reflect updates in BAH rates. 

How to Apply for GI Bill Benefits 

Applying for GI Bill benefits is a straightforward process through the VA’s online portal. Veterans and eligible family members need to complete VA Form 22-1990, “Application for VA Education Benefits,” and provide necessary documentation, such as the DD Form 214. The VA will review the application to confirm eligibility and issue a decision, allowing veterans to plan their educational journey confidently. 

Checking Your GI Bill Status 

After submitting an application, veterans can monitor the progress through the VA’s eBenefits portal. This online tool provides updates on the application status, remaining benefits, and payment history. It’s a convenient way to stay informed and ensure that all necessary steps are completed for a smooth educational experience. 

Getting Your GI Bill Certificate of Eligibility 

Once the VA approves a GI Bill application, they issue a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). This certificate details the type of benefit, the amount of entitlement, and the eligibility period. Veterans should present the COE to their educational institution to verify their enrollment and facilitate benefit payments. If the COE is lost, veterans can request a duplicate via the eBenefits portal or directly from the VA. 

Learn More with Mission Roll Call University (MRCU) 

To provide even more detailed guidance on these updates, Mission Roll Call University (MRCU) is preparing a comprehensive video that dives deeper into the 2025 GI Bill changes. This upcoming video will cover everything from eligibility requirements to maximizing your benefits. Stay tuned to our MRCU YouTube channel for expert insights and practical advice to help you make the most of your GI Bill benefits. Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more educational content tailored to veterans and their families. 

The 2025 GI Bill changes bring significant benefits and greater flexibility for veterans and their families. Whether you’re exploring new educational opportunities, transferring benefits to a family member, or seeking clarity on housing allowances, these updates are designed to support your success. Stay informed, apply early, and take full advantage of what the GI Bill has to offer. 

At Mission Roll Call, we’ve received many questions about the updated GI Bill, and we’re committed to helping you navigate these changes. We’ll be outlining additional topics and creating informative content to address your concerns and ensure you have the resources you need. 

For more information and to stay updated on other veteran benefits, visit MissionRollCall.org. Stay tuned for our latest insights and guidance on making the most of your GI Bill benefits and more.