Do you get housing allowance with the Montgomery GI Bill? This is a common question among veterans and active-duty military personnel who are considering using the Montgomery GI Bill to fund their education. The Montgomery GI Bill, also known as MGIB, is a program designed to provide financial assistance to eligible individuals who have served or are serving in the United States Armed Forces. One of the key benefits of the MGIB is the housing allowance, which helps veterans cover their living expenses while they pursue their educational goals.
The Montgomery GI Bill offers two primary chapters: Chapter 30 and Chapter 33. Both chapters provide housing allowances, but the amount and eligibility criteria may vary. Chapter 30 is available to veterans who entered active duty before January 1, 2009, while Chapter 33 is for those who enlisted on or after that date.
Understanding the Housing Allowance
The housing allowance is designed to help veterans cover the cost of housing while they are enrolled in an approved educational program. The amount of the housing allowance depends on several factors, including the type of program you are enrolled in, the location of the school, and the number of credit hours you are taking.
For Chapter 30 beneficiaries, the housing allowance is calculated based on the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for an E-5 with dependents, with a maximum of 12 credit hours. This amount is then prorated based on the number of credit hours you are taking. For Chapter 33 beneficiaries, the housing allowance is calculated using the Post-9/11 GI Bill housing rates, which are determined by the location of the school and the number of credit hours you are taking.
Eligibility for the Housing Allowance
To be eligible for the housing allowance, you must meet certain requirements. First, you must have served at least 90 days of active duty after June 30, 1985. If you were discharged due to a service-connected disability, you must have served at least 30 days. Additionally, you must be enrolled in an approved educational program, and you must be in good standing with your school.
It is important to note that the housing allowance is not available to all veterans. For example, if you are enrolled in a program that is not approved for the MGIB, or if you are not taking enough credit hours, you may not be eligible for the housing allowance.
Calculating Your Housing Allowance
Calculating your housing allowance can be a bit complex, as it involves several factors. To get an estimate of your housing allowance, you can use the VA’s online calculator. This tool will take into account your credit hours, the type of program you are enrolled in, and the location of your school to provide you with an estimated monthly housing allowance.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Do you get housing allowance with the Montgomery GI Bill?” is yes, you can receive a housing allowance if you meet the eligibility criteria and are enrolled in an approved educational program. Understanding how the housing allowance is calculated and how to calculate it can help you better plan for your educational expenses. For more information on the Montgomery GI Bill and its benefits, be sure to visit the VA’s official website or consult with a VA representative.
