The new Post-9/11 GI Bill will provide education benefits covering the full cost of education at any public university in the country, as well as many private institutions of higher learning.  To qualify for benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill, a veteran must have served at least 90 days of active duty after September 10, 2001, and have remaining entitlement.  Benefits last for 15 years after separation.

To help our veterans navigate the system and assist them in obtaining their benefits, I have created this resource page with important links and helpful information.  Should you have any questions or should any issues arise, please do not hesitate to call my Scottsdale Office at (480) 946-2411.

Sincerely,

Harry

UPDATE:

Student Veterans Can Apply For Emergency Aid Online - Washington Post

Students may apply online by going to www.va.gov. Applicants would receive their checks in the mail.

A map and list of the participating VA regional benefits offices is available on the Internet at http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=3.       The most updated information regarding VA issuing emergency checks will be available at VA's web site www.va.gov starting Oct. 1.

GI Bill Website

Apply Online

Arizona Schools Participating in GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program

• VA's answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the Post-9/11 GI Bill
• GI Bill Hotline:  Call 1-888-GI-BILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) Toll-Free to speak with a Veterans Benefits counselor
• Veterans Benefits Administration: Phoenix Regional Office:  3333 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012-2436 (ph: 1-800-827-1000)

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America's one stop shop for the GI Bill:  NewGIBill.org

Fact Sheet on the GI Bill from the Department of Veterans Affairs

Veterans' Services at Local Educational Institutions

Arizona State University:  http://students.asu.edu/veterans-services
Mesa Community College:  http://www.mc.maricopa.edu/students/veterans/
Scottsdale Community College:  http://www.scottsdalecc.edu/veterans/
Rio Salado Community College: http://www.riosalado.edu/veteran/Pages/default.aspx

Post-9/11 GI Bill Timeline:

January 4, 2008: Introduced in U.S. Senate by Senator Jim Webb
April 9, 2008:  Introduced in House of Representatives by Rep. Harry Mitchell
May 14, 2008:  Bill Passes House
May 20, 2008:  GI Bill Passes Senate with Veto-Proof Majority
June 18, 2008:  Bill included in FY2008 Supplemental Appropriations Act and passes both House and Senate
June 29, 2008:  GI Bill Signed into Law
May 1, 2009:  First Applications Accepted
July 1, 2009:  First Applications Processed
August 1, 2009:  First Benefits Disbursed

Video from the Department of Veterans Affairs

Post 9/11 GI Bill Guide

Yellow Ribbon Program

Undersecretary Tammy Duckworth discussing the GI Bill