Benefits | Common Questions

As someone familiar with military service, you may have common questions that many other people want the answer to, in terms of your military benefits. How does the Montgomery GI Bill work? The Montgomery Bill can give up to 3 years of educational benefits. To use the GI Bill, find VA approved programs, fill out the VA Form 22-1990 and apply, and (once you start to receive benefits checks) fill out the VA's Verification of Eligibility each month via phone or online to continue benefits. Even though you may be eligible for other VA education benefits, including Education Assistance programs, you must pick one benefit, as you cannot combine several programs into one. Is health care available for me as a veteran? Yes, health care benefits are available for veterans, and this coverage is based upon service in the Coast Guard, Marines, Air Force, Army and Navy and those who have been discharged. If you have been dishonorably discharged, however, you may not be able to receive health benefits. You have no required monthly premium for VA care. However, some members do have copays. The copay requirements vary as to which veterans pay for which services at VA health care facilities, and all this is determined according to which "priority group" you are in. The number of veterans who can sign up each year is limited by the funds available, so priority groups are set up to ensure certain veterans can be enrolled before others. Is there job assistance for veterans? Yes, job assistance can be found! There are certain web sites and job boards dedicated specifically to veterans looking for employment. Also, veterans are often given preference for federal jobs, just due to the fact that they served their country. Under the Veterans' Employment Act of 1998, veterans who have been honorably discharged and/or have served at least 3 years of active duty are eligible for job preference. There are also departments in many states that offer Veteran Programs aimed at job and training referrals. The Veterans Recruitment Appointment (or VRA) as well as other programs allow veterans to get jobs without competition. The Disabled Veterans Enrolled in VA Training Program gives disabled veterans training as well as work experience through the Department of Veteran Affairs.