New GI Bill Applications Triple VA Benefits On-line Business
To date, VA has received more than 25,000 claims for education benefits during the first two weeks that veterans and servicemembers can apply online for the new Post-9/11 GI Bill. The number of education benefits’ applications submitted in the first week was more than three times the rate of benefit applications usually received through the Veterans Online Application system (VONAPP). VONAPP is used for all education benefit programs, as well as for submission of applications for VA disability compensation and pension benefits. The unprecedented volume of first-day applications slowed the system for some, but by the next morning performance was fully restored. Veterans can apply on-line through the GI Bill Web site at www.GIBILL.VA.gov. Additionally, paper applications are accepted at VA regional processing offices located in Muskogee, Okla.; Atlanta, Ga.; St. Louis, Mo.; and Buffalo, N.Y. Veterans applying now receive a “Certificate of Eligibility” and information about their benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. Applicants may expect to receive their certificate within 24 days of submission. VA cannot pay benefits until Aug. 1, 2009.
