Transferring Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits to Dependents
Active-duty service members can now transfer education benefits of the
Post-9/11 GI Bill
to spouses and their children. This allows spouses and children of active service
members to use generous military education benefits towards their own college expenses.
Service members who want to transfer their GI Bill benefits must have served at
least six years and commit to another four years of service, although there are
specific exceptions for those nearing retirement age.
To whom may my benefits be transferred?
Benefits may be transferred to the service member's spouse, one or more of the service
member's children, or a combination of both.
What portion of my benefits can be transferred?
The service member can transfer as much as 100% of unused benefits, which equals
36 months of benefits.
What education benefits will my dependents receive?
Benefits are the same as what the service member would receive under the Post-9/11
GI Bill, with these exceptions:
- An eligible spouse will not receive the monthly housing allowance or the books-and-supplies
stipend while the service member is on active duty.
- An eligible child will receive the monthly housing allowance and the books-and-supplies
stipend even if the service member is on active duty.
To transfer benefits, visit the Department of Defense's
transferability application website
and determine if your dependents are eligible. This site is only available to military
members. Once approved, family members may apply to use transferred benefits with
the Veterans Administration by completing
VA Form 22-1990e.
Learn more about transferring benefits.
Learn more about other aspects of the Post-9/11 GI Bill: