Can I use Tuition Assitance and receive full monthly GI Bill at the same time?

Question

Instead of using TA and Top-Up I am considering trying to use TA and at the same time receive full monthly GI Bill. I want to do this first off because I only need an extra 400 dollars for what TA doesnt cover. Top-Up dips into my GI Bill and gives me the amount I need but the rest of my full month amount I would lose. So I would like to use TA and GI Bill so I can atleast pocket the remaining 600 bux or so. Is this possible? If so how do I go about this?

Answer 1

Im making the assumption you are in the Guard, or Reserve. TA is a Federal Program for soldiers who are currently serving. GIBill is a program for veterans which can be used concurrently with TA. as long as you are taking a full load ie: 12 hrs you are entitled to your full GI Bill money. The GI Bill is deposited directly into your bank account you can do with it what you will as long as you maintain a 2.0. TA goes to the University directly. If you were to use the top up your GIBill benefits would only be decreased by the amount needed to cover your tuition ie: 400 dollars. The other 600 will just remain a part of your benefits. The remaining money can be used later if you were to enroll full time and want the full monthly amount. If you are enrolled full time you could draw both and pocket the 600 but it would decrease your future benefit amounts by the regular monthly rate. By taking the Top UP you are reducing the total amount of money but they will pay GIBill money until all 36 months of entitlement are used up and your benefit money runs out.

Hope that helps

Answer 2

who ever told you you get to pocket the left over gi bill lied to you. go ask your chain of command they can help you

Answer 3

Yes, you sure can. My friend at school is doing it right now.