Can I still collect GI Bill education benifits while I'm collecting unemployment?

Answer 1

Yes, that's what I did.

You need to apply for unemployment through a federal agent, not a state agent, though. (I don't know if they told you this or not.) When you apply, just make sure they know you are recently seperated from the military.

The GI Bill kicks in when you're in school (you may have to pay for the first tuition and books). Since you paid into the GI Bill fund, you are entitled to the payments as if it were an insurance policy. It's not income and it's not going to disqualify your unemployment benefits.

However, you still have the responsibility to look for work. In my state, we have to demonstrate from written records our job search activity. You don't lose your benefits from going to school, you lose them for not looking for work. I was also audited during the time I was collecting. I had to show my job search records.

Answer 2

As long as you're attending school, yes.