GI Bill Housing Allowance Explained (BAH)

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December 6, 2020

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The Gi Bill Housing Allowance: A Guide for Veterans

As a veteran, one of the most important benefits you may be eligible for is the Gi Bill housing allowance. In this article, we will be covering the basics of the Gi Bill housing allowance, including how it works, the benefits, and what you can expect from it.

The Gi Bill is a program that provides financial support to veterans pursuing higher education. There are two main versions of the Gi Bill: the Montgomery Gi Bill and the Post-9/11 Gi Bill (also known as the “Forever Gi Bill”). The Montgomery Gi Bill provides a fixed-dollar amount every month, while the Post-9/11 Gi Bill pays for tuition directly to the school, and you can collect a housing allowance at the E5 dependent rate for the zip code of your school.

To qualify for the Gi Bill housing allowance, you must be a full-time student, and your school must submit your enrollment information to the VA. The housing allowance is paid directly into your bank account, and you can choose to live at home or in on-campus dorms. If you’re a resident assistant on campus, you can pocket the BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) amount and keep it as extra money.

When it comes to the amount you can expect to receive, the rates vary based on your course of study and how long you’re enrolled. For example, if you attend a four-year state school, you can expect to receive a total of around $115,000 in Post-9/11 Gi Bill benefits.

However, there are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to the Gi Bill housing allowance. For example, you can’t collect the housing allowance if you’re still in service, and you can’t live off-base without paying the VA. Additionally, the VA requires schools to submit your enrollment information to start these payments, which can sometimes be delayed.

Finally, be aware that the Gi Bill benefits are not limited to traditional students. Many universities offer hybrid tracks that allow you to attend online courses, and if you’re enrolled in those, you can still qualify for the full BAH rate.

In conclusion, the Gi Bill housing allowance is a valuable benefit for veterans pursuing higher education. By understanding how it works and what you can expect, you can make the most of this benefit and achieve your academic goals.