Earlier this month, Congress passed an emergency bill, S.3503, to ensure student veterans continue to receive full benefits of the GI Bill as many institutions nationwide have transitioned to distance learning. This legislation temporarily authorizes the Department of Veteran Affairs to continue GI Bill payments uninterrupted when programs are converted to distance learning due to an emergency or health-related situation, like the COVID-19 outbreak.
Prior to this emergency bill, students receiving GI Bill benefits could risk losing their aid if their programs moved online aren’t authorized in a state.
The bill, which was signed into law on March 21, will continue the benefit payments, including monthly housing allowances and subsistence allowances, through December 21,2020, or until schools resume in-person classes.
Benefits will continue automatically, students receiving GI Bill benefits are not required to take any additional action. The VA will work closely with schools to ensure accurately certified enrollments and timely processing.
Sources:
Congress Passes Emergency GI Bill Fix as Colleges Close Due to Coronavirus
Veterans’ GI Bill benefits to continue during COVID-19 pandemic