There is still a requirement for service members entering active
duty to complete DD Form 2366 in order to accept or decline
participation into the MGIB (Chapter 30) program. After
completion of the form a copy is kept in the OQR/SRB, a copy is
forwarded to their OMPF, and the member gets a copy. If they
accept participation the $1200.00 payment is still required ($100.00
a month for 12 months).
Service members become eligible for the Post 9/11 GI Bill after
90 days of active service after 9/11/2001. Service members do
not have to make any contribution into this program and there is no
paperwork requirements. The service member applies for Post
9/11 GI Bill benefits via the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA).
If a Marine requests to transfer his/her Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits
to his/her spouse or children, there is a requirement to complete a
Statement of Understanding which will be placed in the Marine's
OMPF.
What is the advantage for a service member to contribute $1200.00
to the MGIB program if they will receive the same benefit as a
member who does not contribute?
The Post 9/11 GI Bill can only be utilized at institution of
higher learning (2 or 4 year institutions). The MGIB can be
used for Votech, welding, truck driving schools that are not 2 or 4
year institutions. If the service member elects to participate
in the MGIB program and then converts to the Post 9/11 GI Bill they
can still use the benefits for Votech, welding, etc. However,
If they decline the MGIB and only have eligibility for the Post 9/11
GI Bill they are limited to a 2 or 4 year institution of higher
learning.