MGIB and Post 9/11 G.I. Bill Information
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.