Still trying to crack the code on transferring benefits on the Post 9/11 GI Bill? I’ve been reading it over and think I figured a few things out…here is a synopsis of transferring to the Post 9/11 GI Bill.
Lets start with the memo that explains the policy. It is a bit confusing, but when you get to Attachment 2 it starts to make sense.
Skim through it, then go to attachment 2, page 14 - it lists ADSO info.
-From what I read, there is NO ADSO if you are retirement eligible (which means more than 20 years service) on or after 1 AUG 09.
-If you hit 20 after 1 AUG 09 but before 30 SEP 13 then there is a fuzzy ADSO.
-If you accept the transfer and are less than 20 years service, you can incur an ADSO…you have to read more info to figure that out.
Go to attachment 2, page 16/17 (around there) to read the modification/revocation/transfer procedures…
You have to specify a period for which the transfer will be effective. Still working on the definition of that…I guess I would just make it for as long as the site will allow - 10 to 15 years (anyone know).
You can only TRANSFER while you are a member of the Armed services (do this before you retire).
An individual may add new dependents, modify the number of months of the transferred entitlement for existing dependants or revoke transfer of entitlement WHILE SERVING IN THE ARMED FORCES.
An individual may NOT add dependents after retirement or separation but MAY MODIFY the number of months of the transferred benefit or revoke transferred benefits after retirement of separation for those dependents who had received transferred benefits prior to separation or retirement. So, like R. Pais suggested - transfer at least one month of benefit to each dependent PRIOR to separation. You can sort it out later.
Att2/pg 16 states than an eligible spouse cannot use the stipend and book stipend if the sponsor is still on active duty; an eligible child can.
READY TO TRANSFER?
Call the VA Dept of Education 1-888-GI-BILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) to find out how many months you have available.
Now, here is the website to transfer benefits.
You check a bunch of boxes and assign a certain number of months to each family member.
Good luck and feel free to post updates/info to this page.
