As you may know, the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) payments you receive for the Post-9/11 GI Bill are based on the military’s Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates for an E-5 with dependents. Department of Defense adjusts the military BAH rate every calendar year (or January 1) based on changes to housing costs across the country. Rates can either go up or down.Public Law 111 – 377 (the Veterans Educational Assistance Improvement Act of 2010) amended the effective date for the adjustment of the MHA you receive under the Post-9/11 GI Bill from the beginning of the calendar year (January 1) to the beginning of the academic year (August 1). Therefore , if the BAH increased for your area, you will not see an increase until your September 2012 payment for training pursued in August. If the BAH decreases for your area, your MHA amount will not decrease unless you change schools or have more than a six-month break in training.
Dealing with Holiday Stress
For some Veterans, the holiday season is a time of loneliness and anxiety. VA can help you get through the Holiday Blues. Our Mental Health professionals are ready to help you deal with your stress and depression. Read the full story
The Best for Those who gave Their Best
The programs and services that focus on older as well as younger Veterans with chronic illness and/ or significant functional impairment are overseen by the Office of Geriatrics and Extended Care. Read the full story
Post-9/11 GI Bill Information now available in eBenefits
You can now get detailed information including your Post-9/11 GI Bill eligibility date, delimiting (ending) date, amount of entitlement used, remaining entitlement, as well as your enrollment history in eBenefits.
Staying Healthy During the Holiday Season
It’s easy to indulge during the holidays, but these health tips will make it even easier to keep a watchful eye on your waistline; just remember these physical activity and nutrition tips from VA. Read the full story
Did You Get Your Flu Shot?
Flu shots are now available for Veterans enrolled in VA health care and VA health care personnel. Flu vaccination is your best protection against the flu, which occurs mostly between October and May. Read the full story
Chicago Sports Stars join VA to end Veteran Homelessness
Pro sports figures join VA to help end homelessness among Veterans in Chicago. Major community effort: “One Team Chicago…Joining Forces to Defeat Veteran Homelessness” Read the full story
Taking Care of those Taking Care
VA’s Caregiver program has recently rolled out enhanced services for eligible seriously injured Post 9/11 Veterans, including a monetary stipend, health insurance, expanded training and other support services. Read the full story
Veteran who lost 230 pounds has a few ideas for Thanksgiving Dinner
Veteran Roger Beasing has lost 230 pounds since joining VA’s MOVE! program. He’ll be going back for seconds on Thanksgiving but with a new approach. The MOVE! program is tailored to meet the individual needs of each Veteran. Read the full story
VOW to Hire Heroes Act Information
Congress passed, and the President has signed into law, the VOW to Hire Heroes Act of 2011. A new benefit for unemployed veterans.