You can only use one.GI Bill gives you 36 months of entitlement, Voc Rehab gives 48 months but whatever you may have used on GI Bill goes against your months on Voc Rehab. Maximum months you can get from Voc Rehab is 50 months if approved by Regional Office.
New GI Bill is very similar to the Voc Rehab, so much that I would chose GI Bill over Voc Rehab.
I would use Voc Rehab over GI Bill because it gives you much better benefits. Check with your VSO and he can brief you on the difference and simularities of both.
Let's see: Voc Rehab: pays for tuition and fees directly to school
New GI Bill: will pay tuition and fees directly to school
Voc Rehab: pays monthly allowance to veteran starting at $515 single rate up to $800 plus, with spouse and children.
New GI Bill: will pay veteran a monthly allowance (housing allowance) equal to that of active duty E5 with dependent, maximum of $1100 per month.
Voc Rehab: pays for books and supplies, dollar for dollar. no more no less but not paid to veteran, paid at the school book store.
New GI Bill: will pay to veteran $1000 for books and supplies once each year. Regardless of actual costs of books and supplies.
New GI Bill: can pay one time $500 relocation allowance
Voc Rehab: do not think they have such allowance for relocation
Voc Rehab: you sign a contract. Degree plan has to be approved by VA VR&E rep.
New GI Bill: no contract and no degree plan approval needed.
These are the major perks for each program. I think New GI Bill wins over. Plus the regional VR&E rep is against the the New GI BIll and contacted their senator prior to the bill passing, hmmm wonder why? Job security.
I know this. August 1, 2009 to be exact. Also know not everyone will be eligible. Must have served at least 90 days after 9-11 to even get a partial beneift. 3 years to get full benefit.
But none the less, it will be great a benefit that equals or passes Voc Rehab program.
