Using your GI Bill for college this fall? Get real help and avoid scams

Are you hanging up the dog tags to start college this fall? Not all schools tell the whole truth about how your GI Bill benefits will cover your tuition and fees. Learn where to get real answers and make sure your GI Bill benefits don’t get wasted by mistake.

Whether it’s you, your spouse, or your kids using your GI Bill benefits for school, research is key — especially as you’re getting ready to enroll. Some schools might tell you to take out student loans to cover costs before your education benefits pay out (but that’s not how education benefits work). Other schools say your benefits will cover all your fees (but you end up needing to apply for loans just to cover tuition).

If you don’t want a surprise bill after classes have started, get help figuring out your benefits and avoid scams before you enroll:

• Start with the VA. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) manages your education benefits. Use their site first to check your eligibility, research schools you’re considering, and apply for your benefits. Need more help? The VA has accredited professionals to help you — for free.
• Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool. This VA resource will show you how your benefits pay out at approved schools — and where to contact the school’s certifying official if you have questions.
• Sign up for the Military Consumer blog and get the latest on spotting and avoiding scams. You’ll find articles to help you avoid scams while paying for school. Share what you learn with friends and family.

If you’re enrolled in a school that’s not living up to its promises, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and your state attorney general’s office.

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