Question:  I am a recent military veteran and I am thinking about returning to college.  I find that I can’t earn a decent living without obtaining career skills.  How much money is available to me through my veteran’s education benefits to help me return to school?  Bill E., Kansas

 Money for college is a major benefit for veterans.  Under the present Montgomery GI Bill,  the monthly maximum on educational benefits for active duty personnel completing an enlistment of three years or more is $1,075, with the benefits stopping at $38,700 after 36 months, or four academic years.  The funds can be applied to tuition-including online classes, books, and living expenses.  You must use the money within 10 years of leaving the service. 

Both the US Senate and House are considering expanding the educational benefits in the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act.  This would affect the men and women who have served since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Additional information about VA education benefits is available at http://www.gibill.va.gov/.