CHAPTER 1607 (Reserve Educational Assistance Program)

What is the Chapter 1607?

H.R. 4200 authorizing the creation of a new education benefit was signed into law on October 28, 2004. The new benefit, Chapter 1607, makes certain individuals who were activated after September 11, 2001 either eligible for education benefits or eligible for increased benefits. An eligible reservist may get education benefits while in an approved training program.

Who is Eligible?

You may be an eligible reservist or National Guard member if:

• You served on active duty on or after September 11, 2001 under title 10 U.S. Code for a contingency operation and who serves at least 90 consecutive days or more
• National Guard members also are eligible if their active duty is under section 502(f), title 32 U.S.C. and they serve for 90 consecutive days when authorized by the President or Secretary of Defense for a national emergency and is supported by federal funds.
• Individuals are eligible as soon as they reach the 90-day point whether or not they are currently on active duty.
• DoD will fully identify contingency operations that qualify for benefits under Chapter 1607.
• Disabled members who are injured or have an illness or disease incurred or aggravated in the line of duty and are released from active duty before completing 90 consecutive days are also eligible.

There is no fixed delimiting period. (ending date) You may use your benefits under Chapter 1607 as long as you remain within your component. Benefits must be terminated if you leave the Reserves or participate in a ROTC program under Title 10 Section 2107. There is one exception: If you are separated from the Ready Reserve for disability which was not the result of your own willful misconduct, you are entitled to Chapter 1607 benefits for 10 years after the date of entitlement.

How Much Does VA Pay?

The educational assistance allowance payable under Chapter 1607 is a percentage of the Chapter 30 3-year rate based on the number of continuous days served on active duty.

Reduced rates will apply for correspondence, flight, apprenticeship/OJT
and licensing and certification training.

How Can I Apply?

You can apply by filling out VA Form 22-1990, Application for Education Benefits. Submit any available documents such as our Discharge from Military Service (DD Form 214), copies of orders to active duty and anything else available as evidence of qualifying service. If you have previously filed a claim for Education benefits, a new application form is not required. Submit a "Request for Change of Program or place or Training (VA Form 22-1995). Annotate "Chapter 1607" prominently on all correspondence and documents.

For more information, please visit www.gibill.va.gov