Having a quality education is essential for feeling content and providing for a family. This is equally true for military members.
When their military duty ends, former soldiers will need the best education available to make a living. Retired soldiers have several options to further their education through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These include the REAP Chapter 1607 and MGIB Selected Reserve Chapter 1606.
Chapter 1606 VA Benefits
Chapter 1606, also known as the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) for Selected Reserves, is a significant benefit for reservists. Anyone who agrees to serve in the Reserve for at least six years is eligible for this perk.
After obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent and completing initial training, a reservist becomes eligible for the program. It’s important to use this benefit before it expires. Reservists who became eligible after October 1, 1992, have 14 years to use Chapter 1606 benefits.
If a service member leaves the Selected Reserve, their eligibility will end. This benefit is valuable for reservists enrolled in an undergraduate degree program. Chapter 1606 provides a monthly “incentive” for up to 36 months as long as the reservist is enrolled in an authorized school. This tax-free money can be used for rent, books, fees, tuition, and other expenses. These funds are meant to support service members in achieving their academic goals.
MGIB Chapter 1607
In 2004, the Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP), also known as Chapter 1607, was created. This benefit is for reservists called to active service.
After September 11, 2001, many reservists completed extended tours of active duty, but their benefits remained mostly unchanged. Chapter 1607 provides benefits to active Selected Reserve members called to active service for 90 days or more and Individual Ready Reserve members called to active duty for national emergencies declared by the President or Congress.
Chapter 1607 benefits are similar to a portion of the Chapter 30 benefits under the MGIB for active duty members. The exact benefit amount depends on the recipient’s course load and the length of active service since September 11, 2001. Like Chapter 1606, the funds belong to the reservist and can be used at the same institutions for the same duration. However, REAP often provides a higher payment.
1606 or 1607: Choose the Chapter
Reservists who qualify for both Chapters 1606 and 1607 can choose the benefit that suits them best. Although the choice seems straightforward, two aspects can complicate the decision. First, reservists who met program requirements before the law’s enactment in late 2004 can apply retrospectively for Chapter 1607 benefits. Second, a reservist can claim up to 48 months of benefits in total, even though each chapter only provides 36 months of benefits. For example, a service member could use 36 months under Chapter 1606 and 12 months under Chapter 1607.
Understanding these benefits and making the right choice can significantly impact a reservist’s education and future career opportunities.
FAQs:
What is Chapter 1606 VA Benefits?
Chapter 1606, or the Montgomery GI Bill for Selected Reserves, provides educational benefits to reservists who commit to six years of service. It offers monthly financial support for up to 36 months, which can be used for tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
Who is eligible for Chapter 1607 benefits?
Chapter 1607, or the Reserve Education Assistance Program (REAP), is for reservists called to active service for 90 days or more after September 11, 2001. It provides benefits similar to Chapter 30 of the Montgomery GI Bill for active duty members.
Can I use both Chapter 1606 and Chapter 1607 benefits?
Yes, reservists can use both benefits but can only claim a total of 48 months. For example, you might use 36 months under Chapter 1606 and 12 months under Chapter 1607.
