How to Transfer GI Bill Army Benefits to a Child

Active duty soldiers may transfer their GI Bill benefits to their children.

As of August 2009 the GI Bill benefits may be transferred to spouses or dependents of soldiers. The GI Bill provides active duty soldiers and veterans with the opportunity to further their education with little to no charge to the soldier. Active duty soldiers may now share the benefit of a college education with their children after completing the requirements, applying for a transfer of benefits and being granted approval.

Instructions

1. Serve a minimum of six years in the military before applying to transfer your benefits.

2. Verify your enrollment with the MGIB (Montgomery GI Bill, which was in effect before August 2009), and you must qualify for reenlistment.

3. Reenlist for an additional four years. You may reenlist for a longer period, but the minimum is four years. Your reenlistment must be completed in accordance with AR 601-280. You must commit to serve a minimum of 10 years total to share benefits with your dependents; the previous six years will be included. If you are applying under an Expanded Army Pilot Program, you must complete the 10-year service before your child is eligible to use the benefits. You must inform your military branch that you are reenlisting in order to transfer your GI Bill benefits at the time of reenlisting.

4. Apply to transfer your benefits while still on active duty in the military.

5. Meet with your servicing Army Retention Career Counselor and complete a DD Form 2366-2. Your Army Retention Career Counselor will submit the paperwork for your transfer.

References

• Army Domain: Amy Education benefits -- GI Bill
• G.I. Bill: Army Transferability to Dependents (PDF)
• G.I. Bill: The New G.I. Bill