Veterans Affairs - Frequently Asked Questions
My benefit check did not arrive when I expected it to. What happened?
Several factors may contribute to a delay in payment. Your benefit may be delayed due to heavy workload at the regional VA office. Another common factor is failure to complete an enrollment worksheet for the current semester before the semester begins. Likewise, if any changes were made to your registration status, a delay in payment could occur.
What is a “kicker” and how do I know if it pertains to me?
An individual’s branch of service may offer the College Fund. The College Fund money, or “kicker,” is an additional amount of money that increases an individual’s basic MGIB monthly benefit and is included in his or her VA payment.
Important: An individual cannot receive his or her College Fund money without receiving MGIB. A common misunderstanding is that the College Fund is a separate benefit from MGIB. Actually, the College Fund is part of the MGIB. It’s an add-on to the basic MGIB benefit.
Qualifications for the "College Fund" are established by the military branches. The qualifications are usually based on a critical occupational specialty. The VA does not determine eligibility to this additional benefit.
If you qualify for the College Fund, you do not receive it in one lump sum payment. Your total College Fund is divided into monthly payments that are added to regular MGIB payments.
May I use my VA benefits to pay for classes if I am not in a degree program?
We are not allowed to certify your enrollment as a special student (UGS or PBS). However, on a case-by-case basis, the State Approving Agency may approve the benefits. If you feel your case should be considered, please contact the NCSU Veterans Affairs office in Harris Hall at 515-3048 for more information.
How long does it take to process benefits?
If you have never used your VA benefits before, or if you have had a lapse in your benefits, you can expect processing to take 6 to 8 weeks.
Why do I need to complete an enrollment worksheet each semester?
NC State has a responsibility to certify your enrollment every semester. All courses that are certified must meet degree requirements for your program. If you are a graduate student, you may be asked to supply the Veterans Affairs office with a Plan of Work.
Have a question we did not answer?
More information is available on the GI Bill website’s extensive list of Frequently Asked Questions
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