Step 1: Understand the Transferability Eligibility Criteria
Before initiating the process, ensure you meet the Department of Defense (DoD) eligibility requirements. To transfer your GI Bill benefits to your spouse, you must have completed at least 6 years of service in the Armed Forces and agree to serve an additional 4 years from the date of transfer. If you have over 16 years of service, you may not be eligible for this benefit. Additionally, your spouse must be enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) as your dependent.
Step 2: Access the MilConnect Website
The transfer process is exclusively conducted online through the MilConnect platform. Log in with your DS Logon, CAC, or MyKastle credentials. If you don’t have an account, create one at MilConnect. Once logged in, navigate to the “Transfer of Education Benefits (TEB)” section. Here, you’ll be prompted to review and acknowledge the terms and conditions before proceeding.
Step 3: Designate Your Spouse as a Recipient
In the TEB section, select “Add New Dependent” and input your spouse’s information as it appears in DEERS. Double-check all details for accuracy, as errors can delay the process. After submitting, your spouse will receive a confirmation email, and the transfer request will be sent to your branch of service for approval. This step typically takes 3–5 business days to process.
Step 4: Verify Approval and Notify Your Spouse
Once approved, your spouse will receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) via email. Encourage them to create an account on the VA eBenefits portal to manage their benefits. They’ll need to apply for GI Bill benefits using VA Form 22-1990e, specifying the program they wish to use (e.g., Post-9⁄11 GI Bill). This form can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office.
Step 5: Plan for Benefit Usage and Expiration
Transferred benefits must be used within 15 years of your separation from the military. For spouses, benefits are activated once you (the service member) complete your additional 4-year service commitment. If you leave the military before fulfilling this obligation, the transfer may be revoked. Encourage your spouse to research eligible programs, including college degrees, vocational training, and certification courses, to maximize the benefit.
Can I transfer GI Bill benefits to multiple dependents?
+Yes, you can transfer benefits to multiple dependents, including spouses and children, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and agree to the additional service commitment for each transfer.
What happens if I don’t complete the additional 4-year service commitment?
+If you fail to fulfill the 4-year commitment, the transfer of benefits may be revoked, and your spouse will lose access to the GI Bill benefits.
Can my spouse use the GI Bill while I’m still serving?
+No, your spouse can only begin using the transferred benefits after you’ve completed the additional 4-year service commitment.
Are there any costs associated with transferring GI Bill benefits?
+There are no fees to transfer GI Bill benefits, but you must commit to additional years of service, which is the primary “cost.”
By following these steps and staying informed, you can successfully transfer your GI Bill benefits, providing your spouse with a valuable opportunity for personal and professional growth.
