General VA and BYU-Idaho Questions
Q: Am I eligible for VA Benefits?
A: Call the toll-free VA Education Phone number: 1-888-442-4551 (press1, then 0 for an operator), or go to the VA Education Web Site. The benefit programs change frequently, so it is best to refer directly to the VA for questions about the programs.
Q: Where are my benefit checks sent?
A: VA benefit checks are sent directly to the address students provide on the VA application. Benefit checks are NOT paid to the school. The money is intended to help defray educational expenses, but does not have to go directly toward tuition costs; it can be used any way the student wants.
Exceptions:
Chapter 33: Tuition & Fee payments come to BYU-Idaho and cover the actual tuition and fees charged to your student account. If you have allreay paid your tuition and fees a balance will be available for you to transfer to your bank account or you can pick up a check.
Chapter 31: These benefit payments are sent as 3rd party billing. The tuition, fees, and sometimes the parking are billed directly to the VA. VA is also billed directly for books, and certain supplies listed on an approved list of supplies provided by the VA Vocational Rehabilitation case manager. Supplies not on the list may require special approval.
Direct Deposit: Students receiving chapter 33, 30, 1606 and 1607 students can arrange to have their benefit checks deposited directly into their bank account by electing direct deposit and providing the necessary information on their VA application. A student can also call the toll-free number (1-888-442-4551) and make arrangements for direct deposit with a VA representative.
Q: How long am I eligible for benefits?
A: Eligible students receive 36 months of full time VA education benefits. This does not mean students will have to go to school full time. They can receive ½ time benefits over a period of 72 months, or ¾ time over 48 months, etc.
If you are unsure how many months remain, call the VA (1-888-442-4551), and ask exactly how many months of full-time benefits you have left.
Exceptions to the 36-month rule:
* Chapter 35 - have 45 months of eligibility
* Students with eligibility under more than one program - have 48 months
Q: How long do I have to use my VA Benefits?
A: The amount of time you have depends on the benefits you are eligbile for. Contact the VA (1-888-442-4551), or go to the VA Education Web Site.
Q: How do I apply for Federal Tuition Assistance?
A: Your unit should provide directions on how to apply for this benefit.
Q: Who processes Federal Tutition Assistance?
A: The BYU-Idaho Accounting office will bill your unit after the unit submits the required forms. Your unit will send the money directly back to the Accounting office.
Q: I have not received my "kicker". Who should I contact?
A: Contact the Boise Guard/Reserve office at (208)272-3761. You may also mail a copy of your kicker contract to the VA at :
Department of Veteran's Affairs
PO Box 8888
Muskogee, OK 74402-8888
Q: Where can I access my VA file forms (NOBE, DD214, etc.)?
A: Your unit will assist you. You may want to access the Integrated Personnel Electronic Records Management System (I-PERMS) www.army.mil/ako/
