Welcome to the Penn State Altoona Montgomery GI Bill Website

Dear Penn Stater,

Well, it’s summertime, and as the song says, “The livin’ is easy.”  Except in my office.  I am currently busy certifying new and returning students for their summer and fall educational benefits, updating our webpage, and answering questions about the new GI Bill.  First I need to expand upon the new legislation, as it is truly BIG news.

On Monday, June 30, 2008, President Bush signed into law the new GI Bill, The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act, which provides significant improvements to educational benefits payable to active duty and reserve service members with active duty service on or after September 11, 2001.

The main provisions of the bill don’t take effect until August 1, 2009 (for our Fall 2009 semester).  But, beginning August 1, 2008, individuals who qualify will receive an increase in their monthly payment.  And beginning August 1, 2009, in addition to the increase in monthly benefits, students who are enrolled at least half-time will receive a monthly housing allowance and a  stipend for books.  The deadline to use benefits has also been extended to 15 years after the last period of active duty service of 90 days or more.

The VA provides a two-page fact sheet with basic information here. 

I recommend that students follow the link to sign up for automatic updates when the page is updated.  It’s easy to set up.   

I’ve already received some emails from students asking about the new benefits.  Unfortunately, I have not been given any additional information from the VA.  Please check back to this site frequently.  When I receive additional information, I will post it here.

In closing, if you are returning to Altoona in the fall, and you have not requested your benefits, complete the Altoona Campus Request for Benefits.  If your major has changed since I last certified you, you’ll also need to complete the Request for Change of Program or Place of Training Form, 22-1995.  You can no longer update direct deposit information on the 22-1995, so disregard this section of the form.

If you are a new student this fall, or a new benefits recipient, please follow the instructions for your chapter code.  Submit all your paper work to me.  It typically takes six or more weeks to have a new claim processed, so please don’t  delay.

Finally, if you are deploying this fall, as several of our students are, please contact me immediately.  I would like to explain Penn State’s policies and procedures to ensure a smooth transition from academic to military life.

Be well,

Jean Lasinski
School Certifying Official