Understanding Book Stipends and Your GI Bill®️ Benefits

You've applied and been admitted to your program of choice. You have initiated your GI Bill®️ Benefits to cover your tuition and fees. Your military housing allowance (MHA) has been determined and approved by the VA. Before you begin your classes, there is another benefit that you can expect to receive: the book and supply stipend. 

Am I Eligible for a Book Stipend, and What May I Spend It On?

The GI Bill®️ book stipend may be used for books and other supplies. Students will receive a lump-sum payment in the first month of each quarter, semester, or term. The payment will help cover the cost of books, supplies, equipment, and other educational fees for that academic term. The payment amount will be equal to either a quarter or half of the annual $1,000 cap for that academic year, depending on how the academic year is divided.

Where Does the Money Go? 

Tuition and fees are paid directly to the institution, and the rate is based on what type of school you’re attending, such as a public, private, or international institution of higher learning as well as non-college degree programs, flight school, or correspondence courses. 

The monthly housing allowance (MHA) is paid directly to the student based on a percentage of the eligible GI Bill®️ benefits according to how many credits a student takes, the institution's zip code, and whether the program is considered distance learning. 

What are you eligible for? Check out the VA's GI Bill®️ Comparison Tool for more information. 

Book stipends are paid directly to student veterans at the start of the benefit award period and the beginning of each academic year while you're in your training program at a capped yearly maximum of $1,000. It is paid proportionately based on the number of credits each student takes at $41 per credit hour.

When Will the Book Stipend Hit My Account?

The fastest way to receive this benefit is by signing up for direct deposit when you apply for education benefits. In that case, the VA will deposit your payment into your bank account 7 to 10 business days after you verify your school enrollment.

Does the GI Bill®️ Book Stipend Count as Taxable Income?

Payments from all GI Bill®️ programs are tax-free. This is true for you, your dependents, and your survivors who may utilize the educational benefits.

How Can I Make The Most of Buying Textbooks Affordably? 

The first step is to review your course syllabus and check with your instructor to clarify which books you need to succeed. Many institutions are now putting class texts entirely online, which can be a considerable convenience and cost savings for students. 

If you are connected with other students recently taking the course, they might have a copy of the text they are willing to give away or re-sell at a discounted price. Many colleges and universities have lending libraries or exchange programs. Check out sites like Amazon, Chegg, eCollege, Neebo, OER Commons, and Scribd, which may sell your textbooks' latest editions or offer rental programs that frequently save students money. Remember to check out your textbook's ISBN to do a quick and easy cost comparison online to get the best deal. 

Finally, organizations like Veterans Nexus may provide educational assistance through textbook grants.