Getting Retroactive GI Bill Benefits for On-the-Job Training

The GI Bill provides outstanding education benefits for veterans pursuing college degrees or vocational training. However, did you know the GI Bill also offers financial assistance if you are learning a trade through on-the-job training (OJT) or an apprenticeship? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can pay you a monthly stipend and other benefits for participating in an approved OJT program. Even better, in some cases the VA will pay retroactive GI Bill benefits for OJT completed up to 12 months in the past.

OJT and Apprenticeship Options with the GI Bill

If you are a veteran using Post-9/11 or Montgomery GI Bill benefits, you can use your benefits for an OJT program instead of traditional college or vocational coursework. Examples of OJT-friendly jobs include:

• Construction trades like plumbing, electrical, HVAC, carpentry
• Manufacturing and mechanical trades
• Public service roles like law enforcement, firefighting, corrections
• Transportation industry trades like automotive repair

In an OJT program, you learn hands-on from skilled professionals as you work. Apprenticeships through unions or employers are a common form of OJT. The training prepares you to gain licenses, certifications, or journeyman status after successfully completing the program.

VA Benefits Available for OJT Programs

The main benefits available include

• Monthly Housing Allowance – With the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you can receive a partial to full housing stipend depending on your training timeline.

• Annual Books & Supplies Stipend – Up to $1,000 per year for books, tools, supplies etc. needed for training.

• Monthly Training Stipend – With the Montgomery GI Bill, you’ll receive a set stipend amount each month.

So in addition to earning a paycheck from your OJT employer, you can also get tax-free allowances from the VA to supplement your income during training

Retroactive OJT Benefits for the Past 12 Months

The VA allows veterans to receive GI Bill benefits retroactively for OJT completed up to 12 months in the past. For example, if you worked as an apprentice electrician from January 2022 to September 2022 without using GI Bill benefits, you could apply in September 2022 and receive back pay for the previous 9 months of training.

To receive retroactive benefits, you must meet these criteria:

• You were eligible for GI Bill benefits during the past training period.

• The training program meets VA requirements for OJT programs.

• You submit an application within 1 year of the past training period ending.

The back pay would include any monthly housing allowance, books/supplies stipends, and training stipends you would have received if approved initially. These retroactive benefits can provide a nice financial boost after completing your OJT hours.

How to Apply for OJT Benefits and Back Pay

Follow these steps to start using Post-9/11 or Montgomery GI Bill benefits for an OJT program:

1. Find an Approved Program – Search the GI Bill Comparison Tool to find approved apprenticeship and OJT programs. If yours is not listed, the employer can apply to be approved.

2. Check Your Eligibility – Confirm you have enough GI Bill entitlement to cover the length of the training program.

3. Submit VA Form 22-1999 – Fill out and submit this application form to the VA to establish your OJT benefits.

4. Provide Supporting Documents – Along with the application, submit proof of employment with the OJT provider and their VA approval documentation.

5. Request Retroactive Pay – To receive back pay for past training periods, include those dates in your application and request retroactive benefits.

It is free and easy to apply for GI Bill OJT benefits. The VA will process your application and send you award letters verifying your approved benefit amounts. You can even call 1-888-GIBILL-1 to get personalized assistance with the process. Don’t leave money on the table – take advantage of the full education benefits you’ve earned through your service.