If you have any discharge status less than honorable, and feel you qualify for an upgrade follow the steps below. 

1. Create a "Buddy Statement" (a signed document from someone who personally knows you and your situation). 

2. Get medical documentation

3. Draft a clear "Lay statement" (a letter detailing exactly why you think you qualify for an upgrade). 

4. It is recommend you visit a VSO before you continue to the application stage (click the Veteran Disabilty Claims tab to get connected with a local VSO)

The easiest method of checking your GI Bill balance is dialing the direct GI Bill hotline 1-888-442-4551 

1.Sign in to VA.gov:Requires Login.gov or ID.me verified account.

Go to VA.gov and click Sign In at the top right. Use Login.gov or ID.me. If you do not have one, create it on the spot with a photo ID.

2.Navigate to Education Benefits:Takes less than 1 minute.

Under "VA Benefits and Health Care", click Education and training, then select "Check your GI Bill statement of benefits."

3.View & Download Statement:Shows exact months, days, and entitlement percentage left.

Click the blue "View your Statement of Benefits" button. This document acts as your official Proof of Coverage for college financial aid offices.

How to Verify Enrollment When Using GI Bill

How to File a VA Disability Claim (Without Getting Denied)

1. Connect with a local VSO and file an Intent to File IMMEDIATELY:Locks in your effective date for back pay.

2. Generally, you need to answer YES to the following questions:

   1. Do you have a chronic condition caused OR made worse by your military service?

   2. Was this documented on your military records AND was it an official diagnosis? (IE Migraines vs "my head hurts")

   3. Do you still have this condition now?

   4. Does the condition negatively impact your quality of life and ability to work?

   5. Do you have medical documents showing you have been treated since leaving the military?

If you answered yes to all of these, you have a strong case for VA disability. Use a Free Accredited VSO (Do NOT Pay Anyone). Visit the Veteran Disability Claims tab to connect with a VSO.