GI Bill vs. Post-9/11 GI Bill: Which Pays Better Housing Rates?
Choosing between the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) and the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) is one of the most critical financial decisions for student veterans. While both offer significant education benefits, their approach to housing allowances is vastly different.
The Core Difference
The most distinct difference lies in how they pay:
- Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB): Pays a flat monthly rate directly to you. You are responsible for paying tuition, fees, and housing from this single amount.
- Post-9/11 GI Bill: Pays tuition directly to the school AND provides a separate Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) based on the school's location.
Housing Allowance Breakdown
| Feature | Montgomery GI Bill (CH 30) | Post-9/11 GI Bill (CH 33) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing Rate | None (Flat monthly stipend) | E-5 with Dependents BAH Rate |
| Location Adjust? | No (Same rate nationwide) | Yes (Adjusts by ZIP code) |
| Online Rate | Same flat rate | ~50% of National Average |
Scenario Comparison
Let's look at a student attending university in **San Francisco, CA** (High Cost) vs **Killeen, TX** (Lower Cost).
Scenario A: San Francisco, CA
- Post-9/11 MHA: Approx. $4,900/month (tax-free).
- MGIB Total Payment: Approx. $2,358/month.
- Winner: Post-9/11 GI Bill by a landslide.
Scenario B: Online College
- Post-9/11 MHA: Approx. $900 - $1,000/month.
- MGIB Total Payment: Approx. $2,358/month (if full-time).
- Winner: Montgomery GI Bill (potentially, if tuition is low).
Making the Choice
For most veterans attending physical classes, especially in high-cost-of-living areas, the **Post-9/11 GI Bill** offers significantly higher total value due to the separate MHA payment. However, if you have scholarships that cover tuition or are attending a low-cost online school, the MGIB might put more cash in your pocket.
Note: Once you switch to the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you usually cannot switch back to MGIB. Use our calculator to run the numbers for your specific school ZIP code before deciding.