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The VA Form 22, officially titled the Request for Change of Program or Place of Training, plays a crucial role for veterans and service members seeking to adjust their educational benefits. This form primarily serves individuals who are changing their training program or institution, ensuring they can continue their education seamlessly. It requires applicants to provide comprehensive personal information, including their name, contact details, and VA file number. Additionally, the form outlines options regarding the type of education benefit desired—such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill or the Montgomery GI Bill. Applicants must specify their educational or vocational goals and provide necessary details about their previous and new training establishments. Bank information is also required for those opting for direct deposit, streamlining the benefit payment process. Other sections gather information about dependents, recent military service, and any overlapping benefits that may impact eligibility. Completing the form accurately and submitting it to the correct VA regional office is essential for maintaining eligibility for educational assistance.

Va 22 Example

OMB Control No. 2900-0074

Respondent Burden: 20 Minutes

Expiration Date: 08/31/2024

REQUEST FOR CHANGE OF PROGRAM OR PLACE OF TRAINING

PART I - IDENTIFICATION AND PERSONAL INFORMATION

1A. NAME OF APPLICANT (Last, First, Middle)

VA DATE STAMP

DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE

1B. MAILING ADDRESS (Complete street address, City, State, and 9-digit ZIP Code)

1C. APPLICANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER (Including Area Code)

HOME (include area code)

MOBILE (include area code)

1E. APPLICANT'S E-MAIL ADDRESS (if applicable)

1D. VA FILE NUMBER

1F. SOCIAL SECURITY OF APPLICANT (For transferability cases, enter the veteran's social security number)

PART II - YOUR PROGRAM INFORMATION

2. EDUCATION BENEFIT YOU WANT TO RECEIVE (Only Select One)

A.

 

CHAPTER 33 (Post-9/11 GI BILL)

C.

 

 

 

CHAPTER 32 (Veterans Educational Assistance

E.

 

 

Program including section 903)

 

 

 

 

TRANSFER OF ENTITLEMENT PROGRAM

B.

 

CHAPTER 30 (Montgomery GI Bill -

D.

 

 

 

 

Active Duty)

 

 

 

 

 

CHAPTER 1606 (Montgomery GI Bill- Selected Reserve)

3. HOW WILL YOU TAKE TRAINING?

A.

B.

C.

 

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

D.

 

 

CORRESPONDENCE

E.

 

 

 

 

APPRENTICESHIP OR ON-THE-JOB

F.

 

 

 

 

TRAINING

 

 

 

COOPERATIVE TRAINING

G.

 

TUITION ASSISTANCE TOP-UP

H.

 

 

(Active Duty Only)

 

 

 

 

FLIGHT TRAINING

 

 

LICENSING & CERTIFICATION TEST

NATIONAL ADMISSIONS EXAMS OR NATIONAL EXAMS FOR CREDIT

4A. WHAT EDUCATIONAL, PROFESSIONAL OR VOCATIONAL GOAL ARE

4B. WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE PROGRAM YOU ARE REQUESTING?

YOU WORKING TOWARD?

 

 

 

4C. IF CHANGING SCHOOLS, PROVIDE NAME AND COMPLETE ADDRESS

4D. PROVIDE NAME AND COMPLETE ADDRESS OF PREVIOUS SCHOOL OR

OF NEW SCHOOL OR TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT YOU ARE PLANNING

TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT (If only changing schools, list current school.)

TO ATTEND (If applicable)

 

 

 

4E. TELL US WHEN AND WHY YOU STOPPED TRAINING AT YOUR PRIOR SCHOOL OR ESTABLISHMENT. CONTINUE IN REMARKS, ITEM 10, OR ON A SEPARATE SHEET IF NECESSARY. (If applicable)

VA FORM

22-1995

SUPERSEDES VA FORM 22-1995, JUL 2020,

Page 1

JUL 2021

WHICH WILL NOT BE USED.

 

PART III - DIRECT DEPOSIT INFORMATION

5A. DIRECT DEPOSIT (To enroll in Direct Deposit, attach a voided personal check or deposit slip to match the information provided below. Direct Deposit is not available for Chapter 32 recipients.)

NOTE: To prevent possible delays in payment, claimants are highly encouraged to use Direct Deposit and set up an Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT.) Direct Deposit is not available for the Post-Vietnam Era Educational Assistance Program (VEAP - Chapter 32) nor for Section 903. See Instructions, Item 5 for additional Direct Deposit Information.)

 

5B. START OR CHANGE EFT

 

 

STOP EFT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5C. 9 DIGIT ROUTING OR TRANSIT NUMBER

 

 

 

 

ACCOUNT TYPE

 

ACCOUNT NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHECKING

 

SAVINGS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5D. NAME OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PART IV - MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

6.INFORMATION ON DEPENDENTS (COMPLETE THIS ITEM ONLY IF YOU SERVED BEFORE JANUARY 1, 1977 (or had a delayed entry before January 2, 1978) AND YOU CURRENTLY HAVE DEPENDENTS.)

QUESTIONS

 

YES

NO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6A. ARE YOU CURRENTLY MARRIED?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6B. DO YOU HAVE ANY CHILDREN WHO ARE:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1) UNDER AGE 18 OR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(2) OVER 18 BUT UNDER AGE 23, NOT MARRIED AND ATTENDING SCHOOL? OR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3) OF ANY AGE PERMANENTLY HELPLESS FOR MENTAL OR PHYSICAL REASONS?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6C. IS EITHER YOUR FATHER OR MOTHER DEPENDENT UPON YOU FOR FINANCIAL SUPPORT?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7.RECENT PERIODS OF SERVICE (PERIODS OF ACTIVE DUTY SINCE YOUR INITIAL PERIOD OF ACTIVE DUTY.) Please complete this section for each period of your active duty since your initial period of active duty if you have not previously reported this information. It will help VA process your claim if you attach a certified copy of "Member 4 Copy" of your DD Form 214 for each period of active service. (Don't report Active Duty for Training.)

7A. BRANCH OF SERVICE AND RESERVE OR GUARD COMPONENT SERVED IN DURING ACTIVE DUTY

7B. BEGINNING AND ENDING

DATES OF ACTIVE DUTY

7C. WERE YOU

INVOLUNTARILY CALLED TO

ACTIVE DUTY FOR THIS

PERIOD? (If yes send in copies of your orders)

YES

NO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7D. WHAT WAS THE CHARACTER

OF YOUR DISCHARGE?

7E. IF THIS ACTIVE DUTY IS

NATIONAL GUARD DUTY, INDICATE

IF AUTHORITY IS TITLE 10

(FEDERAL) OR TITLE 32 (STATE).

(ATTACH COPIES OF ANY ORDERS)

NOTE: DO NOT INCLUDE FULL TIME ASSIGNMENT BY A SERVICE DEPARTMENT TO A CIVILIAN SCHOOL FOR A COURSE OF EDUCATION; ATTENDANCE AT A SERVICE ACADEMY; OR NON-CREDITABLE TIME (TIME LOST BECAUSE OF INDUSTRIAL OR AGRICULTURAL FURLOUGH, ARREST WITHOUT ACQUITTAL, BEING AWOL, DESERTION, SENTENCE OF COURT-MARTIAL, ETC.)

8.DO YOU EXPECT TO RECEIVE EDUCATIONAL BENEFITS UNDER THE GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE'S TRAINING ACT (GETA) FOR THE SAME COURSE(S) YOU WILL RECEIVE VA EDUCATION BENEFITS? (Answer only if you are a Federal Government employee)

YES

NO

9.ARE YOU RECEIVING OR DO YOU ANTICIPATE RECEIVING ANY MONEY (including but not limited to Federal Tuition Assistance) FROM THE ARMED FORCES OR PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE FOR THE COURSE FOR WHICH YOU HAVE APPLIED TO VA FOR EDUCATION BENEFITS? IF YOU WILL RECEIVE SUCH BENEFITS, CHECK "YES." SHOW COMPLETE DETAILS IN THE REMARKS SECTION TO INCLUDE THE SOURCE OF THE FUNDS. NOTE: IF YOU ARE APPLYING FOR THE TUITION ASSISTANCE TOP-UP BENEFIT, CHECK "NO." (Answer only if you are on Active Duty)

YES

NO

10. REMARKS

PART V - CERTIFICATION AND SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT

I CERTIFY THAT all statements in my application are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. If on active duty, I also certify that I have consulted with an Education Service Officer (ESO) regarding my education program.

PENALTY - Willful false statements as to a material fact in a claim for education benefits is a punishable offense and may result in the forfeiture of these or other benefits and in criminal penalties.

11A. SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT (DO NOT PRINT)

11B. DATE SIGNED

 

SIGN HERE IN INK

 

 

VA FORM 22-1995, JUL 2021

Page 2

INSTRUCTIONS & INFORMATION

When Should You Use This Form?

Use this form when:

•you're changing schools,

•you're changing your educational, professional, vocational goal,

•you left your program due to unsatisfactory attendance, progress, or conduct; and you're now reentering the same program,

•you were receiving VA education benefits as a veteran and now wish to receive benefits while on active military duty.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SPECIFIC ITEMS ON THE FORM

Most items on this form are self-explanatory. Here is additional information on certain items.

Item #4A: Here are some examples of what we mean by "goals":

•Educational goal: GED certificate, high school diploma, bachelor's degree, master's degree, Ph.D

•Professional goal: lawyer, physician, teacher, physical therapist, medical technologist, medical records librarian, stenographer, machinist, electronic technician, X-ray technician, radio and

•Vocational goal: TV service technician, automobile mechanic, practical nurse.

Items 5A through 5D: The Department of the Treasury requires all Federal benefit payments be made by electronic funds transfer (EFT), also called direct deposit (Direct Deposit is not available for Chapter 32 recipients). To enroll in direct deposit, provide the information requested in Items 5A through 5D and attach either a voided personal check or a deposit slip to match the information in Items 5A through 5D. If you do not have a bank account, please visit https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits.banking.asp. This website provides information about the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP), and a link to banks and credit unions that may fit your needs. You may also call 1-800-827-1000. If you elect not to enroll, you must contact representatives handling waiver requests for the Department of the Treasury at 1-888-224-2950. They will encourage your participation in EFT and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Item #6: Provide your dependents' information only if you have military service before January 1, 1977 (or delayed entry before January 2, 1978).

Item #6A: IMPORTANT: If you are certifying that you are married for the purpose of VA benefits, your marriage must be recognized by the place where you and/or your spouse resided at the time of marriage, or where you and/or your spouse resided when you filed your claim (or a later date when you become eligible for benefits) (38 U.S.C. § 103(c)). Additional guidance on when VA recognizes marriages is available at http://www.va. gov/opa/marriage/.

If You Need Help

If you need help in completing this form, you can contact us through our home page on the Internet. Our website is: www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. Click on the "Contact Us" tab and then the "Ask a Question" tab. Or you may call us toll free at 1-888-GI-BILL-1 (1-888-442-4551.) If you use the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD), the Federal Relay number is 711. Please call 1-800-827-1000 if you want a VA counselor to help you in planning your program.

TO FILE THIS FORM:

(A) If you have selected a school or training establishment,

Step1: Mail the completed form to the VA Regional Processing Office in the region of that school's or establishment's physical address. Determine the correct office from the list on page 4.

Step 2: Notify the veterans certifying official at your school or training establishment that you have applied for VA education benefits. Ask him or her to submit your enrollment information using VA Form 22-1999, Enrollment Certification, or its electronic version.

Step 3: Wait for VA to process your application and notify you of our decision concerning your continued eligibility for educational assistance.

(B)If you have not selected a school or training establishment,

Step 1: Mail the completed form to the VA Regional Processing Office in the region of your home address. Determine the correct office from the list on page 4.

Step 2: Wait for VA to process your application and notify you of our decision concerning your continued eligibility for educational assistance.

VA FORM 22-1995, JUL 2021

Page 3

 

Eastern Region:

VA Regional Office

P. O. Box 4616

Buffalo, NY 14240-4616

SERVES THE FOLLOWING STATES

 

CO

CT

DC

DE

IA

IL

IN

KS

KY

MA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MD

ME

MI

MN

MO

MT

NC

ND

NE

NH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NJ

NY

OH

PA

RI

SD

TN

VA

VT

WI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WV

WY

 

APO/FPO AA

 

FOREIGN

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

 

 

 

 

SCHOOLS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Western Region:

VA Regional Office

P.O. Box 8888

Muskogee, OK 74402-8888

SERVES THE FOLLOWING STATES

AK

 

AL

 

AR

AZ

CA

FL

GA

HI

ID

LA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MS

 

NM

 

NV

OK

OR

PR

SC

TX

UT

WA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APO/FPO AP

 

GUAM

PHILIPPINES

AMERICAN SAMOA

 

MARIANA ISLANDS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REQUEST TO OPT OUT OF INFORMATION SHARING WITH EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS:

The Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-48), also known as the "Forever GI Bill," requires the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to make available to educational institutions information about the amount of educational assistance to which a Veteran or other eligible individual is entitled. If you're eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33), Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty (Chapter 30), Montgomery GI Bill -Selected Reserve, (Chapter 1606), or the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA) (Chapter 35), you may elect to “opt-out” of these disclosures and have VA withhold this information instead. To request an opt-out, or for information about how to opt- out, please refer to our website at va.gov, or click https://www.va.gov/find-forms/, to complete the Request to Opt-Out of Information Sharing with Educational Institutions, VA Form 22-0993.

PRIVACY ACT NOTICE: The VA will not disclose information collected on this form to any source other than what has been authorized under the Privacy Act of 1974 or title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, section 1.526 for routine uses (e.g. VA sends educational forms or letters with a veteran's identifying information to the veteran's school or training establishment to (1) assist the veteran in the completion of claims forms or (2) for the VA to obtain further information as may be necessary from the school for the VA to properly process the veteran's education claim or to monitor his or her progress during training) as identified in the VA system of records, 58VA21/22/28, Compensation, Pension, Education and Veteran Readiness and Employment Services - VA, published in the Federal Register. Your obligation to respond is required to obtain or retain education benefits. The requested information is considered relevant and necessary to determine the maximum benefits under the law. While you do not have to respond, VA cannot process your claim for education assistance unless the information is furnished as required by existing law (38 U.S.C. 3471). The responses you submit are considered confidential (38 U.S.C. 5701). Any information provided by applicants, recipients, and others may be subject to verification through computer matching programs with other agencies.

RESPONDENT BURDEN: We need this information to determine your continued eligibility to VA education benefits (38 U.S.C. 3471). Title 38, United States Code, allows us to ask for this information. We estimate that you will need an average of 20 minutes to review the instructions, find the information, and complete this form. VA cannot conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless a valid OMB control number is displayed. You are not required to respond to a collection of information if this number is not displayed. Valid OMB control numbers can be located on the OMB Internet Page at http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/PRAMain. If desired, you can call 1-888-GI-BILL-1 (1-888-442-4551) to get information on where to send comments or suggestions about this form.

VA FORM 22-1995, JUL 2021

Page 4
Get Va 22 PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Form Purpose The VA 22-1995 form is used by veterans and service members to request a change in their educational program or place of training.
Time to Complete The estimated time to complete this form is about 20 minutes, as indicated by the respondent burden information.
Governing Law This form is governed by Title 38, United States Code, which outlines regulations for veteran educational benefits.
Direct Deposit Direct deposit enrollment is encouraged for payment, although it's not available for Chapter 32 recipients.
Expiration Date The current version of the form will expire on August 31, 2024.
Eligibility Criteria Veterans may complete this form when changing schools, changing goals, or reentering a program after unsatisfactory progress.

Guidelines on Utilizing Va 22

To complete the VA Form 22, follow each step carefully to ensure all required information is accurately provided. Once submitted, this form will help the Department of Veterans Affairs process your application regarding changes to your educational program. The transition process may take some time, and you will receive communication from the VA regarding your application status.

  1. Gather your personal information, including your name, mailing address, and social security number.
  2. Fill out Part I of the form by entering the following:
    • Your full name (Last, First, Middle).
    • Your complete mailing address, including city, state, and ZIP code.
    • Your contact numbers, including home and mobile phone numbers.
    • Your email address, if applicable.
    • Your VA file number if available.
  3. Complete Part II by selecting the education benefit you wish to receive. Choose from the following options:
    • Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill - Active Duty)
    • Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
    • Chapter 32 (Veterans Educational Assistance Program)
    • Chapter 1606 (Montgomery GI Bill - Selected Reserve)
    • Transfer of Entitlement Program
  4. Indicate how you plan to take training (school attendance, correspondence, on-the-job training, etc.) in Section 3.
  5. In Section 4, provide information about your educational or vocational goals, the name of the program you are pursuing, and details about your current or new school.
  6. If you stopped training at your previous school, include the reason in Section 4E, and provide any additional notes if necessary.
  7. Proceed to Part III by filling in your direct deposit information. Attach a voided check or a deposit slip to the application.
  8. If applicable, complete Part IV regarding information on dependents. Only military personnel who served before January 1, 1977 should respond to this section.
  9. Detail your recent periods of service in Part IV, including your branch of service and character of discharge.
  10. In Part V, certify that all statements you provided are true and accurate. Sign and date the form in the designated sections.

After completing the form, ensure that it is submitted to the appropriate VA Regional Processing Office. If you have selected a school or training establishment, mail the form to the office representing that location. If you have yet to select a establishment, send your completed form to the office closest to your home address. Following submission, keep an eye out for communications from the VA regarding your application.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the VA 22 form?

The VA 22 form, officially known as the Request for Change of Program or Place of Training, is intended for veterans who wish to change their educational program or institution. This may include switching schools, altering educational goals, or re-entering a program after unsatisfactory attendance or conduct.

Who needs to fill out the VA 22 form?

Veterans and service members who are changing their educational paths or schools should complete the VA 22 form. This form is also necessary for those who have previously received education benefits and are now seeking to resume them while on active duty.

How long does it take to complete the VA 22 form?

On average, completing the VA 22 form takes about 20 minutes. However, the time may vary depending on the availability of documents and the complexity of your situation.

What information do you need to provide on the VA 22 form?

The form requires personal details such as your name, mailing address, social security number, and contact information. You will also need to specify your desired education benefit, training type, and the names and addresses of the schools involved.

Is Direct Deposit available for education benefits when using the VA 22 form?

Yes, Direct Deposit is available for many education benefits. To enroll, you need to provide bank information and attach either a voided check or deposit slip. However, note that Direct Deposit is not available for Chapter 32 recipients.

What should you do if you're changing schools?

If you are changing schools, you must indicate the name and address of the new institution on the form. After submitting the VA 22 form, notify the certifying official at your new school to ensure they submit your enrollment information using VA Form 22-1999.

Can you opt-out of information sharing with educational institutions?

Yes. If you are eligible for certain education benefits, you can opt-out of sharing your educational assistance information with educational institutions. To request an opt-out, refer to the VA's website for the necessary procedure.

What happens after you submit the VA 22 form?

Once the VA processes your application, they will notify you about your continued eligibility for education assistance. The process may vary based on whether you have selected a school or not.

Common mistakes

Filling out the VA Form 22 can be a daunting task, and mistakes can lead to delays in receiving education benefits. Understanding common errors can help streamline this process. Here are nine common mistakes to avoid.

One of the most frequent errors is not including the name of the applicant correctly. It's essential to fill this out with the last name, first name, and middle initial as it appears on official documents. Forgetting to provide a middle initial or misspelling the name can confuse processing and impact benefits.

Another mistake occurs in filling out the mailing address. Applicants often forget to include the full address, including street name, city, state, and the entire 9-digit ZIP code. Missing or incorrect information can cause delays in correspondence and payments.

Applicants sometimes overlook their telephone number, either not providing one or making a mistake in the digits. This contact information is crucial for VA representatives to secure details about your application or reach you for clarifications.

Choosing the right education benefit is also vital. Many misinterpret the options and select the incorrect chapter that applies to them. Reread the descriptions carefully to ensure you're picking the suitable benefit for your situation.

Not providing a detailed educational goal is another common shortfall. Generic answers don't give the VA necessary insight into what you wish to achieve. Be as specific as possible about whether you're working toward a degree, a certification, or another type of education.

When changing schools, applicants sometimes fail to write down the complete name and address of both the current and new school. Listing insufficient information can cause confusion and delays in processing your request.

Direct deposit information is often filled out incorrectly. Applicants may miss entering the correct routing number or account number. It's also essential to specify the type of account accurately; this detail ensures that benefits are deposited into the right account.

Another frequent error is failing to accurately report periods of service. Some applicants do not include all relevant active duty dates or do not clarify their character of discharge. This information is critical for evaluating your eligibility, so be thorough.

Lastly, many ignore the signature section. It’s surprising how often individuals forget to sign and date their application. Always double-check to confirm your application is signed before submitting it.

Avoiding these common mistakes can make a significant difference in the speed and efficiency of your benefits application. Careful, thoughtful completion will serve you well in the long run.

Documents used along the form

The VA Form 22 is a crucial component for veterans seeking educational benefits, particularly when changing programs or educational establishments. In addition to this form, there are several other documents that may be required or useful during the application process. Each of these forms serves a unique role in facilitating the educational benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

  • VA Form 22-1990: This form is the Application for VA Education Benefits. It is typically the first step that veterans must take to apply for educational assistance under VA programs.
  • VA Form 22-1999: Known as the Enrollment Certification, this document is submitted by the educational institution and verifies the veteran's enrollment status and program details.
  • VA Form 22-0993: This form allows veterans to opt-out of sharing their educational assistance information with educational institutions, as required by the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017.
  • DD Form 214: This is a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. It provides essential proof of military service, which may be required when applying for educational benefits.
  • VA Form 22-1009: This form serves as an Application for Reinstatement of Educational Assistance. It is necessary for veterans who have previously received benefits and are looking to continue after a break in enrollment.
  • VA Form 21-4138: This Statement in Support of Claim is often used to provide additional information or documentation to support a veteran's claim for benefits, including educational assistance.
  • VA Form 22-5490: This form is the Application for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance. It is applicable for dependents of veterans who wish to apply for educational benefits.

These documents work in tandem with the VA Form 22 to ensure that veterans receive the educational support they need. An understanding of each form's purpose can help streamline the process and enhance the overall experience for applicants seeking VA benefits.

Similar forms

  • VA Form 22-1990: Like the VA 22 form, the VA 22-1990 is used by veterans applying for education benefits. It focuses on establishing eligibility for various programs and requires similar personal and military service information. Both forms play a crucial role in the benefits application process.
  • VA Form 22-1999: This form serves as the Enrollment Certification, which educational institutions use to verify a veteran's enrollment. It complements the VA 22 form by providing details necessary for VA to process educational assistance based on the veteran's current enrollment status.
  • VA Form 22-555: This form, known as the Request for Change of School or Program, is designed for veterans who wish to change their educational program or institution. Similar to the VA 22 form, it collects information about the desired program shift and the reasons behind it.
  • VA Form 21-526EZ: Used for veterans seeking disability compensation, the VA Form 21-526EZ shares a parallel in terms of personal identification requirements and detailed military service history. Both forms assess eligibility for benefits and require a signature certifying the accuracy of the information provided.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the VA 22 form, there are a few important dos and don’ts to keep in mind. This will help ensure your application is processed smoothly.

  • Do carefully read all instructions before completing the form.
  • Do provide complete and accurate personal information, including your name and Social Security number.
  • Do select the correct education benefit option that suits your needs.
  • Do include bank account details if you’re opting for Direct Deposit.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank; incomplete information can cause delays.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The VA 22 form is only for veterans.

    • This form is not limited to veterans. Active duty service members can also use it to request education benefits.

  • Misconception 2: Filling out the VA 22 form guarantees education benefits.

    • Submission of this form does not guarantee benefits. Approval depends on individual eligibility and program requirements.

  • Misconception 3: The process is the same for all education programs.

    • The process may vary based on the education program you are applying to. Different chapters have different rules and processes.

  • Misconception 4: You must be enrolled in a program to submit the form.

    • While it is often beneficial to have a program chosen, you can submit the VA 22 form even if you have not yet selected a school.

  • Misconception 5: You can submit any form of personal identification.

    • The form requires specific identification information, such as your Social Security number and VA file number, which helps verify your identity and eligibility.

  • Misconception 6: Paper submissions are the only way to apply.

    • While mailing the form is an option, electronic submission is often available through approved online platforms, making the process quicker.

  • Misconception 7: You don’t need to report any changes after submitting the form.

    • Any changes to your educational goals or school enrollment should be reported, as they can impact your benefits.

  • Misconception 8: Direct deposit is available for everyone applying through the VA 22 form.

    • Direct deposit is not available for all programs. For example, it is specifically unavailable for Chapter 32 recipients.

Key takeaways

The VA 22 form, known as the Request for Change of Program or Place of Training, is essential for veterans seeking to modify their education benefits. Here are seven key takeaways on filling out and using this form:

  • Purpose: Use the VA 22 when you are changing schools or altering your educational goals. It is also necessary if you previously left a program and plan to reenter.
  • Identification Information: Clearly provide your name, mailing address, and contact details in Part I. Accurate identification is critical for proper processing.
  • Selecting Benefits: Specify the education benefit you wish to receive in Part II. Options include different chapters of the GI Bill, so select wisely based on your eligibility.
  • Direct Deposit: To set up your payments efficiently, complete the Direct Deposit section. This ensures timely and secure receipt of your benefits.
  • Dependent Information: Only provide details about dependents if you served before January 1, 1977. This information may impact your benefits.
  • Signature Requirement: Ensure that you sign and date the application in Part V. An unsigned form will lead to delays in processing.
  • Submission Process: Send the completed form to the VA Regional Processing Office that corresponds with your school’s or home address to facilitate processing.

Following these guidelines can help ensure a smoother experience when applying for educational benefits through the VA 22 form.

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