In 2026, members of the Selected Reserve and National Guard continue to benefit from Chapter 1606 of the Montgomery GI Bill, which offers financial support for education and training. The monthly stipend is designed to ease the burden of living expenses for those balancing school and military service.
As the new year begins, veterans enrolled in college, university, or vocational training programs can count on this crucial financial support. Unlike other GI Bill programs, such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 1606 provides direct cash payments rather than covering tuition or offering housing stipends.
Eligibility and Payment Rates for Educational Pursuits
Chapter 1606 provides financial assistance to veterans who are actively serving in the Selected Reserve, including the National Guard. To be eligible, individuals must have completed an initial six-year commitment to their unit. The benefit is available to those pursuing traditional education, such as college or university programs, as well as non-traditional training like apprenticeships or on-the-job training.
For those attending college or university, the monthly payments are tiered based on enrollment status. According to the VA, for the 2025-2026 academic year, full-time students can expect a stipend of $493 per month. If a veteran is enrolled part-time, the payments are reduced accordingly, $369 per month for three-quarter time, $246 for half-time, and $123.25 for less-than-half-time enrollment. These amounts are prorated if the student attends only part of the month, so any delay in starting classes will result in a smaller stipend for that month.
In addition to educational training, Chapter 1606 also supports veterans undergoing non-traditional learning paths. For example, veterans participating in on-the-job training programs can receive varying amounts depending on the length of their training. For the first six months, the stipend is $369.75 per month. From months 7 to 12, the monthly amount drops to $271.15, and after the first year, it further decreases to $172.55. This structure aims to offer continued financial support as veterans progress through their training.
The Role of ‘Kickers’ and Verification Requirements
In some cases, veterans may receive additional funds known as “kickers,” which are incentives included in certain enlistment or reenlistment contracts. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, these additional payments can boost the total stipend beyond the base rates, although not all reservists qualify for this benefit. The kicker amount depends on the specific terms of the individual’s contract, making it a personalized feature of the overall benefits.
To continue receiving these benefits, veterans must verify their attendance with the VA on a monthly basis. This verification typically involves submitting enrollment information through systems like the Veterans Online Enrollment (WAVE) platform. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, failure to submit timely enrollment verification can result in the suspension or delay of payments. Regular and accurate verification ensures that the financial assistance remains available throughout a veteran’s education or training period.
Chapter 1606 remains an essential resource for veterans in the Selected Reserve or National Guard. While the stipend amounts are modest compared to other GI Bill programs, the benefit provides consistent financial support that helps reservists manage both their military duties and educational ambitions.
