THE DIGITAL GI BILL: VA'S NEW ONLINE SYSTEM COSTS NEARLY $500M
The VA is not new to change since it has changed its Veterans' benefits to make things easier. Now, they are moving to a more digitized platform. This is to serve those who may qualify for the digital GI Bill better. But is this a smart move for the department, or is this just another waste of funds? The GI Bill has been around since 1994, as it helps service members to cover their school expenses. The bill also helped numerous Vets and their families cover a portion of school expenses and training.
An Overhaul of the GI Bill
In March 2021, the VA started a new project that will make the GI Bill process easier and more accessible to more recipients. The new transition will allow the VA to email, call, chat, and text with the beneficiaries. It also gives the Veterans Benefits Administration direct access to beneficiary records, and answers queries from universities and colleges instantly.Initially, the digital GI Bill was to feature improved services that would allow quick and accurate payment delivery and instant benefit and eligibility information. GI Bill students could engage with the VA through electronic outreach, ensure compliance and oversight of GI Bill programs, and adapt to change within the academic community and job market. In 2021, it was reported that the VA would use around $243 million under the CARES Act to sustain and finish digitizing the GI Bill.
The Issue in Terms of the Digital GI Bill
According to a federal watchdog, the VA's project to make the GI Bill more accessible has cost Veterans Affairs $453 million. Furthermore, the are pushing the completion date back two years. However, officials from the Inspector General blamed everything on poor contract planning and a lack of modern technology expertise. This led to unrealistic and unclear requirements, which was the main reason for delays. The project was signed with Accenture Federal Services in March 2021. The new system was to be operational by April 2024. But now, the VA has forecasted the project to be completed by July 2026. According to the watchdog, these issues didn’t happen along the way. They started when the project began. More knowledgeable technical staff would have helped finish the platform development, driving contract conditions. Instead, in 2023, the VA and Accenture renegotiated their contract regarding the program's additional needs. Republican lawmakers quoted this as another department disappointment. In a statement, Mike Bost mentioned that the delays, increased funds, and mistakes in the digital GI Bill project are entirely unacceptable. He further explained that American taxpayers will now be liable for nearly half a billion dollars. The VA admitted the delays but denied that poor leadership caused the widespread failures. Secretary Joshua Jacobs reiterated that significant progress has been made, including improving the Veteran experience through increased claims processing automation. He added that users can expect their application to take up to 28 days before the new program and supplemental claims. Those processing days have been shortened to 10 days for the application and four days for claims. Once the digital GI Bill is finished, students will receive faster eligibility decisions for their Veteran education benefits.
How Do I Apply for a GI Bill?
The GI Bill is indeed helpful, but you need to know the eligibility requirements before you can enjoy its benefits. You also need to gather the necessary documents. This includes your Social Security number, military and education history, bank account direct deposit information, and the school or training facility you want to attend. You can process your application online, by mail, in person, or with the help of a trained professional.Related reads: