Transfer of Entitlement

The Department of Defense (DOD) may authorize veterans to transfer their unused entitlements to their spouses and/or children. To be eligible, veterans must:

• Have entitlement remaining under Chapter 30, 33 or 1606
• Have served a minimum of six years in the U.S. military
• Agree to serve four or more additional years in the U.S. military

Family member use of transferred education benefits is subject to the following conditions:

Spouses:

• May begin using the benefit immediately
• May use the benefit while veteran is on active duty or up to 15 years after separation occurs
• Are not eligible for the monthly stipend for housing while veteran is on active duty

Dependent Children:

• May begin using the benefit only after the parent making the transfer has completed 10 years of service
• May not use the benefit until they have attained a high school diploma or until they have reached the age of 18
• May use the benefit while the eligible parent is on active duty or after separation from active duty occurs
• Are entitled to the monthly stipend for housing, books and supplies
• Must use the benefit before reaching the age of 26

The DOD may, by regulation, impose additional eligibility requirements and/or limit the number of months a veteran may transfer. For more information, visit the GI Bill®  website.