Planning your future after military service often involves setting major goals, from starting a new career to putting down roots and buying a home. Your education is a powerful foundation for that future, and the GI Bill is designed to help you build it. The essential first step in this journey is obtaining your VA Certificate of Eligibility for the GI Bill. This document officially unlocks your funding and confirms your qualifications for your chosen school. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to do to get your COE, helping you move forward with clarity and confidence as you take this important step.
Key Takeaways
- Secure Your COE to Unlock Your Benefits: Think of the Certificate of Eligibility as the master key; without it, your school can’t access and apply your VA education funds. Getting this document is the non-negotiable first step in the process.
- Organize Your Paperwork for a Faster Application: Having your DD-214 and personal information ready before you start will prevent delays. For the quickest results, use the VA’s official website to submit your application online.
- Combine Your GI Bill with Other Financial Aid: Your education benefits don’t disqualify you from other aid. Always complete the FAFSA and search for veteran-specific scholarships to cover costs that the GI Bill doesn’t, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
What Is a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)?
Think of your VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) as the golden ticket to your education benefits. It’s the official document from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs that confirms you qualify for the GI Bill and other educational programs. This piece of paper is your proof, showing exactly which benefits you’ve earned through your service and are entitled to use. Without it, schools can’t process your funding, and you can’t access the financial support you deserve.
Getting your COE is the first real step toward using your benefits to pursue a degree, learn a trade, or get a certification. It clarifies what the VA will cover, taking the guesswork out of planning your academic future. While you’re mapping out your educational path, it’s also a great time to think about other major life goals, like homeownership. Understanding all the benefits available to you, from the GI Bill to VA loan programs, helps you build a solid financial foundation for your future.
Why You Need a COE
So, why is this document so important? Simply put, you need the COE to officially use your education benefits. Once you receive your approval letter from the VA, you’ll need to present it to the certifying official at your chosen school. This is how the school verifies your eligibility and processes the payments for your tuition and fees. It’s the key that unlocks your funding. Consider it the official handshake between you, the VA, and your school that gets the ball rolling on your education.
What Education Benefits Are Covered?
Your COE opens the door to a wide range of educational opportunities. The GI Bill is incredibly flexible and is designed to support your unique career goals. It can help pay for everything from undergraduate and graduate degrees at traditional universities to vocational schools and technical training programs. The benefits don’t just stop at tuition, either. They can also cover expenses like books, supplies, housing, and even exam fees, giving you comprehensive support as you pursue your education.
How Your COE and GI Bill Work Together
Your COE and GI Bill are a powerful team. The certificate doesn’t just prove you’re eligible for tuition assistance; it also makes you eligible for other valuable resources. For instance, having a COE means you can access professional career counseling services through the VA at any point while your benefits are active. You’ll also find that many schools and private organizations require the COE when you apply for military-specific scholarships. It’s the foundational document that validates your service and connects you to a whole network of support.
Do You Qualify for a GI Bill COE?
Figuring out if you qualify for a GI Bill Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the first real step toward using the education benefits you’ve earned. It might seem like a complex process, but it really boils down to one main thing: your military service history. The specific amount of time you served, the capacity in which you served, and your discharge status are all key pieces of the puzzle. Whether you’re planning to go back to school for a degree or get a certification for a new career, this COE is your golden ticket.
Think of it this way: different GI Bill programs are like different paths to the same goal, and each path has its own set of signposts. The Post-9/11 GI Bill has one set of rules, while the Montgomery GI Bill has another. Your unique service record will determine which path is the right one for you. Before you get into the application itself, taking a moment to understand these requirements will save you a lot of time and potential headaches. It’s all about making sure you can access every benefit you’re entitled to, which can have a huge impact on your financial future—from reducing student loan debt to freeing up funds for other major life goals, like buying a home. Let’s walk through what you need to know to see where you stand.
Check Your Service Requirements
The most important factor in determining your eligibility is the length of your military service. Each GI Bill program has specific time-in-service requirements you’ll need to meet. Before you go any further, it’s a good idea to have your service records, like your DD-214, on hand. This document contains all the details the VA will need to verify your service history.
Your goal is to match the information on your records with the criteria for the different GI Bill programs. The VA has clear guidelines for service requirements, so you can see exactly what’s needed for each one. Getting this right from the start makes the entire application process much smoother.
Post-9/11 GI Bill Eligibility Rules
The Post-9/11 GI Bill is one of the most widely used education benefits for veterans who served after September 10, 2001. To qualify, you generally need to have at least 90 days of total active-duty service. This program is known for its comprehensive benefits, which can cover tuition and fees, provide a monthly housing allowance, and even offer a stipend for books and supplies.
Because it’s designed for the most recent generation of service members, the eligibility rules are fairly direct. If your service falls within this timeframe, there’s a strong chance you qualify for some level of benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
Montgomery GI Bill Eligibility Rules
The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) is another fantastic option with its own set of rules. Eligibility for the MGIB often depends on when you entered service and whether you contributed to the program financially during your first year of enlistment. It’s a bit different from the Post-9/11 GI Bill, so it’s important to check the specific criteria.
One key detail to know is that the service requirements can be shorter for veterans who were discharged due to a service-connected disability. This provision ensures that those who were injured while on active duty can still access their well-deserved educational benefits. You can find more details on the Montgomery GI Bill to see if it’s the right fit for you.
Requirements for Reserve and Guard Members
If you’ve served or are currently serving in the National Guard or Reserves, you also have access to GI Bill benefits. The requirements are tailored to the nature of your service. A key factor for eligibility is having an honorable discharge, which confirms your commitment and dedicated service.
Your eligibility is often tied to completing your initial active-duty training and serving a certain amount of time in the Selected Reserve. The VA has specific programs, like the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR), created just for you. Be sure to review the eligibility rules for Reserve and Guard members to understand how your unique service qualifies you for these valuable benefits.
Gather Your Documents for the COE Application
Getting your application for a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) ready is a lot like packing for a trip—it’s much smoother when you have everything you need before you start. Taking a few minutes to gather your paperwork now will save you a ton of time and potential headaches later. Think of this as your pre-application checklist. We’ll walk through exactly what you need to pull together, from your service records to personal details.
The goal is to have all your information in one place so you can move through the application quickly and confidently. Most of what you need is probably already in your files, so it’s just a matter of organizing it. Let’s break down the documents you’ll need to have on hand.
Your Military Service Records
First up, you’ll need to prove your military service. The most important document for this is your DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. This form is the key to verifying your service history, your character of discharge, and confirming you’re eligible for GI Bill benefits. It’s the gold standard for proof of service. If you’re looking at your files and can’t find your DD-214, don’t panic. The VA sometimes accepts substitute documents that can serve the same purpose, especially for those still on active duty who won’t have one yet. Just make sure you have official proof of your service ready to go.
Key Personal Information
Next, you’ll need some basic personal information. This part is pretty straightforward, but it’s good to have it all written down in one spot to avoid digging for it mid-application. You’ll need your Social Security number and your direct deposit information—that’s your bank’s routing number and your account number—for benefit payments. You’ll also be asked for details about your educational background and military history, so have those dates and names handy. Having this information ready will help you streamline the application process and keep things moving without any frustrating pauses to search for a missing piece of info.
What Else You Might Need
Beyond the core documents, it’s smart to have a few other things handy just in case. You may need information about the school or training program you plan to attend, so if you’ve already decided, keep those details nearby. It’s also helpful to have a general timeline of your education and service history written out. The application will ask for specific dates, and having them ready will prevent you from having to stop and search through old records. Taking a moment to gather these extra details ensures you have a complete picture before you even start filling out the forms, making the whole experience less of a chore.
Documents for Special Cases
What if you don’t have a Certificate of Eligibility yet but need to enroll in school right away? This is a common situation, and there are workarounds. In some cases, you can use other paperwork as a temporary stand-in. For example, some schools may accept a Statement of Benefits or a Notice of Basic Eligibility (NOBE) to get you started while your official COE application is processing. These substitute documents can be a huge help in making sure you don’t miss any registration deadlines. Your best bet is to check with your school’s certifying official to see exactly what they accept.
How to Apply for Your Certificate of Eligibility
Once you have your documents in order, you’re ready to apply for your Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The good news is that the VA offers a few different ways to do this, so you can choose the path that works best for you. Think of this as the official first step to unlocking the benefits you’ve earned. Whether you’re planning to head back to school or get the keys to your new home with a VA loan, the COE is your golden ticket.
Apply Online
The fastest and most efficient way to get your COE is to apply online. You can begin the process directly through the VA’s official website. The online portal will guide you through each step, prompting you for the information and documents you gathered earlier. Applying online allows the VA to process your request more quickly than a paper application, and you can easily track its status. It’s the method we recommend for most people because it gets you your answer sooner.
Apply by Mail
If you prefer to work with physical paperwork, you can always apply by mail. You’ll need to fill out the Application for VA Education Benefits, also known as VA Form 22-1990. You can download the form directly from the VA’s website or call 888-442-4551 to have a copy mailed to you. Once you’ve completed it, you’ll mail it to the VA regional processing office that serves your area. Just keep in mind that this method takes longer, so be sure to factor that extra time into your planning.
Apply Through Your School
If you’re planning to use your benefits for education, your school can be a fantastic resource. The financial aid office or the veterans services office on campus usually has a designated official who helps students with their VA benefits. This person, often called a School Certifying Official (SCO), can help you fill out the paperwork and may even be able to submit it on your behalf. It’s like having an expert in your corner to make sure everything is done correctly.
How Long Does It Take?
Patience is key here, but you won’t be waiting forever. After you submit your application, it typically takes the VA about 30 days to process it and send you an approval letter with your Certificate of Eligibility. Processing times can vary depending on the VA’s workload and whether they need more information from you. As mentioned, applying online is usually the quickest route. Once you have your COE, you can move forward with your plans, like providing it to your lender to start the VA home loan process.
Troubleshooting Common Application Issues
Sometimes, the VA might need a little more information to process your application. If they request additional documents, don’t panic. You can easily upload them using the VA’s QuickSubmit tool on AccessVA. The best way to avoid delays is to double-check that you’ve filled out every field on your application completely and accurately before you hit submit. A small mistake, like a typo in your Social Security number, can cause unnecessary hold-ups. Taking a few extra minutes to review your work can save you weeks of waiting.
What Your COE Benefits Actually Mean
Getting your Certificate of Eligibility is a huge step, but what does it all mean? Think of your COE as a detailed map of your education benefits. It outlines exactly what you’re entitled to, from tuition coverage to housing allowances. It’s not just a confirmation; it’s your guide to making the most of the benefits you’ve earned through your service. Understanding the details on this document helps you plan your academic future without financial surprises.
Your COE will specify which GI Bill program you qualify for, your benefit level (the percentage of costs the VA will cover), and how many months of entitlement you have left. It also includes information on other valuable perks you might not even know you have. For example, your eligibility might also grant you access to professional career counseling services through the VA. Taking the time to read and understand every part of your COE ensures you can use your benefits strategically and confidently as you pursue your educational goals.
Breaking Down Your Benefit Levels
Your COE will show a benefit level, usually as a percentage. This number tells you what portion of your tuition and fees the VA will cover under the Post-9/11 GI Bill. For example, if you have 100% eligibility, the VA will pay the full in-state tuition rate at a public school. If your percentage is lower, you’ll be responsible for the remaining amount. Beyond tuition, your COE confirms your eligibility for other financial support, like a monthly housing allowance and a stipend for books and supplies. It also unlocks access to VA career counseling services to help you plan your path.
How to Transfer Benefits to Family
One of the most valuable aspects of the Post-9/11 GI Bill is the ability to transfer your unused benefits to a spouse or dependent children. However, this isn’t automatic. You must meet specific service requirements and formally request the transfer while you are still on active duty or in the Selected Reserve. The Department of Defense (DoD) determines if you’re eligible to make a transfer. Once approved, your family members can apply for a COE in their own name to use the benefits for their education. You can find the exact requirements and start the process on the VA’s official website.
Using the Yellow Ribbon Program
If you’re interested in a private university, graduate school, or an out-of-state college, the standard GI Bill payment might not cover the full tuition. That’s where the Yellow Ribbon Program comes in. This program is a partnership between the VA and participating schools to help cover costs that exceed the GI Bill’s cap. If you are eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill at the 100% level, your school can contribute additional funds to your tuition, and the VA will match that amount. It’s a fantastic way to make a more expensive education accessible. You can find a list of participating schools on the VA website.
Understanding Benefits for Dependents
There’s a common myth that dependents using transferred GI Bill benefits can’t receive other forms of financial aid. This is simply not true. Students using VA education benefits are often still eligible for federal student aid, scholarships, and grants. It’s always a good idea to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what you qualify for. Combining these resources can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for tuition, housing, and other expenses. Think of your VA benefits as one piece of your overall financial aid puzzle, not the only piece.
Know Your Time Limits
Once you apply for your education benefits, it typically takes the VA about 30 days to process your application and send an approval letter. However, you won’t receive your actual COE until you officially tell the VA that you plan to use your benefits at a specific school. This is a crucial step that many people miss. Your school’s certifying official will help you with this part of the process. It’s important to stay on top of these timelines to ensure your funding is in place before your classes start and tuition is due.
How to Handle Common Roadblocks
Even with the best preparation, you might hit a snag in the application process. A missing document or a processing delay can feel frustrating, but it’s usually something you can resolve. The key is to know what steps to take and where to turn for help. Think of these roadblocks as detours, not dead ends. With a clear plan, you can get your application back on track and move forward with your education goals. Let’s walk through some of the most common issues and how you can handle them with confidence, ensuring you get the benefits you’ve earned without unnecessary stress.
Fixing Documentation Problems
Receiving a denial on your Certificate of Eligibility application can be disheartening, but it’s not the final word. This often happens because of a simple documentation issue that can be corrected. If you believe you meet the service requirements, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can do this by filing a written “Notice of Disagreement” to formally challenge the denial. This is your opportunity to provide any additional records or evidence that strengthens your case, such as corrected service dates or discharge papers. Think of it as a chance to clarify the details and give the VA a complete picture of your eligibility.
What to Do if Your Application Is Delayed
Waiting for a decision can be tough, so it helps to know what to expect. The VA generally takes about 30 days to process an application and make a decision. If you’ve been waiting longer than that without hearing anything, it’s a good idea to check in. You can reach out to the VA directly through their online portal or by phone to ask for a status update. Understanding the typical processing times helps you know when to wait and when to follow up. A polite inquiry can give you peace of mind and ensure your application is still moving forward as it should.
The Appeals Process, Step by Step
If you receive a decision from the VA about your benefits that you don’t agree with, remember that you have options. You are entitled to request a review of the decision through a formal appeals process. This is your chance to present your case again and ask for a thorough reconsideration. To make sure your appeal is handled correctly and efficiently, it’s important to follow the specific steps and deadlines outlined by the VA. While it is a formal process, it’s designed to be navigated by veterans, ensuring every case gets a fair and complete review.
Quick Tips and Workarounds
A little planning can go a long way in making your application process smoother. Here are a few tips to help you avoid common delays. First, make sure you are officially registered for classes for the term you’re applying for before you submit your COE application. The VA needs to see that you are actively enrolled to process your benefits. Second, keep your online VA accounts updated with your current contact information. This is the easiest way to get the latest news on your benefits and allows the VA to reach you quickly if they have questions. These simple steps can prevent unnecessary hurdles from the start.
Where to Find Help and Support
Navigating the paperwork for your VA benefits can feel like a job in itself, but you absolutely don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re just starting your application, waiting for a decision, or trying to figure out how to use your benefits, there’s a network of people and resources ready to assist you. Knowing who to call and where to look can make all the difference, turning a potentially confusing process into a straightforward path toward your educational goals. Think of these resources as your dedicated support team. From official VA representatives to experienced advocates and helpful online dashboards, here are the best places to turn for guidance and answers.
Contacting Your VA Regional Office
When you have specific questions about your Certificate of Eligibility or need direct help with your application, sometimes the best move is to go straight to the source. Your local VA Regional Office is staffed with people who can look up your file and provide official answers. They are your go-to for troubleshooting issues with your application or clarifying details about your eligibility. You can get help with your application by calling them directly at 888-442-4551. They’re available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET, so be sure to have your information handy when you call.
Connecting with Veterans Service Organizations
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) are incredible allies for anyone working through the VA system. These organizations provide free assistance from trained professionals, often called Veterans Service Officers, who are experts in this field. They can help you gather the right documents, fill out your forms correctly, and ensure you’re on track to receive all the benefits you’ve earned. Think of them as your personal guide through the process. A VSO can help you understand the nuances of the GI Bill Certificate of Eligibility and advocate on your behalf if you run into any issues, saving you time and frustration.
Talking to Your School’s Certifying Official
Once you have your COE in hand, your next stop is the financial aid or veterans affairs office at your school. Every approved school has a certifying official who acts as the liaison between you and the VA. You’ll need to give them a copy of your COE to officially activate your benefits for tuition and fees. This person is a key resource for understanding how your benefits apply to your specific degree program, certifying your enrollment each semester, and answering questions about payments. It’s a great idea to connect with them as soon as you’re accepted to make sure everything is in place before classes start.
Helpful Online Tools and Resources
Beyond phone calls and in-person meetings, the VA offers some fantastic digital tools that put you in control of your benefits. You can easily check your remaining Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits online through your Statement of Benefits, which is perfect for planning out your academic future. This dashboard shows you exactly how much entitlement you’ve used and what you have left. Additionally, before you even commit to a school, you can use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to research institutions, estimate your benefit amounts, and make an informed decision. It’s an essential step in understanding your Certificate of Eligibility in a real-world context.
How to Manage Your Education Benefits
Getting your Certificate of Eligibility is a huge win, but it’s just the first step. Now, it’s all about putting those benefits to work and managing them correctly so you don’t hit any snags with your tuition payments or housing allowance. Think of your COE as your golden ticket—you need to know how to use it, where to show it, and how to keep it valid. Staying on top of a few key tasks each semester will ensure your funding flows smoothly, letting you focus on your studies instead of paperwork.
Managing your benefits involves a partnership between you, your school, and the VA. Your main point of contact at your school will be the School Certifying Official (SCO), and they are your best resource for campus-specific questions. They are the ones who report your enrollment to the VA so your payments can be processed. It might seem like a bit of administrative work, but getting into a good rhythm now will save you a ton of headaches later. From submitting the right forms to your school to keeping an eye on your remaining entitlement, we’ll walk through exactly what you need to do. This process ensures you get every dollar you’ve earned for your education.
What to Submit to Your School
Once you have your Certificate of Eligibility in hand, the first thing you need to do is give a copy to your school’s certifying official. This person is your liaison with the VA and is responsible for verifying your enrollment and courses. Submitting your COE is the critical step that officially activates your benefits at that institution. Without it, the school can’t process your VA funding, which could leave you with an unexpected tuition bill. Make sure you connect with your school’s veteran services office as soon as you’re accepted to understand their specific process and any other forms they might require from you.
Your Annual Verification Checklist
Think of managing your benefits as an annual check-up. Each academic year, you’ll likely need to confirm your enrollment with your school’s certifying official to keep your GI Bill payments coming. Some schools may ask for a new copy of your COE, while others might have a simple verification form you need to complete. This process confirms you’re still enrolled and taking courses that count toward your degree. It’s a simple but essential step to prevent any disruption in your funding. Always check with your school’s veteran services office before the start of a new academic year to see what they need from you.
Keeping Your Information Current
Life happens—people move, change phone numbers, or get married. It’s crucial to keep your personal information updated with the VA to ensure you receive important communications about your benefits. You can easily review and update your details online by signing into your VA.gov account. This is also where you can access your official Statement of Benefits, which reflects your current eligibility status. Keeping your contact information current prevents delays and ensures that any letters or notifications from the VA reach you without any issues. Make it a habit to log in and check your profile every few months, especially if you’ve had any major life changes.
How to Track Your Remaining Benefits
Your GI Bill benefits are finite, so it’s smart to keep track of how much you’ve used and how much you have left. The best way to do this is by checking your GI Bill Statement of Benefits. This document gives you a clear breakdown of your entitlement, including how many months and days you’ve used and what’s still available. It also shows your benefit level and the date your eligibility expires, which is known as your delimiting date. Regularly reviewing this statement helps you plan your academic path and make the most of the time you have. You can check your remaining Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits online through your VA account.
Explore More Financial Aid Options
Your GI Bill benefits are a fantastic foundation for funding your education, but they don’t have to be the only resource you use. Think of your GI Bill as the cornerstone of your financial aid strategy. By adding other forms of aid, like scholarships, grants, and work-study programs, you can build a much stronger financial support system. This approach helps cover costs that the GI Bill might not, such as living expenses, books, or unexpected fees, giving you more breathing room to focus on your studies.
Many veterans miss out on thousands of dollars simply because they assume their GI Bill is all they can get. Let’s clear up some common myths and look at how you can layer different types of aid to fully fund your education and reduce financial stress. It’s all about knowing what’s available and taking the steps to apply. For example, while your GI Bill helps with tuition, a scholarship could cover your rent for a semester. A work-study program could provide steady income for groceries and gas. Combining these resources is a smart move that can prevent you from needing student loans or dipping into your personal savings. It ensures you have the financial stability to succeed in your academic program without worrying about every dollar.
Can You Combine the GI Bill with Other Aid?
Yes, you absolutely can. It’s a common misconception that you can’t receive both financial aid and your VA benefits, but as experts point out, “this is not always true.” You are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, just like any other student. This application is your gateway to federal grants (like the Pell Grant), work-study opportunities, and even some scholarships that don’t need to be paid back. Stacking these benefits on top of your GI Bill can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make your educational journey much smoother.
Finding Scholarships for Veterans
Even if your GI Bill covers all your tuition, don’t stop there. Scholarships can provide extra funds for living expenses, books, and supplies. As one resource notes, while the GI Bill covers educational costs, it “does not mean that other scholarships and financial aid cannot be used in conjunction.” There are countless scholarships created specifically for veterans, service members, and their families. You can start your search on dedicated platforms that list military scholarships or check with your school’s financial aid office for opportunities you might qualify for. These awards recognize your service and can make a huge difference in your budget.
How to Get into a Work-Study Program
A work-study program is another great way to supplement your income while you’re in school. The VA offers its own program that allows you to earn a tax-free wage while doing VA-related work. You might help out at a VA facility, your school’s veterans services office, or another approved location. This is a fantastic option because you can “earn money while attending school,” and these earnings won’t interfere with your GI Bill payments. To get started, you’ll need to be a full-time or three-quarter-time student. Talk to your school’s VA certifying official to find available positions and apply.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Certificate of Eligibility for education the same one I need for a VA home loan? That’s a great question, and it’s a point of confusion for many. The Certificate of Eligibility for education benefits (the GI Bill) is a completely separate document from the COE required for a VA home loan. While both are issued by the VA and confirm your eligibility based on your service, they unlock different benefits. You’ll need to apply for each one separately depending on whether your goal is to go to school or buy a home.
I’ve received my COE. What is the absolute first thing I should do with it? Congratulations on getting your COE! Your very next step is to give a copy of it to your school’s certifying official, who is usually located in the veterans services or financial aid office. This is the critical action that officially activates your benefits at that specific school. They can’t process your tuition payments or housing allowance without it, so make this your top priority.
Do my GI Bill benefits ever expire? This depends on when you left the service. For those who were discharged on or after January 1, 2013, your Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits never expire thanks to the Forever GI Bill. If your service ended before that date, you generally have 10 to 15 years to use your benefits. Your COE should list your “delimiting date,” which is the official expiration date for your eligibility, so be sure to check it.
Does the GI Bill only cover traditional four-year college degrees? Not at all. The GI Bill is incredibly flexible and is designed to support a wide variety of career paths. You can use your benefits for much more than just a bachelor’s degree, including graduate school, vocational programs, technical training, apprenticeships, and even certification courses. The goal is to help you build a career, whatever that looks like for you.
My application was denied, but I believe I’m eligible. Is it worth appealing? Yes, absolutely. If you believe the denial was a mistake, you have the right to appeal the decision. Often, a denial is the result of a simple documentation error or missing information that you can correct. The appeals process gives you a formal opportunity to provide additional evidence and have your case reviewed again. Don’t let an initial denial discourage you from pursuing the benefits you’ve earned.
