The "G.I. Bill for the 21st Century" helps returning veterans pay for college education -- but some veterans have not received stipends from the program, prompting the government to issue emergency checks this week.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki announced that student veterans who have not yet received educational benefits from the government may be eligible for a check for up to $3,000, according to a press release from the federal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
The checks are in response to a delay of the funding promised by the bill and can be used to help cover education-related expenses like housing, books and tuition. Eligible students can receive checks at VA regional benefit offices starting Friday, according to the press release. About 25,000 claims for funding are still pending.
"It's up to students' individual circumstances," university spokeswoman Jill Shockey said of Penn State veterans' chances for funds. "We recommend each student talks to someone in the Office of Veterans Programs before making a decision on what is best for them."
Student veteran Shaun Valentine said he received his monthly stipend from the government but has many friends who haven't yet gotten a check.
"If you are in the service, you know how the government works," Valentine (junior-energy engineering) said. "We used to joke around in the service: 'The government is great at taking money, but they're always going to take their time getting money to you.' "
The Office of Veterans Programs had not received specific information about the checks by Tuesday, director Brian Clark said. University Park has about 500 to 600 student veterans.
"There are people who have been waiting [for funding]. Part of the problem is that it is a longer process than before," Clark said.
He said veterans must provide a certificate of eligibility to receive academic funding, which is proving to be an unpredictable process.
"Some people applied months ago and have heard nothing. Others are receiving their certificates in six weeks," he said.
A VA representative did not return a call for comment by press time Tuesday.
