Veterans Services

Important Message for students receiving Post 9/11 GI Bill® Chapter 33 Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs has recently made some changes to the regulations governing the Post 9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 33 benefits. The Isakson & Roe Act, as of August 1, 2021 Section 1010 now requires a Two Certification process by the educational institution. This means that the School Certifying Officials will have to certify your term credits at the beginning of the term and a second time within 30 days of the first drop period. This is required to ensure that the amount of the certification truly matches the student’s credits after the drop period when the schedule is finalized.

This will affect Chapter 33 students in two ways:

The balance reflected on the Student Account Statement in your myCFCC self-service account may show a balance owed. However, there will still be a hold on your account so your classes will not be purged.

This may also affect Chapter 33 students who are receiving other forms of financial aid (federal or state grants, etc.) Since payment cannot be issued by the VA until after the 2nd certification is submitted, this may delay payment to the school. Therefore, when your regular financial aid is disbursed your tuition and fees may be deducted from your financial aid refund if your account has a balance. The money received from the VA for your tuition and fees will be refunded to you once the school has received the funds.

You can help to expedite this process by ensuring that your Fall schedule is finalized before the term begins. If no changes are made during the Drop period, the 2nd certification will be quicker and your money should be received sooner.

Also, please remember that you are responsible for making payment for any e-texts that are included in your classes. These charges are not included in the certification we submit since you receive a stipend directly to cover your books.

If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to us.