What requirement must be met for veterans to receive education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill?

To qualify for education benefits under the Montgomery GI Bill, veterans must have served in active duty and made financial contributions to the program during their service. This requirement is fundamental because the Montgomery GI Bill operates on a pay-in basis where service members contribute a portion of their pay to earn the benefit. This ensures that the program is funded and sustainable, relying on contributions from service members who wish to take advantage of the education benefits after completing their military service. The combination of active duty service and contributing to the program aligns with the intent of the GI Bill to reward those who have made a financial investment in their future education while serving their country.

Other factors, such as being honorably discharged, may enhance an individual’s eligibility for different programs or affect the application processes, but the core requirement for the Montgomery GI Bill specifically emphasizes the need for both active duty service and contributions to the program.