“Single obligated period” as it pertains to the Perkins decision (GI BILL)

Based on the Supreme Court's decision in *Perkins v. Collins*, you may now be eligible for additional GI Bill benefits, as the ruling fundamentally changed the interpretation of a "single obligated period." Previously, veterans with one continuous enlistment were limited to a single education program. However, *Perkins* held that different segments of service within a single, unbroken period can qualify for distinct benefits if the veteran would have been eligible for those benefits at the time each segment was completed. For you, this means that if your total service period meets or exceeds 36 months, the later segment of your service (e.g., from the 36-month point to your separation) could now be counted as a second qualifying period for Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) Chapter 30 benefits under 38 U.S.C. § 3011, potentially granting you an additional 12 months of benefits after exhausting your Post-9/11 GI Bill. The VA is conducting an automatic review for affected veterans, but you should proactively file a claim for these "Perkins benefits" using VA Form 22-1990, specifically citing the *Perkins* decision and clearly stating you are seeking eligibility based on separate periods of qualifying service within your single enlistment. Concurrently, gather your DD-214 and any prior VA education benefit decisions to support your claim. **This information is for educational purposes regarding VA procedures and is not legal or benefits advice; for personalized guidance, consult a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or accredited attorney.**