VA School Benefits Phone Number: How to Reach the Education Office in Vermont, Delaware, Virginia, Maine, and South Carolina
The VA Education Call Center number is 1-888-442-4551 (1-888-GIBILL-1). Call this line for GI Bill eligibility, payments, and enrollment verification. For state-specific education benefits in Vermont, Delaware, Virginia, Maine, and South Carolina, contact your state veterans affairs office. Each state also has a State Approving Agency that approves programs for GI Bill use.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Federal VA Education Line | 1-888-442-4551 (1-888-GIBILL-1) |
| Enrollment Verification | 1-877-823-2378 |
| VA General Benefits | 1-800-827-1000 |
| Overseas Education Line | 001-918-781-5678 |
| Vermont State Office | (802) 828-3379 or (888) 666-9844 |
| Delaware State Office | (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900 |
| Virginia State Office | (804) 786-0286 or (877) 285-1299 |
| Maine State Office | (207) 430-6035 or (207) 287-7020 |
| South Carolina State Office | (803) 734-0200 |
| Updated For | 2026 |
What Is the VA Education Call Center?
The VA Education Call Center (ECC) is the federal phone line for all VA education benefits, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Montgomery GI Bill, and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35). The ECC is operated by the Veterans Benefits Administration and is located in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where VA’s education regional processing office handles claims nationwide.
When you call the ECC, trained benefits counselors can look up your file, explain your remaining entitlement, and resolve payment problems. The ECC is the first number to call for federal GI Bill questions, regardless of which state you live in.
VA Education Call Center Phone Numbers
| Contact Type | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Beneficiary Support | 1-888-442-4551 (1-888-GIBILL-1) | Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CT |
| Enrollment Verification | 1-877-823-2378 | 24/7 automated |
| Overseas Support | 001-918-781-5678 | Mon–Fri, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CT |
| General VA Benefits | 1-800-827-1000 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–9 p.m. ET |
What the ECC Can Help With
GI Bill eligibility and remaining entitlement
Application status (VA Form 22-1990, 22-5490)
Payment problems (missing housing allowance, late book stipend)
Enrollment verification questions
School changes and program updates
Direct deposit changes
Transfer of Entitlement questions
Debt and overpayment resolution
State Veterans Education Offices: Why They Matter
State veterans affairs offices administer state-funded education benefits that are separate from federal VA benefits. These offices can help you access state tuition waivers, scholarships, and grant programs that are not available through the federal VA. They also connect you with State Approving Agencies (SAAs), which certify that schools and programs meet GI Bill requirements.
The five states covered in this guide — Vermont, Delaware, Virginia, Maine, and South Carolina — each offer distinct education benefits for veterans, service members, and their families. Contact information for each state office is below.
Vermont VA School Benefits Phone Numbers
The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs is the state agency that coordinates veteran benefits, including education programs. The main phone number is (802) 828-3379 or toll-free (888) 666-9844 (within Vermont only).
Vermont Education Contacts
| Resource | Phone Number | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs | (802) 828-3379 or (888) 666-9844 | State benefits, education program questions |
| VA Education Benefits (Federal) | (888) 442-4551 | GI Bill, Chapter 35 |
| VT National Guard Education Office | (802) 338-3346 | Guard tuition assistance |
| Vermont Student Assistance Corporation | Contact VSAC | Grants, scholarships, college planning |
Vermont Education Benefits
Vermont National Guard Tuition Assistance. Members of the Vermont National Guard are eligible for tuition assistance programs. Contact the VT National Guard Education Office at (802) 338-3346 for details.
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityVermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC). VSAC is a public nonprofit agency that helps Vermonters pursue college and career training. VSAC provides grants, loans, scholarships, and career planning services. It also administers private scholarships for veterans and their families.
How to Use GI Bill in Vermont
The GI Bill can only be used at programs that meet federal requirements. Even at established universities, not all programs are approved. Contact the school you are interested in and ask to speak to the VA Certifying Official. If the school cannot tell you who their certifying official is, call the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at (802) 828-1082.
Delaware VA School Benefits Phone Numbers
The Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs is the state agency that provides information and assistance with education benefits. The main phone number is (302) 739-2792 or toll-free (800) 344-9900 (within Delaware only).
Delaware Education Contacts
| Resource | Phone Number | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs | (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900 | State benefits, education claims |
| Delaware Higher Education Office | (302) 735-4120 | State education benefit information |
| VA Education (GI Bill) | 1-888-442-4551 | Federal GI Bill |
| Wilmington VA Regional Office | (800) 827-1000 | Claims and benefits |
Delaware Education Benefits
Delaware Veterans Education Benefits. The State of Delaware provides educational benefits for the children of deceased veterans. For additional information, contact the Delaware Higher Education Office at (302) 735-4120.
State Pension and Education. Delaware offers a state pension for paraplegic veterans. For additional information about education-related provisions, contact the State Pension Office at (302) 739-4208.
How to Get Help in Delaware
Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs Service Officers provide information and assistance with education claims. Contact Ms. Melanie Bronov at the Dover office, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at (302) 739-7447 or (800) 344-9900 (in state).
Virginia VA School Benefits Phone Numbers
The Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) is the state agency that administers veteran education benefits. The main phone number is (804) 786-0286. The Virginia Veteran and Family Support line is (877) 285-1299.
Virginia Education Contacts
| Resource | Phone Number | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia DVS Headquarters | (804) 786-0286 | General questions |
| GI Bill Programs – State Approving Agency | (804) 225-2298 | GI Bill-approved programs |
| Virginia Military Survivors & Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) | (804) 225-2083 | VMSDEP applications |
| Virginia Veteran and Family Support | (877) 285-1299 | Support services |
| VA Education (Federal) | 1-888-442-4551 | Federal GI Bill |
Virginia Education Benefits
Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP). VMSDEP provides education benefits to spouses and children of military service members who were killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. Call (804) 225-2083 for information.
GI Bill Programs – State Approving Agency. The SAA certifies that post-secondary programs meet federal GI Bill requirements. Call (804) 225-2298 for questions about approved programs.
Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program. The V3 program helps veterans find employment and connects them with education and training opportunities. Call (804) 371-2683 for details.
Maine VA School Benefits Phone Numbers
The Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services is the state agency that administers veterans benefits, including education programs. The main phone number is (207) 430-6035. The Central Office number is (207) 287-7020.
Maine Education Contacts
| Resource | Phone Number | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services | (207) 430-6035 or (207) 287-7020 | State benefits, education questions |
| VA Education (Federal) | (888) 442-4551 | Federal GI Bill |
| Togus VA Regional Office | 1-877-838-2778 | Claims and benefits |
Maine Education Benefits
Veterans Dependents Educational Benefits. Maine provides a 100% tuition waiver at University of Maine schools, community colleges, and other state institutions for dependents of veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled. Contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services at (207) 430-6035 for information.
Maine State Approving Agency. The SAA for Maine is housed at the University of Maine System. Contact them for questions about GI Bill-approved programs.
How to Get Help in Maine
Contact the Bureau’s Central Office at (207) 287-7020 or email mainebvs@maine.gov. The Bureau’s Maine Veterans’ Benefits and Resource Guide documents services and partner agencies throughout the state.
South Carolina VA School Benefits Phone Numbers
The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA) is the state agency that administers veteran benefits, including education programs. The main phone number is (803) 734-0200.
South Carolina Education Contacts
| Resource | Phone Number | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| SCDVA Columbia Office | (803) 734-0200 | General state benefits |
| SC Tuition Assistance Program | (803) 647-2434 | War veterans’ children tuition assistance |
| VA Education (Federal) | 1-888-442-4551 | Federal GI Bill |
| SCDVA North Charleston | (843) 794-4301 | Field office services |
South Carolina Education Benefits
SC Tuition Assistance for Certain War Veterans’ Children. South Carolina provides tuition assistance for children of certain war veterans. Contact SCDVA at (803) 647-2434 for questions about the program, application process, or to request a transfer letter.
Veterans Dependents Education Benefits. South Carolina offers education benefits for dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled or who died from service-connected causes. For Chapter 35 questions, call the federal VA at 1-888-442-4551.
How to Get Help in South Carolina
The SCDVA has field offices throughout the state. The Columbia office is at 1800 St. Julian Place, Suite 305, Columbia, SC 29204. Call (803) 734-0200 or email va@scdva.sc.gov.
How to Find Your School’s VA Certifying Official
Every school that enrolls VA education benefit recipients must have a VA School Certifying Official (SCO). The SCO is the person who certifies your enrollment to the VA and submits the required paperwork. Without the SCO’s certification, VA cannot process your payments.
Steps to Find Your SCO
Contact your school’s Registrar’s Office. The SCO often works in the Registrar’s Office, Financial Aid Office, or a dedicated Veterans Services Office.
Ask for the “VA Certifying Official.” Use this exact term.
Check the school’s website. Many schools list their veterans services contact information online.
Call your state veterans affairs office. If the school cannot identify their SCO, call your state office for help. Vermont, for example, directs veterans to call (802) 828-1082.
What the SCO Can Help With
Certifying your enrollment to VA each term
Explaining which programs are GI Bill-approved
Submitting VA Form 22-1999 (Enrollment Certification)
Answering questions about tuition and fee reporting
Connecting you with campus veteran resources
State Approving Agencies (SAAs) by State
Every state has a State Approving Agency that approves education and training programs for GI Bill use. The SAA ensures that schools meet federal requirements and that programs lead to a recognized educational or vocational objective. If a program is not approved by the SAA, you cannot use GI Bill benefits for it.
| State | SAA Contact | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont | Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs | (802) 828-3379 |
| Delaware | Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs | (302) 739-2792 |
| Virginia | Virginia DVS – State Approving Agency | (804) 225-2298 |
| Maine | Maine State Approving Agency | (207) 287-7020 |
| South Carolina | SC Department of Veterans’ Affairs | (803) 734-0200 |
What the SAA Does
Approves schools and programs for GI Bill use
Conducts compliance reviews of approved institutions
Investigates complaints about GI Bill programs
Provides technical assistance to schools
Common Mistakes Veterans Make With Education Contacts
Calling the Wrong Number
The most frequent mistake is calling the general VA benefits line (1-800-827-1000) for education questions. That line handles disability, pension, and home loans. Always call 1-888-442-4551 for education benefits.
Not Contacting the SCO Before Enrolling
If you enroll in a program that is not GI Bill-approved, you will not receive benefits. Always contact the school’s VA Certifying Official before enrolling to confirm your program is approved.
Assuming State Benefits Are Automatic
State education benefits are not automatic. You must apply through your state veterans affairs office. Each state has its own application process, eligibility rules, and deadlines.
Not Filing the FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is separate from VA benefits. Many veterans miss out on need-based grants and loans because they assume VA benefits cover everything. File the FAFSA at studentaid.gov.
Ignoring Deadlines
State education benefits often have application deadlines. Missing a deadline can delay your benefits by a semester or more. Contact your state office for deadlines.
Using the Wrong Form for the Wrong Benefit
VA Form 22-1990 is for veterans and service members. VA Form 22-5490 is for dependents. VA Form 22-1990E is for family members using transferred benefits. Using the wrong form delays processing.
Common Questions
What is the VA school benefits phone number?
The federal VA Education Call Center number is 1-888-442-4551 (1-888-GIBILL-1). Call this line for GI Bill eligibility, payments, and enrollment verification. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time.
What is the VA education phone number for Vermont?
The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs can be reached at (802) 828-3379 or toll-free (888) 666-9844 (within Vermont). For federal education benefits, call 1-888-442-4551.
What is the Delaware veterans education phone number?
The Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs main number is (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900 (in state). The Delaware Higher Education Office is at (302) 735-4120.
What is the Virginia veterans education phone number?
The Virginia Department of Veterans Services is at (804) 786-0286. The GI Bill State Approving Agency is at (804) 225-2298. VMSDEP is at (804) 225-2083.
What is the Maine veterans education phone number?
The Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services main number is (207) 430-6035. The Central Office is at (207) 287-7020. Email is mainebvs@maine.gov.
What is the South Carolina veterans education phone number?
The South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs is at (803) 734-0200. The SC Tuition Assistance Program is at (803) 647-2434.
How do I find my school’s VA certifying official?
Contact your school’s Registrar’s Office or Financial Aid Office and ask for the VA Certifying Official. If the school cannot tell you, call your state veterans affairs office for help.
What is a State Approving Agency (SAA)?
A State Approving Agency approves schools and training programs for GI Bill use. If a program is not approved by the SAA, you cannot use GI Bill benefits for it. Contact your state’s SAA for questions about approved programs.
Can I use GI Bill benefits at any school?
No. The GI Bill can only be used at programs that meet federal statutory and regulatory guidelines. Even at established universities, not all programs are approved. Always confirm with the school’s VA Certifying Official.
What should I do if my school can’t find their certifying official?
Call your state veterans affairs office. For example, Vermont directs veterans to call (802) 828-1082 if the school cannot identify their certifying official.
What number do I call for Chapter 35 benefits?
Call the VA Education Call Center at 1-888-442-4551 for Chapter 35 eligibility, payments, and enrollment verification. Starting in 2026, Chapter 35 beneficiaries must verify enrollment monthly.
Are state education benefits the same as federal GI Bill benefits?
No. State education benefits are separate from federal VA benefits. Each state has its own programs, eligibility rules, and application processes. Contact your state veterans affairs office for state-specific benefits.
Key Takeaways
The federal VA Education Call Center number is 1-888-442-4551 (1-888-GIBILL-1).
Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs: (802) 828-3379 or (888) 666-9844.
Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs: (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900.
Virginia Department of Veterans Services: (804) 786-0286 or (877) 285-1299.
Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services: (207) 430-6035 or (207) 287-7020.
South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs: (803) 734-0200.
Contact your school’s VA Certifying Official before enrolling to confirm GI Bill approval.
State Approving Agencies approve programs for GI Bill use.
State education benefits are separate from federal GI Bill benefits.
Always file the FAFSA at studentaid.gov in addition to using VA benefits.
Official Resources
VA Education and Training: va.gov/education
VA GI Bill Comparison Tool: va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool
Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs: veterans.vermont.gov
Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs: veteransaffairs.delaware.gov
Virginia Department of Veterans Services: dvs.virginia.gov
Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services: maine.gov/veterans
South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs: scdva.sc.gov
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): studentaid.gov
Ask VA: ask.va.gov
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📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
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