GI Bill MHA Calculator
See the monthly housing allowance difference between online-only and one in-person class.
Your Enrollment Details
Your MHA Comparison
Enter your school ZIP code and enrollment type, then click Calculate My MHA to see your monthly housing allowance comparison.
How GI Bill MHA Works
The Online-Only Rate
If you take all your classes online, your Post-9/11 GI Bill monthly housing allowance (MHA) is capped at a flat national rate — $1,261/month for the 2026–2027 academic year. This applies regardless of where you live or what school you attend.
The In-Person Rate
If you take at least one in-person class per semester, your MHA is based on the E-5 with dependents BAH rate for the ZIP code of your school's campus. In high-cost areas like San Francisco, New York, or San Diego, this can be $2,000–$4,000+/month — a massive difference from the online-only rate.
Maximize Your MHA
Even one in-person class per semester qualifies you for the full local rate. If your program offers any hybrid or in-person option, taking it can be worth thousands of dollars per year in additional housing allowance. Check with your school's veteran certifying official (VCO) to confirm your enrollment status.
Eligibility Notes
MHA is paid only during active enrollment and school breaks under 8 weeks. Rates shown are for 100% enrollment (full-time). Part-time enrollment reduces both your MHA and tuition benefit proportionally. The online-only cap applies at 50% or more if all enrolled hours are distance learning. More at va.gov →
MHA rates shown are estimates based on 2026 E-5 with dependents BAH rates for the given ZIP code area. Actual GI Bill MHA is determined by VA based on your specific enrollment certification, school location, and applicable academic year rates. The online-only rate ($1,261/mo for 2026–2027) is set annually by Congress and the VA. Verify current rates at va.gov or with your school's veteran certifying official. Not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency.