GI Bill Housing Allowance Calculator 2026
Estimate your Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) for Post-9/11 GI Bill by school ZIP code, enrollment status, and benefit tier. Free, instant, no sign-up.
MHA rules
- MHA is based on the school's ZIP code, not where you live
- You must be enrolled more than half-time to receive MHA
- The last term is paid at half rate
- Online-only students get $1,043/month flat (national rate / 2)
- MHA is paid monthly in arrears at the end of each month
To see tuition coverage and books stipend alongside your MHA, use the full GI Bill benefits calculator which estimates your complete annual benefit value in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the GI Bill housing allowance (MHA) calculated for 2026?
Your MHA equals the BAH rate for your school's ZIP code, multiplied by your enrollment percentage and benefit tier. For example, at 100% tier, full-time, with a school BAH of $2,200, you receive $2,200/month. Online-only students receive a flat $1,043/month regardless of location.
What is the GI Bill BAH rate by ZIP code for 2026?
MHA is based on the BAH for an E-5 with dependents at the school's ZIP code, not where you live. Rates vary significantly by location. Enter your school's ZIP-code BAH in the calculator above, or look up the exact rate on VA.gov's GI Bill comparison tool.
How much do online-only students receive for GI Bill housing in 2026?
Online-only students receive a flat $1,043/month (half the national average BAH), scaled by benefit tier. At 80% tier that works out to roughly $834/month. This rate applies regardless of where the school is located.
Does the GI Bill pay housing allowance for part-time enrollment?
Yes, but MHA scales down with enrollment. Three-quarter time pays 75% of full MHA; half-time pays 50%. You must be enrolled more than half-time to receive any MHA. Less-than-half-time enrollment qualifies only for tuition reimbursement, not housing.