Plainly is a free tool. It is not part of any government agency.
Your VA Education Decision Letter (COE), Explained
Also called: Certificate of Eligibility, COE, education decision letter, GI Bill award letter
Last reviewed 2026-07-08
Holding this letter?
Plainly reads it with you and shows what to send and when. It is free.
What this notice usually means
This letter is the VA's decision on your education benefits. It also works as your Certificate of Eligibility for school. It shows your benefit level and how many months you have left.
What to do now
- 1
Check your benefit level and remaining months
Your letter states your benefit percentage. It also states how many months of entitlement remain.
- 2
Give a copy to your school certifying official
Your school needs this Certificate of Eligibility. It lets the school certify your enrollment for VA payments.
- 3
Report changes that could affect your benefit
Tell the VA about changes in enrollment, program, or school, since these can change your benefit level.
- 4
Call the VA with questions
Call the VA at 1-888-442-4551 with questions. Ask about your education benefit decision.
Plainly can build this list with you, using your own letter. Start with my letter
“This certifies that you are entitled to benefits for an approved program of education or training under the Post-9/11 GI Bill (38 CFR 21.9590).”
Wondering which date applies to you? Check it with Plainly
Sources
- Veterans Benefits Administration (benefits.va.gov)Retrieved 2026-07-07
Last reviewed 2026-07-08
Related notices
Got a letter like this?
Paste or upload it and Plainly reads it for you, checks it against the published rules, and builds your proof checklist. Free.
Start with your letter