[Seeking Advice] Using Reserve Active Duty for Training (ADT) Time Toward Additional GI Bill Entitlement — Anyone Dealt with This?

Hi all,

I’m in the process of appealing a VA decision and hoping someone here has gone through something similar.

I previously served 4 years Active Duty, which I used for my Post-9/11 GI Bill. After that, I served 4 years in the Reserves, where I did multiple Title 10 Active Duty for Training (ADT) periods. These were for things like NREMT recertification and other required training/taskings while in the Reserves.

I submitted an initial request to VA to count this Reserve Title 10 time as a second qualifying period of service, which could potentially extend my GI Bill entitlement toward the 48-month cap. Unfortunately, they denied my request.

Since then, I’ve gathered more supporting documents and am now submitting a formal reconsideration. So far, I’ve been able to recover about 17 days worth of ADT orders from my personal email (I couldn’t find anything more through HRC, milConnect, iPERMS, or LES). I’m also submitting battle rosters and drill schedules as supporting evidence to show my Title 10 Reserve service.

I’m asking VA to reconsider and count these cumulative periods, even though short, based on updated guidance and the Supreme Court ruling that allows aggregation for multiple qualifying service periods.

Has anyone been through this appeals/reconsideration process? • How strict was VA on total days when considering ADT for a second qualifying period? • Has anyone gotten short but multiple Title 10 periods approved through aggregation? • Any tips on strengthening my case or what to expect during reconsideration?

Really appreciate any experiences or advice. Trying to make the best case possible so I can hopefully gain additional months to pursue my higher education and maximize MHA. Thanks so much!