VA Form 22-0993: Opt Out of VA School Information Sharing – If you’re a U.S. veteran, service member, or eligible family member using GI Bill education benefits, you’ve likely heard about automatic information sharing between the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and your school. VA Form 22-0993 lets you opt out of this sharing if you prefer to keep your benefits details private.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the form, who should use it, how to submit it, and what opting out means for your education benefits.
What Is VA Form 22-0993?
VA Form 22-0993, titled Request to Opt-Out of Information Sharing with Educational Institutions, is a simple one-page form that allows eligible VA education beneficiaries to stop the VA from automatically sharing their personal and benefits information with schools.
The form was created in response to the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017 (Public Law 115-48), commonly known as the Forever GI Bill. This law requires the VA to share certain education benefits data with schools to streamline enrollment and certification—unless you specifically opt out.
Download the official form here: VA Form 22-0993 PDF Download Now
Who Is Automatically Enrolled in Information Sharing?
All eligible beneficiaries under these programs are automatically enrolled in the sharing program:
- Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
- Montgomery GI Bill – Active Duty (Chapter 30)
- Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
- Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA/Chapter 35)
You don’t need to do anything if you’re comfortable with sharing. The VA will provide schools with key details to simplify the process.
What Information Does the VA Share with Schools?
Unless you opt out, the VA shares the following with your school’s certifying official:
- Your eligibility start date
- Tuition and fee payments
- Remaining entitlement (time left on benefits)
- Yellow Ribbon Program participation (if applicable)
- Residence vs. distance learning hours
- Benefit percentage based on service time
This sharing helps schools certify your enrollment faster without requiring you to submit extra paperwork.
Why Would You Want to Opt Out?
Many veterans choose to opt out for privacy reasons. Opting out prevents your school from receiving your personally identifiable information and detailed benefits data directly from the VA.
Important: Opting out does not affect your eligibility or the amount of benefits you receive. You will still get your full GI Bill benefits. However, you may need to provide your school with your own benefits documentation (such as your Certificate of Eligibility) for enrollment certification.
Step-by-Step: How to Submit VA Form 22-0993?
- Complete the form online (recommended): Visit VA.gov or vets.gov to fill it out digitally.
- Download and submit:
- Download the PDF from the official VA site.
- Sign it (ink signature required for mailed/uploaded versions).
- Upload via the GI Bill website: Go to www.benefits.va.gov/gibill, click “Submit a Question,” create an account if needed, and attach the form.
- Contact support: Call the Education Call Center at 888-GIBILL-1 (888-442-4551) for help.
Official VA resource page: Opt Out of Sharing Education Benefits Information Visit VA.gov Guide
What Happens After You Submit the Form?
Once processed, the VA will stop sharing your information with educational institutions. You can change your mind later and opt back in if needed by contacting the VA.
Processing times are generally quick since it’s a straightforward privacy request, but always keep copies of your submission and confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does opting out impact my GI Bill payments?
No. Your benefits remain unchanged.
Can dependents use this form?
Yes, eligible dependents under Chapter 35 can submit VA Form 22-0993.
Is the form only for current students?
No. Any eligible beneficiary can submit it at any time.
Where can I find more VA education forms?
Visit the official VA Forms page VA Forms Library
Protect Your Privacy While Using VA Education Benefits
VA Form 22-0993 gives you control over your personal information. Whether you value privacy highly or simply prefer handling your own documentation, this form provides a straightforward way to manage information sharing.
For the most current instructions, always refer directly to VA.gov resources, as policies can be updated.
Ready to opt out? Download and submit VA Form 22-0993 today to take control of your education benefits privacy.