I understand you are concerned about your VA payment for your education, and I'm happy to provide information to help you plan accordingly.
Firstly, as you mentioned, VA monthly payments are paid in arrears, meaning you will receive compensation for the previous month instead of the current month. So, if the semester starts on September 6th, you will receive payment for that month in mid-September or by October 1st.
It's also important to note that VA payments are prorated, so your monthly payment will depend on the number of days you are enrolled in classes. For example, if your semester ends on May 15th, your June 1st check will only be for the 15 days of May.
Regarding your book stipend, if you are using Post 911 GI Bill®, you will not receive your book stipend before classes begin. Therefore, it's recommended that you plan accordingly and purchase your required textbooks with alternative funds until you receive your book stipend.
If you have specific questions about your VA payment or you are concerned about payment delays, it's recommended that you contact the RIC VSOC Coordinator for further assistance. They will be able to provide you with more information about your payment and help address any concerns you may have.
I hope this information helps you plan for your education expenses, and if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask
RIC VSOC Coordinator: Micaela Black at 401-612-3470 or micaela.black@va.gov