Backlogged VA Payments Leave WSSU Students in Limbo

The seal of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs features a golden eagle on a blue shield with the U.S. flag and sun’s rays behind it, symbolizing service, and honor for veterans.

By Serenity Mustipher

As the semester progresses, students at Winston Salem State University are facing financial challenges due to delays in Veterans Affairs (VA) education benefits. These payments that consist of money funded for tuition, books and living expenses, still have not yet been received by many students because of a backlog in the federal processing system.

Marcus Johnson, a sophomore business major who lives on campus, has not received his VA funds since the semester began in August. “My parents had to step in and cover my tuition for now,” Johnson said. “It’s stressful for them because they weren’t expecting to pay out of pocket.” He added that he has had to rely on family support for textbooks and other school expenses while waiting for the benefits to arrive.

According to Mr. Donald Jack, WSSU’s VA Benefits Coordinator, the university has submitted all necessary paperwork and continues to assist affected students while staying in contact with the VA. “We are working closely with the VA to ensure payments are processed as quickly as possible,” Mr. Jack said.

The Department of Veterans Affairs confirmed that it is still processing claims and will send updated information to WSSU once the pending items is cleared. Until then the struggle faced as students remain in the uncertainty of when they will receive the funds that support their education and daily needs.

In conclusion, the delay in VA education benefits underscores the financial and emotional challenges that students face while pursuing their education. For students like Johnson, the wait has meant relying on family support and managing unexpected expenses all while trying to stay focused on academics.