Washington veterans who have applied for and not yet received their Post-9/11 GI tuition assistance can apply for an emergency advance payment from the Department of Veterans Affairs beginning Friday (Oct. 2), U.S. Sen. Patty Murray announced Thursday.

The emergency payments will provide a maximum of $3,000 to veterans waiting for assistance but who are struggling with affording books, tuition, and housing now, according to Murray’s office.

The emergency payments will be an advance on eventual assistance checks. Advance payment applications are also available immediately at Washington state VA Benefits Offices.

More information on the VA’s emergency advance payment program is available at www.gibill.va.gov/advpay.htm