Chapter 31 VA Benefits – Know Who Can Receive VR&E Services and How to Qualify

Veterans who struggle to find or maintain employment due to service-connected disabilities may be eligible for Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) benefits, also known as Chapter 31 benefits.

This program helps veterans gain new skills, pursue education, or secure suitable employment based on their abilities and interests.

Let’s look into who qualifies for VR&E and what services it offers.

Eligibility

VR&E benefits are available to both veterans and active-duty service members who meet specific requirements.

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Veterans

To qualify for VR&E benefits, veterans must:

• Have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% from the VA.
• Have received a discharge that is not dishonorable.

Once an application is submitted, the VA schedules an evaluation with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). This counselor determines whether the applicant has an employment handicap, meaning their disability significantly affects their ability to work.

For veterans discharged before January 1, 2013, there is a 12-year eligibility window starting from either:

• The date of separation from active duty, or
• The date of the first service-connected disability rating.

However, if a veteran has a serious employment handicap (SEH), this time limit may be extended.

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For those discharged on or after January 1, 2013, there is no time limit—they can apply for VR&E benefits at any time.

Active-Duty Service Members

Service members may also qualify for VR&E benefits if they meet at least one of the following conditions:

• They have a pre-discharge disability rating of at least 20% and are preparing to separate from the military.
• They are awaiting discharge due to a severe illness or injury sustained during active duty.

Additionally, under the National Defense Authorization Act, severely injured service members can automatically receive VR&E benefits before receiving a disability rating.

Services

VR&E provides a variety of services based on individual career goals and needs. These include:

• Career assessments to evaluate abilities, skills, and interests.
• Job training, resume building, and interview preparation.
• Educational funding for college, vocational, or technical training.
• Apprenticeships and on-the-job training opportunities.
• Employment assistance, including job placement support.
• Rehabilitation services for veterans who need help achieving independent living.

Application

Veterans with a service-connected disability can apply for VR&E benefits in multiple ways:

• Online through the VA website.
• In-person at a VA regional office.
• By mail, using VA Form 28-1900, sent to the Department of Veterans Affairs VR&E Intake Center.

Additionally, accredited VA representatives, attorneys, and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) can assist with the application process.

After applying, the VA schedules an evaluation with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) to determine if the applicant qualifies based on their employment handicap. This ensures that veterans receive the necessary resources to secure stable and meaningful employment.

For those who qualify, VR&E can be a lifeline to career success and long-term financial stability. If you’re a veteran with a service-connected disability, don’t miss out on these life-changing benefits.

FAQs