Vocational Rehabilitation and Counseling Benefits
Vocational Rehabilitation and Counseling is an employment
program to assist eligible veterans and dependents achieve
maximum independence in their daily life, restore their self
esteem, and aid them in becoming a contributing part of society.
Under the Vocational Rehabilitation Program (Chapter 31),
eligible veterans are assisted in selecting a rehabilitation
goal and developing an individualized rehabilitation plan,
leading to employment.
The services that may be provided to Chapter 31 veterans in
training include vocational and personal counseling, education
and training, medical and dental treatment and subsistence
allowance. Eligible veterans may receive up to 48 months of
training benefits, however, the length of the program is based
on the individualized written rehabilitation plan.
Who is Eligible?
Generally, you must be awarded a monthly VA Disability Compensation
payment. In some cases, you may be eligible if you aren't getting
VA compensation (for example, you are awaiting discharge from
the service because of a disability, OR you are entitled to
VA compensation but have decided not to reduce your military
retirement or disability pay).
Eligibility is also based on you meeting the following conditions:
You served on or after September 16, 1940 AND
Your service-connected disabilities are rated at least
20% disabling by VA AND
You need Vocational Rehabilitation to overcome an employment
handicap AND
It has been less than 12 years since VA notified you of
your eligibility
NOTE:
You may be eligible for Vocational Rehabilitation if you
are rated 10% disabled, and you have a serious employment
handicap.
You may have longer than 12 years to use this benefit if
certain conditions have prevented you from training.
How Much Does VA Pay?
VA will pay required training costs, such as tuition and fees,
books, supplies, equipment, and, if needed, special services.
While you are in training, VA will also pay you a monthly benefit
to help with living expenses, called a subsistence allowance.
For details, call the toll-free number below or click here for
payment chart.
How Can I Apply?
You can apply by completing the online application.
For more information call toll-free 1-800-827-1000 or visit the Vocational Rehabilitation website.