Veterans who have difficulty finding or keeping a job because of service-connected disabilities might be eligible for Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) benefits, also referred to as Chapter 31 benefits.
VR&E assists veterans in acquiring new skills, training, or finding appropriate employment in line with their interests and abilities.
Let us examine who is eligible for VR&E and the services it provides.
Eligibility
VR&E benefits are available to both veterans and active-duty service members who meet specific requirements.
Veterans
To receive VR&E benefits, veterans are required to:
- Have a disability rating of a minimum of 10% related to their military service from the VA.
- Receive a non-dishonorable discharge.
When an application is made, the VA then arranges an assessment with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). The counselor decides if the applicant has an employment handicap, i.e., their disability largely impinges on their capability to work.
For veterans separated prior to January 1, 2013, there is a 12-year eligibility period from either:
- Date of separation from active duty, or
- Date of the initial service-connected disability rating.
But if a veteran has a severe employment handicap (SEH), this time frame can be extended.
For veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013, there is no time frame—anytime they want, they can apply for VR&E benefits.
Active-Duty Service Members
Service members can also become eligible for VR&E benefits if they have at least one of the following:
- They have a pre-discharge rating of disability of at least 20% and are set to leave the military.
- They are waiting to be discharged due to a serious disease or an injury incurred while on active duty.
Also, according to the National Defense Authorization Act, seriously wounded troops automatically qualify for VR&E benefits before they get a disability rating.
Services
VR&E offers multiple services based on career goals and individual needs. They include:
- Career tests to assess abilities, skills, and interests.
- Job training, resume writing, and interviewing.
- Educational assistance for college, vocational, or technical schooling.
- Apprenticeships and work-study opportunities.
- Employment help, including job placement.
- Rehabilitation services to assist veterans in need of assistance in achieving independent living.
Application
Eligible veterans with a service-connected disability may apply for VR&E benefits in the following ways:
- Online at the VA website.
- In person at a VA regional office.
- By mail, on VA Form 28-1900. to the Department of Veterans Affairs VR&E Intake Center.
Also, licensed VA representatives, attorneys, and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) may assist in the application process.
Once the application has been submitted, the VA arranges an assessment with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) to ascertain whether the applicant is eligible according to their employment handicap. This guarantees that veterans get the support necessary to find stable and significant 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.
FAQ’s
Q. Who is eligible for Chapter 31 benefits?
A. Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or more and an honorable discharge are eligible.
Q. Is there a deadline to apply for VR&E benefits?
A. Those discharged prior to 2013 have 12 years to apply, and those discharged on or after 2013 may apply at any time.
Q. What kind of services does VR&E provide?
A. VR&E provides job training, education, career counseling, apprenticeships, and rehabilitation services.
Q. How do I apply for VR&E benefits?
A. You can apply online, in a VA office in person, or through mail of VA Form 28-1900.
Q. Can active-duty members apply for VR&E?
A. Yes, if rated with a pre-discharge disability at or above 20% or pending medical discharge.