Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) – Chapter 31

        ⚖️ 12‑Year Rule Update: Veterans separated before Jan 1, 2013 must apply within 12 years of separation or first service‑connection award—extensions available; Veterans separated on or after Jan 1, 2013 have no basic period of eligibility.
      

        💡 Program Duration: Up to 48 months of vocational rehabilitation services, with possible extensions based on individual needs.
      

What is VR&E?

Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E), also known as Chapter 31, is a VA program for Veterans with service‑connected disabilities that limit their ability to work. VR&E assists you in exploring employment options, obtaining training or education, and accessing career counseling to achieve and maintain suitable employment. In some cases, eligible dependents may also qualify for certain benefits.

Application & Evaluation Process

IDES for Active‑Duty Service Members

Service members who are wounded, injured, or ill can access VR&E services prior to discharge through the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES). Contact your medical or command staff to be referred.

Initial Evaluation & Individualized Plan Development

After submitting VA Form 28‑1900, you’ll meet with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) for an initial evaluation. The VRC determines eligibility, discusses your strengths and limitations, and develops your Individualized Rehabilitation Plan (IRP) outlining your goals and services.

Who Qualifies?

You may be eligible for VR&E if you meet both criteria:

You were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
You have a VA service‑connected disability rating of at least 10%.

Eligibility Periods:

Veterans separated before January 1, 2013 must apply within 12 years of separation or first service‑connection award—extensions available if medical conditions previously prevented participation.
Veterans separated on or after January 1, 2013 have no basic period of eligibility.

Special Children’s Eligibility

Certain children of Vietnam Veterans and Veterans with covered Korean War service may qualify for up to 24 months of VR&E services under distinct criteria. Contact your VRC for details.

Key Program Tracks

Reemployment: Return to work with a former employer through workplace accommodations or equipment.
Rapid Access to Employment: If you’re ready to work, services include job search assistance, resume development, and interview preparation; short‑term training may be authorized.
Self‑Employment: Guidance and funding to develop and launch a viable business plan, including training in business operations, marketing, and finances.
Employment Through Long‑Term Services: Support such as vocational training, higher‑level education, apprenticeships, and on‑the‑job training for complex career goals.
Independent Living: For Veterans with severe disabilities who need assistance with daily living and cannot return to work immediately; includes home adaptation grants and adaptive equipment.

Entitlement & Duration

Standard VR&E entitlement is up to 48 months of services (extensions possible in exceptional cases).
Certain children under special eligibility are capped at 24 months.
Any time spent under the Post‑9/11 GI Bill does not count against your Chapter 31 entitlement.

How to Apply

Online

Submit VA Form 28‑1900 via VA.gov. If eligible, you’ll be invited to an orientation at your nearest VA regional office.

By Mail

Complete VA Form 28‑1900 and mail to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
VR&E Intake Center
P.O. Box 5210
Janesville, WI 53547‑5210

Additional Benefits

Subsistence Allowance: Monthly stipend; you can choose the Post‑9/11 GI Bill BAH rate at the E‑5 with dependents instead of the standard Chapter 31 rate if you have remaining GI entitlement. VA will not deduct VR&E months from other VA education entitlements and may retroactively restore entitlement through retroactive induction.
Supplies & Equipment: Funding for books, tools, computers, and adaptive equipment needed to accomplish rehabilitation goals.
Adaptive Auto Allowance: Monetary benefit to purchase or modify a vehicle to accommodate service‑connected disabilities.
Advanced Health Care Coverage: Dental care coverage when dental work is essential to complete your rehabilitation plan.
Two‑Month Post‑Completion Stipend: After completing your training or education program, you may receive up to 2 additional months of subsistence allowance while you search for employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will participating in VR&E affect my TDIU benefits?

No—your Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) rating remains in effect during and after VR&E participation, provided you meet all program criteria.

Can VR&E fund graduate-level degrees?

VR&E is primarily an employment program; graduate degrees are approved only when necessary to achieve employment goals and no alternative pathway exists.

How long do I have to use my VR&E benefits?

You generally have 12 years from separation or from your first service‑connection award to complete VR&E services; extensions may apply if eligibility criteria are met.

Who can help me with my application?

A VA Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) at no cost; accredited Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and VA regional office staff also provide guidance.