Veteran Readiness & Employment (Chapter 31)

Eligibility (separated veterans): Service-connected disability rating of at least 10% from the VA AND an employment handicap. Active-duty service members may also qualify with a 20% pre-discharge rating or while awaiting medical separation.

5 Support-and-Services Tracks (counselor helps select the right one):

1. Reemployment — return to your former job (counselor works with your employer).

2. Rapid Access to Employment — job search using existing skills (resume help, interview prep).

3. Self-Employment — start your own business (business plan, training, marketing support).

4. Employment Through Long-Term Services — education or training (college, vocational, on-the-job, apprenticeship) for a new field.

5. Independent Living — for veterans whose disability prevents return to work; services to live independently.

Tuition and fees, books and supplies, required tools and equipment, assistive technology, adaptive equipment, tutorial assistance, license/certification fees, and job-placement support.

Monthly payment while in training. Veterans may elect to receive subsistence at the Post-9/11 GI Bill BAH rate (Chapter 33 election) for full-time institutional training, instead of the standard Chapter 31 subsistence rate. Standard Ch. 31 rate is based on training time (full-time, 3/4-time, 1/2-time) and number of dependents.

Generally up to 48 months full-time (or part-time equivalent). Veterans with a Serious Employment Handicap (SEH) may receive extensions beyond 48 months under 38 CFR 21.78.

12 years from separation or VA notification of rating for those discharged before January 1, 2013. NO time limit for those discharged on or after January 1, 2013.

Submit VA Form 28-1900 online at va.gov. A VR&E counselor will evaluate your employment handicap, conduct a comprehensive evaluation, and develop your Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan (IWRP).