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Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits - Vocational Rehabilitation

In some cases, a veteran requires additional education or training to become employable. Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment is an employment-oriented program that helps veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find and keep suitable employment. Suitable employment is work that is within the veterans' physical, mental and emotional capabilities and matches their patterns of skills, abilities and interests. For veterans whose disabilities make employment unlikely, VA helps them attain as much daily living independence as possible.

Vocational Training and Rehabilitation for Veterans With Service Connected Disabilities is also known as Chapter 31 benefits.

The current rates for rehabilitation pay are in the "Veterans Affairs (VA) Benefits - Vocational Rehabilitation Rates" topic.

Eligibility

A veteran must have a VA established service connected disability of at least 10 percent with a serious employment handicap or 20 percent with an employment handicap and be discharged or released from military service under other than dishonorable conditions. A service member pending medical separation from active duty may apply, but the disability rating must be at least 20 percent.

Services

Depending on an individual's needs, services provided by VA may include:

·      an evaluation of the individual's abilities, skills and interests;

·      employment services such as job-seeking skills, resume development and other work readiness assistance.

·      assistance finding and maintaining suitable employment;

·      vocational counseling and planning;

·      training, such as on-the-job and work experience programs;

·      training, such as certificate, two, or four-year college or technical programs;

·      supportive rehabilitation services and additional counseling.

VA pays the cost of these services and pays a living allowance to veterans who participate in a training program.

Entitlement

Eligible veterans are evaluated to determine if they need vocational rehabilitation services to help overcome barriers to employment.

Period of Rehabilitation Program

Generally, veterans must complete a vocational rehabilitation program within 12 years from their separation from military service or within 12 years from the date VA notifies them that they have a compensable service-connected disability. Depending on the length of program needed, veterans may be provided up to 48 months of full-time services or their part-time equivalent. These limitations may be extended in certain circumstances.

Work-Study

Participants may be paid a work-study allowance if they train at the three-quarter or full-time rate. They may elect to be paid in advance a portion of the allowance equal to 40 percent of the total. A participant with VA supervision can provide outreach services, prepare and process VA paperwork, work at a VA medical facility, or perform other approved activities.

Program for Unemployable Veterans

Veterans awarded 100 percent disability compensation based upon unemployability may still request an evaluation and, if found eligible, may participate in a vocational rehabilitation program and receive help in getting a job. A veteran who secures employment under the special program will continue to receive 100 percent disability compensation until the veteran has worked continuously for at least 12 months.

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