Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness & Employment
What Is Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)?
Chapter 31 Veteran and Employment (VR&E) benefits help you explore employment options, address education or training needs, access educational counseling, find a new job, start a business, or return to your former job. In some cases, your family members may also qualify for certain benefits. If you were discharged from active duty before 01/01/13, your basic period of eligibility ends 12 years from the date you received notice of your date of separation from active duty or the date you received your first VA service-connected disability rating. The basic period of eligibility may be extended if a VR&E counselor finds that you have a serious employment handicap. If you were discharged from active duty on or after 01/01/13, there is no time limit on your eligibility. Please note that it is recommended that you use your Chapter 31 VR&E benefits before Chapter 33 Post 9/11 GI® Bill benefits.
Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible if:
- You received, or will receive, a discharge that is other than dishonorable,
- You have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% or a memorandum rating of 20% or more from the VA, and
- You apply for Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) VetSuccess services.
The basic period of eligibility in which VR&E’s VetSuccess services may be used is 12 years from the latter of:
- The date of separation from active military service, or
- The date the veteran was first notified by VA of a service-connected disability rating
Where Can I Apply?
For a detailed description of Chapter 31 VR&E benefits, eligibility requirements, payments, and to apply, click here. If you have specific questions, please call toll-free 1-888-442-4551.