The Short Answer

The VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment program (VR&E, also called Chapter 31 or VocRehab) helps disabled veterans prepare for, find, and keep suitable employment — or achieve independence in daily living if work isn't feasible. Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% (or a memorandum rating pending) may qualify for up to 48 months of rehabilitation services including education, job training, resume assistance, and ongoing employment support.

What VR&E Actually Is

VR&E is distinct from the GI Bill. It sits under 38 U.S.C. Chapter 31 and is specifically designed for veterans whose service-connected disabilities create an employment handicap. The program assigns you a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) who works one-on-one with you to build and execute a rehabilitation plan.

VR&E is not a handout — it's a structured rehabilitation process. Your VRC will evaluate your aptitudes, interests, and limitations, then map out a plan. That plan might lead to a college degree, a trade certification, on-the-job training, or direct placement into a job that accommodates your disability.

Eligibility: Who Qualifies

You need to meet three conditions:

1. Service requirement: You were discharged from active duty under other than dishonorable conditions, AND you have a service-connected disability rating. If you received an honorable discharge or a discharge under the general eligibility umbrella from active service you may qualify.
2. Disability rating: A service-connected rating of at least 10%, OR a memorandum rating while your claim is pending.
3. Employment handicap: Your disability must create an impediment to obtaining or maintaining gainful employment. Veterans rated at 20% or higher are automatically deemed to have one, according to VA policy (source: VA.gov). Veterans rated at 10% must demonstrate the handicap exists.

You must apply within the delimiting period — generally 12 years from your date of separation from active military or the date you were first notified of your service-connected rating, whichever is later. Extensions are possible if you have a serious employment handicap.

The Five Rehabilitation Tracks

VR&E offers five paths, called "tracks," based on your situation:

Reemployment (Track 1)

For veterans who want to return to work with their most recent employer. Services include job accommodations, modified duties, and liaison with the employer on your behalf.

Rapid Access to Employment (Track 2)

For veterans who have marketable skills and need help matching them to existing jobs. Expect resume writing, interview prep, and job search support — not retraining.

Self-Employment (Track 3)

For veterans whose disabilities make traditional employment impractical. Covers business planning, marketing assistance, and startup supplies.

Employment Through Long-Term Services (Track 4)

The most common path. Includes college degree programs, vocational/technical training, apprenticeships, internships, and on-the-job training. This is the track that covers tuition.

Independent Living (Track 5)

For veterans whose disabilities prevent them from pursuing employment. Focuses on assistive technology, life skills training, attendant care, transportation, and home adaptation.

What VR&E Pays For

If you're on the Long-Term Services track (Track 4), VR&E covers:

• Tuition and fees — paid directly to the school, for the full cost of your program.
• Books and supplies — standard allowances per term.
• Subsistence allowance — a monthly stipend while you're in training. As of 2026, rates range from roughly $763/month (full-time, no dependents) to over $1,400/month with dependents, depending on training status and locality. Check current VA subsistence rates here.
• Tools and equipment — needed for your trade or profession.
• Tutoring services — if academically struggling in your program.
• Some licenses and certification exam fees.

There is no spending cap on tuition under VR&E, unlike the GI Bill. Your VRC authorizes the program. For Long-Term Services the VA pays tuition directly to the institution.

VR&E vs. the GI Bill: Key Differences

Important: You can use VR&E and the GI Bill concurrently, and doing so extends your total benefit. VR&E's subsistence allowance can also be increased by your GI Bill rate if that's higher than the VR&E subsistence rate. This is a widely overlooked optimization.

How to Apply

1. File VA Form 28-1900: The formal application is VA Form 28-1900. You can submit it online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at your nearest VA regional office.
2. Online submission: The fastest route is through your VA.gov account. Navigate to the VR&E section and complete the digital application.
3. Initial counseling appointment: You'll be scheduled for an orientation session — in person or virtually — where a VRC explains the program and evaluates your situation.
4. Eligibility determination: The VRC confirms you meet the three criteria (service, disability rating, employment handicap).
5. Entitlement decision
6. Track selection and plan development: You and your VRC agree on a rehabilitation track and build a formal plan.