Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31)

The Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program, commonly known as Chapter 31, helps eligible veterans and service members with service-connected disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain meaningful employment. For those whose disabilities create significant barriers to working, VR&E may also provide services that support greater independence and daily living. Formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, the program offers personalized career planning, education, training, employment assistance, and rehabilitation services.

Chapter 31 VR&E benefits are designed to help veterans and transitioning service members overcome employment barriers caused by service-connected disabilities. Whether pursuing education, career training, employment assistance, or independent living support, the program provides personalized services focused on long-term success and self-sufficiency. Eligibility requirements and available services may change, so veterans should review current guidance from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs before applying.

  • You may be eligible to apply for Chapter 31 VR&E benefits if:

    Veterans

    • You did not receive a dishonorable discharge, and

    • You have a VA service-connected disability rating of at least 10%

    Active-Duty Service Members

    You may qualify if at least one of the following is true:

    • You have a pre-discharge disability rating of 20% or higher and are preparing to leave military service, or

    • You are awaiting discharge due to a serious illness or injury that occurred while serving on active duty

    A Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) will review your situation and determine whether you are entitled to receive VR&E services.

  • Depending on your employment goals and rehabilitation needs, VR&E services may include:

    • Career assessment and vocational evaluations

    • Professional career counseling and rehabilitation planning

    • College, technical school, vocational school, or business school training

    • On-the-job training and apprenticeships

    • Resume development and interview preparation

    • Job placement assistance and employment support

    • Workplace accommodations and employer incentives

    • Case management and supportive counseling services

    • Independent living services for veterans with significant disabilities

  • VR&E provides several pathways based on individual goals and circumstances, including:

    • Reemployment with a former employer

    • Rapid Access to Employment

    • Self-Employment

    • Employment Through Long-Term Services and Training

    • Independent Living Services

  • Benefits vary based on the veteran's approved rehabilitation plan. Eligible participants may receive support for tuition, fees, books, supplies, training, counseling, and other services needed to reach employment goals. Veterans participating in a VR&E program may also qualify for a monthly subsistence allowance and, in some cases, may elect to receive the Post-9/11 GI Bill subsistence rate if eligible.

  • Veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013 are generally not subject to the previous 12-year eligibility period. Veterans discharged before January 1, 2013 may have eligibility periods based on specific circumstances, with possible extensions when a serious employment handicap is found.

  • Eligible veterans and service members can apply for VR&E benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Once an application is submitted, a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will conduct an initial evaluation to determine eligibility and discuss the services that best support the applicant's goals.

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