VR&E — Chapter 31

Veteran Readiness & Employment Program

💼 Free career counseling, training, education, and job placement for veterans with service-connected disabilities.
Section 1

📋 What Is VR&E?

Veteran Readiness and Employment (formerly Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment) helps veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain suitable careers. The VA pays for education, training, and provides a monthly subsistence allowance.

✅ Eligibility: 10%+ service-connected disability rating
📅 Must apply within 12 years of separation or rating notification
🎓 VA pays all tuition, fees, books, and supplies — no cap
💰 Monthly subsistence allowance while in training (similar to BAH)
🔧 Covers tools, equipment, and technology needed for your career
Section 2

🛤️ The 5 VR&E Tracks

1️⃣ Reemployment Track

For veterans who want to return to their previous employer. Provides accommodations and re-training assistance.

2️⃣ Rapid Access to Employment

For veterans ready to enter the job market quickly. Resume help, job search assistance, and short-term training.

3️⃣ Self-Employment Track

For veterans who want to start their own business. Business plan development, training, and startup supplies.

4️⃣ Long-Term Services

For veterans needing education or extended training — college degrees, certifications, or apprenticeships. Most common track.

5️⃣ Independent Living

For severely disabled veterans who cannot work. Helps improve daily living skills and community integration.

Section 3

💵 Monthly Subsistence Allowance

While enrolled in VR&E training, you receive a monthly subsistence allowance. Rates depend on your training type and number of dependents.

Training Type No Dependents 1 Dependent 2 Dependents
College/University (full-time)$757.18$939.65$1,104.75
On-the-Job Training$662.53$800.30$925.48
Farm/Agricultural$614.10$741.09$849.62
Independent Living$757.18$939.65$1,104.75
Note: If you qualify for the Post-9/11 GI Bill, you may elect to receive the higher GI Bill housing allowance instead of the standard subsistence allowance while in VR&E.
Section 4

📝 How to Apply

1
Apply online at VA.gov VR&E Application using VA Form 28-1900
2
A VR&E counselor will be assigned and schedule an initial evaluation
3
Complete an entitlement determination — the counselor will assess if your disability creates an employment barrier
4
Work with your counselor to develop an Individualized Rehabilitation Plan
5
Begin your training program — VA pays tuition and you receive monthly subsistence allowance
Section 5

⚖️ VR&E vs. GI Bill

Feature VR&E (Chapter 31) Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
Eligibility10%+ service-connected disability90+ days active duty post-9/11
Tuition CapNo cap — VA pays full costCapped at public in-state rate
HousingSubsistence allowance (or GI Bill BAH rate if elected)BAH for school ZIP code
Books/SuppliesAll paid by VAUp to $1,000/year
DurationUp to 48 months36 months
Job PlacementYes — required part of programNo
CounselorAssigned VR&E counselorNo counselor
Uses GI Bill?No — separate entitlementYes
Strategy: Many veterans use VR&E first (since it doesn't deplete GI Bill entitlement), then save the GI Bill for additional education or transfer to dependents.
Section 6

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes, if your counselor agrees that a graduate degree is necessary to achieve your career goal. VR&E has funded bachelor's, master's, and even doctoral degrees.

A: You can still apply. The key requirement is that you have an employment barrier caused by your service-connected disability. Even veterans with 10% ratings have been approved for VR&E.

A: Yes. VR&E will provide necessary equipment including laptops, software, and other tools required for your training program.

A: Yes, you can switch between semesters. Your VR&E counselor will coordinate the transition. Months used under the GI Bill will be restored to your GI Bill entitlement.

A: You can still use VR&E if your disability prevents you from using your existing degree. Your counselor will work with you to find a suitable career path.