VA Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E / Chapter 31)

A powerful and underused VA benefit — VR&E served 267,613 veterans in FY2024 and spent more than $2 billion. Unlike the GI Bill, it pays full tuition with no cap, plus fees, books, supplies, and a monthly subsistence allowance, all managed by a dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor who builds an individualized plan. Five tracks: reemployment, rapid access to employment, self-employment, long-term training, and independent living for those not yet able to work. Worth pursuing, but plan for a process: counselor caseloads are high and timelines vary by regional office. The FAST VETS Act (P.L. 119-72, Jan 2026) now requires VA to redevelop plans when a veteran's situation changes. Requires 10% VA disability rating with employment handicap, or 20%+ with employment handicap. 12-year eligibility window.

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