Chapter 31 – Vocational Rehabilitation
Available Benefits and Eligibility
The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) Program is authorized by Congress under Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 31. It is sometimes referred to as the Chapter 31 Program. The VR&E Program assists veterans with service-connected disabilities to prepare for, find, and keep suitable jobs. For veterans with service-connected disabilities so severe that they cannot immediately consider work, VR&E offers services to improve their ability to live as independently as possible.
Active Duty Service Members are eligible if they:
- Expect to receive an honorable discharge upon separation from active duty
- Obtain a VA memorandum rating or Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) rating of 20% or more
- Apply for VR&E services
Veterans are eligible if they:
- Have received, or will receive, an honorable or other than dishonorable discharge
- Have a VA service-connected disability rating of 10% with a serious employment handicap or 20% or more with an employment handicap
- Apply for VR&E services
BASIC PERIOD OF ELIGIBILITY
The law generally provides for a 12-year basic period of eligibility in which services may be used. The 12-year period begins on the latter of these dates:
- Date of separation from active military duty or
- Date the veteran was first notified of a service-connected disability rating
Documentation Required for Chapter 31 Certification
- VA Form 28-1905
Authorization and Certification of Entrance or Reentrance into Rehabilitation and Certification of Status (from your VR counselor)
- Certification Request (See Forms Page)
