What is Vocational Rehabilitation?

Vocational Rehabilitation is a program which helps eligible veterans get and keep lasting, suitable jobs. It also helps seriously disabled veterans achieve independence in daily living.

The program offers a number of services to help each eligible veteran reach his or her rehabilitation goal. These services include vocational and personal counseling, education and training, financial aid, job assistance, and, if needed, medical and dental treatment. Services generally last up to 48 months, but they can be extended in certain instances.

Who is Eligible?

Usually, you must first be awarded a monthly VA Disability Compensation payment. In some cases, you may be eligible if you aren't getting VA compensation (for example you are awaiting discharge from the service because of a disability, OR you are entitled to VA compensation but have decided not to reduce your military retirement or disability pay).

Eligibility is also based on you meeting the following conditions:

• You served on or after September 16, 1940 AND
• Your service-connected disabilities are rated at least 20% disabling by VA AND
• You need Vocational Rehabilitation to overcome an employment handicap AND
• It has been less than 12 years since VA notified you of your eligibility.

• You may be eligible for Vocational Rehabilitation if you are rated 10% disabled, and you have a serious employment handicap.
• You may have longer than 12 years to use this benefit if certain conditions prevented you from training.

VA will pay your training costs, such as tuition and fees, books, supplies, equipment, and, if needed, special services. While you are in training, VA will also pay you a monthly benefit to help with living expenses, called a subsistence allowance. For details, call the Claims Office.

How Can I Apply?

You can apply by filling- out VA Form 28-1900, Disabled Veterans Application for Vocational Rehabilitation, and mail it to the VA regional office that serves your area.

Related Benefits
Work Study Allowance
Tutorial Assistance
Revolving Fund Loan

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