11 Military Education Benefits for Service Members

4. Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (Chapter 31) — For service-connected disabilities

Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment serves veterans with service-connected disabilities who need help preparing for, finding, and keeping suitable employment. Eligibility requires a service-connected condition that limits the ability to work, and a VA vocational rehabilitation counselor will assess needs and develop a personalized rehabilitation plan. That plan can include funding for education, on-the-job training, licensing and certification costs, and job-seeking support. Unlike traditional tuition benefits, Chapter 31 focuses on employment outcomes and can cover supportive services such as adaptive equipment and career counseling. To begin, file an application with VA Vocational Rehabilitation online or contact your regional VA office to request a benefits interview. Expect a thorough review that looks at medical records and work history; the process is designed to match training with realistic employment goals. If approved, work closely with your VA counselor to track milestones, training schedules, and the plan’s timelines so you maintain eligibility and progress toward employment.