VR&E (Chapter 31): Veteran Readiness & Employment
Updated July 2026
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E), also called Chapter 31, is an underused benefit that can pay for training, education, and job support for veterans with a service-connected disability — often with better financial support than the GI Bill.
What VR&E is
VR&E helps veterans and service members whose service-connected disability limits their ability to find or keep a job. Depending on your goals, it can pay for schooling, certifications, tools, job-placement help, or even support to start a business or live more independently.
Who qualifies
You may be eligible if you have a service-connected disability rating and an employment barrier related to it. Generally there is no time limit to use VR&E for veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013; earlier discharges may have a 12-year eligibility window. A Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) makes the final entitlement determination.
The five tracks
- Reemployment — return to a former employer.
- Rapid Access to Employment — find a job that fits your existing skills.
- Self-Employment — start and run a small business.
- Employment Through Long-Term Services — training or education for a new career.
- Independent Living — for veterans not currently able to work, to live more independently.
What it pays
For approved training, VR&E can cover tuition, required fees, books, and supplies, plus a monthly subsistence allowance to help with living costs while you train (the maximum full-time rate was $3,439.23/month effective October 1, 2025, varying by attendance and dependents).
VR&E vs. the GI Bill
Unlike the GI Bill, VR&E is centered on employment and requires a service-connected disability — but for those who qualify it can be more generous and more tailored. Some veterans use VR&E first and preserve their GI Bill for later. Compare both on our benefits pages.
How to apply
Apply on VA.gov. The VA then schedules an evaluation with a VRC, who reviews your disability, interests, and aptitudes and decides which track fits. If entitled, you and the counselor build a rehabilitation plan together.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between VR&E and the GI Bill?
The GI Bill is an education benefit available broadly to those who served. VR&E (Chapter 31) is an employment-focused benefit for veterans with a service-connected disability and a related barrier to work — it can pay tuition plus a subsistence allowance and is tailored to a career plan.
Who is eligible for VR&E Chapter 31?
Veterans and service members with a service-connected disability that limits their ability to find or hold suitable employment. A Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor makes the final determination after an evaluation.
Does VR&E pay a housing or living allowance?
Yes. While in an approved training program, VR&E pays a monthly subsistence allowance in addition to covering tuition, fees, and books. The amount depends on your rate of attendance and number of dependents.
Is there a time limit to use VR&E?
For veterans discharged on or after January 1, 2013, there is generally no time limit to use VR&E. Those discharged earlier may have a 12-year eligibility window from separation or from being notified of a service-connected rating.
Related benefits
- Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E / Chapter 31)
- VA Veteran Readiness (Chapter 31) — Self-Employment Track