Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31)
- Illinois Veterans Grant
- Illinois National Guard Grant
- Illinois MIA/POW Scholarship
- Montgomery GI Bill Educational Benefits (Chapter 30, 33, 1606, and 1607)
- Federal Education Benefits for Dependents of Veterans (Chapter 35)
How to apply
The PSC veterans’ affairs advisor can provide the information to apply for Chapter 31 benefits. To apply: https://www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation/apply-vre-form-28-1900/start
What determines eligibility
Formerly called Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, you’re eligible to apply for VR&E benefits and services if you meet both of these requirements:
All of these must be true:
- You didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge, and
- You have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% from VA
How are recipients selected
When they receive your VR&E application, they will schedule your initial evaluation with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). The VRC will determine if you’re entitled to receive VR&E benefits and services.
If you were discharged from active duty before January 1, 2013, your basic period of eligibility ends 12 years from one of these dates, whichever comes later:
- The date you received notice of your date of separation from active duty, or
- The date you received your first VA service-connected disability rating
If you were discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013, the 12-year basic period of eligibility doesn’t apply to you. There’s no time limit on your eligibility.
How is the amount of the award determined?
Congress determines the monthly amount of the award. The veteran must work with a Veterans Affairs Vocational Education Specialist to determine how many months of benefits and what programs the veteran can take. There is additional money each month if the student is married or has children living in their home. The student can receive benefits for half-time to full-time enrollment.
How and when are the funds paid out?
Once the student begins receiving their monthly check, they will be paid each month for the previous month's attendance.
Additional information
Students receiving Chapter 31 benefits will also have all of their tuition, fees, books, and approved supplies paid by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.