Education & Training

Education & Training
The VA will pay benefits to eligible veterans, dependents, reservists, and service members while they are in an approved training program. Major programs are:
  • Montgomery GI Bill: Persons who first entered active duty after June 30, 1985, are generally eligible. Some Vietnam Era veterans and certain veterans separated under special program are also eligible.
The bill also includes a program for certain reservists and National Guard members:
  • Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP): This program is for veterans who entered active duty for the first time after December 31, 1976 but before July 1, 1985 and contributed to a training fund.
  • Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance: Some family members of disabled or deceased veterans maybe eligible for education benefits.
Time Limits
Generally, veterans have 10 years from the date they were last released from active duty to use their education benefits. Spouses generally have 10 years from the date we first find them eligible (DIC). Children are generally eligible from age 18 until age 26. These time limits can sometimes be extended.

Vocational Rehabilitation

The VA can help certain service-disabled veterans to get and keep suitable employment. Some of the services that are provided include:
  • Payment of training costs
  • Monthly payments to help with living expenses
  • Vocational and personal counseling
  • Medical and dental treatment, if needed
Time Limits
You generally have 12 years from the date notified of your eligibility. You may have longer if certain conditions prevent you from training, or if you have a serious employment handicap.