To be eligible under Chapter 31 you must receive or be entitled to receive compensation for a service-connected disability. You must meet the following three conditions:

• Your discharge from active duty must be under other than dishonorable conditions
• You must be within your period of eligibility for the program
• If VA rates your service-connected condition at least 20 percent, you must have difficulty getting or keeping a suitable job. With a 10 percent rating, you must have major difficulty getting or keeping such a job

The Department of Veterans Affairs determines the need and nature of vocational rehabilitation necessary to overcome your disabilities. Generally, Chapter 31 expires 12 years following the date you were notified of your eligibility. That time frame may be extended at the discretion of the VA. Benefits include payment of tuition, fees, books, supplies, and a monthly subsistence allowance.

Monthly Payments under Chapter 31 will depend on the amount of hours taken each semester.

To further review your benefits under Chapter 31:

• Ask your county Veterans Office for VA Pamphlet 28-82-1
• Review Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment--Getting Ahead After You Get Out
• Check the Veterans Website Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Service.

To begin the process of applying for Chapter 31 benefits veterans are required to complete the following paperwork:

1. VA Form 28-1900 - Disabled Veterans Application for Vocational Rehabilitation. Click on the form number and print out, then fill in applicable information
2. Provide a copy of your service-connected disability certification
3. Copy of DD Form 214, member copy #4. Lost your DD Form 214 click here

For an appointment with the Department of Veterans Affairs Vocational Rehabilitation Office call 402.346.8800. The office is located at the Veterans Hospital 4101 Woolworth Avenue, Omaha, Nebraska 68105-1873.