$1,100+ Monthly Payments? Inside the VA Benefit Every Disabled Veteran Should Know About in 2025

By Ronak Sharma On Jun 16, 2025 Share with new partner:

Let’s be real—navigating VA benefits can feel overwhelming. Between all the forms, the acronyms, and the eligibility rules, it’s easy to get lost. But if you’re a veteran dealing with a service-connected disability and trying to figure out your next steps in life—Chapter 31 (also known as Veteran Readiness and Employment, or VR&E) could be a game-changer.

It’s not just about getting a job. This program is designed to help you get stable, long-term employment—or, if needed, help you live as independently as possible.

So let’s break it down in simple terms—what Chapter 31 is, how it works in June 2025, and how you can apply without feeling like you need a law degree.

What Is Chapter 31 (VR&E) Really About?

Chapter 31 isn’t your average job assistance program. It’s built to help veterans with service-connected disabilities find a career that works for them—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.

Depending on your needs and goals, this could mean:

Getting a college degree or certification
Starting your own business
Finding the right job and getting resume help
Getting tools, equipment, or even clothes for work
Support with daily living if employment isn’t an option yet

Who Can Actually Apply in June 2025?

Here’s the eligibility checklist, made easy:

✅ You’re a veteran with a service-connected disability rated at least 10% by the VA
✅ You received anything other than a dishonorable discharge
✅ You’re dealing with an employment issue (called an “employment handicap”)
✅ You’re either still within the 12-year eligibility window from your separation date, or you separated after January 1, 2013, which means you have no time limit

Still active-duty? You can also apply before discharge if:

You have a predischarge rating of 20% or more, or
You’re going through a medical separation, or
You’re using the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES)

What Help Will You Actually Get?

Once you qualify, you’ll be paired with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). This is someone who will work directly with you to figure out what path makes the most sense. Together, you’ll create a personalized “rehabilitation plan.”

There are 5 paths (called “tracks”) depending on your goals:

Reemployment – Helping you get back to your old job, but with support and accommodation if needed
Rapid Access to Employment – You’re ready to work now, just need help landing the job
Self-Employment – You want to run your own business, and need planning, tools, or startup help
Employment Through Long-Term Services – Includes college, apprenticeships, certification programs
Independent Living Services – If returning to work isn’t possible right now, this focuses on quality of life and home-based support

And yes, in most cases, you’ll also get a monthly stipend to help cover your living expenses while you’re in training or school.

How to Apply for Chapter 31 in June 2025

You’ve got four ways to apply—choose whatever’s easiest for you:

1. Online

The fastest way is through the VA’s official site.
You’ll fill out VA Form 28-1900 online.

2. By Mail

Download and fill out VA Form 28-1900, then mail it to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
VR&E Intake Center
P.O. Box 5210, Janesville, WI 53547-5210

3. In Person

Visit your local VA regional office. A VA rep can help you file the form right there.

4. With Help from a VSO

A Veteran Service Organization (like DAV, VFW, or American Legion) can walk you through the process and submit the form on your behalf.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once your application is in:

You’ll get scheduled to meet with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
They’ll assess whether you qualify based on your disability and employment barriers
If accepted, you’ll work together to create your rehab and career plan
Then you’ll start receiving training, education, support services, and if eligible, monthly subsistence payments while you train or go to school

What’s the Monthly Stipend in 2025?

If you qualify for training or school through Chapter 31, you’ll likely get a monthly living allowance. It varies based on:

Whether you’re in school full-time or part-time
How many dependents you have
The type of training you’re doing

For full-time students with dependents in June 2025, the average stipend is around $1,169/month, but this can go up depending on your situation.

A Few Pro Tips

Be patient but persistent. Applications can take a few weeks to months depending on your location and VA staffing.
Keep copies of everything you submit—especially medical and discharge records.
Follow up with your VRC often. They’re your main point of contact and can unlock all the resources available to you.

Chapter 31 isn’t just about “getting a job.” It’s about getting your life back on track—whether that means going back to school, learning a trade, starting a business, or just finding the right support to move forward.

If you’re a veteran living with a service-connected disability, don’t wait. Apply now. Even if you’re not sure where to start, taking that first step could open the door to a much better future.

Need help with the actual application form? I can walk you through it—just let me know.