If you have a service-connected disability that limits your ability to work or prevents you from working, Veteran Readiness and Employment (formerly called Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) can help. This program—also known as Chapter 31 or VR&E—helps you explore employment options and address education or training needs. In some cases, your family members may also qualify for certain benefits.
For service members and Veterans with service-connected disabilities
VR&E support-and-services tracks
If you’re a Veteran or service member with a service-connected disability that impacts your ability to work, the Veteran Readiness and Employment program (formerly called Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment) may be able to help. We offer 5 support-and-services tracks to help you get education or training, find and keep a job, and live as independently as possible. Explore the different tracks—and find out how to apply for benefits and services.
Reemployment track
You may have the right to return to the civilian job you held before you deployed. Find out how we can help with this process.
Rapid Access to Employment track
If you want a job that matches your existing skills, find out if you can get employment counseling and job-search support.
Self-Employment track
If you’re a service member or Veteran with a service-connected disability, find out how we can help you start your own business.
Employment Through Long-Term Services track
Find out if you may be eligible for professional or vocational education and training to help you develop new job skills.
Independent Living track
Learn about services that can help you live as independently as possible if you can't return to work right away.
How do I get these benefits?
First, you’ll need to apply for VR&E benefits. Then, you’ll work with your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). If you’ve received your VA disability rating, you can apply online right now.
If you're eligible, we'll invite you to an orientation session at your nearest VA regional office.
► Learn more about how to apply
Note: You can apply if you’re a service member who hasn't received a disability rating yet.
Get more information
We offer opportunities to get training and practical hands-on work experience at the same time through programs like:
- The VR&E Special Employer Incentives (SEI) program for eligible Veterans who face challenges getting a job.
Download the SEI program fact sheet (PDF) - The VR&E Non-Paid Work Experience (NPWE) program for eligible Veterans and service members who have an established career goal and learn easily in a hands-on environment—or are having trouble getting a job due to lack of work experience.
Download the NPWE program fact sheet (PDF)
Watch this video to learn more about the NPWE program
We also offer:
- VR&E employment coordinators—located at our VA regional offices and many of our out-based locations—who can help you access the employment services available to you. Find an employment coordinator near you
- Counselors to help you transition from military to college life. Learn about VetSuccess on Campus
- Links to more resources outside VA that can help you in your job search. See our list of external resources
- If you’re participating in a VR&E employment program and lost your housing because of a natural or other disaster, you may qualify for 2 more months of the Employment Adjustment Allowance. Contact your VR&E counselor for more information