Chapter 35 VA Payment Schedule

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) launched Chapter 35, popularly known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, to help eligible dependents of veterans with their education and training costs.

Whether seeking a college degree, vocational training, or on-the-job training, these benefits have been created to reduce the financial burden of education. New payment rates for Ch-35 have been announced, which will take effect on October 1, 2024, and end on September 30, 2025.

Chapter 35 VA Payment Schedule

Monthly financial support is provided under the Chapter 35 DEA program; the amount is dependent upon the student’s enrollment status and the kind of educational program. For example, students enrolled full-time in college or university will receive $1,536 per month; students enrolled part-time or at a reduced course load will receive less.

Payment for non-college degree programs, such as trade schools and apprenticeships, is based on the duration of on the job training or scheduled clock hours.

Chapter 35 VA Payment Overview

Chapter 35 VA Details

The monthly DEA benefit for college students enrolled full time is $1,536. Half-time students receive $890 per month, while part-time students, such as those who attend three-quarters of the time, will receive $1,214. A student is still able to receive $890 if they are enrolled less than half-time, but the amount will not go above the cost of tuition and fees.

Students enrolled for no more than quarter-time are eligible for $384 per month. In non-degree programs like vocational schools, payments depend on the scheduled clock hours and the number of days a student is enrolled in a given month. The payments for on-the-job training participants start at $975 per month for the first six months and then slowly drop as the training goes on.

Eligibility Criteria for Chapter 35 DEA Benefits

• If certain requirements are met, spouses and children of veterans are eligible for Chapter-35 benefits.
• Dependents of veterans who have died or become permanently disabled as an outcome of an illness or injury related to their service are among the eligible individuals.
• The program is also open to dependents of service members who are listed as missing in action or who have been kept by a foreign government.
• Benefits can be used for a wide range of educational programs, such as degree programs, apprenticeships, and certificate courses, by eligible spouses and children.

For on-the-job training and apprenticeships

• Months 1 to 6: $945 for each full month
• Months 7 to 12: $710 for each full month
• Months 13 to 18: $466 for each full month
• More than 19 months: $237 for each full month

Maximizing Your Chapter 35 Benefits

• To maximize Chapter 35 benefits, stay updated on annual payment changes and understand how course load or program type affects your payments.
• While full-time students are paid more than part-time or non-degree students, both types of students receive significant support.
• Beneficiaries should note that benefits typically expire 10 years after the veteran’s death or the date they were deemed permanently disabled.
• Maximizing the support provided by Chapter-35 can be achieved by carefully planning your educational goals and checking for updates on a regular basis.

How to Apply for Chapter 35 DEA Benefits

Individuals can easily apply for Chapter 35 DEA benefits is a straightforward process. Applicants must complete VA Form 22-5490, “Dependents’ Application for VA Education Benefits,” which can be submitted online through the VA’s official website or mailed to the proper local processing office.

Additionally, applicants must submit supporting documentation, such as certification of the veteran’s military service and the eligibility of the dependent. The VA will inform the applicant of their benefit approval and payment details as soon as the application is processed.

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