Do You Have Questions about VR&E? We've Got Answers

As a veteran, you have a lot of opportunities that others don't. One of those is Veterans Readiness & Employment (VR&E) – which used to be called Voc Rehab. The 2020 name change didn't affect the goal of helping veterans overcome obstacles and secure employment. Here are some questions you may have about VR&E and the answers. 

Am I Eligible for VR&E?

The services offered through VR&E include counseling, training, career placement and rehabilitation services to eligible service members, veterans and dependents. To be eligible for this program, you must meet the two requirements below:

• You didn't receive a dishonorable discharge, and

• You have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% from the VA

• Active-duty service members must meet one of these qualifications:

• You have a 20% or higher pre-discharge disability rating (memorandum rating) and will soon leave the military, or

• You're waiting to be discharged because of a severe illness or injury that occurred while you were on active duty

Is there a time limit for this program?

You have 12 years to use this entitlement if you left the military before January 1, 2013. The 12 years start on the latest date of these two things, when you received your first disability rating from the VA or when you received notice of your date of separation.

For more details on VR&E, visit the VA's website.

What's the difference between GI Bill®️ and VR&E?

VR&E and GI Bill®️ are not the same. The GI Bill®️ is an education program, but the VR&E program is about employment.

How do I apply for VR&E?

• Apply to the VR&E by completing a VA Form 28-1900 or by mail, in person or through a trained professional

• Then you'll be assigned to a Vocational Rehab Counselor in a regional office based on the address listed on your application

• The counselor provides you with an orientation to the VR&E program and then makes an entitlement determination

• Through evaluation and planning, you select a track to employment

• Once you have obtained and maintained employment for 60 consecutive days in a suitable vocational goal, your file is then requested for successful rehabilitation

What happens after I apply for VR&E?

"Once we receive the transfer request and accept it, it will be assigned to a local counselor," said Latasha Duplessis, a vocational rehab counselor. "The local counselor will then reevaluate your plan to make sure that goal is a viable goal for this region and for you at this particular time."

She also said that if another station developed a plan, there's no guarantee it will be honored when you transfer to a new station.

Can I choose what kind of employment and training I want?

There are five tracks available within the VR&E program. They are employment, rapid access to employment, self-employment, employment to long-time services and independent living services. The most popular of these is the employment to long-term track.

What happens after I have a job?

VR&E counselors continue to monitor your progress and make sure things are going well with your new job. If you have any trouble or need additional accommodations, they can help.

What does VR&E cover? Does it include supplies?

Duplessis shared that the VR&E purchases all required supplies and about $75 for a full-time semester to buy basic school supplies. If your program requires specific supplies, including consumer electronics or equipment, you can complete a request accompanied by your syllabus and a written statement. This is sent to your counselor.

Take advantage of GGU's Career Programs resources to take the next step in your civilian career.