Certain veterans’ spouses and children who qualify can pursue higher education via the VA’s Survivors and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program. Depending on how long a recipient attends classes, the DEA offers financial aid to pay for tuition and expenses for qualified educational programs.
The program, commonly referred to as Chapter 35, assists you in paying for your training and further study. You must be the spouse or child of a veteran who has passed away, gone missing, or been rendered completely and permanently crippled in order to be eligible.
The kind of educational program and the duration of your membership, however, will determine the benefit amount. The amount you would get for studying less than half-time but more than quarter-time is shown below.
Benefits of Chapter 35
Your DEA benefits can be used to pay for books, school supplies, tuition, and fees. Additionally, recipients who are enrolled in a higher education institution, vocational or trade school, or an on-the-job training program can utilize them as a monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
The length of enrollment affects the benefit amount. You will get $1,536 a month if you are enrolled full-time in a non-college degree program or at a higher education institution. You will receive $1,214 if you enroll 3/4 time, $890 if you join 1/2 time, and $384 if you enroll 1/4 time.
What occurs, though, if you study more than 1/4 time and less than 1/2 time? In this instance, VA will either pay your tuition and fees or assign you a benefit of $890 per month, whichever is less.
In what way may I apply for Chapter 35?
Completing VA Form 22-5490 is required if you fulfill the eligibility requirements. You can complete the paper form and mail it, or you can do it online. In the event that you have already selected a school, send your application and let the certifying officer know that you filed for VA educational benefits so they can provide your enrollment details.
You can submit your application if you haven’t decided on a school yet, and if you do, ask for the VA to receive your enrollment details. Either way, being aware of your rights will enable you to get the benefits you are entitled to.
