Chapter 31 (Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, VR&E) provides eligible veterans with a service-connected disability a comprehensive plan to prepare for, find, and maintain suitable employment — or achieve independent living. Benefits include tuition, housing, books, tools, training, and a monthly subsistence allowance paid directly to the veteran.
⚡ Quick Eligibility Calculator
Check each row — all must be met to qualify. Hover a row for verification guidance.
| Requirement | You qualify if… | How to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Service connection | At least one service-connected disability | VA rating letter showing any rating |
| Employment handicap | Disability creates an employment barrier | Vocational evaluation with VR&E counselor |
| Service length | Served at least 1 day on active duty with discharge other than dishonorable | DD-214 |
| Entitlement period | Within 12 years of discharge or 12 years from notification of SC rating | Discharge date + rating decision date |
| Program feasibility | Must have a reasonable chance of completing the program and gaining employment | Determined by VR&E counselor |
North Carolina-Specific Programs & Advantages
North Carolina Veterans Benefits Beyond the Federal Programs
- North Carolina Disabled Veteran Homestead Exclusion — $45,000 assessed value excluded
- NC National Guard Supplemental Scholarship Program
- Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune — major VA community care hubs
- NC Four-Year Scholarship Program for Children of War Veterans (deceased, 100% P&T)
Property Tax Note for North Carolina Veterans
North Carolina provides a Disabled Veteran Homestead Exclusion that excludes $45,000 of assessed home value from property taxes for honorably discharged veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled.
Who to Contact in North Carolina
For Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR&E) claims assistance in North Carolina, contact the North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs (NCDVA). They provide free, accredited claims help to veterans at no cost.
Apply for the homestead exclusion with your county assessor. NCDVA service officers work at county DSS offices and veterans service offices across all 100 counties.
How to Apply for Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR&E)
Application Process
Processing time: 30–60 days for initial eligibility determination; program start typically within 60–90 days
Apply online: VA.gov — Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR&E) →
Required Documents Checklist
- VA Form 28-1900 (Disabled Veterans Application for Vocational Rehabilitation)
- DD-214
- VA rating decision letter
- Previous education transcripts (if applicable)
Securely Store Your Records in the Benefit Bunker
Benefit Bunker is a Progressive Web App (PWA) — install it on your phone or computer for offline access. Store your DD-214, C&P exam results, rating decision letters, and VA correspondence directly in your Bunker. Available at your VA appointment even without Wi-Fi.
Add to Home Screen — Free, No Account →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly subsistence allowance for Chapter 31 in North Carolina?
Chapter 31 subsistence allowance in 2026 ranges from approximately $674/month (less than half-time) to $1,234/month (full-time, without dependents) for school-based programs in North Carolina. Veterans with dependents receive additional allowances. The rate varies by program type (school vs. OJT vs. independent living) and location cost-of-living differential.
Is Chapter 31 better than the GI Bill for veterans in North Carolina?
For veterans with service-connected disabilities who have an employment barrier, Chapter 31 often provides more comprehensive support than the GI Bill — it covers tuition, fees, books, supplies, tools, and subsistence allowance simultaneously, and has no time limit tied to months of entitlement. Veterans in North Carolina should schedule a VR&E evaluation to compare options side by side.
Can I use Chapter 31 for self-employment in North Carolina?
Yes — Chapter 31's Self-Employment track allows veterans in North Carolina to develop business plans and receive equipment, licensing fees, and training to launch a viable business. Eligibility for this track requires a feasible business concept, strong entrepreneurial aptitude, and VA counselor approval. It is the least-used VR&E track but can be very powerful for the right veteran.