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 |
Texas-Specific Programs & Advantages
Texas Veterans Benefits Beyond the Federal Programs
- Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) home & land loans at reduced rates
- Hazlewood Act — 150 credit hours of free tuition at Texas public colleges
- Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) — free claims assistance statewide
- Operation Lone Star employment preference for state government jobs
Property Tax Note for Texas Veterans
Texas offers the most generous property tax benefit in the nation for 100% P&T veterans: a complete homestead exemption that eliminates the entire property tax bill, regardless of home value.
Who to Contact in Texas
For Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation (VR&E) claims assistance in Texas, contact the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). They provide free, accredited claims help to veterans at no cost.
File property tax exemptions with your county appraisal district by April 30. Disability claims are filed federally through VA.gov or the Waco VA regional office.
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 Texas?
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 Texas. 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 Texas?
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 Texas should schedule a VR&E evaluation to compare options side by side.
Can I use Chapter 31 for self-employment in Texas?
Yes — Chapter 31's Self-Employment track allows veterans in Texas 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.