The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has updated the Chapter 35 Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) benefits for 2024, providing crucial support for the education and training of eligible dependents of veterans.
These updates aim to ensure that beneficiaries receive adequate financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the new pay scale, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for these benefits.
Overview of Chapter 35 VA Benefits
Chapter 35 benefits, also known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, offer education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition, died in the line of duty, or are missing in action or captured.
The program provides up to 45 months of educational benefits, which can be used for a variety of educational and training programs, including college degrees, technical or vocational courses, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.
Also Read: Changes in Social Security Check Payment Dates for Retirees: What to Expect
2024 Chapter 35 Pay Rates
The monthly pay rates for Chapter 35 benefits depend on the type of education or training and whether the student is attending full-time or part-time. Here are the updated rates for 2024:
For Institutions of Higher Learning (Colleges and Universities):
- Full-time enrollment: $1,488 per month
- Three-quarter time enrollment: $1,176 per month
- Half-time enrollment: $862 per month
- Less than half-time and more than quarter-time enrollment: $862 per month (or the cost of tuition and fees, whichever is less)
- Quarter-time enrollment or less: $372 per month (or the cost of tuition and fees, whichever is less)
For Non-College Degree Programs (Trade and Vocational Schools):
- Full-time enrollment: $1,488 per month
- Three-quarter time enrollment: $1,176 per month
- Half-time enrollment: $862 per month
- Less than half-time and more than quarter-time enrollment: $862 per month (or the cost of tuition and fees, whichever is less)
- Quarter-time enrollment or less: $372 per month (or the cost of tuition and fees, whichever is less)
For On-the-Job Training and Apprenticeships:
- First six months: $945 per month
- Second six months: $710 per month
- Third six months: $466 per month
- Remainder of training: $237 per month
Special Restorative Training:
- Full-time enrollment: $1,488 per month
- Accelerated charges: Cost of tuition and fees exceeding $392 per month
Eligibility Criteria for Chapter 35 Benefits
To qualify for Chapter 35 benefits, you must be the spouse or dependent child of a veteran or service member who meets one of the following conditions:
- Permanent and total service-connected disability: The veteran is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition.
- Deceased: The veteran died in the line of duty or as a result of a service-connected disability.
- Missing in action or captured: The service member has been missing in action or captured by a hostile force for more than 90 days.
- Detained by a foreign entity: The service member has been forcibly detained or interned by a foreign government or power for more than 90 days.
- Hospitalized or receiving outpatient care: The veteran is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service-connected permanent and total disability.
Also Read: Breaking News: SNAP Benefits for Families of Four in August 2024 – Up to $973, $1,759, or $1,937
Application Process for Chapter 35 Benefits
To apply for Chapter 35 benefits, follow these steps:
- Verify Program Approval: Ensure that your educational program or training is approved for VA benefits by contacting your school’s certifying official.
- Complete Application: Apply online through the VA’s website by filling out VA Form 22-5490, Dependents’ Application for VA Education Benefits. Alternatively, you can apply by mail.
- Submit Documents: Provide necessary documentation, including proof of relationship to the veteran, proof of enrollment, and any other required information.
- School Certification: Have your school submit a VA Enrollment Certification (VA Form 22-1999) to confirm your enrollment status.
Additional Considerations
- Maintaining Eligibility: To continue receiving benefits, you must remain in good academic standing as defined by your educational institution. Failure to maintain satisfactory progress, conduct, or attendance may result in the suspension of benefits.
- Time Limits: Benefits typically end when the dependent child turns 26 or after a maximum of 45 months of benefits. Spouses have either 10 or 20 years to use their benefits, depending on the veteran’s circumstances.
Conclusion
The updated Chapter 35 VA benefits pay scale for 2024 offers increased financial support for eligible dependents of veterans. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application process, beneficiaries can effectively utilize these benefits to achieve their educational and career goals.
For more detailed information and assistance, visit the VA’s official website or contact your local VA office. This proactive approach will help ensure that you receive the maximum benefits available to support your education and training endeavors.