Chapter 35 VA Benefits 2025 – The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, also known as Chapter 35 VA Benefits, provides financial support to dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition or who have passed away as a result of their service. These benefits help spouses and children access education and training opportunities, enabling them to build successful careers and brighter futures.
If you’re wondering how much financial support you can receive in 2025, whether you qualify, or how to apply, this article will walk you through everything you need to know in a clear, easy-to-understand way.
Chapter 35 VA Benefits 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Education Monthly Stipend | $1,536.00 |
| 3/4 Time Enrollment | $1,214.00 |
| 1/2 Time Enrollment | $890.00 |
| 1/4 Time or Less | $384.00 (or tuition and fees, whichever is less) |
| Apprenticeships & OJT (First 6 Months) | $975.00 |
| Apprenticeships & OJT (7-12 Months) | $733.00 |
| Eligibility | Dependents (spouses & children) of veterans who are permanently disabled or deceased due to service-related causes |
| Application Process | Online via VA.gov or by mail with VA Form 22-5490 |
| Work-Study Opportunities | Available for eligible students |
| Tutoring Assistance | Up to $100 per month reimbursement |
| Special Restorative Training | Available for dependents with disabilities |
The Chapter 35 VA Benefits program is an incredible resource for spouses and children of disabled or deceased veterans. With financial support for tuition, books, training, and additional support services like childcare and housing assistance, dependents have more opportunities than ever to pursue successful careers.
Whether you’re interested in a college degree, vocational training, or an apprenticeship, understanding your eligibility and application process is the first step toward maximizing these valuable benefits.
What is Chapter 35 VA Benefits?
The Chapter 35 DEA Program provides educational benefits to the eligible dependents of veterans who meet specific service-related criteria. These benefits help cover the cost of tuition, books, and training for a variety of educational programs, including:
- College or university degrees
- Vocational and technical training
- On-the-job training (OJT) and apprenticeships
- Correspondence courses
- Specialized training for disabled dependents
- Entrepreneurship training for aspiring business owners
This program ensures that dependents of those who have served our country can pursue meaningful educational and career opportunities without financial hardship.
Eligibility Criteria for Chapter 35 VA Benefits
To qualify for Chapter 35 benefits, you must be the spouse or child of a veteran who:
- Has a permanent and total service-connected disability.
- Died due to a service-connected condition.
- Died while on active duty.
- Is missing in action (MIA) or was a prisoner of war (POW) for more than 90 days.
Additional Criteria:
- Children can use Chapter 35 benefits between the ages of 18 and 26.
- Spouses have up to 10 years from the date of eligibility determination (or longer in special cases) to use their benefits.
- Extensions may be granted in cases of personal hardship or disability.
For the most current eligibility details, visit the official VA.gov education benefits page.
2025 Monthly Payment Amounts for Chapter 35 Benefits
Here are the updated monthly stipend rates for 2025 based on enrollment status:
Institutional Training (College & University Education)
- Full-time: $1,536.00 per month
- 3/4-time: $1,214.00 per month
- 1/2-time: $890.00 per month
- Less than 1/2-time (more than 1/4-time): $890.00 per month (or tuition & fees, whichever is lower)
- 1/4-time enrollment or less: $384.00 per month (or tuition & fees, whichever is lower)
On-the-Job Training & Apprenticeships
- First 6 months: $975.00 per month
- Months 7-12: $733.00 per month
- Months 13-18: $481.00 per month
- More than 19 months: $245.00 per month
Additional Allowances & Support
- Childcare support for student parents
- Housing assistance for eligible dependents
- Transportation reimbursement for students traveling long distances
These rates are subject to periodic adjustments. Always check VA.gov for updates.
How to Apply for Chapter 35 VA Benefits?
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, have these documents ready:
- Veteran’s VA file number (SSN or VA claim number)
- Personal identification
- School or training program details
Step 2: Choose an Application Method
- Online: Apply through the VA’s website.
- By Mail: Complete VA Form 22-5490 and send it to your nearest VA processing office.
- In-Person: Visit a VA regional office or work with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO).
Step 3: Wait for VA Processing
After submitting your application, the VA will review it and notify you within 30-60 days. You can track your status via VA.gov.
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FAQs
1. Can I receive Chapter 35 benefits if I’m already using another VA education benefit?
No, you cannot receive Chapter 35 benefits if you are already using other VA education benefits such as the Post-9/11 GI Bill®.
2. Do Chapter 35 benefits cover online courses?
Yes! Online courses from accredited institutions qualify for Chapter 35 benefits, provided they meet VA eligibility requirements.
3. Can Chapter 35 benefits be transferred to another family member?
No, these benefits are non-transferable. Each eligible dependent must apply and use their own benefits.
4. Will I need to pay back the benefits if I fail a class?
Typically, no. However, if you drop a course or withdraw from school, you may be required to repay the benefits received for that class.
5. Can I use Chapter 35 benefits for vocational or technical training?
Yes! Chapter 35 benefits can be used for vocational schools, technical programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training programs.
6. Is there a time limit on using Chapter 35 benefits?
Yes, there is a 10-year limit for spouses and a benefit usage window of ages 18-26 for children. Extensions may be granted in cases of personal hardship or disability.
7. Can Chapter 35 benefits be used for graduate or professional degrees?
Yes, Chapter 35 benefits can be applied toward graduate and professional degree programs at eligible institutions.
8. Are there additional allowances for students with disabilities?
Yes, students with disabilities may qualify for Special Restorative Training or Special Vocational Training, depending on their individual needs.
9. How do I check my application status?
You can track your Chapter 35 benefits application status online via VA.gov.
10. Can I receive housing assistance while using Chapter 35 benefits?
No, unlike the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, Chapter 35 does not provide a housing allowance. However, dependents may qualify for separate VA housing assistance programs.
