The Chapter 35 VA benefits, also known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, provide monthly payments to eligible dependents of veterans. These benefits help cover the cost of education and training, making it possible for spouses and children of certain veterans to pursue higher education, vocational training, or apprenticeships.
Who Qualifies for Chapter 35 VA Benefits?
You may be eligible for Chapter 35 benefits if you are the spouse or child of a veteran who:
- Died while on active duty, or
- Has a permanent and total service-connected disability, or
- Died as a result of a service-connected condition.
Eligible dependents include:
- Spouses (husband or wife).
- Children, including adopted and stepchildren.
How Much Are Chapter 35 VA Benefits?
The benefit amount depends on your enrollment status and the type of program you attend. Below are the 2025 monthly payment rates:
College or University (Higher Education)
- Full-time: $1,536
- 3/4-time: $1,214
- 1/2-time: $890
- 1/4-time or less: $384 or actual tuition and fees (whichever is lower)
Vocational Training and Non-College Programs
- Full-time: $1,536
- 3/4-time: $1,214
- 1/2-time: $890
- 1/4-time or less: $384 or tuition/fees (lower amount applies)
On-the-Job Training & Apprenticeships
- Months 1–6: $975
- Months 7–12: $733
- Months 13–18: $481
- More than 19 months: $245
Correspondence Training & Special Programs
- Correspondence training: 55% of approved fees
- Special restorative training: $1,536 per month (plus tuition above $405)
- Licensing & certification tests: Up to $2,000 per test (unlimited tests covered)
When Are Chapter 35 VA Payments Sent?
Payments are issued monthly by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Normally, benefits are paid on the first day of the following month.
- Example: Benefits for April are paid on May 1.
- If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, payment is made on the last business day of the prior month.
New enrollees receive their first payment one month after classes begin, covering the time from their enrollment start date.
How to Apply for Chapter 35 VA Benefits
You can apply online or by mail:
- Online: Visit the VA.gov Dependents’ Educational Assistance page.
- By Mail: Complete VA Form 22-5490 (Application for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance) and mail it to your regional VA office.
- Through Your School: Many schools have a VA certifying official who can help you submit the required forms.
- Chapter 35 VA benefits provide financial support for eligible dependents of certain veterans.
- Payments range from $245 to $1,536 per month, depending on enrollment type and training program.
- Benefits are usually paid on the first of the month, covering the prior month’s training or classes.
- You can apply online at VA.gov or by submitting VA Form 22-5490.
