Chapter 35 Education Benefits (DEA)

What is Chapter 35?

Chapter 35, officially known as the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, provides education and training benefits to eligible spouses and children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to service-connected conditions, or who died as a result of service-connected disabilities.

Chapter 35 recognizes that disability and death don't just affect the veteran - they impact the entire family. By providing educational assistance to dependents, Chapter 35 helps families build stable futures and achieve educational goals that might otherwise be financially out of reach.

For 2025, Chapter 35 provides up to $1,488 per month for full-time students, paid directly to the student. Benefits are available for up to 45 months (approximately 4 academic years) and can be used for a wide variety of education and training programs.

Who Qualifies for Chapter 35?

To be eligible for Chapter 35 benefits, you must be the spouse or child of a veteran who meets one of these criteria:

Veteran Must Be:

• Permanently and totally disabled: Rated 100% disabled by the VA with designation of "permanent and total" (P&T) from a service-connected disability
• Died from service-connected condition: Death was caused by a service-connected disability
• Died while rated P&T: Died while rated permanently and totally disabled from service-connected conditions
• Missing in action: Listed as missing in action for more than 90 days
• Prisoner of war: Detained by a foreign government or power for more than 90 days
• Hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment: For service-connected permanent and total disability, and likely to be discharged for that disability

TDIU Counts as P&T

Veterans receiving TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability) are considered permanently and totally disabled for purposes of Chapter 35 eligibility. If the veteran receives TDIU payments at the 100% rate because they cannot work due to service-connected disabilities, their dependents qualify for Chapter 35 even if the veteran's schedular rating is below 100%.

Eligible Spouses

You qualify as an eligible spouse if you are:

• The spouse of a veteran who meets the qualifying criteria above
• The surviving spouse of a veteran who died from service-connected conditions
• Not remarried (remarriage terminates Chapter 35 eligibility for spouses)

Spouses generally have 10 years from the date the VA determines eligibility to use benefits. For example, if the veteran was rated 100% P&T on January 1, 2025, the spouse has until January 1, 2035 to use Chapter 35 benefits.

Eligible Children

You qualify as an eligible child if you are:

• The biological child, adopted child, or stepchild of a qualifying veteran
• Between ages 18 and 26
• Not married (marriage terminates eligibility)
• Not on active duty in the Armed Forces

Children can use benefits starting at age 18 (or upon high school graduation, whichever is later) until age 26. If you're enrolled in school on your 26th birthday, you may be able to complete the current semester.

Children who become unable to attend school due to physical or mental disability before age 18 may extend the age limit if the disability is later removed.

Chapter 35 Payment Rates (2025)

Chapter 35 payment amounts are based on your training time (full-time, 3/4 time, 1/2 time, etc.). For 2025, monthly rates are:

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Payment is made directly to the student, not to the school. Payments are typically issued monthly, at the end of each month of enrollment, once the VA verifies your enrollment and attendance.

Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training Rates

For apprenticeship and on-the-job training programs, payment rates change over time.

Total Benefit Amount

You can receive Chapter 35 benefits for up to 45 months of full-time training. At full-time enrollment ($1,488/month), this equals approximately $66,960 total over 45 months - a substantial investment in your education and future career.

What Programs Does Chapter 35 Cover?

Chapter 35 benefits can be used for a wide variety of education and training programs, providing flexibility to pursue the path that best fits your goals.

College Degree Programs

• Associate's degrees (2-year programs)
• Bachelor's degrees (4-year programs)
• Master's degrees (graduate programs)
• Doctoral degrees (Ph.D., M.D., J.D., etc.)
• Professional degree programs

Vocational and Technical Training

• Certificate programs in healthcare, technology, trades
• Vocational schools and technical institutes
• Truck driving schools
• Culinary schools
• Cosmetology and beauty schools
• HVAC, electrician, plumbing certification programs

Other Approved Programs

• Apprenticeship programs: Registered apprenticeships in skilled trades
• On-the-job training: Paid training programs with participating employers
• Correspondence courses: Distance learning programs from approved institutions
• Flight training: Licensing and certification for pilots (with restrictions)
• Licensing and certification: Tests for professional licenses (one reimbursement per test)
• Entrepreneurship training: Small business development courses
• Farm cooperative training: Agricultural education programs

Program Requirements

To be eligible, the program must:

• Be offered by a school approved for VA education benefits
• Lead to a degree, certificate, or marketable skill
• Meet VA standards for courses and programs

Most accredited colleges, universities, and vocational schools are approved for VA benefits. Check with your school's VA certifying official to confirm the program you're interested in is approved.

What Chapter 35 Does NOT Cover

Chapter 35 benefits cannot be used for:

• Elementary or secondary (high school) education
• Courses taken for leisure or recreation (hobby courses)
• Bartending and personality development courses
• Non-accredited institutions (diploma mills)

How Long Can You Use Chapter 35?

Chapter 35 provides up to 45 months of benefits (approximately 4 academic years of full-time study). The time limits for using these benefits depend on whether you're a spouse or child.

Time Limits for Spouses

Spouses generally have 10 years from the date the VA determines eligibility to use Chapter 35 benefits. The 10-year period starts from:

• The date the VA determines the veteran is permanently and totally disabled, OR
• The date of the veteran's death, if death was service-connected

For example, if the veteran was rated 100% P&T on March 15, 2025, the spouse has until March 15, 2035 to use Chapter 35 benefits.

Time Limits for Children

Children can use Chapter 35 benefits between ages 18 and 26. You become eligible at:

• Age 18, OR
• Upon completion of high school, if still under 18

Benefits end at age 26. If you're enrolled in school on your 26th birthday, you may be allowed to complete the current semester.

Children who are enrolled in a VA vocational rehabilitation program prior to age 18 and become unable to complete the program due to physical or mental disability may extend the age limit if the disability is later removed.

Using Your 45 Months

The 45 months don't have to be used consecutively. You can stop and start your education, take semesters off, and use benefits intermittently as long as you're within your eligibility window (10 years for spouses, age 18-26 for children).

Part-time enrollment uses benefits proportionally. If you attend half-time for one semester (4.5 months), you use 2.25 months of your 45-month entitlement.

How to Apply for Chapter 35

Applying for Chapter 35 involves submitting an application to the VA and enrolling in an approved education program. Here's the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Before applying, confirm that:

• The veteran has been rated 100% P&T by the VA, or
• The veteran died from a service-connected condition
• You meet the spouse or child eligibility criteria

Step 2: Apply for Chapter 35 Benefits

You can apply online, by mail, or in person:

Online: Apply at VA.gov using VA Form 22-5490 (Application for Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance)

By Mail: Complete VA Form 22-5490 and mail to:

VA Regional Processing Office PO Box 4616 Buffalo, NY 14240-4616

In Person: Visit a VA regional office with a completed Form 22-5490

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

You'll need:

• Veteran's VA award letter showing 100% P&T rating (or death certificate)
• Your birth certificate or marriage certificate (proving relationship)
• Social Security numbers for you and the veteran
• Information about the education program you plan to attend

Step 4: Receive Your Certificate of Eligibility

Once approved, the VA will send you a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). Processing typically takes 30 days but can take longer during peak application periods.

Step 5: Enroll in an Approved Program

Choose a school and program approved for VA education benefits. Contact the school's VA certifying official to ensure they're approved and to discuss enrollment.

Step 6: Submit Your Enrollment to the VA

Once enrolled, your school's VA certifying official will submit your enrollment information to the VA. The VA will then begin paying your monthly benefit.

Step 7: Verify Enrollment Monthly

Each month, you must verify your enrollment to continue receiving payments. You'll receive instructions on how to verify enrollment (typically online or by phone).

Using Chapter 35 Effectively

To maximize your Chapter 35 benefits, follow these strategies:

Enroll Full-Time When Possible

Full-time enrollment ($1,488/month) provides the most benefit. If your schedule allows, take 12+ credit hours per semester to maximize your monthly payment and complete your degree faster.

Plan Your Education Timeline

With 45 months of benefits, you can complete a 4-year bachelor's degree with some time remaining for summer sessions or a graduate certificate. Plan your course load to make the most of your entitlement.

Consider Summer Sessions

Chapter 35 pays during summer sessions if you're enrolled. Taking summer classes can help you graduate faster and make full use of your 45 months.

Use for High-Value Programs

Chapter 35 can be used for any approved program, but consider using it for higher-cost programs (4-year degrees, technical certifications with expensive tuition) where the benefit provides maximum value.

Combine with Other Financial Aid

Chapter 35 doesn't affect your eligibility for federal financial aid (Pell Grants, student loans, scholarships). Apply for FAFSA and combine Chapter 35 with other aid to maximize your education funding.

Keep the VA Informed

Notify the VA of any changes:

• Change in enrollment status (full-time to part-time)
• Change of address
• Change of program or school
• Dropping or adding courses

Failing to report changes can result in overpayments that you'll have to repay, or underpayments that delay your benefits.

Chapter 35 vs. Other VA Education Benefits

Several VA education programs exist. Understanding the differences helps you choose the best option if you're eligible for multiple programs.

Chapter 35 vs. Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill Transfer)

Some veterans can transfer their Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to dependents. If the veteran transferred benefits to you, you must choose between Chapter 35 and Chapter 33 - you cannot use both.

Key differences:

• Payment amount: Chapter 33 typically pays more (full tuition + housing allowance vs. $1,488/month)
• Eligibility requirements: Chapter 33 requires the veteran to have served post-9/11 and transferred benefits before leaving service; Chapter 35 requires 100% P&T or death
• Time limits: Chapter 33 transferred benefits typically expire 15 years after veteran's separation; Chapter 35 has different timelines for spouses and children

Generally, if you're eligible for both, Chapter 33 transferred benefits provide higher total value. However, Chapter 35 may be your only option if the veteran didn't transfer Chapter 33 benefits before separation.

Chapter 35 vs. Fry Scholarship

The Fry Scholarship provides Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to children and spouses of servicemembers who died in the line of duty after September 10, 2001. If you're eligible for both Fry and Chapter 35, you must choose one.

Fry Scholarship typically pays more than Chapter 35 (full tuition + housing allowance), so most eligible dependents choose Fry over Chapter 35.

Common Chapter 35 Questions

Can I Use Chapter 35 for Online Courses?

Yes, as long as the school and program are approved for VA benefits. Many colleges offer fully online degree programs that are eligible for Chapter 35.

Does Chapter 35 Cover Books and Supplies?

Chapter 35 pays a flat monthly amount based on your enrollment status. This payment can be used for any education-related expenses including tuition, books, supplies, housing, and living expenses. Unlike the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 35 doesn't provide a separate book stipend.

What If I Drop a Class?

If dropping the class changes your enrollment status (e.g., from full-time to 3/4 time), notify the VA immediately. Your payment will be adjusted, and you may have to repay benefits for the dropped course. Drop before the school's drop deadline to avoid debt.

Can I Use Chapter 35 While Working?

Yes. There are no income or employment restrictions. You can work full-time or part-time while receiving Chapter 35 benefits. Many students work while attending school to supplement their Chapter 35 payments.

Next Steps

If you're the spouse or child of a veteran rated 100% P&T or who died from service-connected conditions, Chapter 35 can provide significant financial support for your education. Don't delay - apply for benefits as soon as the veteran receives their P&T rating.

Chapter 35 is just one of several benefits available to families of disabled veterans. Explore other programs like CHAMPVA healthcare, state property tax exemptions, and additional dependent benefits to maximize your family's support.