Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program

Eligibility

In order to qualify for Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, you must first receive an evaluation.

In order to be eligible for an evaluation, a veteran must meet three conditions:
  • Have received or will receive a discharge that is not dishonorable.
  • Have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10%.
  • Submit a completed VA Form 28-8832.

You are eligible for up to 12 years after the date you separate from active military service or the date you were notified of your VA disability rating, whichever came last.

After you have established your eligibility, you must meet with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). The counselor will evaluate you and determine whether you are entitled to Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment services.

The counselor will evaluate:
  • Your interests, aptitudes and abilities.
  • Whether your service connected disabilities impair your ability to find and hold a job based on your already-developed skills.
  • Your vocational experience and your goal development.

Based on the evaluation and your medical records, the counselor will determine whether you have an employment handicap. If the counselor decides that you are entitled to Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment services, then the next step is to meet with your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to decide on what services will best assist you.

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The VA Vocational Rehabilitation homepage has more details concerncing the five rehabilitation plans.

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Employment Handicap

An impairment that negatively effects a veteran’s opportunity to get a job when otherwise, based on the veteran’s abilities, interests, and aptitude, the veteran would be able to find work.

Transferable Skills

Any skills, knowledge, or training that you have obtained that relate to current employment opportunities.