Chapter 35 VA Benefits Application – How to Apply, Eligibility Criteria, Requirements, Forms, and More

Checking the Chapter 35 VA benefits application can seem overwhelming, but breaking down the process makes it much more manageable. These benefits are meant to help the education and training of family members of Veterans or service members who have died, gone missing, or become permanently disabled due to service-related issues. Let’s walk through eligibility, the application process, and what you can expect when applying.

Eligibility

Knowing whether you qualify is the first step. Chapter 35 VA benefits are available to family members of Veterans or service members who meet specific criteria.

For the Veteran or service member, one of the following must apply:

• Permanent Disability: They are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related disability.
• Death from Service-Connected Issues: They have died because of a service-connected disability.
• Death While Serving: They died while on active duty.
• Missing in Action: They are missing in action or were captured by a hostile force during duty for more than 90 days.
• Forcible Detention: They were detained or interned by a foreign entity during duty for more than 90 days.
• Discharge Due to Disability: They are hospitalized or receiving outpatient care for a permanent and total service-connected disability and are likely to be discharged.

Family members also have specific criteria:

• Children: Can be married or unmarried. If they serve in the military, they can only use the benefit after leaving the service without a dishonorable discharge.
• Spouses: Can receive both DEA benefits and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) simultaneously. However, divorce or remarriage can impact eligibility, though there are exceptions.

Qualified family members can receive monthly payments to help with school costs or job training expenses, including:

• Education: College or graduate degrees.
• Career Training: Career-training certificates, diploma courses, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.
• Additional Benefits: Licensing and certification tests, national tests (like college admissions exams), and preparatory courses.

The duration of benefits depends on when the education or training started. Programs beginning before August 1, 2018, may qualify for up to 45 months of benefits, while those starting after this date may be eligible for up to 36 months. Educational and career counseling is also available to maximize opportunities.

Application Process

Applying for Chapter 35 VA benefits is relatively straightforward but requires some preparation.

Gather Your Information

Before applying, collect the following:

• Social Security Numbers: For both the applicant and the Veteran or service member.
• School Information: Basic details about the school or training facility.
• Bank Details: For direct deposit of the benefits.
• Education History: The applicant’s previous educational background.

Completing the Application

To apply, you’ll need to fill out VA Form 22-5490 if you’re a spouse or dependent. This form is the official request for Chapter 35 benefits.

Submission

Once you’ve gathered all the necessary information and completed the form, submit it to the VA. After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation message—be sure to print this for your records.

VA Review

The VA typically processes claims within 30 days. If additional information is needed, they will contact you by mail. After reviewing your application, you’ll receive one of the following:

• Certificate of Eligibility (COE): If approved, you’ll receive this certificate or an award letter.
• Denial Letter: If not approved, you’ll receive a denial letter explaining the decision.

The VA also offers various tools and counseling services to help you get the most out of your educational benefits. Looking into these resources can help you optimize your educational journey.

Applying for Chapter 35 benefits doesn’t have to be daunting. By knowing the process and preparing in advance, you can navigate the system more smoothly and focus on achieving your educational and career goals.

FAQs