Officially known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, Chapter 35 offers crucial financial support to the spouses and children of Veterans who have died in service, passed away due to service-related causes, or become permanently and totally disabled.
This benefit can cover tuition, training, certification tests, and sometimes even on-the-job training programs. Whether you’re a young adult just starting out or a spouse seeking a career change, Chapter 35 can be a life-changer.
Below, we’ll explain who qualifies, how to apply, and what you can expect from these benefits. We’ll keep it simple, provide real-world examples, and give you clear steps to follow. Let’s dive in.
Chapter 35 VA Benefits provide up to 36 months of financial assistance for the spouse or child of a Veteran who died in service or became 100% disabled due to a service-related condition. The monthly payment (up to $1,671 for full-time study as of 2025) helps cover college, vocational training, apprenticeships, or certification tests.
In this Article
What Are Chapter 35 VA Benefits?
They’re education and training funds for eligible dependents of certain disabled or fallen Veterans.
Chapter 35 VA Benefits—also called Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)—provide up to 36 months of education benefits to qualified spouses and children. These benefits are paid directly to you in monthly installments. You can use the money for tuition, books, fees, or even living expenses while enrolled in an approved educational or training program.
- Not a Loan: You don’t have to repay this benefit.
- Tax-Free: You won’t be taxed on the money you receive.
- Wide Coverage: Community college, university degrees, trade schools, apprenticeships, or licensing exams all qualify as long as they’re VA-approved.
The primary mission of Chapter 35 is to help you build a secure future—one that your Veteran might have supported more directly if circumstances were different.
Who’s Eligible for Chapter 35 Benefits?
Surviving spouses and children of Veterans who died in service or due to a service-related condition, or who have a 100% service-related disability.
You may qualify for Chapter 35 if you are the spouse or child of a Veteran who meets one of these criteria:
- Died during active duty or as a result of a service-connected condition.
- Is 100% disabled (permanently and totally) due to service.
- Is Missing in Action (MIA), captured, or otherwise detained by a hostile force.
Age and Time Limits:
- Children (Ages 18–26): Generally, you must use Chapter 35 benefits before turning 26. There are some exceptions, such as if you’re still in high school at 18 or have an illness that prevents you from attending school.
- Spouses: Typically, you have 10 years from the date the VA classifies the Veteran as permanently and totally disabled or from the date of the Veteran’s death. If the Veteran died on active duty, some spouses may have up to 20 years to use these benefits.
Keep in mind, you cannot receive Chapter 35 benefits while on active duty or combine them with other VA education benefits (like the Post-9/11 GI Bill) at the same time.
How Much Do You Get with Chapter 35?
Currently, a full-time student can receive up to $1,671 per month.
Your monthly payment under Chapter 35 depends on your enrollment status and type of program:
- Full-Time School (Undergrad or Graduate): $1,671 per month
- Three-Quarter Time: $1,319 per month
- Half-Time: $966 per month
- Quarter-Time: $417.75 per month
- Approved Apprenticeships or On-the-Job Training: Starting at $1,218 monthly, with rates typically decreasing as you progress.
Annual Adjustments:
These rates often increase each year to match the cost of living. Always check VA.gov for the latest rates.
| Enrollment Level | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Full-Time | $1,671 |
| Three-Quarter Time | $1,319 |
| Half-Time | $966 |
| Quarter-Time | $417.75 |
What Can You Use Chapter 35 Benefits For?
You can use Chapter 35 to fund many types of educational and career training programs, from college degrees to apprenticeships.
Chapter 35 offers excellent flexibility. Approved uses include:
- College Degrees: Associate, bachelor’s, or graduate studies.
- Vocational or Technical Training: Welding, HVAC, cosmetology, coding, and more.
- Apprenticeships or On-the-Job Training (OJT): Work-based programs with registered employers.
- Certification Tests: One-time coverage up to $2,000 for tests like CPA, PMP, or real estate licensing.
- Remedial, Deficiency, or Refresher Courses: Tutoring or extra help if you need to brush up on certain skills.
Before enrolling, make sure the school or program is VA-approved. You can verify this by checking with the institution or through the
VA’s WEAMS database.
How to Apply for Chapter 35 Benefits
Submit VA Form 22-5490 online at VA.gov or by mail, along with documents proving your relationship to the Veteran.
Follow these steps to get started:
- Confirm Eligibility: Gather documentation like a death certificate or 100% disability award letter that shows the Veteran’s status.
- Collect Required Documents:
- Birth Certificate (if you’re the Veteran’s child)
- Marriage License (if you’re the spouse)
- Veteran’s DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
- Fill Out VA Form 22-5490:
- Available online at VA.gov or through the VA’s eBenefits portal.
- You can also download and print it if you prefer mailing your application.
- Submit Your Application:
- Online: Generally the fastest option.
- By Mail: Send the completed form to your regional VA office.
- Choose Your School or Program: Once the VA approves your application, you’ll need to enroll in an eligible institution.
- Wait for VA Processing: Approval can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days or more, especially if paperwork is missing.
Pro Tip: Apply early—at least 2-3 months before your program starts—to avoid missing enrollment deadlines or first-month payments.
How Long Do You Get Chapter 35 Benefits?
You have 36 total months of full-time benefits to use. Time limits vary depending on your relationship to the Veteran.
You can receive Chapter 35 benefits for up to 36 months of full-time schooling. If you go part-time, it effectively stretches that timeframe because you’re “using” benefits at a slower rate.
Timing Windows:
- Spouses: Typically get 10 years to use the benefit, starting from the date the VA declares the Veteran 100% disabled or from the date of the Veteran’s death. If the Veteran died on active duty, you may have 20 years.
- Children (18–26): Usually, you must use it before turning 26. Exceptions apply for high school seniors still under 18, or for health issues that delay enrollment.
What If You’re Not Eligible?
Look into other federal, state, or private education benefits for Veterans’ families.
If you don’t qualify for Chapter 35, don’t lose hope. Other avenues might help pay for your education or training:
- Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill): Some Veterans can transfer these benefits to dependents. If the Veteran did so before passing or becoming disabled, you may receive more comprehensive coverage.
- State Programs: Certain states offer financial assistance for dependents of Veterans. For example, Texas has the Hazlewood Act for tuition support.
- Military-Focused Scholarships: Private scholarships from organizations like AMVETS or Folds of Honor often support dependents of fallen or disabled service members.
- Federal Financial Aid: Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to see if you qualify for grants or loans.
Chapter 35 vs. Other VA Education Benefits
Chapter 35 is specifically for dependents of disabled or deceased Veterans, while other VA programs primarily focus on Veterans themselves or require the Veteran to transfer benefits.
Here’s a quick snapshot of where Chapter 35 stands among popular VA education benefits:
- Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill): Provides full tuition, a monthly housing allowance, and a book stipend for Veterans or for dependents if benefits are transferred.
- Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill): For Veterans who paid into the Montgomery GI Bill program. Pays a monthly rate (up to $2,328 in 2025) but doesn’t cover tuition directly like Chapter 33.
| Program | Who’s Eligible? | Max Monthly Pay | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chapter 35 | Dependents | $1,671 | 36 months |
| Chapter 33 | Veterans/Dependents (with transfer) | Tuition + housing | 36 months |
| Chapter 30 | Veterans only | $2,328 | 36 months |
Tips to Maximize Chapter 35 Benefits
Go full-time when possible, choose affordable programs, and apply for additional financial aid to stretch your funds further.
- Go Full-Time Early: Full-time students receive the highest monthly payout.
- Consider Lower-Cost Schools: Community colleges or in-state universities can help you avoid big tuition bills.
- Combine with Other Aid: Federal Pell Grants or private scholarships can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
- Tutoring Coverage: Chapter 35 may pay up to $100 monthly for tutoring if you struggle in certain subjects.
- Plan Your Timeline: You have 36 months, so map out your semesters or training periods in advance.
Smart planning can help you finish your program with little to no debt.
What Happens After Approval?
You’ll start getting monthly payments once your school verifies enrollment.
- Enrollment Verification: Each term, your school will confirm your enrollment with the VA. If you’re in on-the-job training, your employer will handle this.
- Direct Deposit Payments: Most people choose direct deposit for faster payments.
- Report Changes: If you switch schools, drop a class, or withdraw, let the VA know immediately. Failing to do so can lead to overpayment, and you might have to pay that money back.
- Stay Organized: Keep digital or physical copies of all your VA paperwork, enrollment verifications, and payment records.
Common Questions About Chapter 35 VA Benefits
Who qualifies for Chapter 35 benefits?
Spouses and children of Veterans who died in service or from a service-related cause, or who are rated 100% disabled by the VA.
How much is the monthly payment?
Up to $1,671 for full-time school (as of October 2025), with lower rates for part-time and apprenticeships.
Can I use Chapter 35 for online courses?
Yes. As long as the program is approved by the VA, you can study online.
What’s the time limit for spouses?
Usually 10 years from the Veteran’s death or 100% disability rating. In cases where the Veteran died on active duty, it can extend to 20 years.
Is there an age limit for children?
Generally 18–26, but there can be extensions if you’re still in high school at 18 or have other qualifying circumstances.
Can I get both Chapter 35 and Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill)?
You can’t use them at the same time for the same training. You’ll need to choose one, as you can’t “double dip.”
How long does approval take?
Typically 30–60 days if your documentation is complete. Missing documents can slow it down.
Is Chapter 35 taxable?
No, these payments are tax-free.
Can I work while getting Chapter 35?
Absolutely. Chapter 35 is not income-based, so you can work without reducing your benefits.
Your Next Move
If you believe you or your family members qualify for Chapter 35 VA Benefits, here’s what to do now:
- Check the Veteran’s Status: Gather disability rating letters or a death certificate.
- Apply ASAP: Use VA Form 22-5490 and submit it online to speed things up.
- Pick a Program: Look for a VA-approved school or training.
- Follow Up: Keep track of deadlines and required paperwork.
- Ask for Help: If you have questions, call the VA’s Education Helpline at 888-442-4551 or visit VA.gov.
You’ve earned the right to these benefits—make sure you take full advantage. By investing in your education or job training, you’ll be honoring the service and sacrifice that made these benefits possible.
