Hey there, everyone! Dale Davidson here, your go-to guy for all things related to VA benefits. Thanks for joining me today as we delve into a topic that’s often overlooked but incredibly important for veterans – the Veterans Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program. This program is designed to assist veterans with service-connected disabilities in finding meaningful employment opportunities.
So, what’s the deal with the Veterans Readiness and Employment program, you might ask? Well, like most things in life, there’s a catch – the 12-year rule. If you were discharged from active duty before January 1, 2013, you’ll need to contend with this rule. Essentially, it means you have a 12-year window to utilize these benefits, unless you can prove you have a serious employment handicap due to your service-connected disability.
But what exactly constitutes a serious employment handicap? It’s a significant impairment that hinders your ability to find, keep, or prepare for employment that aligns with your abilities, interests, and aptitudes. For example, if you were trained as a pilot in the military but can no longer pursue that career due to a service-connected back issue, that’s considered a serious employment handicap.
Veterans Readiness and Employment Program Eligibility
Now, let’s talk about eligibility. To qualify for Veterans Readiness and Employment benefits, you must have a service-connected disability rated at 20% or higher, or have a serious employment handicap determined by the VA. But remember, nothing in life is guaranteed except death and taxes. If you were discharged on or after 2013, you don’t need to worry about the 12-year rule. However, if you received a dishonorable discharge, you’d have to get that changed to qualify..
The VA also takes into account your medical condition when determining eligibility. If your medical condition prevents you from participating in the Veterans Readiness and Employment program, the 12-year period is put on hold until you’re ready to begin. To prove your need for VR&E services, you’ll need evidence, such as vocational assessments or doctor’s reports, showing how your disability impacts your ability to work.
But here’s some good news – as of April 1, 2021, the VA no longer counts the use of Veterans Readiness and Employment benefits against the 48-month limit on GI benefits. However, GI Bill benefits still count against the 48-month limit on VR&E benefits. Now, let’s talk about prioritization. The VA may prioritize the provision of VR&E services based on factors such as disability severity, qualifications for independent living, and income level.
And here’s a temporary perk – if you’re awarded total disability benefits based on individual unemployability (TDIU), you’re entitled to participate in the VR&E program. Just be aware that your TDIU rating could be subject to review if you enter the VR&E program.
So folks, that’s the lowdown on the VR&E program. It’s a little-known gem that can potentially put some extra cash in your pocket. Make sure to explore all your options and, as always, stay informed about the benefits you’re entitled to as a veteran.
Until next time, take care, and remember – knowledge is power!
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If you need assistance with applying and qualifying for the Veterans Readiness and Employment program, complete this form or give us a call at (229) 226-8183. If you’d like to see this blog in video format, you can watch it below. Please be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel and click the bell notification button so that you’re notified each time we publish a new video.