Military Careers, Retirement - Navy Times

Vocational Rehabilitation

The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program assists veterans with service-related disabilities to achieve independence in daily living and, when possible, obtain and maintain suitable employment.

Each applicant is given an individual assessment of abilities, interests and aptitudes. Services may include employment assistance, specialized rehabilitation services, counseling, education and training, and other individualized assistance.

For veterans who need education or training to obtain employment, the VA provides a subsistence or living allowance. The VA pays all costs of rehabilitation and employment services, including education or training.

Veterans with anything other than a dishonorable discharge may be entitled to services if:

•They have a service-related disability rated 20 percent or higher by the VA. Veterans with a 10 percent disability rating may be eligible if a serious employment handicap is evident.

•The VA determines that vocational rehabilitation is needed to overcome impairment to the ability to prepare for, obtain or retain employment consistent with veterans’ abilities, aptitudes and interests. Service-related disabilities must materially contribute to this impairment.

Contact: http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/vre/vrs.htm.