Education & Training
Benefits are available to eligible veterans, dependents, reservists, and service members while they are in an approved training program.
Our major programs are:
- GI Bill persons who first entered active duty after June 30, 1985, are generally eligible. Some Vietnam Era veterans and certain veterans separated under special programs are also eligible. The bill also includes a program for certain reservists and National Guard members.
- Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)
This program is for veterans who entered active duty for the first time after December 31, 1976, and before July 1, 1985, and contributed to a training fund.
- Survivor's & Dependent's Educational Assistance Some family members of disabled or deceased veterans are eligible for education benefits.
Time Limits: Generally, veterans have 10 years from the date they were last released from active duty to use their education benefits. Reservists generally have 10 years from the date they became eligible for the program unless they leave the Selected Reserves before completing their obligation. Spouses generally have 10 years from the date the VA first finds them eligible. Children are generally eligible from age 18 until age 26. These time limits can sometimes be extended.
Home Loans
The Veterans Administration offers a number of home loan services to eligible veterans, some military personnel, and certain spouses.
- Guaranteed Loans - The VA can guarantee part of a loan from a private lender to help you buy a home, a manufactured home, a lot for a manufactured home, or certain types of condominiums. The VA also guarantees loans for building, repairing, and improving homes.
- Refinancing Loans - If you have a VA mortgage, the VA can help you refinance your loan at a lower interest rate. You may also refinance a non-VA loan.
- Special Grants - Certain disabled veterans can receive grants to have their homes specially adapted to their needs.
Rehabilitation Training
Are available to certain service-connected disabled veterans who are unable to get and keep suitable employment. Some of the services the VA provides are:
- Employment and case management services
- Vocational and Rehabilitation counseling
- Payment of training costs
- Monthly payments to help with living expenses
- Medical and dental treatment, if needed, to complete your program
Time Limits: You generally have 12 years from the date the VA tells you in writing that you have at least a 10 percent rating for a service-connected disability. You may have longer if certain conditions prevent you from training or if you have a serious employment handicap.