Chapter 35, officially known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, is a benefit offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
It provides education and training assistance to eligible dependents of certain veterans. These benefits are meant to support children and spouses of veterans who are either permanently disabled due to a service-related condition or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability.
As of 2025, Chapter 35 continues to support thousands of families by helping them pursue college degrees, technical training, apprenticeships, and more. If you’re a dependent or the spouse of a qualified veteran, this program can significantly reduce your educational expenses.
Who Can Apply for Chapter 35 Benefits?
To qualify for Chapter 35 DEA benefits in 2025, you must fall into one of the following categories:
- Child of a Veteran
- You must be between 18 and 26 years old.
- You must be the child of a veteran who:
- Is permanently disabled due to a service-connected condition.
- Died while on active duty or from a service-connected disability.
- Spouse of a Veteran
- You are married to a veteran who is permanently and disabled due to service-connected reasons.
- You are the surviving spouse of a veteran who died in service or due to a service-connected condition.
- Divorced Spouse
- You may qualify in some cases if you were previously married to the eligible veteran and meet certain VA criteria.
What Benefits Are Available Under Chapter 35?
In 2025, the VA will provide a monthly payment directly to eligible recipients to help cover education and training costs. The exact amount depends on the type of training and the enrollment status (full-time or part-time).
Here are the standard monthly benefit rates for 2025:
- Full-time Enrollment: $1,488 per month
- ¾ Time Enrollment: $1,176 per month
- ½ Time Enrollment: $862 per month
- Less than ½ Time but more than ¼ Time: Tuition and fees only, not more than $744 per month
- ¼ Time or Less: Tuition and fees only, not more than $372 per month
These amounts may slightly vary based on the school, program type, and region, so checking with your school’s VA representative is a good idea.
Eligible Programs You Can Apply For
Chapter 35 VA benefits can be used for a variety of educational programs, including:
- College Degree Programs: Associate, Bachelor’s, and advanced degrees
- Career and Technical Education: Non-college degree programs
- Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training: Approved practical experience programs
- Correspondence Courses: For spouses only
- Certification and Licensing Tests
- National Testing Programs: Like the SAT, ACT, GMAT, and GRE
This flexibility allows beneficiaries to pursue careers that best match their interests and goals.
How Long Do the Benefits Last?
- Children: Can generally use benefits until they turn 26. However, if a child joins the military, the time limit may be extended.
- Spouses: Typically have 10 years from the date they become eligible, or from the date the VA rates the veteran permanently disabled. For surviving spouses, the eligibility window may be 20 years from the date of the veteran’s death (if the veteran died on active duty).
How to Apply for Chapter 35 Benefits in 2025?
You can apply online through the VA’s official website using Form 22-5490, or you can mail a completed form to your regional VA processing office. Here’s how you can start:
- Visit: www.va.gov/education
- Log in to your VA account or create one
- Complete Form 22-5490 (Application for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance)
- Submit the form electronically or download and mail it
You can also apply through your school’s financial aid or veteran affairs office, which often assists with the paperwork.
Can You Work While Receiving Chapter 35 Benefits?
Yes, you are allowed to work while receiving Chapter 35 benefits. However, your income or job status does not impact the amount of the monthly benefit you receive.
The main condition is that you must stay enrolled in an eligible program and meet the academic standards required by the institution.
How is Chapter 35 Different From Other VA Education Programs?
Chapter 35 (DEA) is specifically for dependents and survivors of veterans. In contrast, programs like Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill) or Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill) are generally for veterans themselves.
Additionally, Chapter 35 cannot be combined with other VA education benefits for the same period of enrollment.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Chapter 35 Benefits
- Start Early: Apply as soon as you’re eligible to avoid missing out on months of payments.
- Stay Informed: Keep checking the VA’s Education and Training page for the latest updates.
- Work With Your School: Your school’s VA certifying official can help guide you through the process.
- Monitor Your Usage: DEA benefits are generally limited to 36-45 months. Plan your education path accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Chapter 35 VA Benefits in 2025 are a valuable resource for the families of veterans, helping them access quality education and job training opportunities. Whether you’re a student aiming for a college degree or a spouse looking for a career change, this program can ease the financial burden and open doors to a better future.
Make sure to apply on time, stay enrolled in eligible programs, and reach out to your school’s VA advisor if you need help with the process.