Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

Definition

The Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program, also known as DEA or Chapter 35, is a VA benefit program that provides educational and training opportunities to eligible dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition. The program offers financial assistance for various education levels, including degree and certificate programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. Through this program, dependents can acquire skills and knowledge needed for personal and professional growth.

Key Takeaways

1. The Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA) offers education and training opportunities to the dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to service-related conditions, or who died while on active duty or due to service-connected disabilities.
2. Eligible dependents can receive up to 45 months of educational benefits that can be used for a variety of training programs, including degree and certificate programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.
3. To apply for DEA benefits, dependents must complete and submit the VA forms, and it is important to maintain enrollment in an approved education program to continue receiving benefits. Benefits may also be transferred between eligible programs and institutions.

Importance

The Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA) is a significant term in the context of VA benefits as it assists eligible dependents of veterans in obtaining vital educational opportunities to support their future success.

This program, authorized under Chapter 35 of the GI Bill, provides financial aid for various educational programs, including college degree and certificate courses, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training to qualified dependents, such as spouses and children of veterans with permanent and total service-connected disabilities, or those who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability.

By offering these educational benefits, the DEA program ensures that dependents receive essential support in furthering their education and professional growth, thus contributing to their long-term financial stability and wellbeing.

Explanation

The Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA) serves a crucial purpose in providing educational and training opportunities to the dependents of veterans who have been severely disabled or have died due to a service-related incident. The program aims to support these individuals by granting them access to a range of educational resources, which can include college degree programs, vocational and technical courses, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.

By offering these opportunities, the DEA program aims to alleviate some of the financial stress associated with pursuing higher education and helps dependents become more economically self-sufficient as they navigate their future careers. The DEA program not only contributes to the well-being of these dependents by empowering them to develop the skills and knowledge required for a successful professional life, but also serves as an expression of gratitude towards the sacrifices made by their veteran family members.

As these beneficiaries work towards achieving their educational goals, they are better equipped to integrate into the workforce and contribute meaningfully to society – ultimately strengthening the nation as a whole. By offering such specialized assistance, the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program further reinforces the commitment of the Department of Veterans Affairs to support the families of veterans who have made immense sacrifices in service of their country.

Examples of Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

The Fry Scholarship: The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship is a part of the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (DEA) that provides educational assistance to the children and spouses of service members who died in the line of duty on or after September 11,

The scholarship covers tuition, fees, housing, and a stipend for books and supplies for eligible beneficiaries attending a college, university, or vocational/technical school.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance at a State University: A real-world example of the DEA program in action would be a dependent enrolling at a state university, such as the University of Texas at Austin, using DEA benefits. The dependent could receive up to 45 months of education assistance, which helps cover tuition fees, books, and if needed, tutorial assistance.

Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment Program (Chapter 31): A third real-world example comes in the form of the Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) Program, also known as Chapter

This benefit is available to eligible dependents of service-connected disabled veterans who qualify for the DEA program. In this case, the dependent enrolls in vocational training or a job-paid training program with financial support from the DEA. This benefit helps cover the cost of tuition, books, supplies, and also provides a monthly living stipend while participating in the program.

FAQ Section: Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

What is the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program?

The Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program, also known as DEA or Chapter 35, is a benefit program that provides educational assistance to qualifying dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition, or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-related condition.

Who is eligible for the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program?

Eligible individuals include: the spouse, surviving spouse, or child of a veteran who is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition, or who died while on active duty, or who died as a result of a service-related condition. Specific criteria and documentation are required to establish eligibility. Please consult the VA website or your local VA Regional Office for full details.

How can I apply for the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program?

To apply for DEA benefits, you can submit a completed VA Form 22-5490, which can be found on the VA website or at your local VA Regional Office. You can also apply online through the VA eBenefits portal or by mailing the completed form to your regional processing office.

What type of educational programs are covered by the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program?

DEA benefits can be used for various educational and training programs such as college degree and certificate programs, apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and other non-degree educational programs. To ensure that your chosen program is approved for DEA benefits, it is recommended to contact the VA or your preferred educational institution directly.

How much financial assistance can I receive through the Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program?

DEA benefit payment rates depend on the type of education or training program and your enrollment status (full-time, three-quarter time, or half-time). The current rates can be found on the VA website. Additionally, benefit payments are escalated yearly in October to accommodate the increase in the Consumer Price Index.

Related VA Benefit Terms

• Post-9/11 GI Bill
• Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment
• Survivors’ & Dependents’ Education Assistance
• Montgomery GI Bill – Selected Reserve
• Reserve Educational Assistance Program

Sources for More Information

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• Veterans Benefits Administration
• Military.com
• Military OneSource