Chapter 35 Benefits for Veterans: Dependents Educational Assistance

What Are Chapter 35 Benefits?

Chapter 35 benefits fall under the Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, which provides education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of certain veterans. The goal is to help surviving family members or those caring for disabled veterans secure an education and develop a meaningful career.

Unlike the GI Bill, DEA benefits are specifically designed for dependents, not veterans themselves. These benefits can help cover tuition, fees, books, and even housing in some cases, depending on where and how the student is learning.

Who Qualifies for Chapter 35 Education Benefits

To be eligible for Chapter 35 benefits, you must be a:

• Spouse or child of a veteran who is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition
• Spouse or child of a veteran who died while on active duty or due to a service-connected disability
• A dependent of a service member missing in action (MIA) or detained by a foreign power
• A dependent of a veteran who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service-connected permanent and total disability

There are age and time limitations for dependents. Children usually must use the benefit between the ages of 18 and 26, while spouses generally have a 10- or 20-year eligibility window depending on the circumstances.

How Chapter 35 Supports Survivors and Dependents of Veterans

Chapter 35 benefits provide monthly financial support while the student is enrolled in an approved education or training program. These include:

• Degree and certificate programs
• Apprenticeships and on-the-job training
• Correspondence courses (for spouses only)
• Remedial, deficiency, or refresher courses (under specific conditions)

The financial support allows dependents to pursue higher education without taking on the full financial burden. While it doesn’t always cover 100% of tuition, the monthly payments can significantly offset living expenses, transportation, or part-time housing needs.

Current Chapter 35 Monthly Payment Rates

As of 2025, Chapter 35 monthly payment rates are as follows:

• Full-time enrollment: $1,488.00
• ¾-time enrollment: $1,176.00
• ½-time enrollment: $862.00
• Less than ½-time but more than ¼-time: Tuition and fees up to the monthly maximum
• ¼-time or less: Actual cost of tuition and fees (no housing allowance)

Rates are subject to change based on cost-of-living adjustments, so it is important to verify the latest rates. 

How To Apply to Receive Benefits

To apply for Chapter 35 benefits, you’ll first need to determine your eligibility. Use the VA’s online eligibility tool, or mail a paper version to the appropriate VA regional office.

Then, enroll in an approved program. Your school must certify your enrollment before payments begin. 

It is important to remember that processing times can vary, so apply as early as possible, ideally several months before your intended start date.

Other VA Benefits Dependents Should Know About

In addition to DEA, dependents of veterans may also be eligible for:

• CHAMPVA Health Care Coverage
• VA Home Loan benefits for surviving spouses
• VA Survivors Pension
• State-specific tuition waivers or grants for children of veterans
• Career counseling and guidance through VA education services

Using Your Chapter 35 Benefits

For dependents of service-connected veterans, Chapter 35 benefits are more than just financial aid. These opportunities honor the veteran’s service by ensuring their loved ones have every chance to succeed.

Whether you’re planning for college, trade school, or a professional certification, now is the time to take advantage of the support available. The VA may be ready to fully back your journey forward.