Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E): Building a Path to a New Career
When transitioning from military to civilian life, one of the biggest challenges Veterans face is finding a new sense of purpose—and a career that fits their skills, interests, and goals. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers an excellent program to help: Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E), sometimes still called Chapter 31.
What is VR&E?
VR&E is designed to help Veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and keep suitable employment. The program provides a range of services depending on each individual’s needs. For some, that may include education or vocational training; for others, it might focus on resume preparation, job placement, or accommodations to support employment.
VR&E isn’t just about getting a job—it’s about building a sustainable career that aligns with your abilities and goals. If a service-connected disability makes traditional employment difficult, the program can also assist with independent living services, helping Veterans achieve maximum independence at home and in the community.
Who is Eligible?
To qualify, a Veteran generally must:
- Have a service-connected disability rated at 10% or higher, and
- Have received a discharge other than dishonorable.
Active-duty service members with pending medical separation may also be eligible to apply before discharge. Eligibility is usually valid for 12 years from the date of discharge or the date VA first notified the Veteran of their qualifying disability rating—whichever is later.
What Services Are Available?
VR&E offers individualized counseling and support tailored to each Veteran’s situation. Services may include:
- Career assessment and planning
- Training and education (including college, technical, or on-the-job training)
- Job-seeking skills and resume development
- Apprenticeships or internships
- Assistance with workplace accommodations
- Independent living services for those unable to work right away
The program is flexible and guided by a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) who helps each Veteran design a personalized rehabilitation plan.
How to Apply Applying is easier than ever. Veterans can apply online at www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation/ or by completing VA Form 28-1900. Those already enrolled in VA.gov can submit the form directly through their account.
After applying, VA will schedule a meeting with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to discuss goals, determine eligibility, and develop a plan (if applicable).
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to begin a new career, change direction, or adapt to a service-connected disability, VR&E can be a valuable tool to help you move forward. Don’t hesitate to reach out—sometimes, the hardest part of starting a new chapter is simply turning the page.
For questions or assistance applying for VR&E, contact your CVSO.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
