​Chapter 35 VA benefits application: These are the eligibility requirements you must meet before applying 

31/01/2025
–
12:11
CSTIf you’re considering applying for VA education benefits under Chapter 35 Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) or the Fry Scholarship (Chapter 33), it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements and how to get started. These benefits are designed to help spouses and dependents of Veterans access education or job training, but you’ll need to meet certain criteria before applying.First, let’s talk about Chapter 35 DEA benefits. To qualify, you must be the spouse or child of a Veteran who has either passed away, is missing, or has a permanent and total service-connected disability. This program is a lifeline for families looking to further their education or gain new skills, but eligibility is key. Similarly, the Fry Scholarship is available to children and dependents of Veterans who died in the line of duty or as a result of a service-connected disability. Both programs offer significant support, but they have specific requirements you’ll need to meet.Before diving into the application process, take a moment to confirm your eligibility. Ask yourself: Do I meet the criteria for Chapter 35 DEA or the Fry Scholarship? If you’re unsure, the VA provides detailed information on their website to help you determine whether you qualify. Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility, it’s time to gather the necessary information. You’ll need details about your sponsor’s military service history, your current contact information, and your bank account details for direct deposit of benefits.The application itself is straightforward. You can apply online using VA Form 22-5490, which is the Dependents’ Application for VA Education Benefits. The online tool is user-friendly and typically takes about 15 minutes to complete. Plus, if you sign in to your verified VA.gov account, the system can prefill parts of the application for you, saving time and effort. As an added bonus, signing in may even allow you to receive an instant decision on your application. If you need more time, you can save your progress and return to it later-just remember to submit it within 60 days, or you’ll have to start over.If you prefer not to apply online, you can download the PDF version of VA Form 22-5490 and submit it by mail. However, keep in mind that paper applications generally take longer to process. Whether you apply online or on paper, make sure to double-check your information to avoid delays.Applying for VA education benefits can feel overwhelming, but the process is designed to be as smooth as possible. As one VA resource puts it, “We’ll take you through each step of the process.” So, take a deep breath, gather your documents, and get started. Whether you’re pursuing a degree, certification, or job training, these benefits are here to help you achieve your goals.