VA DEA Benefits Application: It’s easier than you might think to apply for VA Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA), but are you qualified? This is all the information you require to get financial aid for schooling or career training.
Dependents of veterans are using Chapter 35 to take charge of their futures because it offers potential benefits worth thousands of dollars. Here’s how to make sure you get your share, though.
Chapter 35, also known as the Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, offers crucial financial support to the surviving spouses and dependents of veterans who have been killed, are missing in action, have been captured, or suffer from severe, permanent disabilities.
This program serves as a lifeline for many families deeply affected by the loss or injury of a loved one in the military, helping cover the costs of college tuition or job training.
Chapter 35 VA Benefits: How to Apply, Eligibility, Requirements, Forms, and More
VA DEA Benefits Application: How to Request Benefits Under Chapter 35 DEA
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The application process is simple and can be completed online or through mail. To begin the application process, candidates must provide their Social Security number, sponsor information, and details about the training centre or school they intend to attend. Direct deposit also requires the details of a bank account.
If you choose to apply by mail, complete VA Form 22-5490 and mail it to your local processing office. The form’s last page conveniently lists the address of this office. Have you enrolled in school yet? Make sure your certification officer is aware of this so they can send the VA your enrollment details.
Who is eligible?
The veteran or service member must fulfil one of the following requirements to be eligible for DEA benefits:
- Be permanently disabled due to a service-connected disability
- Have died in the line of duty or as a result of a service-connected disability
- Be missing in action, captured, or held by hostile forces for more than 90 days
- Be receiving treatment for a permanent service-connected disability with an expected discharge
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Guidelines for spouses and kids
Eligibility for children is independent of marital status. They cannot, however, use DEA benefits while serving in the military. A dishonourable discharge debars them from using them should they wish to do so after release.
However, spouses are eligible to receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) in addition to DEA. However, with a few exceptions, DEA eligibility usually ends with a divorce or remarriage following the veteran’s passing. Benefits could be reinstated if the remarriage took place after January 1, 2004, and the former spouse was at least 57 years old.
The families of those who have served this country can find hope in the DEA program. Don’t pass up the financial assistance offered to ensure a better future. Apply right now.
