VR&E Employment Through Long-Term Services track
If you have a service-connected disability that makes it hard for you to succeed in your employment path, you may be interested in the Employment Through Long-Term Services track. We can help you get the education or training you need to find work in a different field that better suits your current abilities and interests.
Find out if you’re eligible for professional or vocational counseling and training through Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E).
Can I get professional or vocational counseling and training for new skills through VR&E?
You may be eligible for these benefits if you’re a service member or Veteran with a service-connected disability, and you meet all of the requirements listed below.
All of these must be true:
- You have an employment barrier or handicap, and
- You’re enrolled in VR&E, and
- Your service-connected disability makes it hard for you to prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment (a job that doesn’t make your disability worse, is stable, and matches your abilities, aptitudes, and interests)
Note: You may be eligible for both VR&E training and GI Bill benefits. You’ll need to decide which benefit you want to use.
Learn more about the GI Bill
What kind of benefits can I get?
- A complete skills assessment
- Career guidance
- Job-market evaluation
- Education and training for a professional or vocational field that’s a good fit for you
- Apprenticeship, on-the-job training, and volunteer opportunities
- Employment assistance
How do I get these benefits?
First, you’ll need to apply for VR&E benefits. Then, you’ll work with your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). If you’ve received your VA disability rating, you can apply online right now.
If you're eligible, we'll invite you to an orientation session at your nearest VA regional office.
Note: You can apply if you’re a service member who hasn't received a disability rating yet.
Note: VR&E is an employment program that’s different from the GI Bill and may be used to pay for education needed to train you for suitable employment.
Learn more about the GI Bill
Get more information
We offer opportunities to get training and practical hands-on work experience at the same time through programs like:
- The VR&E Special Employer Incentives (SEI) program for eligible Veterans who face challenges getting a job.
Download the SEI program fact sheet (PDF) - The VR&E Non-Paid Work Experience (NPWE) program for eligible Veterans and service members who have an established career goal and learn easily in a hands-on environment—or are having trouble getting a job due to lack of work experience.
Download the NPWE program fact sheet (PDF)
Watch this video to learn more about the NPWE program
We also offer:
- VR&E employment coordinators—located at our VA regional offices and many of our out-based locations—who can help you access the employment services available to you.
Find an employment coordinator near you - Counselors to help you transition from military to college life.
Learn about VetSuccess on Campus - Links to more resources outside VA that can help you in your job search.
See our list of external resources - If you’re participating in a VR&E employment program and lost your housing because of a natural or other disaster, you may qualify for 2 more months of the Employment Adjustment Allowance.
Contact your VR&E counselor for more information