The Chapter 35 VA Program, also known as the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program, provides crucial financial support to the dependents of veterans who are permanently disabled or deceased due to a service-related condition.
This program helps spouses and children of veterans pursue higher education, vocational training, and apprenticeships by offering a monthly stipend to cover tuition and related costs.
This article will cover the Chapter 35 VA payment schedule, eligibility criteria, and the payment rates for September 2024.
What is Chapter 35 VA Educational Assistance?
The Chapter 35 DEA program offers up to 45 months of education benefits to eligible dependents. These benefits cover:
- College degrees (undergraduate and graduate)
- Vocational training
- Apprenticeships
- On-the-job training
- Licensing and certification programs
Eligible dependents can receive monthly stipends to help offset education costs, with payment amounts varying based on enrollment status and the type of program.
Payment Calculation for Chapter 35 VA DEA (September 2024)
The monthly payment rates depend on the type of educational program and the number of courses or training hours you are enrolled in. For September 2024, the following rates apply:
Institutions of Higher Learning (College Programs)
| Enrollment Status | September Rate |
|---|---|
| Full-time | $1,488 |
| 3/4-time | $1,176 |
| 1/2-time | $862 |
| Less than 1/2-time (more than 1/4-time) | $862 (or cost of tuition/fees) |
| 1/4-time or less | $372 (or cost of tuition/fees) |
Non-College Degree Programs (Vocational Training)
| Enrollment Status | Monthly Rate |
|---|---|
| Full-time | $1,488 |
| 3/4-time | $1,176 |
| 1/2-time | $862 |
| Less than 1/2-time (more than 1/4-time) | $862 (or cost of tuition/fees) |
| 1/4-time or less | $372 (or cost of tuition/fees) |
On-the-Job Training and Apprenticeships
The payment structure for on-the-job training or apprenticeships starts at a higher rate and gradually decreases as the training progresses:
| Months | Monthly Rate |
|---|---|
| 1-6 months | $945 |
| 7-12 months | $710 |
| 13-18 months | $466 |
| After 18 months | $237 |
To qualify, participants must work at least 120 hours per month.
Eligibility for Chapter 35 VA Benefits
To receive educational assistance under Chapter 35, dependents of U.S. veterans must meet the following criteria:
- Eligible Dependents: Spouses and children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition, or those who died due to a service-related condition or while on active duty.
- Age: Dependent children can claim benefits between the ages of 18 and 26.
- Spouses: Eligible spouses can claim benefits within 10 years from the date they are deemed eligible by the VA.
- Enrollment: The dependent must be enrolled in a recognized education or training program.
VA Disability Rates (2024)
In addition to educational assistance, the VA also provides monthly disability payments to veterans. Here are the monthly rates for 2024 based on the percentage of disability:
| Disability Rating | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| 10% | $171.23 |
| 20% | $338.49 |
| 30% | $524.31 |
| 40% | $755.28 |
| 50% | $1,075.16 |
| 60% | $1,361.88 |
| 70% | $1,716.28 |
| 80% | $1,995.01 |
| 90% | $2,241.91 |
| 100% | $3,737.85 |
Chapter 35 VA Payment Schedule for 2024
Payments are made monthly, directly into the beneficiary’s bank account. While there isn’t a fixed day for every recipient, payments are typically released on the day your educational program begins.
If, for instance, your course starts on the 5th of a month, your payment will be made on or around that day.
For more specific information, you can check your payment status through the WAVE (Web Automated Verification of Enrollment) system by providing your enrollment details.
2024 Payment Schedule
| Payment Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January 2024 | 1 February 2024 |
| February 2024 | 1 March 2024 |
| March 2024 | 1 April 2024 |
| April 2024 | 1 May 2024 |
| May 2024 | 31 May 2024 |
| June 2024 | 1 July 2024 |
| July 2024 | 1 August 2024 |
| August 2024 | 30 August 2024 |
| September 2024 | 1 October 2024 |
| October 2024 | 1 November 2024 |
| November 2024 | 29 November 2024 |
| December 2024 | 31 December 2024 |
How to Check Payment Status
To check the status of your Chapter 35 VA payment, visit the WAVE portal. The portal allows you to verify your enrollment and payment date by logging in with your VA details. This ensures that payments are processed correctly and on time.
FAQs
What is the monthly payment for full-time students under Chapter 35?
Full-time students receive $1,488 per month under Chapter 35 in 2024.
How can I check my Chapter 35 VA payment date?
You can check your payment date by logging into the WAVE system with your enrollment details.
What is the eligibility age for dependent children under Chapter 35?
Dependent children are eligible between the ages of 18 and 26.
Do payment amounts decrease over time for apprenticeships under Chapter 35?
Yes, payments start at $945 and gradually decrease to $237 after 18 months.
How long can dependents receive benefits under Chapter 35?
Eligible dependents can receive up to 45 months of benefits under the Chapter 35 program.
