Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E), formerly known as “Voc Rehab,” is a vital program designed to help veterans with service-connected disabilities achieve employment success or live independently. One of the primary benefits of VR&E is the monthly subsistence allowance (also referred to as the VR&E stipend), which helps veterans with training costs while they participate in the program. The 2026 VR&E pay chart is effective from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, reflecting a 2.5% Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase from the previous year.
“Veterans should be proactive in reviewing their training options and understand how their subsistence allowance is calculated. Knowing the exact pay scale and understanding the types of training available can make a significant difference in their financial planning,” says Sarah Parker, a vocational rehabilitation specialist.
In this guide, we will walk you through the 2026 pay rates, help you understand how to calculate your subsistence allowance, and provide expert insights on how to maximize your benefits.
What Is VA VR&E (Chapter 31 Voc Rehab)?
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) under Chapter 31 helps veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and keep suitable employment or live as independently as possible. The program provides a variety of services, such as:
- Tuition and Fees: Covering costs for approved schools, including books and supplies.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT): Including apprenticeships and non-paid work experience.
- Career Counseling: Assistance with resume building, job placement, and career development.
- Independent Living Services: For veterans whose disability makes it difficult or impossible to work.
The key financial benefit of this program is the monthly subsistence allowance, which varies depending on factors like training time, training type, and number of dependents. Below is the official 2026 VA Chapter 31 pay chart to help you estimate your monthly VR&E stipend.
2026 VR&E Pay Chart
The following tables detail the 2026 VA Chapter 31 VR&E subsistence allowance rates based on training time and dependents. These rates are effective from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, and reflect the 2.5% CPI increase.
2026 VR&E Institutional Training Rates (College, University, Trade School)
| Training Time | No Dependents | One Dependent | Two Dependents | Each Additional Dependent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time | $812.84 | $1,008.24 | $1,188.15 | $86.58 |
| ¾ Time | $610.76 | $757.28 | $888.32 | $66.60 |
| ½ Time | $408.66 | $506.32 | $595.16 | $44.42 |
| ¼ Time | $204.30 | $253.20 | $297.59 | $22.16 |
2026 VR&E Nonpay Government OJT, Home Training, Rehab Facility & Independent Instructor
| Training Time | No Dependents | One Dependent | Two Dependents | Each Additional Dependent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Only | $812.84 | $1,008.24 | $1,188.15 | $86.58 |
2026 VR&E Farm Co-Op, Apprenticeship & Other Paid OJT
| Training Time | No Dependents | One Dependent | Two Dependents | Each Additional Dependent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Only | $710.67 | $859.43 | $990.47 | $64.41 |
2026 VR&E Combination Training (School + OJT)
- Institutional > ½ of Program: Paid at the institutional full-time rate.
- On-the-Job > ½ of Program: Paid at the OJT full-time rate.
“Understanding the full scope of benefits available through VR&E is essential for veterans to make informed decisions about their training and employment paths,” says Larry Thomas, a veteran’s benefits advisor. “By knowing the ins and outs of the VR&E pay rates, veterans can optimize their financial planning during their educational and vocational training.”
How to Calculate Your 2026 VR&E Payment (Examples)?
Let’s go over a few examples of how to calculate your VR&E payment based on your training time and dependent count:
- Example 1: Full-Time School, Spouse + One Child
- Training Type: Institutional (College/University)
- Training Time: Full-time
- Dependents: 2 (spouse + one child)
- Calculation: Full-time institutional rate with 2 dependents = $1,188.15 per month
- Example 2: Full-Time On-the-Job Training, Spouse Only
- Training Type: Farm Co-op / Apprenticeship / OJT
- Training Time: Full-time
- Dependents: 1 (spouse)
- Calculation: Full-time OJT rate with 1 dependent = $859.43 per month
- Example 3: Full-Time School, Spouse + Two Kids
- Training Type: Institutional (College)
- Training Time: Full-time
- Dependents: 3 (spouse + two children)
- Calculation: Start with $1,188.15 for two dependents, then add $86.58 for each additional dependent = $1,274.73 per month
VR&E vs Post-9/11 GI Bill Housing Rate (Which Pays More?)
Some veterans in VR&E may choose to use the Post-9/11 GI Bill housing rate instead of the VR&E subsistence allowance. This rate is based on the BAH for an E-5 with dependents in the ZIP code of the school you attend.
- In High-Cost Areas: The GI Bill housing rate may be higher than the VR&E subsistence allowance.
- In Low-Cost Areas: The VR&E rates may be more competitive.
“If you’re eligible for both VR&E and the Post-9/11 GI Bill, it’s essential to compare both pay structures. Your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) can help you choose the higher option, ensuring you’re maximizing your benefits,” says John Stevens, a veteran disability attorney.
How to Qualify for VR&E and Access These 2026 Pay Rates?
To qualify for VR&E, veterans must meet the following criteria:
- Honorable Discharge: You must not have received a dishonorable discharge.
- Service-Connected Disability: A VA service-connected disability rating of at least 10% is required.
- Evaluation: Complete an application and evaluation with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC), who will assess whether you have an employment handicap or serious employment handicap.
FAQs
Are 2026 VR&E subsistence payments tax-free?
Yes. The VR&E subsistence allowance is tax-free, similar to other VA education benefits.
How often do VR&E pay rates change?
By law, Chapter 31 subsistence rates are adjusted annually on October 1, based on a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
Do I get more voc rehab pay if I have more dependents?
Yes. Your monthly subsistence allowance increases with each approved dependent, up to the statutory maximum.
Is the GI Bill housing rate always better than VR&E?
No, the Post-9/11 GI Bill housing rate is higher in some areas, but the VR&E rate may be more competitive in lower-cost regions. Your VRC can help you determine the best option.
When do the 2026 VR&E rates actually start paying out?
Payments are made monthly in arrears. For October 2025 training, the first payment will typically arrive around November 2025.
How do I apply for VR&E?
Veterans can apply online, by mail, or in person. A Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will evaluate your eligibility and assist in creating an individualized rehabilitation plan.
