What Is It?
The Dependents’ Educational Assistance program provides up to 45 months of education and training benefits for eligible dependents of certain veterans. The benefits can be used for degree and certificate programs, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, and, for spouses, correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses also may be covered under certain circumstances. Preparatory classes for college or graduate school entrance exams, as well as high school programs for those who aren’t high school graduates, are also included.
Who Does It Benefit?
To qualify, you must be the son, daughter, or spouse (including stepchild or adopted child) of:
- A veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled as the result of a service-connected disability. The disability must arise out of active service in the Armed Forces.
- A veteran who died from any cause while such service-connected disability was in existence.
- A service member missing in action or captured in the line of duty by a hostile force.
- A service member forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power.
- A service member who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability.
Children of veterans who meet the criteria above must be between the ages of 18 and 26 to receive benefits for attending school or job training, although there are exceptions. Sons and daughters who are themselves members of the Armed Forces may not receive this benefit while on active duty.
How Much Does It Pay?
Basic monthly rates increase Oct. 1 of each year with the Consumer Price Index increase. Rates may increase at other times by an act of Congress. For current rates, visit www.gibill.va.gov and click on Payment Rates.