As a National Service Officer, I see many of the issues that face our veterans. Some vets are not aware of one of the greatest benefits available, that their children and spouses are eligible for the Dependants Educational Assistance program. I will explain this program and how, if you are eligible, to take advantage.

Its purpose is to provide opportunities for education to veteran’s children whose education would otherwise be impeded or interrupted by reason of the disability or death of a parent from a disease or injury incurred or aggravated in the Armed Forces. The program also extends to surviving spouses of veterans who died of service-connected disabilities and to spouses of veterans with a permanent service-connected total disability. Its purpose is to assist them in preparing to support themselves and their families at a standard of living which the veteran, but for his/her death or service disability, could have expected to provide. A dependant’s eligibility must be established by a Rating Decision.

Eligible children (including adopted or stepchildren) may receive benefits under this program from age 18 to 26. In some instances, this may extend beyond these age requirements. If a person is eligible, they will be notified by the VA on possible beginning and ending dates based on the claim. For spouses eligible because of a permanent and total service-connected disability, benefits usually end 10 years after one of the following, either the effective date of the disability or the evaluation date.

The evaluation date is the date upon which the VA notifies the veteran of the permanent and total disability evaluation. The veteran may choose between the eligible date and the evaluation date. In order to apply for this program the candidate will need to find out from the facility they are planning to attend whether the program is approved for VA Benefits. If the facility hasn’t requested approval before, ask an official to contact VA and request it. If the program has been approved for VA benefits, check with the school or training facility official who certifies enrollments for VA benefits. Complete the application (VA Form 22-5490, Application for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance) and submit it to the appropriate VA regional office. Ask the school or training official to certify your enrollment to VA.
Before I became an NSO I didn’t know that my children were eligible for education benefits because of my service connected disability. I began the Florida Pre Pay Program to ensure their education. But, I’ve made the mistake of assuming that all veterans know this benefit is available. I have actually met some eligible veterans who have children currently attending school who are not using this benefit. If you are interested in this program or feel you’re eligible, please contact your local PVA Service Officer to get more information.

David Ray

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