Common Pitfalls

There might be a time limit on when you can apply for Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits. If you were discharged from active duty on or after January 1, 2013, there is no time limit. But if you were discharged before January 1, 2013, you must apply within 12 years from either:

• Your date of separation from active military service, or
• When the VA notified you of your service-connected disability rating, whichever date is later.

Plus, the sooner you apply, the sooner your training and job opportunities start. It can take time to get an appointment with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC), and to uncover your strengths and limitations by evaluating your education, training, work history, interests, skills, and personality traits. Creating your rehabilitation plan and deciding which VR&E benefits and services are best for you can take several more appointments over a period of weeks or months. It’s best to apply as soon as possible.

Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) benefits can be key to getting the job you want both now and in the future. VR&E can give you the support and tools you need to identify your goals and the steps you need to take to achieve them as you adapt to your service-connected disability. It’s a challenge and VR&E can help you face it.