Transitioning from military service to civilian employment can be a challenging journey, especially for veterans with service-connected disabilities. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, to support veterans in overcoming employment barriers and achieving meaningful careers. 

If you’re a veteran looking to reenter the workforce, develop new skills, or even start your own business, VR&E could be the perfect opportunity for you. In this blog, we’ll break down what the program offers, how to apply, and why it’s an invaluable resource for veterans ready to take control of their futures. 

What is VR&E? 

VR&E is designed to help veterans with service-connected disabilities find, prepare for, and maintain employment. The program provides career counseling, education assistance, and job placement services tailored to each veteran’s unique circumstances. 

To qualify for VR&E, you must have at least a 10% VA disability rating and receive an employment handicap evaluation from a VR&E counselor. This program is not just about finding a job—it’s about finding the right job, ensuring long-term career success and stability. 

How Can VR&E Be Used? 

VR&E is a flexible program with five primary tracks, each designed to meet veterans where they are in their career journey: 

Reemployment: This track helps veterans return to the job they held before their disability by providing accommodations. For example, a veteran needing a wheelchair-compatible desk or other adaptive equipment could receive it through VR&E without the employer bearing the cost. 

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) protects service members and veterans from job discrimination and ensures they can return to their civilian employment after training or deployment. If a reservist or National Guard member is injured during service, VR&E can provide the necessary accommodations to help them return to work.

Rapid Access to Employment: Assists veterans in finding immediate job opportunities that align with their existing skills through career counseling, resume assistance, and job search support.

Self-Employment: Provides training and resources to help veterans start their own businesses, including: 

• Coordination services and help with developing a proposed business plan 
• Analysis of the business concept 
• Training in small-business operations, marketing, and finances 
• Guidance in obtaining the right resources to implement the business plan 

After a business plan is developed, the VA reviews and evaluates its viability to determine if self-employment is a suitable option.

Employment Through Long-Term Services: This track is for veterans who want to change their career path completely. If a VR&E counselor determines that a veteran can no longer perform their previous job due to disabilities and that a new career goal is a better fit, they may receive:

• A complete skills assessment 
• Career guidance 
• Job-market evaluation 
• Education and training for a professional or vocational field that aligns with their abilities (an additional education benefit without using their GI Bill) 
• Apprenticeship, on-the-job training, and volunteer opportunities 
• Employment assistance 

Independent Living Services: For veterans whose disabilities make employment difficult, this track provides support to improve quality of life and independence, including:

• Evaluation and counseling to identify needs and goals
• Referral to support resources
• Evaluation to determine eligibility for the VR&E home adaptation grant, which helps fund home accessibility modifications such as wheelchair ramps, handicap-accessible showers, and wider doorways
• Guidance on additional adaptive housing programs that can assist in making further modifications for independent living 

These services typically last up to 24 months, though some veterans may qualify for extended support. 

How to Apply For VR&E?  

The application process for VR&E is straightforward and designed to get veterans the help they need as quickly as possible: 

Check Eligibility: Ensure you have at least a 10% service-connected disability rating and complete an employment handicap evaluation with a VR&E counselor. 

Apply Online: Submit your application through the VA website by logging into your VA.gov account and filling out VA Form 28-1900. 

• How to Complete VA Form 28-1900: 

• Log into your VA.gov account. 

• Locate and open VA Form 28-1900. 

• Fill in your personal information (name, contact details, and VA file number if applicable). 

• Indicate your military service details and provide information about your disability rating. 

• Answer questions regarding your employment status, career goals, and current limitations due to your disability. 

• Provide any additional remarks or information that may help the VA evaluate your eligibility. 

• Submit the form online or download and print it for mail-in submission. 

You can also visit a VA regional office for in-person assistance with the application. 

Attend Orientation and Evaluation: Meet with a VR&E counselor who will assess your needs, interests, and goals to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan. The employment handicap evaluation takes place during this meeting. 

Start Your Program: Once approved, you’ll begin receiving services such as training, job placement, and accommodations to support your career goals. 

If your application is denied, don’t lose hope. You can request a re-evaluation, file an appeal, or seek assistance from Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) like Disabled American Veterans (DAV), VFW, or American Legion. 

Can You Use VR&E Without Using Your GI Bill? 

Yes! VR&E is separate from the GI Bill, meaning you do not have to use your GI Bill entitlement to access these services. Veterans who qualify for both programs can use VR&E first and save their GI Bill benefits for future educational opportunities. 

Take the Next Step 

The VR&E program is an incredible opportunity for veterans to rebuild their careers, gain new skills, and achieve greater independence. Whether you need resume support, job training, higher education, or even self-employment guidance, VR&E can provide the tools necessary for success. 

If you think VR&E might be right for you, don’t wait—apply today! Visit VA.gov or contact your local VA office for more information. 

For a deeper dive into the VR&E program, watch our latest video on Mission Roll Call University’s YouTube channel. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to help spread the word to other veterans who can benefit from this program!