Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, also known as Chapter 35, provides education and training benefits to eligible spouses and children of certain veterans. Eligible dependents may receive a monthly stipend for educational costs, which can be used at approved institutions or training programs. The length and eligibility and the benefit amount vary depending on when the veteran’s rating or death occurred, and the dependent’s age or marital status

To be eligible for DEA benefits, you must be the child or spouse of a veteran or service member who meets certain criteria related to service-connected disabilities or death. Specifically, the veteran or service member must have died, be permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, be missing in action, or be captured or forcibly detained while in the line of duty.

• Tuition and fees: DEA covers tuition, fees, and other educational costs at approved schools and training programs

• Monthly payments: Dependents may receive monthly payment to help with living expenses

• Educational and career counseling

• Benefits can be used for college, technical schools, vocational training, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training

• Special restorative training: Certain disabled or surviving spouses may be eligible for special restorative training to address impairments related to their disability

DEA can significantly ease the financial burden of education for surviving or dependent family members. However, eligibility rules and application timing can be complex.

We have attorneys and representatives here at Greene & Marusak who can help you confirm your eligibility for this benefit.

Give us a call at (844) 483-8737