Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program

Education Is A Family Plan

If you are a spouse or dependent of a veteran, the Dependents' Educational Assistance provides education and training opportunities could be the program you've been hoping for. For eligible dependents of certain veterans, the DEA program offers up to 45 months of education benefits, for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeship, and on-the-job training, and/or correspondence courses. Remedial, deficiency, and refresher courses may be approved.

How Your Family Benefits

You are eligible for the DEA benefits if you are the son, daughter, or spouse 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 line of duty by a hostile force.
• A service member forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power.

Apply Yourself Now

Make sure your selected program is approved for VA training. If you're not sure, the VA can inform you and the school about the requirements. If you are a son or daughter under legal age, a parent or guardian must sign the application. If you have started training, take your application to your school or employer. Ask them to complete VA Form 22-1999, Enrollment Certification, and send both forms to the VA.

Timing Is Everything

If you are a veteran's son or daughter and wish to receive benefits for attending school or job training, you must be between the ages of 18 and 26. In certain instances, it is possible to begin before age 18 and to continue after age 26. Marriage does not disqualify you for this benefit but if you are in the Armed Forces, you may not receive this benefit while on active duty. After military service, discharge must not be under dishonorable conditions. VA can extend your period of eligibility by the number of months and days equal to the time spent on active duty, all the way up to your 31st birthday. If you are a spouse, benefits end 10 years from the date VA finds you eligible or from the date of death of the veteran.

The VA cares about educating your family. Find out how your family can benefit, now.