DVA & DOL Launch VRAP

Starting May 15, 2012, the Department of Veterans Affairs began accepting applications for the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP), for training that begins on or after July 1, 2012.  This program is open to unemployed veterans, ages 35 to 60, who pursue a VA-approved program offered by a community college or technical school that leads to a “high-demand occupation.”  The link to the VRAP’s list of High Demand Occupations is http://www.gibill.va.gov/documents/VRAP_High_Demand.pdf.

In order to be eligible for this program, you must (1) have received an other than dishonorable discharge, (2) not be eligible for any other VA education program, (3) not be receiving VA compensation based on employability, and (4) not be enrolled in a federal or state job training program.  The program is limited to 99,000 veterans – with 45,000 veterans allowed to participate prior to October 1, 2012. 

This is a joint effort between the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Labor.  The Department of Labor will provide every veteran participant with employment assistance after they have completed the program.  More information can be found at this link: http://www.benefits.va.gov/VOW/education.htm.

 


(posted to hoeferlaw.com May 2012)