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Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E)

VR&E Process

VR&E Process

The VR&E process is designed to assist Veterans with service-connected disabilities to obtain suitable employment and/or achieve independent living goals. It is comprised of several phases, involving tasks for both VR&E staff and Veterans to complete. Here is a general outline of the phases and tasks. (NOTE: The outline below does not represent and/or detail all possible required tasks as it is intended to only be a summary.) For more information on the VR&E process, please contact your local VA Regional Office.

 Application Phase

  • Applications (via eBenefits or 28-1900) to be submitted, received, and reviewed
  • Veterans’ eligibility will be established
  • Veterans are scheduled for initial counseling appointments, if eligible
  • Letters of eligibility will be sent to Veterans

Entitlement Decision Phase.

  • Veterans participate in a VR&E orientation session (see Letter of Eligibility for date, time, and location information)
  • Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors (VRC) will meet with Veterans one-on-one
  • Discussion and determinations to occur on employment handicap and serious employment handicap (VR&E entitlement criteria)
  • Vocational evaluations are conducted to assess skills, abilities, and interests

Evaluation and Planning

  • VRCs and Veterans work together to identify the most appropriate track of services, involving employment and/or independent living objectives after feasibility for employment is discussed and determined
  • A vocational or independent living goal is established
  • Services needed are defined
  • A written plan of services will be developed.

Five Tracks

  • Re-Employment
  • Rapid Access to Employment
  • Self Employment (monitoring for 1 year minimum)
  • Employment Through Long-Term Services
  • Independent Living (24-month maximum with a possible six-month extension if approved by the VR&E Officer)

Employment Services

  • On-going case management to occur (maximum of 18 months)
  • Employment services to be provided
    • eBenefits Employment Center
    • Resume development
    • Interview skills
    • Job placement assistance
    • Referral to DOL

Rehabilitation

  • Suitable employment is obtained and maintained for at least 60-days, OR
  • Independent living skills have improved




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