Federal government websites always use a .gov or .mil domain. Before sharing sensitive information online, make sure you’re on a .gov or .mil site by inspecting your browser’s address (or “location”) bar.
Education - Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (DEA)
You must be a son, daughter, or spouse of a:
- 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 permanent and total service-connected disability was in existence.
- A Servicemember missing in action or captured in line of duty by a hostile force.
- A Servicemember forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power.
- A Servicemember who is hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a service connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability.
Reservists and National Guard members who are activated for Federal service OR who die/become disabled while on training status are considered Veterans.
Commissioned Officers of the Public Health Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are considered to be active duty members and Veterans, once discharged.
Educational and Vocational assessment and counseling (Chapter 36) is available upon request for DEA participants through VA's Veteran Readiness and Employment Service.
To complete an application, use VA Form 22-5490, "Dependents' Application for VA Educational Benefits." You can also complete the application online.
For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) Education and Training page.
If you have questions:
- Visit the GI Bill customer service page, to search Frequently Asked Questions or ask a question electronically
- Call 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551)
- For TDD/TYY use 711
To apply for VA benefits and services, view your benefit status, and many more services go to www.va.gov and either logon with your eBenefits sign on or use www.Logon.gov to enroll. VA.gov is a one-stop source for information on Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs benefits and services. Veterans, service members and their family members can conduct self-service transactions such as checking compensation and pension claim status information, enrolling in GI Bill, and obtaining copies of civil service preference letters, military records (DD214), and other personal information. For further information visit the VA.gov website.
