What it is
VA Form 28-1900, "Application for Veteran Readiness and Employment for Claimants with Service-Connected Disabilities." This is the Chapter 31 application. The program was renamed from Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment to Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) in 2020, same Chapter 31, same benefits, new name.
When you use it
File this if you have a service-connected disability and need help getting or keeping a job, or training for a new career. Basic entitlement under 38 CFR 21.40 requires either a 20% or higher combined rating with an employment handicap, OR a 10% rating with a serious employment handicap. Active-duty service members within six months of separation can also apply. You pick one of five tracks with your counselor: reemployment with your prior employer, rapid access to employment, self-employment, employment through long-term services (training/degree), or independent living if employment is not currently feasible.
What to gather before you file
DD-214 (or expected separation date if still in), your VA rating decision letter, current contact info, and a short description of how your conditions limit the work you can do. Have your education history and any prior civilian work ready, your counselor will ask.
How to submit
Apply online at VA.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation, mail the PDF to the Janesville intake center listed on the form, or hand-carry to any VA regional office. Online is fastest and routes you to a counselor for the required orientation and evaluation appointment.
Common pitfalls
Missing the 12-year delimiting date. Under 38 CFR 21.42, your basic period of eligibility ends 12 years after the later of discharge or first notification of a service-connected rating, apply early or request an extension with documented serious employment handicap. Confusing VR&E with the GI Bill: VR&E is counselor-driven and employment-focused, not a tuition entitlement you self-direct. Skipping the orientation appointment after applying, no orientation, no entitlement determination. Assuming a 0% rating qualifies: it does not.
Related forms
VA Form 28-8832 (education/vocational counseling, Chapter 36, for dependents or vets who do not yet qualify for Chapter 31). VA Form 22-1990 if you decide the Post-9/11 GI Bill fits better.
Sources
https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-28-1900/ ; 38 CFR 21.40 (basic entitlement) and 38 CFR 21.42 (12-year basic period of eligibility) at https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/38/21.40