If you’re a U.S. veteran or planning your career after military service, Chapter 36 VA Benefits can help you a lot. In 2025, this program still supports eligible veterans and their family members by offering career counseling and guidance. Whether you’re thinking about school, job training, or work, Chapter 36 helps you choose the right path. Let’s break it down in simple words so you can understand how much support you can get, if you’re eligible, and what the pay looks like.
What Are Chapter 36 VA Benefits?
Chapter 36 VA Benefits, also called the Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (PCPG) program, offers free career help. It’s provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These benefits guide veterans, service members, and dependents in planning education, training, or job options.
This program doesn’t give money directly, but it helps with career choices, education goals, and how to use other VA benefits like the GI Bill.
Who Can Get Chapter 36 VA Benefits in 2025?
To use Chapter 36 in 2025, you must meet at least one of the following:
- Be a veteran or active-duty member eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33), Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30), or other VA education benefits.
- Be a dependent of a veteran using Chapter 35 benefits.
- Be a service member within 6 months of discharge or 1 year after discharge.
What Does Chapter 36 Help With?
Here’s what you can get:
- Career counseling to choose your future job path
- Help setting education or job training goals
- Assistance with resume writing
- Finding schools or vocational training programs
- Learning how to best use other VA education benefits
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Chapter 36 – Personalized Career Planning and Guidance |
| Provided By | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Eligibility | Veterans, service members, dependents (under Chapter 30, 33, or 35) |
| Services Offered | Career counseling, resume help, education planning, job training advice |
| Direct Payment | No payment – Free service only |
| Application Form | VA Form 28-8832 |
| How to Apply | Online at VA website or local VA office |
| Application Deadline | Apply anytime during eligibility period |
Is There a Payment for Chapter 36?
Chapter 36 itself does not give you cash. It’s a free counseling service, not a payment program. But it helps you plan how to use other VA benefits that do offer money, like:
- Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
- Chapter 35 (Survivors and Dependents Education Assistance)
- Chapter 30 (Montgomery GI Bill)
How to Apply for Chapter 36 in 2025?
You can apply easily:
- Visit the VA website at va.gov
- Log in with your ID.me or Login.gov account
- Fill out VA Form 28-8832
- Submit it online or through your nearest VA regional office
You’ll be contacted by a VA counselor who will guide you through the rest.
Chapter 36 VA Benefits are all about career planning and support, not cash payments. If you’re a veteran, service member, or dependent who wants help planning your future, this free VA service in 2025 is worth checking out. It doesn’t give direct money, but it helps you make smart choices for school, work, or training. Many veterans find it useful for organizing their goals and building a better future. Always check with the VA website or contact a local counselor to see if you’re eligible.
What are Chapter 36 VA Benefits?
Chapter 36 offers free career counseling and planning help for veterans, service members, and their dependents.
Do I get any money with Chapter 36?
No, it doesn’t provide direct payments. It gives free support for career and education planning.
Who can use Chapter 36 VA Benefits?
Veterans, active service members, and eligible dependents using GI Bill or VA education benefits.
How do I apply for Chapter 36 benefits in 2025?
Fill out VA Form 28-8832 on the VA website or visit a local VA office.
What kind of help does Chapter 36 offer?
It offers career counseling, job training advice, resume help, and school planning.