Reviewed October 2, 2026. This replaces an earlier article that incorrectly used disability compensation figures in a Chapter 35 guide. DEA payments go to eligible survivors and dependents for approved education or training, not automatically to the veteran as extra disability compensation. VA's published rate period is October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. For institutions of higher learning, the monthly rates for a full month of enrollment are $1,621 at full time, $1,281 at 75% enrollment, and $939 at 50% enrollment.
$1,621 × 12 = $19,452, but this assumes twelve full eligible months at the full-time rate. It is not a guaranteed annual award. Partial months are prorated and school breaks, enrollment level, eligibility, and remaining entitlement affect actual payments. Below half-time enrollment, VA applies tuition-and-fee limits. On-the-job training and apprenticeships use different rates. Check the official table for your program instead of applying the college full-time rate to every benefit type.
The amounts above were checked against the official VA tables on October 2, 2026. Use the official source below and your award documents. No unannounced 2027 disability compensation increase is assumed. Use the calculator for planning and the Claim Wizard to organize questions. Neither tool files a claim, determines entitlement, or guarantees compensation.