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VR&E Rapid Access to Employment track

If you want to follow an employment path that uses your existing skill set, the Rapid Access to Employment track can help you with your job search. We offer counseling and rehabilitation services that address your abilities, aptitudes, and interests. Find out if you can get Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) benefits and services to help you use your existing skill set to find a job.

Can I get employment counseling and job-search support through VR&E?

You may be eligible for these benefits if you’re a service member or Veteran with a service-connected disability, and you meet all of these requirements.

All of these must be true:

  • You have an employment handicap or barrier, and
  • You’re enrolled in VR&E, and
  • You already have experience, education, or training in your field of interest

Note: Having an employment handicap means your service-connected disability limits your ability to prepare for, obtain, and maintain suitable employment (a job that doesn’t make your disability worse, is stable, and matches your abilities, aptitudes, and interests).

What kind of benefits can I get?

  • Tools to help with your job search
  • Professional or vocational counseling
  • Help with writing your resume and preparing for interviews
  • Help determining if you’re eligible for Veterans’ Preference

How do I get these benefits?

First, you’ll need to apply for VR&E benefits. Then, you’ll work with your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). If you’ve received your VA disability rating, you can apply online right now.

Apply for VR&E benefits

If you’re eligible, we’ll invite you to an orientation session at your nearest VA regional office.

Learn more about how to apply

Note: You can apply if you’re a service member who hasn't received a disability rating yet.

Some dependents of service members or Veterans with service-connected disabilities may also be eligible for education and career counseling.
Learn about services for family members

Get more information

You can get training and practical hands-on work experience at the same time through these VR&E programs:

  • The VR&E Special Employer Incentives (SEI) program is for eligible Veterans who face challenges getting a job. 
    Download the SEI program fact sheet (PDF)
  • The VR&E Non-Paid Work Experience (NPWE) program is for eligible Veterans and service members who have an established career goal and learn easily in a hands-on environment—or who would benefit from more work experience. If you’re already getting benefits and services through VR&E, talk to your counselor or employment coordinator to find out about your options through the NPWE program.
    Play this video to learn more about the NPWE program (YouTube)

Other support

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