1. What is your relationship to the veteran or servicemember?

Spouse or surviving spouse

Currently married to, or widow/widower of, the veteran

Child of the veteran

Biological, adopted, or stepchild

I am the veteran

Checking on behalf of my dependents

2. What is the veteran's status?

Select all that apply — choose the one that best describes the veteran's qualifying condition.

Died from a service-connected disability

VA ruled that a service-connected condition was the cause of death

Has a 100% permanent & total (P&T) disability rating

VA has rated the veteran at 100% and the rating is marked P&T

Died while rated 100% P&T for at least 1 year

Veteran held a continuous 100% P&T rating for at least one year before death

Missing in action (MIA) or prisoner of war (POW)

Veteran has been officially listed as MIA or POW

None of the above

The veteran doesn't currently meet any of these conditions

3. How old are you? (if you are the dependent)

Under 18

Not yet reached the minimum enrollment age

18–26

Primary window for child dependents

Over 26

Standard DEA cutoff for children

I am the spouse — age doesn't apply

Age limits are different for spouses

4. Are you currently pursuing (or planning to pursue) an approved educational program?

DEA covers college, vocational/technical school, apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and special restorative training.

Yes — enrolled or planning to enroll in an approved program

Unsure — still researching schools/programs

No current plans to pursue education

5. Have you already used or are currently using Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33) benefits?

You can only use one program at a time, but you can switch between them depending on your situation.

Yes, I'm using or have used the Post-9/11 GI Bill

No, I haven't used the Post-9/11 GI Bill

I'm not eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill (it belongs to the veteran)

Chapter 35 Eligibility Checker