VA Form 22-5490 Idaho: DEA Application Guide 2026

VA Form 22-5490 in Idaho: How to Apply for Dependents’ Educational Assistance

VA Form 22-5490 is the application for Chapter 35 Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA). In Idaho, eligible spouses and children of permanently and totally disabled Veterans or surviving dependents of deceased Veterans use this form to receive monthly education payments of up to $1,574 for full-time enrollment. Apply online at VA.gov or by mail.

Quick Facts

What Is VA Form 22-5490?

VA Form 22-5490 is the official application for the Department of Veterans Affairs Chapter 35 Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, also called Dependents’ Educational Assistance. The form is titled “Dependents’ Application for VA Education Benefits” and its most recent revision is dated January 2025.

Use this form when you are a spouse, surviving spouse, or child of a qualifying Veteran or service member and you want to apply for education benefits based on that Veteran’s service. It is also the correct form for the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship for eligible children.

VA Form 22-5490 is not the application for the Post-9/11 GI Bill (VA Form 22-1990) or the Montgomery GI Bill (VA Form 22-1990N). If you are applying for benefits based on your own military service, you would use VA Form 22-1990 instead.

What Is the Chapter 35 DEA Program?

The Chapter 35 DEA program provides education and training opportunities to eligible spouses and children of Veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability, or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected condition. The program also covers dependents of service members who are missing in action, captured, forcibly detained, or hospitalized for a VA-determined service-connected permanent and total disability.

DEA is sometimes called “Chapter 35” because it is authorized under Chapter 35 of Title 38 of the U.S. Code. It is a separate benefit from the GI Bill and is not transferable from the Veteran — it is a benefit earned by the dependent based on the Veteran’s service-connected status.

Who Qualifies for DEA Benefits?

To be eligible for DEA, you must be the son, daughter, or spouse of one of the following:

• A Veteran who died or is permanently and totally disabled because of a service-connected disability.

• A Veteran who died from any cause while the service-connected disability was in existence.

• A service member missing in action or captured in the line of duty by a hostile force.

• A service member forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government.

• A service member hospitalized or receiving outpatient care for a VA-determined service-connected permanent and total disability.

For children, the benefit must generally be used between ages 18 and 26. Spouses and surviving spouses have 10 years from the date the VA establishes DEA eligibility to use the benefit, with some extensions to 20 years under specific circumstances.

What Does DEA Pay in 2026?

For the 2025–2026 academic year (October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026), DEA rates for institutions of higher learning are:

These rates apply to courses at colleges and universities. Payments are made directly to the student, not to the school. The VA pays a prorated amount for partial months based on the number of days enrolled.

For the following year (October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027), full-time rates will increase to $1,621.00 per month for institutions of higher learning.

DEA vs. Fry Scholarship: Which Applies to You?

Children whose parent died before August 1, 2011 may use both the Fry Scholarship and DEA, but only one program at a time. They must make an irrevocable decision about which benefit to receive first.

How to Apply for DEA in Idaho Using VA Form 22-5490

Applying for DEA benefits in Idaho follows the same process as any other state. The VA processes all applications centrally, regardless of where you live or where you attend school.

Method 1: Apply Online (Recommended)

1. Go to VA.gov and navigate to the education benefits application page.

2. Select “Apply for Education Benefits” and answer the questions under “Find Your Education Benefits Form.” You will be routed to VA Form 22-5490.

3. Create an ID.me or Login.gov account if you do not already have one. You can start the application without signing in, but your progress will not be saved.

4. Complete the online form. You will need your sponsor’s full name, Social Security number, branch of service, and your relationship to the Veteran.

5. Submit the application. You will receive a confirmation page — save or print it, as your school’s certifying official may ask for a copy.

Method 2: Apply by Mail

1. Download VA Form 22-5490 (PDF) from VA.gov or request a paper copy by calling 888-GI-BILL-1 (888-442-4551).

2. Complete all applicable sections: Applicant Information (Part I), Sponsor Information (Part II), and Education/Training Information.

3. Attach supporting documents: a copy of the Veteran’s DD-214, dependency documents (marriage certificate for spouses, birth certificate for children), and evidence of the Veteran’s 100% permanent and total disability rating.

4. Mail the form to the VA Regional Office that processes education benefits for Idaho. The Western Region VA Regional Office in Muskogee, Oklahoma handles Idaho education claims.

Required Documents for Idaho Applicants

Processing Time for VA Form 22-5490

Online applications through VA.gov typically process in 30 to 45 days. Paper applications may take longer. Apply at least two to three months before your desired start date to ensure benefits are in place when classes begin.

What Happens After You Apply

After the VA processes your application, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) in the mail. The COE confirms your eligibility and shows your remaining entitlement. Provide a copy of the COE to your school’s School Certifying Official (SCO) — typically located in the financial aid or veterans services office — so they can certify your enrollment to the VA.

Using DEA Benefits at Idaho Schools

Idaho Schools Approved for DEA

DEA benefits can be used at any school or training program approved by the VA. Idaho’s public universities and colleges are approved, including:

• Boise State University (Boise)

• University of Idaho (Moscow)

• Idaho State University (Pocatello)

• Lewis-Clark State College (Lewiston)

• College of Western Idaho (Nampa)

• College of Southern Idaho (Twin Falls)

• North Idaho College (Coeur d’Alene)

• BYU-Idaho (Rexburg)

• The College of Idaho (Caldwell)

Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool on VA.gov to verify that your specific program is approved before enrolling.

How DEA Payments Work in Idaho

DEA payments go directly to the student, not to the school. This is different from the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which pays tuition directly to the institution. You are responsible for paying your tuition and fees from your DEA payments or other financial aid.

Idaho State University’s veterans services office notes that CH 35 DEA benefits do not pay tuition directly to the university, so students must establish a payment plan through their MyISU portal if needed.

Idaho In-State Tuition for Dependents

Under the Isakson and Roe Act (Section 1005), all public postsecondary institutions in Idaho must offer in-state tuition rates to eligible Veterans and their dependents, regardless of state residency status. Spouses and children using DEA benefits who reside in Idaho and can show proof of domicile qualify for resident tuition rates.

DEA Entitlement and Time Limits

How Many Months of DEA Benefits Can You Get?

New DEA beneficiaries who first enroll in a program of education after August 1, 2018 receive 36 months of entitlement. Individuals who first enrolled before August 1, 2018 qualify for a maximum of 45 months. The Forever GI Bill changed the entitlement from 45 months to 36 months for new enrollees.

Time Limits for Using DEA

• Children: Must use benefits between ages 18 and 26. Generally, children have 8 years from their 18th birthday to use the benefit, but this can vary based on when the qualifying event occurred.

• Spouses and surviving spouses: Have 10 years from the date the VA establishes DEA eligibility. This extends to 20 years if the VA rated the Veteran permanently and totally disabled with an effective date three years from discharge, or if the service member died while on active duty.

These time limits can be extended under certain circumstances. Call 888-442-4551 for details.

High School DEA Benefit Ending August 1, 2026

Congress is sunsetting the DEA benefit for high school students effective August 1, 2026. If your dependent child is using DEA for high school completion or GED courses, this benefit will no longer be available after that date. The 36-month DEA benefit for post-secondary education remains fully intact.

Common Mistakes Idaho Applicants Make with VA Form 22-5490

1. Using the wrong form. VA Form 22-5490 is for dependents and spouses. Veterans applying for their own benefits use VA Form 22-1990. Using the wrong form delays processing.

2. Applying too late. Processing takes 30–45 days. Apply at least two to three months before school starts. Waiting until August to apply for fall classes risks missing the first payment cycle.

3. Incorrect bank routing number. When setting up direct deposit, the routing number must be exactly 9 digits. An 8-digit entry means your payment will not arrive. Double-check your routing number before submitting.

4. Not providing proof of the Veteran’s disability rating. The VA needs documentation of the 100% permanent and total rating or the qualifying death. Without it, the application cannot be processed.

5. Assuming the school will handle everything. You must submit VA Form 22-5490 yourself. The school’s certifying official certifies enrollment after you are approved — they do not apply for you.

6. Missing the age 26 deadline. Children must use DEA benefits between ages 18 and 26. If you are approaching 26, contact the VA immediately to discuss any available extensions.

7. Not verifying enrollment monthly. If you are enrolled in a non-college degree program, you must verify your enrollment each month to continue receiving DEA payments. Idaho is included in the states where monthly verification is required for NCD programs.

What If Your DEA Application Is Denied?

If the VA denies your VA Form 22-5490 application, you have the right to appeal. The VA will send you a decision letter explaining the denial. You have one year from the date of the decision letter to file a Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) or request a Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996).

For a Board Appeal, you must file VA Form 10182 within 120 days of the decision date. A Court Appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims must also be filed within 120 days.

Common reasons for denial include:

• The Veteran does not have a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating.

• The applicant is not within the eligible age range (18–26 for children).

• The qualifying event does not meet VA criteria.

• Required documentation is missing or insufficient.

If you believe the denial is based on a clear and unmistakable error, you can file a CUE claim with evidence that the VA had sufficient information to approve the claim at the time it was originally filed.

Idaho-Specific Benefits for Veterans’ Dependents

Armed Forces and Public Safety Officer Dependent Scholarship

Idaho offers a state-funded scholarship for dependents of fallen or permanently disabled Idaho members of the armed forces or Idaho public safety officers. Eligible applicants must be Idaho residents. The scholarship covers tuition and fees at Idaho public institutions. Contact the Idaho Division of Veterans Services for current eligibility details and application deadlines.

Idaho National Guard State Education Assistance

Dependents of Idaho National Guard members may qualify for state education assistance programs separate from federal DEA benefits. These programs are administered through the Idaho Military Division and can be combined with federal benefits in some cases.

Fee Waivers at Idaho Public Institutions

Under Section 702 of the Idaho State Board of Education policies, eligible Veterans and dependents receive a waiver of nonresident tuition and fees at Idaho public colleges and universities. Priority registration may also be available for eligible Veterans and dependents.

Common Questions

What is VA Form 22-5490 used for?

VA Form 22-5490 is the application for Chapter 35 Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) benefits. It is used by spouses, surviving spouses, and children of qualifying Veterans to apply for monthly education payments. It is also used for the Fry Scholarship. The current revision date is January 2025.

Who qualifies for DEA benefits in Idaho?

You must be the spouse or child of a Veteran who is permanently and totally disabled (100% P&T) from a service-connected condition, died from a service-connected condition, is missing in action, was captured, or is hospitalized for a service-connected permanent and total disability. Children must generally be between ages 18 and 26.

How much does DEA pay in 2026?

For the 2025–2026 academic year, full-time DEA at a college or university pays $1,574 per month. Three-quarter-time pays $1,244, and half-time pays $912. Starting October 1, 2026, full-time rates increase to $1,621 per month.

How long does it take to process VA Form 22-5490?

Online applications through VA.gov typically process in 30 to 45 days. Paper applications may take longer. Apply at least two to three months before your desired start date to ensure benefits are ready when classes begin.

Can I apply for DEA online in Idaho?

Yes. Go to VA.gov, select “Apply for Education Benefits,” and answer the questions to be routed to VA Form 22-5490. You can apply without signing in, but your progress will not be saved. Creating an ID.me or Login.gov account allows you to save and track your application.

How many months of DEA benefits do I get?

New beneficiaries who first enroll after August 1, 2018 receive 36 months of DEA entitlement. Those who first enrolled before August 1, 2018 qualify for up to 45 months.

Can I use DEA and the GI Bill at the same time?

No. You cannot receive DEA and Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits simultaneously. However, if you have remaining entitlement under both, you may be able to use them sequentially. Contact the VA at 888-442-4551 to discuss your options.

What Idaho schools accept DEA benefits?

Any VA-approved school in Idaho accepts DEA benefits. This includes Boise State University, University of Idaho, Idaho State University, Lewis-Clark State College, College of Western Idaho, and many trade and vocational programs. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool on VA.gov to verify program approval.

Do DEA payments go to me or to the school?

DEA payments go directly to you, the student. Unlike the Post-9/11 GI Bill, which pays tuition directly to the school, you are responsible for paying your tuition and fees from your DEA payments or other financial aid.

What happens if my DEA application is denied?

If denied, you have one year from the decision date to file a Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) or request a Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996). For a Board Appeal, file VA Form 10182 within 120 days.

Is the DEA benefit ending in 2026?

The DEA benefit for high school students is ending August 1, 2026. The 36-month DEA benefit for post-secondary education at colleges, universities, and trade schools remains fully intact for eligible dependents.

Can surviving spouses use DEA benefits in Idaho?

Yes. Surviving spouses of Veterans who died from service-connected conditions, or service members who died on active duty, qualify for DEA. They have 10 years from the date the VA establishes eligibility, extending to 20 years in certain circumstances.

Key Takeaways

• VA Form 22-5490 is the application for Chapter 35 DEA benefits, used by spouses and children of permanently and totally disabled or deceased Veterans.

• **Full-time DEA pays $1,574 per month** for the 2025–2026 academic year; rates increase to $1,621 starting October 1, 2026.

• New beneficiaries receive 36 months of entitlement; those who first enrolled before August 1, 2018 receive up to 45 months.

• Children must use DEA between ages 18 and 26; spouses have 10 years (extendable to 20) from the date eligibility is established.

• Apply online at VA.gov for fastest processing, typically 30–45 days.

• DEA payments go directly to the student, not to the school. You are responsible for paying tuition.

• Idaho public institutions offer in-state tuition to eligible dependents under the Isakson and Roe Act.

• The DEA high school benefit ends August 1, 2026; the post-secondary benefit remains intact.

• Denied applicants can appeal using VA Form 20-0995, 20-0996, or 10182 depending on the review option.

• Contact the Idaho Division of Veterans Services for state-specific scholarships and assistance programs.

Official Resources

• VA Form 22-5490 (Download): https://www.va.gov/forms/22-5490/

• VA DEA Program Overview: https://benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/factsheets/survivors/CH35.pdf

• Chapter 35 Current Rates: https://www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/education-and-careers/dependents-education-assistance/rates/

• Chapter 35 Future Rates (2026–2027): https://www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/education-and-careers/dependents-education-assistance/rates/future-rates/

• GI Bill Comparison Tool: https://www.va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool

• Idaho Division of Veterans Services: https://veterans.idaho.gov

• VA Education Benefits Application: https://www.va.gov/education/apply-for-education-benefits/

• USA.gov Veterans Benefits: https://www.usa.gov/veterans-benefits

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