VA Form 22-5490 North Carolina: DEA Application Guide 2026

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

VA Form 22-5490 is the application for Chapter 35 Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA). In North Carolina, eligible spouses and children of permanently and totally disabled 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 is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability

• A Veteran who died as a result of a service-connected disability

• A service member who died in the line of duty

• A service member missing in action or captured in the line of duty by a hostile force for more than 90 days

• A service member forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign entity for more than 90 days

• A service member hospitalized or receiving outpatient treatment for a VA-determined service-connected permanent and total disability and likely to be discharged for that 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 if the death occurred on active duty or if the Veteran was found permanently and totally disabled within 3 years of discharge from service.

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?

If you are eligible for both programs, you must make an irrevocable election between DEA and the Fry Scholarship when you apply. In almost all cases, the Fry Scholarship pays more because it covers tuition and fees directly.

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

Applying for DEA benefits in North Carolina 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 North Carolina. The Muskogee Regional Processing Office handles education claims for NC and several other states.

Required Documents for North Carolina 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.

Monthly Enrollment Verification Required Starting 2026

Beginning in January 2026, Chapter 35 DEA students are required to verify their enrollment each month with the VA to receive their benefit payments. This applies to all DEA recipients, including those enrolled in college programs. Once verified, payment processing can take five to seven calendar days. This is a new federal requirement — previously, only students in non-college degree programs had to verify monthly.

Using DEA Benefits at North Carolina Schools

North Carolina Schools Approved for DEA

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

• North Carolina State University (Raleigh)

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• East Carolina University (Greenville)

• UNC Charlotte

• UNC Wilmington

• Fayetteville State University

• Methodist University (Fayetteville)

• Coastal Carolina Community College (Jacksonville)

• Fayetteville Technical Community College

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

How DEA Payments Work in North Carolina

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.

North Carolina In-State Tuition for Dependents

Under the Veterans Choice Act and the Colonel John M. McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act of 2021, Chapter 35 beneficiaries are covered individuals for the purpose of receiving in-state tuition rates at North Carolina public institutions, regardless of residency status. Spouses and dependent children of Veterans and active-duty service members are eligible to be charged the in-state tuition rate and applicable mandatory fees without satisfying the 12-month residency requirement.

This means a dependent using DEA benefits who moves to North Carolina to attend school can pay in-state tuition immediately, without waiting a year to establish residency.

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.

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. There is no time limit for children who became eligible for DEA on or after August 1, 2023, turned 18 on or after that date, or completed high school on or after that date.

• 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.

DEA Benefit for High School Students Ending August 1, 2026

Congress is sunsetting the DEA benefit for high school students effective August 1, 2026. Starting that date, DEA benefits will no longer pay for any new secondary education program, including high school coursework, GED-level training, tutoring, or academic remediation.

Students who start a secondary program before August 1, 2026, will continue to receive DEA benefits through the end of that academic term only. The broader Chapter 35 DEA program is not ending — college programs, vocational training, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training remain fully covered.

This change stems from Public Law 117-328, signed December 29, 2022, which amended the Chapter 35 definition of educational institution by deleting the words “secondary school” and replacing them with “post-secondary school”.

Common Mistakes North Carolina 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. Starting January 2026, all DEA students must verify their enrollment each month to continue receiving DEA payments. Set a reminder for the end of each month.

8. Assuming the DEA high school benefit is still available. As of August 1, 2026, DEA no longer pays for new high school programs. If your dependent was counting on using DEA for high school completion, contact the VA immediately to explore alternatives.

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.

North Carolina’s 12 State Veteran Centers and county Veteran Service Officers provide free claim assistance and can help prepare appeals. Contact the NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs at nc4vets.com for your local VSO.

North Carolina-Specific Benefits for Veterans’ Dependents

North Carolina Scholarship for Children of Wartime Veterans

North Carolina offers a state-funded scholarship for children of certain deceased, disabled, combat, or POW/MIA Veterans. Over 20,000 scholarships have been awarded to children of North Carolina veterans since the program’s inception.

Key requirements:

• Applicant must be under age 25 at the time of application

• Must be domiciled and a resident of North Carolina

• The Veteran parent must have been a legal resident of North Carolina at time of entry into the qualifying period of service, or the child was born in North Carolina and has been a resident continuously since birth

• The scholarship covers eight academic semesters and must be used within eight years

Important funding update: Due to limited funding, Spring 2026 awards are being prorated by 25% of each student’s Fall 2025 award amount. The application portal for new January 2026 applicants may not open unless additional funding is appropriated by the General Assembly.

The deadline to apply is February 14 if the Veteran’s disability is less than 100% service-connected or if the Veteran served in a combat zone.

North Carolina National Guard Tuition Assistance

Dependents of North Carolina National Guard members may qualify for state education assistance programs. All North Carolina National Guard Service members are charged in-state tuition regardless of state of residence, and tuition may be reimbursed for associate, bachelor’s, or graduate degrees.

In-State Tuition for Chapter 35 Beneficiaries

Under the McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act of 2021, Chapter 35 DEA recipients are covered individuals for in-state tuition purposes at North Carolina public institutions. Western Piedmont Community College’s policy specifically notes that Chapter 35 beneficiaries are now included as covered individuals for this purpose.

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 North Carolina?

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 North Carolina?

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 North Carolina schools accept DEA benefits?

Any VA-approved school in North Carolina accepts DEA benefits. This includes NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill, East Carolina University, Fayetteville State University, Coastal Carolina Community College, 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 North Carolina?

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.

Do I need to verify my enrollment every month?

Yes. Starting January 2026, all Chapter 35 DEA students must verify their enrollment each month with the VA to receive their benefit payments. Once verified, payment processing takes five to seven calendar days.

What is the North Carolina Scholarship for Children of Wartime Veterans?

It is a state-funded scholarship for children of certain deceased, disabled, combat, or POW/MIA Veterans. The scholarship covers eight academic semesters at North Carolina schools. Applicants must be under 25 and domiciled in North Carolina. Due to funding limitations, Spring 2026 awards are prorated.

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.

• North Carolina offers in-state tuition to Chapter 35 beneficiaries under the McHugh Tuition Fairness for Survivors Act.

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

• Monthly enrollment verification is required starting January 2026 for all DEA students.

• The NC Scholarship for Children of Wartime Veterans offers eight semesters of funding, but Spring 2026 awards are prorated due to limited funding.

Official Resources

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

• VA DEA Program Overview: https://www.va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits/education-and-careers/dependents-education-assistance/

• 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/

• VA News — Chapter 35 High School Benefit Ending: https://news.va.gov

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

• NC Department of Military and Veterans Affairs: https://www.milvets.nc.gov

• NC Scholarship for Children of Wartime Veterans: https://www.milvets.nc.gov/benefits-services/scholarships

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

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