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Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance

VACTreatment and healthServices usually non-taxable; linked income may be taxable

Many veterans tell us they felt overwhelmed at first.

In one sentence
Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance is an individualized program intended to address service-related barriers to re-establishment.
Who this is usually for
You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: A former CAF member may qualify when a service-related health problem creates a barrier to re-establishment.
What it may help with
  • Medical rehabilitation to stabilize or improve functioning.
  • Psychosocial rehabilitation to support independence and community adjustment.
  • Vocational assessment, training and employment planning.
2 min read·Preparation time varies by situationScroll to explore, or reach out if you are unsure
1

What is this?

Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance is an individualized program intended to address service-related barriers to re-establishment. A rehabilitation plan may include medical, psychosocial and vocational components. case managers remain responsible for plan approval and coordination, while contracted rehabilitation partners may deliver assessments and services. Vocational assistance may also be available to an eligible spouse, common-law partner or survivor in defined circumstances.

Keep the veteran’s goals and realistic capacity visible.

2

Why someone might look at this benefit

Service-related health problems make it difficult to function at home, in the community or at work.

You need coordinated medical, psychosocial or vocational rehabilitation after release.

You are medically releasing and want to understand post-release supports.

You receive CAF LTD and are unsure how VAC rehabilitation interacts with it.

A spouse, partner or survivor may need vocational assistance under program rules.

3

Who might qualify?

You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: A former CAF member may qualify when a service-related health problem creates a barrier to re-establishment. A serving member generally must release before eligibility begins, subject to specific policy provisions. Application before age 65 is important for the main Veteran pathway. Family-member vocational assistance has separate eligibility rules. Only Veterans Affairs Canada or the legally responsible decision-maker can determine eligibility.

Only the responsible organization can determine eligibility.

4

What this benefit may help with

Medical rehabilitation to stabilize or improve functioning.
Psychosocial rehabilitation to support independence and community adjustment.
Vocational assessment, training and employment planning.
Coordination through an individualized rehabilitation plan.
Potential connection to IRB while participating.

Where this may fit in your transition

Stage 6 Stage 7 Stage 9
See the full Veterans Transition Roadmap
7

Typical process

Apply to VAC for a rehabilitation-needs assessment.

Apply for the Rehabilitation Program and IRB through the combined process.
VAC determines eligibility and identifies barriers to re-establishment.
Assessments identify medical, psychosocial and vocational needs.
VAC approves an individualized plan with goals, services and responsibilities.
The Veteran participates and communicates changes or barriers.
VAC monitors progress, revises the plan where appropriate and decides when rehabilitation is complete.

If you receive a decision

The written plan should identify goals, services and review points.

  • • Entitlement — whether the condition is related to service
  • • Assessment — the severity or percentage rating
  • • Effective date — when the benefit starts
  • • Calculation — how the amount was determined
  • • Approved services — what is covered and for how long
  • • Frequency or dollar limit — caps on treatment or services
  • • Reasons for denial — the specific basis for the decision

Every situation is different. Timelines vary based on the organization, the complexity of the application, and the volume of requests being processed.

What usually happens next

1

Application received

The organization typically sends a confirmation that your application was received.

2

Information requests

They may ask for additional medical, service, or financial records to support your application.

3

Review

A decision maker reviews your application, the evidence provided, and the applicable program rules.

4

Decision

You receive a written decision explaining the outcome, the reasons, and any review rights.

5

If approved

Benefits begin according to the program rules and the effective date stated in the decision.

6

If not approved

The decision letter explains why and describes your review or appeal options, including any deadlines.

7

Reassessment

If your condition or circumstances change, you may request a reassessment of the decision.

8

Reviews and appeals

Depending on the issue, you may request a departmental review or a hearing before the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.

Every situation is different. Timelines vary and are not guaranteed.

Evidence that may help

Restrictions

functional barriers

release history

goals

failed work attempts

accommodation needs.

Not every document is required for every application. This list is for general awareness only.

9

You may also want to explore

Income Replacement Benefit

A related program that may be worth exploring.

SISIP/CAF Long Term Disability

A related program that may be worth exploring.

Education and Training Benefit

A related program that may be worth exploring.

Treatment Benefits

VAC Treatment Benefits provide eligible Veterans with coverage for authorized health-care products and services.

CPP Disability Vocational Rehabilitation

A related program that may be worth exploring.

Career Transition Services

A related program that may be worth exploring.

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Helpful VANCA tools

Claim Readiness ReportPossible Benefits ExplorerEvidence TrackerDescribe the ImpactSupport MapRequest Support
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Official sources

VAC

Veterans Affairs Canada is the primary decision-maker for this program. Check their official page for the most current eligibility rules, application forms, and processing times.

View the official source

Program rules may change. The official department, tribunal, insurer, or benefit provider makes eligibility and payment decisions. VANCA provides information only — not decisions.

Before you apply

  • I understand what this benefit is.
  • I know what evidence I already have.
  • I understand who makes the decision.
  • I know my next step.
  • I know where to ask questions if I become stuck.

Not sure if this applies to you?

We don't determine eligibility, but we can help you understand your options, explain how programs may work together, and identify possible next steps.

Request Support

Last reviewed

2026-07-18

Next scheduled review

2026-10-15

Official source verified

2026-07-18

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