u/Advanced-Leg-798

There aren't a lot of updates to Veterans being approved for the Self Employment track but I have talked to a couple Vets who gave great advice.

FYI my business is considered in the startup phase; already have a business plan, been using my own money funding my business for the website, logo, license, etc. But yes starting a business is pricey so I went and got a job against my better judgement.

I applied for VR&E last year in the summer 2025; just had orientation April 2026 (yes it took that long); Met my counselor, she explained self employment is like a last option and I would need to be ruled out of all the other tracks. I completed a career assessment and have to provide limitations from my doctors.

I had a conversation with my counselor and explained that I have no interest in just sitting at home! I see a lot of Vets saying they can't work but can't explain why. I wanted her to know that I have a lot to offer but I also know traditional jobs do not align with my MH or physical disabilities. They want to know WHAT happens if you work a traditional job NOT why you don't want to work. CAN you work? If so, what you can and can't do. Do a traditional job exacerbate your disabilities? If yes, they how.

Do the counselor and yourself a favor and complete your 28-1902W form in its entirety! I listed every last disability and how it is currently being made worse. Don't try and game the system just be honest.

I'll update this thread after my last limitations note comes in and I get an update.

I had my orientation yesterday and a meeting with my Counselor the same day. She was very cool, she listened, and I learned some things as well. I explained my concerns with my disabilities and current job and why this won't work for me long term. I also explained that I'm literally forcing myself to maintain this position even through all the issues I'm having with my lower back, tension headaches that last days, shoulder, neck, etc. I did let her know I would like to be considered for the self employment track for multiple reasons. She has a job to do and I don't expect to be approved for that track without having to go through the proper steps. She explained that there is a whole process and that I would need to be reviewed for all the other tracks and steps before I would be considered. I'm hoping that she sees I'm not trying to game the system by any means, but some of these jobs claim to be VET friendly until you request to go to an appointment, or simply ask to take a minute. Then you're met with dirty looks.

I took the career assessment and it shows that business operations, web interfacing, and management are the careers that hit my mark. I also had to send my medical assessment forms to my providers. I've seen my primary doctor once, so I hope he doesn't give me a hard time. I don't know what to expect next but I'll gladly come back and share my update.

FYI I've been working on starting a business for over a year. Its registered, SWaM Certified, etc. I'm not up and running or anything but its a process.