Veterans preference gives eligible veterans an advantage in federal hiring. If you've served in the military, understanding how to properly claim and document your preference can significantly improve your chances of landing a federal job.
What is Veterans Preference?
Veterans preference is a set of laws that give eligible veterans priority in federal hiring. It was established to recognize the sacrifices of those who served and to ease their transition to civilian employment.
Veterans preference is not a guarantee of a job, but it provides meaningful advantages in the competitive hiring process.
Types of Veterans Preference
5-Point Preference (TP)
Available to veterans who:
- Served on active duty during specific war periods or campaigns
- Served on active duty for more than 180 consecutive days (other than training) between September 11, 2001 and a future date to be determined
- Were discharged under honorable conditions
10-Point Compensable Disability Preference (CP)
Available to veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 10% or higher.
10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS)
Available to veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or higher.
10-Point Disability Preference (XP)
Available to veterans who:
- Have a service-connected disability
- Receive compensation from the VA
- Were released under honorable conditions
10-Point Derived Preference
Available to:
- Spouses of deceased veterans
- Spouses of veterans with severe disabilities
- Mothers of deceased or disabled veterans (under specific conditions)
How Veterans Preference Works
Veterans preference applies at several points in the federal hiring process.
In the Rating Process
When applications are scored, preference points are added to passing scores:
- 5-point preference: 5 points added
- 10-point preference: 10 points added
These points can elevate you to a higher ranking among qualified candidates.
On the Certificate of Eligibles
When HR sends a list of qualified candidates to hiring managers, preference-eligible veterans are listed ahead of non-veterans with the same score.
In Selection
Hiring managers must give special consideration to preference-eligible veterans and document their reasons if selecting a non-veteran over a veteran.
Reduction in Force (RIF)
Veterans with preference also have additional protections if agencies need to reduce their workforce.
Claiming Veterans Preference on USAJOBS
When creating your USAJOBS profile or applying for positions, you'll be asked about military service and veterans preference.
Information to Provide
- Branch of service
- Entry date
- Discharge date
- Discharge type
- Preference claimed (5-point, 10-point, etc.)
Required Documentation
You must provide supporting documents when applying:
For 5-Point Preference:
- DD-214 (Member 4 copy showing character of service)
For 10-Point Preference:
- DD-214
- SF-15 (Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference)
- VA letter showing disability rating (dated within the last year)
For Derived Preference:
- SF-15
- Documentation of relationship to veteran
- Evidence of veteran's death or disability
Documenting Military Experience on Your Resume
Your military service is valuable experience that should be highlighted on your resume.
Translate Military Experience
Use civilian terms that HR specialists will understand. Translate military jargon, ranks, and acronyms.
Instead of: "Served as E-5 in charge of motor pool operations"
Write: "Supervised vehicle maintenance operations for a fleet of 45 vehicles as a Non-Commissioned Officer, equivalent to a first-line supervisor position."
Include Required Details
Just like civilian positions, military service requires:
- Branch and duty station
- Dates of service (month/year)
- Hours per week (typically 40+)
- Rank and pay grade
- Supervisor information (commanding officer)
- Detailed description of duties and accomplishments
Highlight Relevant Skills
Military experience develops valuable skills:
- Leadership and supervision
- Project management
- Security and compliance
- Logistics and operations
- Training and development
- Working under pressure
Connect these to the requirements of positions you're applying for.
Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans
Beyond preference points, veterans have access to special hiring programs that can provide direct paths to federal employment.
Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA)
Allows agencies to appoint eligible veterans without competition to positions at GS-11 or below.
Eligibility:
- Disabled veterans
- Veterans who served on active duty during specific periods
- Veterans who received Armed Forces Service Medal
- Recently separated veterans (within 3 years)
30% or More Disabled Veteran
Veterans with a 30% or higher disability rating can be appointed non-competitively to any position for which they're qualified.
Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA)
Allows preference-eligible veterans to apply to positions advertised only to current federal employees.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Claiming Preference
Some veterans don't realize they're eligible or forget to claim preference when applying. Always check your eligibility and claim appropriate preference.
Missing Documentation
Applications without proper documentation may not receive preference. Gather your DD-214 and any VA documentation before applying.
Outdated VA Letters
For disability preference, VA letters should be dated within the last year. Request a new letter if yours is outdated.
Not Translating Military Experience
Military jargon won't be understood by civilian HR specialists. Take time to describe your experience in civilian terms.
Assuming Preference Guarantees Selection
Veterans preference improves your chances but doesn't guarantee a job. You still need to demonstrate that you meet all qualification requirements.
Resources for Veterans
Government Resources
- VA Employment Services
- USAJOBS Veterans Resources
- Federal Veterans Hiring Portal
Translating Military Experience
- O*NET Military Crosswalk
- VA Skills Translator
- Military.com Skills Translator
Resume Help
- VA Vocational Rehabilitation
- American Job Centers
- Transition Assistance Program (TAP)
Making the Most of Your Preference
Veterans preference is a valuable benefit, but it works best when combined with a strong application.
- Ensure you meet all qualification requirements
- Document your military experience thoroughly
- Translate skills to civilian terms
- Include all required supporting documents
- Apply to positions where your experience is relevant
Your service to the country has earned you this preference. Use it effectively by preparing complete, well-documented applications for positions that match your qualifications.