Veterans' Preference (Federal Hiring)
A federal hiring rule that gives qualifying veterans extra points and priority when applying for federal jobs.
Veterans' Preference is a federal hiring rule that gives eligible veterans an advantage when applying for most federal civilian jobs. It does not guarantee a job, and it does not apply to internal promotions or to the Senior Executive Service. There are two main point levels: 5-point preference for most veterans who served on active duty during a war, in a campaign or expedition, or for more than 180 consecutive days after September 10, 2001; and 10-point preference for veterans with a service-connected disability, Purple Heart recipients, certain spouses, widows or widowers, and mothers of disabled or deceased veterans. Veterans with a 30% or greater disability rating get even stronger protections, including special non-competitive appointment authority. To claim preference, list it on your USAJOBS application and attach your DD-214, VA disability letter, and SF-15 if applicable. Federal agencies must follow strict order-of-selection rules when preference is claimed.
In real life
- A combat veteran applies for a federal IT job and gets 5 extra points on the rating list.
- A veteran with a 30% VA rating qualifies for a non-competitive appointment under VRA.
- A widow of a veteran killed in service claims 10-point preference using SF-15.
Also known as
Frequently asked questions about Veterans' Preference (Federal Hiring)
Does preference guarantee me a job?+
No. It moves you up the list and gives certain hiring protections, but you still must meet the job's requirements.
How do I claim preference?+
Mark it on your USAJOBS profile and submit your DD-214, VA letter, and SF-15 if you are a 10-point claimant.
Are spouses eligible?+
Some are. Spouses of certain disabled veterans and unremarried widows or widowers may qualify for derived preference.
Where can I learn more?+
See fedshirevets.gov and the OPM Vet Guide.
Source: fedshirevets.gov