Veterans preference is one of the oldest and most significant advantages available in federal hiring. Established to recognize the sacrifices of military service members, it provides tangible benefits throughout the federal application and hiring process.
What Is Veterans Preference?
Veterans preference gives eligible veterans an advantage in competitive federal hiring. It does not guarantee a job, but it does provide additional points in the evaluation process and certain protections during reductions in force (layoffs). There are two main categories: 5-point preference and 10-point preference.
5-Point Preference (TP)
You are eligible for 5-point preference if you served on active duty during specified war periods or campaigns and were honorably discharged, OR you served on active duty for more than 180 consecutive days (other than for training) between September 11, 2001 and a future date to be determined, and were honorably discharged. Five points are added to your passing examination score or rating.
10-Point Preference
Ten-point preference is available to veterans with a service-connected disability rated at 10% or more by the VA (known as CP — Compensable Disability Preference, or CPS — Compensable Disability Preference 30% or more). It is also available to Purple Heart recipients, and certain spouses, widows/widowers, and mothers of deceased or disabled veterans. Ten-point preference provides stronger protections than 5-point, and CPS/CP preference holders are placed at the top of competitive certificate lists.
Special Appointing Authorities for Veterans
Beyond preference points, several special hiring authorities exist for veterans. The Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) allows agencies to appoint eligible veterans without competition to positions up to GS-11. The 30% or More Disabled Veteran authority allows non-competitive appointment. The Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA) allows veterans to apply to positions advertised to status candidates (current federal employees).
Required Documentation
To claim veterans preference, you typically need your DD-214 (Member 4 copy showing character of discharge), SF-15 (Application for 10-Point Veterans Preference) if claiming 10-point preference, and a VA disability rating letter if applicable. Upload these documents with every USAJobs application — missing documentation means missing out on preference.
How Veterans Preference Applies
In practice, veterans preference works differently depending on the hiring method. For traditional rating and ranking, preference points are added to your score after basic qualification screening. For category rating (the more common modern method), preference-eligible veterans who meet minimum qualifications are placed in the highest quality category. During reductions in force, veterans preference provides significant retention advantages.
Tips for Veterans
Translate your military experience into civilian terms on your federal resume. Use your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) crosswalk tools to find matching federal series. Take advantage of VRA and VEOA when eligible. Ensure your VA disability claim is processed before applying if you qualify. Visit your local Transition Assistance Program (TAP) office for personalized help.
Your military service has prepared you well for federal employment. Understanding and properly using veterans preference ensures you get every advantage you have earned.