Understanding Veterans’ Preference (for Federal Job Seekers)
The following post explores Understanding Veterans’ Preference (for Federal Job Seekers).
Our cherished US veterans are great candidates to work for the government. What many veterans don’t realize, though, is that their military service can also give them a leg up when applying for federal jobs.
Read: Documents Needed for Applying to Federal Jobs
Related: How to Make a Federal Resume
More specifically, I am talking about something called Veterans’ Preference. It’s designed to help veterans and certain family members compete more effectively for careers in public service.
Here’s what you need to know.
Veterans’ Preference Overview
Veterans’ Preference is a benefit designed to give eligible veterans an advantage when applying for federal jobs. It does not automatically guarantee a position, but it can significantly improve your chances.
Depending on the type of preference you qualify for, it can either add points to your application score or place you ahead of non-veteran applicants who have similar qualifications. Essentially, it’s the federal government’s way of recognizing your military service and helping you transition into a civilian career.
Who Gets Veterans’ Preference
Veterans’ Preference isn’t just for anyone who has worn a uniform — it’s specifically for those who meet certain service or hardship criteria.
Generally, you may be eligible if you served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and were honorably discharged, if you earned a campaign medal or served during a qualifying wartime period, or if you have a service-connected disability.
In addition, in some cases, certain family members (including spouses, widows, and mothers of deceased or disabled veterans) may also qualify for preference.
Click here for more information on Veterans’ Preference eligibility.
Where Veterans’ Preference Applies
Veterans’ Preference applies to most federal positions within the competitive service, which includes the majority of jobs listed on USAJOBS.
However, there are some exceptions. Preference generally does not apply to Senior Executive Service roles, political appointments, or certain positions in intelligence or legislative agencies. Despite these exceptions, for the vast majority of federal jobs, claiming Veterans’ Preference can boost your odds of success.
How and When to Claim Veterans’ Preference
For those who qualify, you may claim Veterans’ Preference every time you apply for a federal job.
When filling out your USAJOBS application, you will be asked whether you are claiming Veterans’ Preference. If you indicate “yes,” you will need to provide supporting documentation, such as your DD-214 or a VA disability letter, depending on the type of preference you are claiming.
There is no limit on Veterans’ Preference. It applies every time you apply for an eligible position.
Why Veterans’ Preference Exists
Veterans’ Preference exists to honor the service of those who have served in the military, to help ease their transition into civilian life, and to protect families from losing all of their members to military duty.
More broadly, Veterans’ Preference ensures that the experience, skills, and sacrifices gained through military service are not only recognized but valued in the federal workforce, giving veterans a fair opportunity to continue serving the country in a new capacity.
Levels of Veterans’ Preference (0-Point, 5-Point, 10-Point)
Veterans’ Preference comes in three main levels, each offering a different type of advantage depending on your military service or family circumstances.
The three types are 0-point, 5-point, and 10-point preference, and each works slightly differently in terms of scoring and placement on hiring lists.
Understanding these levels can help you see how your experience or eligibility affects your federal job applications. Below is a simple breakdown of who qualifies for each type and what it means.
| Type | Who It’s For | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| 0-Point (Sole Survivor Preference) | You were released from the military under the “sole survivor” rule, due to a family hardship (like losing a sibling or parent in service). | You don’t get extra points, but you’re still ranked ahead of non-veterans. |
| 5-Point Preference | You served during a war, in a campaign or expedition, or on active duty for a qualifying period. | You get 5 extra points added to your score — a modest but meaningful boost. |
| 10-Point Preference | You have a service-connected disability, or you’re the spouse, widow(er), or mother of a disabled or deceased veteran. | You get 10 points added to your score — the highest level of preference available. |
In Conclusion
In conclusion, I hope this article helps you with understanding veterans’ preference. The key takeaway is that US veterans’ preference offers certain candidates an inside edge over non-veteran applicants. It’s one of the biggest advantages available to former service members looking to transition into government work.
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About the Author: Doug Levin
