What is a Veterans Preference?
As a token of appreciation for their service to the country, the United States government offers various benefits to veterans, including preference in federal employment. Veterans’ preference is a policy that gives eligible veterans a competitive advantage when applying for federal jobs. This preference is designed to recognize the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, and to provide them with opportunities to transition into civilian life.
History of Veterans’ Preference
The concept of veterans’ preference dates back to the Civil War era, when Congress passed the Homestead Act of 1862, which granted land to veterans who had served in the Union Army. Since then, the government has expanded and refined the policy to include various benefits, including preference in federal employment.
Types of Veterans’ Preference
There are five types of veterans’ preference, each with its own eligibility criteria and benefits:
- 5-point preference: This is the most common type of preference, which is granted to veterans who have served at least 90 days of active duty, including wartime service.
- 10-point preference: This type of preference is granted to veterans who have a service-connected disability, have been awarded the Purple Heart, or have been discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability.
- 10-point preference for disabled veterans: This type of preference is granted to veterans who have a service-connected disability rated at 30% or higher.
- 10-point preference for veterans with a Purple Heart: This type of preference is granted to veterans who have been awarded the Purple Heart.
- 10-point preference for veterans who have been discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability: This type of preference is granted to veterans who have been discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for veterans’ preference, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have served in the military: You must have served in the active military, naval, or air service, including the Reserves and National Guard.
- You must have been discharged or released under honorable conditions: You must have been discharged or released from active duty under honorable conditions, including honorable, general, or medical discharge.
- You must have served for at least 90 days: You must have served for at least 90 days of active duty, including wartime service.
- You must have a valid DD Form 214: You must have a valid DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, which is required to verify your military service.
How to Claim Veterans’ Preference
To claim veterans’ preference, you must follow these steps:
- Fill out the application: Fill out the application for federal employment, including the required information about your military service.
- Submit your DD Form 214: Submit your DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, to verify your military service.
- Check the box: Check the box on the application indicating that you are a veteran and wish to claim veterans’ preference.
- Provide supporting documentation: Provide supporting documentation, such as a copy of your DD Form 214, to verify your military service.
Benefits of Veterans’ Preference
Veterans’ preference offers several benefits, including:
- Competitive advantage: Veterans’ preference gives eligible veterans a competitive advantage when applying for federal jobs.
- Priority consideration: Veterans’ preference ensures that eligible veterans are given priority consideration when applying for federal jobs.
- Increased hiring opportunities: Veterans’ preference increases hiring opportunities for eligible veterans, making it easier for them to transition into civilian life.
- Recognition of service: Veterans’ preference recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, and provides them with a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Conclusion
Veterans’ preference is a valuable benefit that recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. By understanding the types of veterans’ preference, eligibility criteria, and how to claim it, eligible veterans can take advantage of this benefit and increase their chances of being hired for federal jobs. Whether you are a veteran looking to transition into civilian life or an employer looking to hire qualified candidates, veterans’ preference is an important consideration that can make a significant difference in the hiring process.
