Frequently Asked Questions Veterans

Veterans' preference does not apply to internal agency actions such as promotions, transfers, reassignments and reinstatements.

Congress determines eligibility for veterans’ preference through law in 5 USC 2108. However, the Federal agency to which a veteran applies for employment will adjudicate claims for veterans’ preference.  The agency will request a copy of your DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, or other acceptable documentation in order to adjudicate claims for veterans' preference.

No. There is no limit to the number of times you can apply for positions when agencies are accepting applications as a 30% or more disabled veteran.

You may file a complaint with the Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Service.  This is the agency designated by law, to investigate violations of veterans’ preference.  Information on how to file a complaint may be found at: http://www.dol.gov/elaws/vetspref.htm

Your military pay, grade, and rank alone cannot determine your eligibility for a specific civilian salary, grade level, or pay range.  On your job application, it is important that you completely and accurately describe the duties you performed during your military service, particularly those military duties that relate directly to the position you are applying for.  The agency will then evaluate your qualifications to determine whether you are eligible for the occupation and grade levels advertised on the vacancy announcement. Please be sure to submit all requested documents in a timely manner and follow the application procedures described in the vacancy announcement.

Yes. The President declared the end of Operation Iraqi Freedom August 31, 2010.

No. Federal regulations only allows for prior Federal service in the same agency and in the same line of work.

No. You may not receive veterans’ preference in Federal employment as the spouse of a veteran if the veteran is living and qualified for Federal employment.