Thinking about retirement? Then say hello to your new BFF – veterans preference points.
Transitioning to a civilian job after a military career can be challenging. Even with the benefit of military experience, veterans often face difficulties navigating the complex and competitive job market. Job search engines and recruiters might help you find your next job. But you might want to look for something more service-related. Working as a civil servant with the federal government may be a viable option. That’s because some veterans are given preference over civilian candidates when applying for federal jobs through the Veterans Preference Point Program. However, it’s important to note that preference points do not guarantee employment, and not all veterans qualify for this benefit. As such, transitioning to a civilian job requires careful planning and consideration of all available options.
Okay, so you’ve received your honorable discharge and are ready for a 9-5 gig. Where do you look? Today’s job market is daunting, to say the least. There are dozens of websites, like Indeed and Monster, claiming to give you the upper hand. You might even hire a recruiter to look for jobs for you. But chances are, if you’re a veteran, you value meaningful work and acts of service. You shouldn’t rule out work as a civil servant with the federal government if that’s the case. It may surprise you to know that some veterans get preference over civilian candidates when applying for federal jobs.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for the Veterans Preference Point Program, you need to examine your dates of active service first. The program considers whether you earned any awards for outstanding service, such as campaign badges, Purple Heart or valor medals. It also examines whether you have a service-related disability. If you sustained severe injuries in combat and were medically discharged, you are most likely eligible to receive preference points. It’s essential to note that only veterans who received honorable discharges from active duty can participate. Unless you’re deemed a disabled veteran or retired below major rank, retiring from the military won’t give you preference.
Three Categories of Candidates
The program divides candidates into categories: sole survivorship, non-disabled, and disabled. Sole survivorship receives a 0-point preference. This classification applies to service members discharged because their parents or siblings were killed in the line of duty or rendered completely disabled by a service-related injury. The non-disabled category gets a 5-point preference. To qualify, candidates must show they served at least 180 days during Operation Iraqi Freedom or the Gulf War or more than 180 days between 1955 and 1976 or between 1952 and 1955. Additionally, earning a campaign medal or badge qualifies you for this category. Finally, the disabled category offers a 10-point preference for disabled veterans or who earned a Purple Heart.
It is crucial to note that getting preference points does not guarantee a job offer. Instead, it places veterans ahead of non-veterans in the hiring process. Also, the Veterans Preference Point Program extends beyond federal jobs. Some states and private companies also give hiring preferences to veterans. Finally, checking with the appropriate authorities is essential to confirm eligibility and the application process. Veterans who qualify for the program can take advantage of the preference points to increase their chances of landing a civilian job.
If you need further explanation, you can contact a Veterans’ Preference Advisor.
Use the VPP to your advantage
Overall, the Veterans Preference Point Program provides an important benefit to veterans looking to transition into civilian jobs with the federal government. The program recognizes the valuable skills and experiences that veterans bring to the table. Veterans who have served honorably and sacrificed for their country deserve opportunities for meaningful employment. The program helps to level the playing field in the job market.
Related: Check out this list of free transitioning programs for service members and spouses.