Veterans' Preference Points Explained: 0, 5 and 10 Point

Veterans' preference is one of the most useful tools a veteran has when applying for federal jobs. It is also one of the most misunderstood. People hear "points" and assume it works like a bonus on a test score. Sometimes it does. Often, it works differently.

This guide gives you a high-level picture of how preference works and what you'll usually need to claim it. The rules are set by law and can change. For the official and current details, use OPM's veterans' preference guidance and the FedsHireVets resources, and always read the job announcement on USAJOBS.

What veterans' preference is

Veterans' preference gives eligible veterans, and in some cases their family members, an advantage over non-preference applicants in federal hiring. It applies to many jobs in the competitive service and to some in the excepted service. It does not apply to every federal job, and it doesn't guarantee you a job.

Preference does not replace qualifications. You still have to meet the minimum qualifications in the announcement. Preference matters once you are qualified.

The three main levels

At a high level, there are three types people refer to by points.

0-point preference

This is called sole survivorship preference. It can apply to a veteran who was released or discharged because of a family member's death or disability in service, under specific conditions. It carries no points, but it still gives preference over non-preference applicants. It is narrow, so check OPM's guidance to see whether it fits you.

5-point preference

Often called TP, this is the most common type. Eligibility generally depends on when and where you served, the length of service, and your discharge type. Usually, you need an honorable or general discharge. The qualifying service periods and campaigns are listed in OPM's guidance.

10-point preference

This level is mostly tied to service-connected disability. There are several sub-categories, including:

• Compensable disability of 10 percent or more, including a separate category for 30 percent or more
• Disability of less than 10 percent, or a Purple Heart
• Derived preference, which can apply to some spouses, widows, widowers or parents of veterans under specific conditions

Each category has its own code and rules. Some carry extra benefits, such as eligibility for certain special hiring authorities. Confirm which category fits you before you claim it.

How preference is applied

This is where the "points" idea gets confusing.

Many federal jobs use category rating. Instead of ranking people by a numeric score, HR places qualified applicants into groups, such as "best qualified" and "well qualified." Within each group, preference eligibles are listed ahead of non-preference applicants. In many cases, veterans with certain service-connected disabilities are placed at the top of the highest group.

When an agency uses numeric ratings, the points are added to a passing score. Either way, preference shapes the order in which qualified people are considered.

There are exceptions and special cases. Some jobs are filled through merit promotion or other internal paths where preference works differently or doesn't apply. The announcement usually says which hiring paths are open.

Documents you'll usually need

Preference is claimed with documents, not just a statement. Requirements vary, so check the "Required Documents" section of each announcement. Commonly requested items include:

• Proof of service and discharge, usually your DD-214, often the copy that shows character of service
• A statement of service, if you are still on active duty and expect to separate soon, as the announcement allows
• The SF-15, the application form for 10-point preference
• A VA letter or other official proof of a service-connected disability rating, for most 10-point claims
• Other supporting records for derived preference, as OPM's guidance describes

Upload clear, complete copies. A missing page or unreadable scan can cost you preference for that application.

Common mistakes

• Claiming the wrong category. Read the definitions carefully. If you are unsure, check OPM's guidance or ask the HR contact listed in the announcement.
• Missing documents. The resume line "10-point preference" isn't enough. The documents are what count.
• Assuming preference means you are qualified. HR first checks whether you meet the qualifications. Your resume has to show that. See our guide on proving specialized experience.
• Ignoring the page limit. Many announcements now cap resumes at two pages. Our federal resume two-page format guide shows how to fit everything in.

Other veteran hiring paths

Preference is just one benefit. Depending on your situation, you may also be eligible for special hiring authorities that let agencies hire veterans without the full competitive process. These include authorities for recently separated veterans and for veterans with certain disability ratings. Each has its own rules and documents.

FedsHireVets and OPM both explain these paths. Announcements list which hiring paths are open, so look for the veterans' path labels on USAJOBS.

Before you apply

1. Confirm your preference category using OPM's guidance.
2. Gather your DD-214 and any supporting documents, including the SF-15 and VA letter if they apply.
3. Make sure your resume clearly shows the qualifications in the announcement. If you are still writing it, start with our guide on how to translate military experience.
4. Upload every required document and review the application before you submit.

FAQ

Does veterans' preference guarantee me a federal job?

No. Preference gives eligible veterans an advantage over non-preference applicants, but you still have to meet the qualifications and compete with other qualified people, including other veterans. It improves your position on the list rather than guaranteeing an offer.

Can I claim veterans' preference before I leave the military?

In many cases, yes. Service members who are close to separation can often use a statement of service from their command in place of a DD-214, within a set window before discharge. Check OPM's guidance and the announcement for the current rules and timing.

What is the difference between 5-point and 10-point preference?

Five-point preference is generally based on when and how you served. Ten-point preference is mostly based on a service-connected disability or a Purple Heart, with derived preference for some family members. Ten-point claims usually need extra documents, such as the SF-15 and proof of your disability rating.

Does veterans' preference apply to every federal job?

No. It applies to many competitive service jobs and some excepted service jobs, but not to every hiring path. Internal merit promotion and certain other paths handle preference differently. The announcement on USAJOBS tells you which paths are open.

Once your documents are ready, make sure your resume can carry the rest. Upload your resume for a free score and use Sortie's federal resume builder to show your qualifications clearly.