What Is Veterans' Preference in Federal Hiring (and How to Claim It)
A clear explainer on the 5-point, 10-point, and category-based veterans' preference systems — and exactly how to claim each on USAJOBS.
Veterans' preference is the federal hiring boost veterans earn through service. It is not a quota.
The preference levels
- TP — 5 points. Honorable service during a qualifying period.
- CP — 10 points. Service-connected disability under 30%.
- CPS — 10 points. Service-connected disability of 30% or more.
- XP — 10 points (derived). For spouses, widows, or mothers in specific circumstances.
Category-rated vs numerically-rated jobs
Most modern announcements are category-rated. Veterans are placed into the highest category their qualifications support — preference doesn't add points, it floats you to the top of your category.
How to claim it on USAJOBS
- Set your preference type in your USAJOBS profile.
- Attach DD-214 (Member 4 copy), SF-15 if claiming derived or 10-point preference, and VA disability letter if applicable.
- Re-attach for every application.
What preference will NOT do
It does not override the basic qualifications, the specialized experience review, or the selecting official's choice within the highest category.
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