Veterans Preference Calculator
Find out whether you qualify for 5-point or 10-point veterans preference (TP, CP, CPS, XP, SSP), which category applies, and exactly which documents you need to claim it.
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What is Veterans Preference?
Veterans preference gives eligible veterans an advantage in federal hiring. It can add 5 or 10 points to your examination score and places you higher on the certificate of eligibles. The type of preference depends on your service, disability rating, and other factors defined in 5 U.S.C. 2108. Non-veterans (spouses, widow(er)s, parents) may also qualify through derived preference.
Did you serve on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces?
Active duty means full-time duty in the Armed Forces. Active duty for training (ADT/IADT) alone does not qualify.
Are you the spouse, widow(er), or parent of a disabled or deceased veteran?
Derived preference allows eligible family members to claim the veteran's preference. This is separate from Military Spouse hiring authority.