A protected veteran is a veteran who is entitled to the rights and benefits provided under the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) of 1974. This act is a federal law that requires government contractors and subcontractors to take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment-qualified protected veterans.
Read more about PROTECTED VETERANS here.
Types of Protected Veterans
There are four categories of protected veterans:
1. Disabled Veterans
- Veterans who are entitled to compensation (or for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to compensation) under laws administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs for a disability.
2. Recently Separated Veterans
- Veterans who have been separated from the active military, naval, or air service within the last three years.
3. Active Duty Wartime or Campaign Badge Veterans
- Veterans who served on active duty during a war or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized.
4. Armed Forces Service Medal Veterans
- Veterans who, while serving on active duty, participated in a United States military operation for which an Armed Forces service medal was awarded.
Key Provisions
The VEVRAA requires government contractors and subcontractors to:
- List job openings with the local employment service
- Provide equal employment opportunities to protected veterans
- Take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment-qualified protected veterans
- Report annually on the number of protected veterans in their workforce
Importance of Protected Veteran Status
Identifying as a protected veteran can provide benefits such as:
- Priority in the hiring process
- Increased job opportunities
- Access to veteran-specific resources and support
If you are a veteran, it is essential to understand your protected veteran status and the benefits that come with it.