Veterans' Preference

Registration for Veterans' Preference MCSC Rule 3-8 authorizes veterans' preference for veterans or qualifying spouses who meet minimum qualifications in selection processes for the state classified service, including initial hires and later promotional opportunities. To receive preference requires registration with the Michigan Civil Service Commission. Once registered, you must go to the state’s Job Openings page and apply for postings to compete for vacancies. Veterans' preference does not guarantee appointment. An eligible veteran must have 90 days of active-duty service in the U.S. armed forces and been honorably discharged from active duty. A servicemember scheduled to separate from active service within six months may also apply if suitable proof of a likely honorable discharge is provided. A prequalified candidate must notify civil service staff if not ultimately honorably discharged.

Official military forms must be from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) or Department of Defense (DOD). When a DD Form 214 or NGB Form 22 is required, active military may attach documentation on military letterhead providing similar information if those documents are not yet available due to ongoing service. Depending on your status, your eligibility request must include the following documentation:

• A veteran released from active military duty must attach a DD Form 214-Member 4, NGB Form 22 or equivalent DVA form.
• A disabled veteran released from active military duty AND determined eligible for disability compensation by the DVA, DOD, or a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces as the result of a service-connected disability must attach (1) a DD Form 214-Member 4, NGB Form 22, or equivalent DVA form and (2) documentation from the DVA or DOD of the current disability compensation or disability retirement.
• A servicemember scheduled to separate from active service within six months must submit a Statement of Service identifying the branch of service, periods of service, campaign badges or expeditionary medals earned, the date of separation or approved terminal leave, and expected date of discharge or release from active duty under honorable conditions.
• A spouse of a disabled veteran with over 50% service-connected disability released from active military duty must attach (1) a DD Form 214-Member 4, NGB Form 22, or equivalent DVA form, (2) documentation from the DVA or DOD of current disability compensation or disability retirement pay, and (3) a marriage certificate.
• A surviving spouse must attach (1) a DD Form 214-Member 4, NGB Form 22, or equivalent DVA form, (2) a marriage certificate, and (3) the veteran's death certificate. A surviving spouse with a child must also attach the child's birth or adoption certificates or proof of legal guardianship and, if a disabled child, documentation of the child's disability. The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency can help answer questions on veteran benefits and assistance. The MVAA's Michigan Veteran Resource Service Center can be reached at 800-MICH-VET (800-642-4838) or www.mi.gov/mvaa to connect to all earned benefits.

Revised 10/10/2023 None