State Employment Preference
5 bonus points on state civil service exams for veterans; 10 points for disabled veterans.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Employment — Alabama
- Who it's for
- Veterans, Spouses, Survivors
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Where it applies
- Alabama
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is State Employment Preference?
State Employment Preference is a Alabama employment benefit for veterans, spouses, survivors. 5 bonus points on state civil service exams for veterans; 10 points for disabled veterans.
Who qualifies
- Available to any veteran
- Honorable discharge required
- Alabama residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
5 points for honorably discharged veterans. 10 points for veterans with a service-connected disability entitled to VA pension, compensation, or disability allowance. Spouses of certain disabled veterans and surviving spouses of veterans killed in line of duty may also receive the 10-point preference. Legal basis: Alabama Code 36-26-15.
How to apply for State Employment Preference
How it works
Points are added to your score on Alabama state classified service employment registers. Veterans receive preference over non-veterans with the same ratings. When reductions in force are being made, employees eligible for veterans preference must be the last to be discharged, dropped, reduced in rank or salary.
How to claim
Indicate veteran status when applying for Alabama state classified positions.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: personnel.alabama.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about State Employment Preference
Who qualifies for State Employment Preference?▾
How do I apply for State Employment Preference?▾
Where can I verify State Employment Preference?▾
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