Veterans' Employment Preference
Tiebreaker preference for veterans (and disabled veterans/spouses) when otherwise equally qualified for state and public employment.
State BenefitNew HampshireEmployment
Verified May 12, 2026 against gc.nh.gov
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Employment — New Hampshire
- Who it's for
- Veterans, Spouses, Survivors
- VA rating needed
- No rating requirement
- Where it applies
- New Hampshire
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Veterans' Employment Preference?
Veterans' Employment Preference is a New Hampshire employment benefit for veterans, spouses, survivors. Tiebreaker preference for veterans (and disabled veterans/spouses) when otherwise equally qualified for state and public employment.
Who qualifies
- Veterans
- Spouses
- Survivors
- Available to any veteran
- Honorable discharge required
- New Hampshire residency
What Veterans' Employment Preference covers
Overview
Per RSA 283:4 (Employment of Veterans) and RSA 21:50 (veteran/military-spouse definitions): When the state is the employer, preference in hiring is given to a veteran who is one of multiple candidates otherwise equally qualified. RSA 275-G:2 separately authorizes PRIVATE employers to adopt a written veterans preference policy applied uniformly to hiring and promotion. HB 64 (effective Aug 22, 2025) broadened qualifying categories and added procurement preference for disabled veteran-owned and military spouse-owned businesses.
Important to know
NH does NOT use the federal 5/10-point system; preference is a tiebreaker between equally qualified candidates.
Verified information & sources
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
- Official source
- gc.nh.gov
- Apply at
- das.nh.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.
How VetUnlock verifies benefitsFrequently asked questions about Veterans' Employment Preference
Who qualifies for Veterans' Employment Preference?
Veterans' Employment Preference is for Veterans, Spouses, Survivors; available to any veteran; new hampshire residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.
How do I apply for Veterans' Employment Preference?
Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Where can I verify Veterans' Employment Preference?
Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.