The Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) is a state agency with the goal of helping veterans. Their Veterans Employment Services (VES) program helps veterans find long-term and meaningful jobs.
Veterans Employment Preference
The VES program helps veterans who need jobs by:
- Matching veterans with employers
- Providing career services to veterans with barriers to employment
- Operating at American Job Centers, VA facilities and military installations throughout Texas
Benefits of Hiring Veterans
Employers know that military service is valuable in the workplace. Veterans have experience, skills and leadership abilities that strengthen the Texas workforce.
Some traits of veterans are:
- Adaptability: Veterans learn new skills quickly and adapt to new situations. They can handle changes and lead others in times of change.
- Communication: Veterans are clear and concise communicators. They know how to listen, understand and follow instructions and policies.
- Global perspective: Veterans have a unique understanding of the world. They work well with people from all walks of life.
- Integrity: Veterans are honest and trustworthy. They are also good at upholding ethical standards.
- Leadership: Veterans have experience leading and managing people in high-pressure situations.
- Problem-solving: Veterans can identify and solve problems, even under pressure. They are critical and creative thinkers, and they are not afraid to take risks.
- Professionalism: Veterans know the importance of integrity and respect. They are reliable and trustworthy.
- Respect: Veterans respect authority and their fellow workers. They know how to build relationships with others.
- Teamwork: Veterans work well in teams and also on their own, all to reach common goals. They communicate with their team, resolve conflicts and build relationships.
- Work ethic: Veterans have a strong work ethic and can work long hours, even under pressure. They are reliable and dependable.
Most employers want reliable, hardworking and dedicated employees. If that's you, consider hiring a veteran. Veterans are a valuable asset to any company, and they can help you achieve your business goals.
Tax Benefits for Employers
Some employers that hire veterans might qualify for a Federal tax benefit. These employers hire veterans under the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) program. Employers can receive up to a $9,600 tax credit by hiring a veteran. Tax credits are currently available for hires in different categories of veterans.
More Tax Breaks for Employers
- Employers can receive tax credits for hiring individuals from non-veteran target groups.
- Employers can save on their taxes by hiring WOTC-qualified employees. Learn more on IRS Form 5884.
- Some government contractors can get money back for training veterans with physical difficulties. This opportunity is in the U.S. Department of Defense Mentor-Protégé Program.
For more information, see Work Opportunity Tax Credit.
OFCCP’s Regulations to Improve Job Opportunities for Protected Veterans
Understanding new rules can be difficult. WorkInTexas.com can help federal contractors meet OFCCP's regulations for posting jobs.
For more information, see How WorkInTexas.com Helps Federal Contractors Comply with OFCCP’s Final Rules on VEVRAA and Section 503.
USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994) – Rehiring Veterans
USERRA is an important law. It protects the rights of returning service members by making sure:
- Service members can return to their civilian jobs without facing discrimination. They also won't lose their seniority or pay.
- Service members can get training to keep up with the skills needed to do their job when they return.
Helping Your Employees Who Are Returning Veterans
After service members leave the military, they might feel a little lost about what to do next. The Texas Veterans Leadership Program has Veterans Resource and Referral Specialists across Texas. They know about veterans because they are veterans as well. They can help with job search activities, training opportunities and other resources.
For more information, see Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.