Veterans’ Unemployment Data Continues Downward Trend

The March 2014 unemployment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that Veterans are, as a whole, doing better than the national average. While there is still more work to do, the downward trend in Veteran unemployment is continuing.

What do the March numbers show? First, unemployment for all Veterans was reported at 6.0 percent, which is below the national average of 6.7 percent. Looking specifically at our most recent Veterans, the Gulf War II era veterans, unemployment is 6.9 percent, which is down from February’s rate of 9.2 percent. It’s also the lowest monthly unemployment rate since November 2008 for Veterans who have served in the Gulf War II era.

We want to see the numbers of employed Veterans continue to rise. For those Veterans looking for work, VA and its federal, state and private sector partners are here to help. Check out some of these resources:

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation has the Hiring our Heroes program.

The White House’s Joining Forces initiative also works to support Veteran employment.

VA has resources at our employment services page.

Or, you might consider school or training – find information on our educational services page to see what benefits you are eligible for.

For state resources: do an online search for “state name + Veteran employment resources” and you’ll be amazed at what pops up. You can also do an online search for “state name + Veteran educational resources” and you’ll find more benefits and assistance.

Additionally, many government agencies help, too. You can find resources at the Departments of State, Labor, and Justice and be sure to visit the Feds Hire Vets site. And, Veterans can always find assistance at the USAJOBS.gov website.

Finally, don’t forget your Veterans service organizations, non-profit organizations and other groups that provide assistance to Veterans. The VFW offers help through its National Veterans Employment Assistance Service. You can also find online information at the Military and Veteran Career Center at Military.com or find a directory of veterans service organizations here.