DAV Launches Updated Hiring Guide to Address Rising Veteran Unemployment

Event summary

  • DAV released an updated edition of The Veteran Advantage: DAV’s Hiring Guide for Employers of the Military Community on March 17, 2026.
  • The guide aims to help companies better understand and retain veteran and military spouse employees.
  • Veteran unemployment rose to 4.0% in January 2026 from 3.8% in December 2025, with disabled veterans at 5.7%.
  • The guide is available for free download at davhiringguide.org.

The big picture

DAV’s updated hiring guide comes at a critical time as veteran unemployment rates rise, highlighting the need for targeted employment strategies. The guide aligns with broader industry efforts to improve workforce inclusion and address the unique challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian careers. With nearly 1 million members, DAV’s initiative could influence corporate hiring practices and policy discussions around veteran employment.

What we're watching

Employment Trends
Whether the guide will effectively reduce veteran unemployment rates amid rising figures.
Corporate Adoption
The pace at which companies integrate the guide’s recommendations into their hiring practices.
Policy Impact
How government agencies may leverage the guide to promote veteran employment initiatives.