Welcome to the Employment Development Department

Quick Links

Contact Workforce Services Branch

  • Online
  • By Phone
    • (916) 654-7799
    • TTY Users, please call the California Relay Service at 711.

Services for Veterans

Programs for Veterans

The One-Stop Career Centers have specially-trained staff to ensure veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces receive maximum employment and training opportunities. Services can include counseling, labor market information, job referrals, job search workshops, and job development with potential employers. All veterans are eligible for the Veterans Intensive Program. Special assistance is available for veterans with service connected disabilities.

As a veteran, you may qualify for assistance under the Workforce Investment Act. Services can include:

  • Alternative school services
  • Follow-up services
  • Guidance counseling
  • Leadership development
  • Mentoring
  • Occupational skills training
  • Paid and unpaid work experience (such as internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing)
  • Supportive services
  • Tutoring, study skills training, and instruction leading to completion of secondary school

Priority Services

As a veteran you are entitled to receive a priority in service, which includes:

  • A 24-hour “Veterans Only” hold on all new job orders received by the CalJOBSSM labor exchange system.
  • Placement of qualified veterans' résumés before non-veterans' résumés on job order screens that are viewed by EDD staff or prospective employers.
  • Assistance by Veterans Specialists who are dedicated to providing priority employment and training services to veterans.

Unemployment Benefits

Former service members should apply for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits immediately upon separation from active military service. When filing for UI benefits, recently discharged veterans must provide information from their Certificate of Release or Discharge Form Active Duty, DD Form 214 or NOAA Form 56-16 (or when not available, Orders to Report, or Orders of Release may be used). If you do not have this documentation, do not delay in filing your claim. The Department can help you obtain the necessary information to file your claim.

File for Unemployment - You may be eligible for UI benefits.

Resources

2008 Veterans Day  

HireVetsFirst The national comprehensive career Web site for hiring America's veterans or finding employers with job opportunities. Here you'll find the resources you need for matching employment opportunities with veterans.

Job Fairs/Events

California Department of Veterans Affairs

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Benefits and Services