Optimizing VA Entitlement Utilization for 2026

A number of brand-new advancements could affect the work of military service members and their households and employers' compliance obligations in 2026. Modifications vary from propositions to increase incentives for employing military partners to boosted employment protections for service members while on task. Military partner employment opportunities and support stay a focus for pending legislation.

, introduced previously in 2025.

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Frequent Relocations Regular relocations continue to strain military households and can make it more difficult for employers to employ and keep military partners. Expanding the WOTC might develop new rewards for companies to work with military spouses and take advantage of this underutilized skill swimming pool. In addition, the Supporting Tours Throughout Years (STAY) Act (H.R. 6146), presented in November 2025, looks for to limit movings of active-duty servicemembers.

Analyzing Grant Paths for Military Families

The U.S. Congress has actually not yet used up the STAY Act this year, however if it is eventually enacted, it could result in reduced PCS moves that might impact recruiting, retention, and remote-work policies for military spouses. Military Re-Employment Protections Federal law currently offers civilian work leave securities for veterans and service members who are involuntarily or willingly released for military service.

The Dole Act reinforced anti-retaliation defenses and enabled complainants declaring USERRA infractions to look for minimum liquidated damages of $50,000 and attorneys' charges. Agencies and courts may continue to interpret and use the Dole Act's USERRA-related arrangements.

New Company Resources In January 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans' Work and Training Service (DOL/VETS) launched a program for companies to seek assistance for guaranteeing compliance. The Assistance and Support for Leaders in USERRA Training and Work (SALUTE) program is an opportunity for employers to request technical assistance on USERRA-related questions or particular problems in their workforce before the onset of a DOL/VETS problem or lawsuit.

Concern actions consist of evaluating USERRA compliance programs and training, updating military leave and reemployment policies, confirming health-benefit extension procedures, and lining up hiring and tax-credit screening procedures to rapidly catch brand-new incentives for military partners. Ogletree Deakins' brand-new Armed force Workforce Practice Group brings together a team of legal representatives, numerous of whom are veterans or currently serving in the Reserves or National Guard, who routinely advise on USERRA compliance, policy advancement, multistate implementation, and examinations and lawsuits.

Patton, Jr. cochair the group. In addition, the Ogletree Deakins Client Portal covers new laws and advancements in Military Leave. All client-users have access to Snapshots and Updates. Premium customers have access to details, updated design templates, and other resources. For more details on the Client Portal or a Customer Portal subscription, please connect to .

Optimizing VA Entitlement Claims in 2026

Tax day is. Have you filed with MilTax yet? Whether you're simply getting your documents together, struck a snag or need to apply for an extension, we've got your back with free filing software and tax pros ready to assist.

For ten years, Employing Our Heroes has championed military partner employment, developing pathways to opportunity and driving systemic change. As we celebrate this milestone, the 10th Yearly Military Partner Employment Top will honor the legacy of development while charting a vibrant course for the future. This year's summit focuses on Leadership & Tradition as we acknowledge the spouses, companies, and advocates who have transformed the work landscape and prepared the next generation to grow in a developing workforce.

Together, we will develop on a years of service and success to create a future where military partners lead with strength, vision, and purpose.

Military partners deal with one of the most consistent employment gaps in the American labor force., military partner unemployment has hovered around 20% or greater in current years.