Maximizing VA Entitlement Claims

A number of new developments could impact the work of military service members and their families and employers' compliance responsibilities in 2026. Modifications vary from propositions to increase incentives for hiring military partners to improved work securities for service members while on duty. Military partner job opportunity and assistance remain a focus for pending legislation.

, introduced previously in 2025.

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Frequent Relocations Frequent movings continue to strain military households and can make it more tough for companies to work with and retain military partners. Broadening the WOTC could produce new rewards for employers to employ military spouses and tap into this underutilized skill swimming pool.

Effective Debt Relief Tactics 2026

The U.S. Congress has actually not yet taken up the STAY Act this year, but if it is ultimately enacted, it might lead to reduced PCS relocations that might affect recruiting, retention, and remote-work policies for military partners. Military Re-Employment Protections Federal law already supplies civilian employment leave securities for veterans and service members who are involuntarily or voluntarily released for military service.

The Dole Act bolstered anti-retaliation defenses and enabled plaintiffs declaring USERRA infractions to look for minimum liquidated damages of $50,000 and lawyers' charges. Agencies and courts might continue to analyze and apply the Dole Act's USERRA-related arrangements.

New Employer Resources In January 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans' Work and Training Service (DOL/VETS) introduced a program for companies to seek guidance for making sure compliance. The Assistance and Assistance for Leaders in USERRA Training and Employment (SALUTE) program is a chance for companies to request technical guidance on USERRA-related concerns or specific problems in their workforce before the onset of a DOL/VETS complaint or claim.

Concern actions consist of examining USERRA compliance programs and training, upgrading military leave and reemployment policies, verifying health-benefit continuation treatments, and aligning hiring and tax-credit screening processes to quickly record new incentives for military partners. Ogletree Deakins' brand-new Military Workforce Practice Group combines a team of lawyers, numerous of whom are veterans or presently serving in the Reserves or National Guard, who routinely recommend on USERRA compliance, policy advancement, multistate implementation, and investigations and litigation.

Patton, Jr. cochair the group. In addition, the Ogletree Deakins Customer Portal covers new laws and advancements in Military Leave. All client-users have access to Photos and Updates. Premium subscribers have access to details, updated design templates, and other resources. To find out more on the Customer Website or a Customer Website membership, please connect to .

Specialized Financial Relief Services for Veterans

Tax day is. Have you filed with MilTax? Whether you're just getting your documents together, struck a snag or need to submit for an extension, we've got your back with complimentary filing software application and tax pros ready to help.

For 10 years, Employing Our Heroes has actually championed military spouse work, producing paths to opportunity and driving systemic modification. As we commemorate this turning point, the 10th Annual Military Partner Work Summit will honor the legacy of development while charting a vibrant course for the future. This year's top focuses on Leadership & Legacy as we recognize the partners, companies, and advocates who have actually changed the work landscape and prepared the next generation to flourish in an evolving workforce.

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

Military partners face one of the most persistent work spaces in the American workforce., military spouse joblessness has actually hovered around 20% or higher in current years.