John Y.

I recently submitted an application for the announced position, AUDIOLOGIST, ST-*******-21-LEM. I was placed into an "ineligible" status because USA Jobs records show that I did not select "yes" for the VEOA claim. Yet, when I returned to my USA Jobs profile, it shows that I did select "yes" for the VEOA claim, and I recall reading through the provisions of the VEOA and selecting "yes", as I am a Navy veteran, 4 years active duty with an honorable discharge and 20 years Navy Reserve veteran and retired, with DD214 documentation provided in my profile as well as proof of retirement. After pointing out this difference, I was given instructions in a subsequent email on how I could update my application by first selecting the "update application" button in my USA Jobs profile. I cannot find that selection and cannot follow the instructions provided for updating my application. I have been told that it is my responsibility to ensure all information is correct, and I believe that I did so. I am also confused, because, if I have preference for consideration under the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998, why do I need to specifically claim that right if I specify that I am a veteran and provide documented proof of service, honorable discharge, and/or retirement in the form of a DD-214 and other applicable documents? Why would not specifically claiming this right, which I believe I did, exempt me from eligibility if I am granted the right under an act of congress? Is there a system in place to address discrepancies or make amendments when necessary? Is there another office I should contact? I am frustrated. If this one small thing is all that exempts me from eligibility, when I am in fact an honorably discharged and retired veteran and qualified in every way for the position for which I have applied. I have wanted to serve military personnel and their families beyond just my military service and am saddened that a discrepancy or disagreement on one check box would exempt me from eligibility for consideration. It seems unwarranted and unfair.