Veterans Claims Examiner
Performs veterans claims work including benefit determination, claim adjudication, and veteran assistance.
💰GS-0996 Salary Information
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0996
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education:
- GS-5: 4-year course of study leading to bachelor's degree
- GS-7: 1 year graduate education OR Superior Academic Achievement
OR
Experience: General experience in work involving analysis of information, application of laws and regulations, and decision-making on claims or benefits.
Education and Experience Requirements (Group Standard):
This is a two-grade interval series. Positions follow the GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 progression pattern.
| Grade | Education | Experience | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Bachelor's degree in any field from accredited college/university | 3 years progressively responsible experience, 1 year equivalent to GS-4 | Equivalent combinations qualifying |
| GS-7 | 1 full year graduate education OR Superior Academic Achievement | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-5 | Combinations of graduate education and experience |
| GS-9 | 2 years graduate education or master's degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-7 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-7 requirement) and experience |
| GS-11 | 3 years graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-9 requirement) and experience |
| GS-12+ | Not applicable | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to next lower grade | N/A |
Superior Academic Achievement (for GS-7):
- Upper third of graduating class in college/university or major subdivision
- GPA of 3.0 or higher out of 4.0 as recorded on official transcript, OR 3.5 or higher in major field
- Election to membership in national scholastic honor society
Graduate Education: One year of full-time graduate education is the number of credit hours the school determines represents 1 year of full-time study. If unavailable, 18 semester hours satisfies the 1-year requirement.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for GS-0996
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal veterans claims examiner position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your Grade Level
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0996
Yeoman
Yeomen manage administrative tasks including personnel records, providing a foundation for claims processing and veteran assistance.
Administrative Specialist
Administrative Specialists handle personnel records and benefits, similar to the tasks of a Veterans Claims Examiner.
Yeoman
Coast Guard Yeomen manage personnel records and benefits, providing relevant experience for claims examination.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Evaluate veteran benefit claims
- •Determine eligibility
- •Adjudicate claims
- •Communicate decisions
- •Assist veterans with applications
- •Apply laws and regulations
🎯Key Competencies
Ability to analyze and decide veterans benefit claims.
Skill in reviewing and interpreting medical evidence.
Understanding of VA laws, regulations, and rating criteria.
Ability to prepare clear, well-reasoned rating decisions.
Skill in communicating with veterans and their representatives.
Ability to manage caseloads and meet processing goals.
Skill in reviewing evidence and ensuring accurate decisions.
Ability to research precedents and policy guidance.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0996
What is a Veterans Claims Examiner?
GS-0996 Veterans Claims Examiners evaluate and adjudicate veteran benefit claims at VA. They review medical evidence, determine eligibility for disability compensation, pension, and other benefits, and communicate decisions to veterans. They're the frontline of VA benefits delivery.
How much does a federal Veterans Claims Examiner make?
GS-0996 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) at entry to GS-12 ($75,706-$98,422) for senior rating specialists. Most positions are GS-9 to GS-11 ($52,205-$82,108). Decision Review Officers reach GS-12. Add locality pay of 15-40%.
What are the requirements for GS-0996 positions?
At GS-5, you need a bachelor's degree or 3 years of general experience. Higher grades require specialized claims adjudication experience. Ability to analyze medical records, apply VA regulations, and write clear decisions is essential. Training provided through VA's extensive program.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0996?
Yes, and it's highly valuable here. Your military service gives you firsthand understanding of military culture, injuries, and conditions veterans face. Medical, personnel, and administrative experience all translate. Veterans are ideal candidates—you understand the mission personally.
What is the career progression for Veterans Claims Examiners?
Entry at GS-5/7, journeyman Rating Veterans Service Representatives at GS-9/10/11, senior specialists at GS-11/12. Decision Review Officers handle appeals at GS-12. Supervisory and quality review positions offer advancement. VA offers excellent training and promotion opportunities.
How do I apply for GS-0996 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Veterans Claims Examiner' or 'Veterans Service Representative.' VA regional offices nationwide hire regularly. This is a high-demand position. Emphasize your analytical skills, attention to detail, and connection to the veteran community. As a veteran, you have a direct understanding of the mission.
Ready to Apply for GS-0996?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.