The U.S. Department of Labor is accepting applications for the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award. The award is presented annually to employers that meet standards for excellence in the recruitment, hiring and retention of America’s military veterans.

Initiated by the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act of 2017, the award recognizes small businesses, non-profit organizations and large companies for leadership in promoting veterans’ employment. The open application period marks the beginning of the 2022 HIRE Vets Medallion Award cycle. Employers that receive the award in 2022 will join more than 1,400 employers that the department has recognized for their support of America’s veterans.

“The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is the only federal-level veterans’ employment award that recognizes a proven commitment to veteran hiring,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh. “The HIRE Vets Medallion Award is a meaningful and important recognition. Veterans and their families benefit from careers with real growth potential and employers gain dedicated, qualified employees who can make a significant contribution to the bottom line.”

To complete the application process, employers must verify that their organization meets award requirements, pay the application fee and comply with the rules promulgated by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Act. Employers must apply by April 30, 2022.

Apply for a HIRE Vets Medallion Award here.