Indiana Veteran Unemployment Rate Lowest in U.S.

Workforce Development is one of several state departments to collaborate on the plan

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says Indiana has the lowest unemployment rate for veterans in the nation. The Employment Situation of Veterans – 2016 report says, on average, 1.8 percent of Indiana veterans were unemployed last year.

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development credits the state’s efforts to offer veteran placement services, including free vocational training, occupational skill assessments, direct job referrals, resume review and interview preparation. DWD Commissioner Steven Braun says the department’s WorkOne partners assisted more than 10,000 Hoosier veterans last year.

"Hoosier veterans bring tremendous skill and experience to Indiana’s workforce, and we should use every tool at our disposal to honor and support them when they retire," said Governor Eric Holcomb. "That’s why I’m proposing income tax exemptions for military pensions—just as many other states across the nation have already done."

The DWD has also partnered with the Indiana Commission for Higher Education and the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs to provide resources for veterans looking to transition from the military to college or careers. 

The District of Columbia had the highest percentage of unemployed veterans at 7.6 percent. You can view the full report below: