Summary At a Glance
- The 2026 VETS-4212 filing cycle opens August 1, 2026, with reports due by September 30, 2026.
- Federal contractors and subcontractors with a qualifying contract valued at $200,000 or more must file, regardless of workforce size.
- Reports may be submitted electronically, through batch upload, or by mail or email.
- Covered employers with 50 or more employees may also have additional affirmative action obligations under VEVRAA.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training (VETS) filing system will open on August 1, 2026 for submission of 2026 VETS-4212 reports. While August 1st is the start of the “official filing cycle,” employers are advised to wait until Monday, August 3, 2026 before filing to ensure the system has fully updated for the new year. The filing deadline is September 30, 2026.
Employers Required to File
The VETS-4212 Report should be filed if a business has a current federal government contract or subcontract worth $200,000 or more, regardless of the number of employees.
The contract or subcontract may be with any department or agency of the United States for the procurement of personal property or non-personal services. Services include, but are not limited to, utility, construction, transportation, research, insurance, and fund depository.
It is important to note that the dollar threshold for the VETS-4212 report increased from $150,000 to $200,000 on October 1, 2025. The Department of Labor’s website currently still lists $150,000 as the reporting threshold, but it is anticipated that it will be updated to indicate that the threshold has changed to $200,000 beginning with this year’s reporting.
Employers unsure whether they meet the requirements to file can find additional information on the Department of Labor’s website.
How to File VETS-4212 Reports
VETS-4212 forms can be submitted electronically using the VETS-4212 Reporting Application or via the batch upload process, or by sending a paper form by U.S. Mail or email. Both the mailing address and email address can be found on the Department of Labor’s website.
As soon as the filing system opens, HR Works will begin filing reports for clients who have selected VETS-4212 filing services. If clients have questions about completing the filing process, they should contact their Consultant.
Not a client? HR Works alleviates the administrative burden by filing your VETS-4212 reports on your behalf. To learn more about our VETS Filing Services, contact us today.
Considerations for Affirmative Action Employers
Employers required to file VETS-4212 with 50 or more employees are also subject to ongoing affirmative action requirements under the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA). In addition to developing annual affirmative action plans (AAPs), employers meeting the VEVRAA AAP thresholds have obligations related to job listings, outreach efforts, vendor communications, an annual hiring benchmark, and data tracking.
HR Works can help ensure VEVRAA Compliance
HR Works’ AA/EEO specialists are available to answer questions, provide resources, and guide clients through these compliance requirements.
If you are an existing HR Works client, please contact your dedicated consultant for any assistance you may need. If you are not a current HR Works client and would like more information about our services, contact us today.
