Yes! You can use AI to fill out Standard Form 15 (SF-15), Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference (To Be Used by Veterans & Relatives of Veterans)

In Item 3, people often enter a nickname, married name, or a slightly different spelling than what appears on the veteran’s official service records. This happens because applicants rely on everyday usage rather than the DD-214/official records. Mismatches can delay verification with VA/military record centers or cause the claim to be questioned. To avoid this, copy the veteran’s name exactly as shown on the DD-214, orders, or official personnel record (including suffixes like Jr./Sr. and middle names/initials).

Applicants frequently omit apartment/unit numbers, provide an outdated address, or leave off the full ZIP code. This usually occurs when people assume the address is only for identification, but it is also used for correspondence and record matching. Incorrect addresses can lead to missed requests for additional documentation and processing delays. Enter a complete, current mailing address (street number, unit, city, state, ZIP) and update it if you move during the review period.

In Item 4, many people list only one date, reverse the “entered active duty” and “separated/released” dates, or forget to include the branch of service. This happens because veterans may have multiple periods of service and applicants aren’t sure which ones matter. Missing or inconsistent service dates can prevent OPM from confirming eligibility and may trigger follow-up requests. Use the DD-214(s) or official orders to list each period accurately, and include the separation date (or note if still on active duty).

A common error is selecting a preference block that doesn’t match the applicant’s situation (e.g., choosing Purple Heart/non-compensable when the veteran has a 10%+ compensable rating, or selecting spouse/widow/mother categories without meeting the specific conditions). This happens because the categories sound similar and the legal eligibility rules are not fully described on the front page. Choosing the wrong block can result in denial or significant delays while the agency requests corrections. Carefully match your situation to the exact wording in Items 5–9 and confirm the required documentation letters (A, B, C, etc.) before submitting.

Applicants often check a preference type but leave the associated questions blank (e.g., Item 7a marital status, Item 8a/8b widow(er) questions, Item 9 a–d mother’s questions). This happens because the questions are embedded under each block and can be overlooked. Unanswered eligibility questions can lead to an automatic finding of “not eligible” or a request for resubmission. After selecting a block, scan that entire section and answer every Yes/No question that applies, even if the answer seems obvious.

People frequently submit only a DD-214 or only a VA letter, without the full combination required for their selected preference type (e.g., Item 6 requires A and C; Item 8 may require A, D, E, and sometimes G). This happens because applicants focus on “proof of service” and miss that different claims require different evidence. Missing documents are one of the most common reasons for delays or denial. Use the “Required Documentation” column on Page 1 and cross-check it with the detailed list on Page 2, ensuring every referenced lettered document is included.

For disability-based claims (B/C and the spouse/mother disability statements), applicants sometimes submit old rating decisions, screenshots, or letters that don’t clearly state the current percentage, nature of disability, or whether it is permanent and total. This happens because people assume any VA paperwork is acceptable. If the document doesn’t meet the form’s requirements (including being dated 1991 or later and containing the needed details), the claim may be rejected or paused for additional proof. Submit an official VA or service-branch statement that clearly lists the service-connected rating percentage (and combined percentage if applicable) and permanence/total status when required.

Despite the instruction that documents will not be returned, applicants sometimes mail original DD-214s, death certificates, or court decrees. This often happens when people believe originals will be processed faster or are required for authenticity. The consequence can be permanent loss of critical personal records and added stress if replacements are needed. Send clear photocopies unless a certified copy is explicitly required (e.g., certified death certificate or certified court decree for annulment), and keep a complete copy of everything you submit.

In Item 8, applicants sometimes answer “No” to remarriage when they did remarry, or they count an annulment as a remarriage (or fail to include annulment proof when applicable). This confusion is common because the form notes “Do not count annulments,” and eligibility hinges on very specific marital history rules. Incorrect answers can lead to ineligibility determinations or later findings of misrepresentation. Answer marital history questions precisely, and if an annulment applies, include the required documentation (VA restoration certification or a certified court decree) as described under Document G.

For Item 7 and some Item 9 situations, applicants often forget that Document H requires answering the detailed employment questions (H1–H7), not just attaching a medical letter. This happens because the H section looks like a separate questionnaire and can be missed when assembling attachments. Without complete H responses (and supporting separation/resignation documentation when required), the agency may be unable to determine the veteran’s inability to work and deny the preference. Fill out every H item that applies, include agency/position details if the veteran worked in federal/DC service, and attach proof of disability-related separation if you answer “Yes” to H6.

Applicants sometimes submit older editions or modified copies, not realizing the form states “Revised October 2013” and that previous editions are unusable. This typically happens when people download from third-party sites or reuse an old saved file. Submitting an unusable edition can result in rejection and require resubmission, delaying hiring or eligibility determinations. Always obtain the current SF-15 from an official source (OPM or the hiring agency) and confirm the revision date matches the accepted version.