VETSTAT identifies veterans, that is, persons who served in the military forces of the United States (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard) in a time of war or peace.

Users should note that the change in universe between 2004 and 2005 occurred in August 2005. Therefore, the CPS household members who answered this question will be different for 2005 ATUS respondents who had their final CPS interview earlier than August 2005 and those who had their final CPS interview in August 2005 or later. YEAR_CPS8 and MONTH_CPS8 along with POPSTAT may be used to distinguish the change in universe.

Information on the most recent period of service for veterans is also available (see VETLAST). Beginning in August 2005, veterans could report up to four periods of service. See VET1, VET2, VET3, and VET4. Current military service is also available (see AFNOW and POPSTAT).

Information on military service and veteran status was collected at the time of the final CPS interview, 2-5 months before the ATUS interview. Veteran status and military service were not updated at the time of the ATUS interview.

• 2003-2010: CPS household members age 17+.
• 2005-2009: CPS household members age 17+ who are not currently serving in the Armed Forces.