A federal vacancy can be difficult to decode: each announcement sets out its own requirements, documents and application steps. USAJOBS.gov is the official portal where federal agencies publish opportunities and explain how to apply. Searching listings, creating a profile and applying for a position do not require a fee to obtain the job; be wary of a company or intermediary promising secret access to federal vacancies in exchange for money.
To begin, type usajobs.gov into your browser and choose to sign in or create an account. USAJOBS uses Login.gov: create that sign-in with an email address, password and at least one authentication method; the system recommends setting up a backup method. You then return to USAJOBS to link or create your profile and complete the required details. The official guide identifies contact information, citizenship and federal or military service history among the sections required to apply.
Your profile lets you save searches and vacancies, receive alerts, and add or build résumés. The site accepts up to five versions and, under its current instructions, a résumé file or builder version must be two pages or fewer to save in the profile. Tailor each version to the announcement: check who may apply, the qualifications, required documents and how the application will be assessed. Useful keywords can help you find roles, but they do not replace reading the full announcement.
When you select Apply, the portal guides you through choosing a résumé and documents, reviewing the package and confirming your information. The final step may send you to the hiring agency’s own system, where additional questions or documents may be required. Do not treat an application as submitted until you see confirmation, and later check its status in the applications section. Keep the announcement number, closing date and a copy of what you submitted.
The Federal Trade Commission warns that information about federal vacancies and applications is free. Be suspicious of anyone charging for a job list, guaranteeing a hire or asking for gift cards, wire transfers or money to “activate” an application; scammers also impersonate recruiters and request bank details or identity documents before a legitimate offer. If a message sends you elsewhere, return to USAJOBS.gov and verify the agency through its official channels. If you have already sent money or information, keep the messages and file a report with the FTC.
Confirm each step on the official website and keep a record of your applications.
Sources & references
Sources for the information and reporting discussed in this guide.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
U.S. Office of Personnel Management — USAJOBS Help Center · Accessed October 5, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
U.S. Office of Personnel Management — USAJOBS Help Center · Accessed October 5, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
-
Official website ↗
Primary source
U.S. Office of Personnel Management — USAJOBS Help Center · Accessed October 5, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
-
Official website ↗
Primary source
Federal Trade Commission · Accessed October 5, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
-
Official website ↗
Primary source
U.S. Office of Personnel Management — USAJOBS Help Center · Accessed October 5, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.