On Veterans Day, we thank the men and women who have served our country, and the families who served alongside them. Many veterans, reservists, and National Guard members also hold civilian jobs, and federal law protects those jobs when duty calls.

That law is the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, or USERRA. It applies to almost every employer in the country, whether it’s a two-person shop or a Fortune 500 company. Here are the basics every service member should know.

You have the right to your job back. If you leave work for military service, you’re generally entitled to return once your service ends. Your cumulative service with that employer can total up to five years, though some service doesn’t count toward the limit. You must have given advance notice when possible, and you need to report back or apply on time. The deadline depends on how long you served. After less than 31 days, you report back by your next scheduled workday. After 31 to 180 days, you have 14 days to apply. After more than 180 days, you have 90 days.

You come back as if you never left. Your employer has to put you in the job you would have reached if you’d kept working, with the seniority, pay, and benefits that go with it. If you need training to get back up to speed, your employer has to provide reasonable efforts to help.

You can’t be fired without cause right after you return. If you served more than 30 days, you’re protected from being fired without cause for 180 days after you return. If you served more than 180 days, that protection lasts one year.

You can’t be treated worse because you serve. Employers can’t refuse to hire you, deny you a promotion, or retaliate against you because of your military service or obligations. That includes asking for leave for drills or training.

Your health coverage can continue. While you’re away, you can choose to keep your employer health plan for up to 24 months.

These protections belong to the people who protect all of us. If you believe your employer didn’t honor them, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor or bring your own lawsuit. You’re always welcome to call us if you have questions about your rights at work.

Happy Veterans Day from all of us at The Sanford Firm.

This post is general information, not legal advice for your situation.