Did you know several states offer a military veterans bonus? Most of the state veterans bonuses are offered to military veterans who joined the military from that specific state and served during a time of war or a named military campaign.
Not all states offer a veterans bonus, and each state sets specific eligibility requirements.
For example, most states require the veteran was a legal state resident at the time they joined the military. Some states require the veteran was a resident for a certain amount of time before joining the military. Other requirements include serving during specific dates or during specific conflicts, or having a military discharge rating above a set level (for example, some states do not offer a bonus to a veteran with a dishonorable discharge).
Table of Contents
Military Veterans Bonuses Listed By State
The following states have a military veterans bonus:
- Illinois
- Massachusetts
- New Hampshire
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- West Virginia
Illinois Military Veterans Bonus
The State of Illinois is offering bonuses to veterans of the United States Armed Forces. The state is offering several types of cash bonuses depending on the veteran’s dates of service.
Illinois Veterans Bonus – WWII Vets
For veterans of World War II, a bonus payment of $10 per month for those serving domestically and a $15 payment per month for service on foreign soil is payable to veterans that were residents of Illinois at the time of entering service, who have served at least 60 days on active duty between the dates of September 16, 1940, and September 3, 1945, and who received an honorable discharge.
Survivors of veterans are entitled to receive a one-time benefit of $1,000 if the veteran died as a result of service-related reasons during the specified time period.
Illinois Veterans Bonus – Korea, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf Vets
For veterans serving during the Korean, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf conflicts, a cash bonus in the amount of $100 is payable to service members who served during any of the following time periods:
- Korea – June 27, 1950 – July 27, 1953
- Vietnam – January 1, 1961 – March 28, 1973
- Vietnam Frequent Wind – April 29 – April 30, 1975
- Persian Gulf – August 2, 1990 – November 30, 1995
Service members who are interested in claiming the bonus payments must have been a resident of Illinois for 12 months immediately prior to entering the service, having received an honorable discharge, and must have also received one or more of the following medals:
- Korean Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal
- Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Vietnam Era
- Southwest Asia Service Medal
Individuals that are currently serving in an active duty capacity who also served in the Persian Gulf are eligible to apply for the bonus before being discharged from service.
Survivors Compensation. Survivors of military members killed in battle or by terrorist activities while performing military duties are entitled to a payment of $1,000 if the veteran’s death occurred in the periods specified above. Residency of 1 year in Illinois prior to entering military service is required, as is a separate application.
POW Compensation. Persons on active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States or employed by the United States Government on, or after, January 1, 1961, who were residents of Illinois 12 months prior to entry, and who were taken and held prisoner by hostile forces in Southwest Asia, are entitled to $50 for each month or portion thereof while being held captive.
How to Apply for the Illinois Military Veterans Bonus
Applicants can download an application at the Illinois State website or contact the Illinois Department of Veteran’s Affairs, PO Box 19432, 833 South Spring Street, Springfield, IL 62794-9432. Applications should be completed in its entirety and mailed to the Illinois Department of Veteran’s Affairs along with a photocopy of the applicant’s separation or discharge documents.
See the official at the Illinois Department of Veteran’s Affairs website.
Massachusetts Military Veterans Bonuses
Veterans who lived in the state of Massachusetts immediately prior to entry in the armed forces or deployment may be eligible for a Massachusetts Military Veterans Bonus. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides these bonuses to veterans or in the case of a deceased veteran, their surviving spouse, children, parents, siblings or other dependents who would also be eligible to receive the bonus. Surviving family members would be granted the eligible bonus in the order which they appeared above.
The bonuses that veterans may be eligible for include the following bonuses: World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War, and the Welcome Home Bonus. The following information applies to veterans who served in any of the above-mentioned wars or conflicts.
Massachusetts Military Veterans Bonus Eligibility Requirements
- World War II: Veterans who meet the definition of a Massachusetts Veteran (as amended by the Acts of 2005) may be eligible for three separate bonuses. A $100 bonus for veterans who served in active duty from one day to six months, $200 for veterans who performed stateside service for six or more months, and $300 for those who performed foreign service. More information.
- Korean War: Veterans who meet the definition of a Massachusetts Veteran (as amended by Acts of 2005) may be eligible for three separate bonuses. A $100 bonus for servicemembers who performed 90 days stateside, $200 for veterans who performed six months or more, and $300 for any servicemember serving one or more days outside the continental US. More information.
- Vietnam War: To receive the $200 Vietnam War Veterans Bonus, servicemembers must have performed active duty between July 1, 1958, and May 16, 1975. This bonus is rewarded to those who served for six months or more. Vietnam veterans who served on duty in Vietnam will receive a $300 bonus. More information.
- Persian Gulf War: Servicemembers who served between August 2, 1990, and April 10, 1991, for thirty or more days are eligible for the Persian Gulf War Veterans Bonus. Those called to duty in areas other than the Persian Gulf receive $300. Veterans who were called to duty and served in the Persian Gulf (war zone or surrounding waters) who have also received the Southwest Asia Service Medal will receive $500. More information.
- Welcome Home Bonus: To be eligible for the Welcome Home Bonus, veterans must have resided in the state of Massachusetts for at least six months prior to joining the armed forces beginning on September 11, 2001. Those who served in Iraq or Afghanistan will receive $1,000; those who served stateside or outside the continental limits of the US for six months or more of active duty will receive $500. More information.
Veterans who are not eligible: Veterans who have received a dishonorable discharge or those that do not meet the requirements above will not be eligible to receive the specified bonus. If the veteran is ineligible, surviving beneficiaries would also be ineligible.
How to Claim the Massachusetts Military Veterans Bonus
How To Claim the Veterans Bonus. For veterans or surviving relatives interested in claiming a Massachusetts Veterans Bonus, applications are available online at the Treasurer’s website. To contact the Treasurer, individuals may use the following address for all bonuses listed here:
Office of the Treasurer
One Ashburton Place, 12th Floor
Boston, MA 02108
The telephone number to call for the World War II Bonus is 617-367-3900, extension 308. For the Korean War Bonus or Vietnam War Bonus, call 617-367-3900, ext 208. Those calling in reference to the Welcome Home Bonus can call 617-367-9333, ext 350.
For Persian Gulf veterans only:
Veterans’ Bonus Division, Department of Veterans’ Services
600 Washington Street, Suite 1100
Boston, MA 02111
(617) 210-5927
www.mass.gov/veterans
Email: [email protected]
Applicants and their relatives may be required to provide proof of residency or next of kin documentation or certain service records to prove eligibility.
New Hampshire Military Veterans Bonus
New Hampshire offers veterans of the Vietnam War, Persian Gulf War and the Global War on Terrorism a $100 bonus if eligibility requirements are met.
The state previously offered veteran bonuses to those who served in World War II and the Korean Conflict, however, those programs have been expired for almost forty years now.
New Hampshire Veterans Bonus Eligibility Requirements
Here we will look at the eligibility requirements for those veterans still active or who served in recent conflicts. To qualify for the New Hampshire Veterans Bonuses, military members must have been a bona fide resident of the state at the time they began active duty.
New Hampshire Military Veterans Bonus – Vietnam Service. It appears Vietnam veterans who have not made a claim for the $100 bonus can still do so, however, claims made today must be approved by the Adjutant General, Governor, and Executive Council. To be eligible for the Vietnam Veterans Bonus, service members must have served between July 1, 1958, and August 5, 1964, receiving the Vietnam Service Medal or Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.
New Hampshire Military Veterans Bonus – Persian Gulf. To qualify for the Persian Gulf War Bonus, service members must have actively served between the dates of August 2, 1990, and November 30, 1995, earning the Southwest Asia Service Medal. This program expired on August 31, 2002, however service members who did not claim this bonus from another state and are otherwise eligible may fall within provisions that allow acceptance after this date.
New Hampshire Military Veterans Bonus – GWOT. The Global War on Terrorism Operations Service Bonus is available to individuals who actively serviced on or after September 11, 2001, up until a date that has not yet been determined by the Secretary of Defense. Service members earning the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign, or Iraq Campaign Medal qualify for this bonus as long as they meet other conditions. This program expired on June 11, 2009, but like other War bonuses, there are provisions that allow service members to submit applications after this date.
To be eligible for any of the New Hampshire state Veteran Bonuses, service members must have been discharged from duty in an honorable condition and have been a resident of the state at the time they were called into active duty for a current or recent conflict listed above. You will need to provide a copy of your military discharge paperwork, DD Form 214.
How to Claim New Hampshire Military Veterans Bonus
For more information on the Veterans Bonuses available through the state of New Hampshire, living veterans, as well as surviving relatives of veterans KIA, are encouraged to contact the State Office of Veterans Services for the state of New Hampshire. You may do so on their website, via telephone at 603-624-9230, or by mail at 275 Chestnut Street, Room 517, Manchester, NH 03101.
Ohio Veterans Bonus Program Details
Ohio recently created a Veterans Bonus Program to thank Ohio Veterans who served during periods of conflict. Eligible veterans serving on active duty (except active duty for training) anywhere in the world during the specified dates may receive $50 a month up to a maximum bonus of $500.
Eligible veterans who served in the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, or Iraq during certain dates may receive a $100 bonus for each month they served in those locations, up to a maximum of $1,000.
An eligible veteran may combine their service bonuses for a maximum payment of $1,500.
Who is Eligible for the Ohio Veterans Bonus Program?
Ohio veterans may be eligible for the bonuses if they served on active duty in the US armed forces, including those who served in the Ohio National Guard, if they served in the specified locations during specific time periods for reasons other than training (information about eligible locations and dates is below).
To be eligible, applicants must have been legal residents in Ohio when they went on active duty and must be Ohio residents when they apply for the bonus.
To be eligible for the Ohio Veterans Program Bonus:
- The veteran must have been separated from the armed forces under honorable conditions.
- The veteran remains on active duty service.
- After active duty service, the veteran remains in any reserve component of the armed forces, including the Ohio National Guard.
Eligible Service Dates and Locations
Eligible veterans may receive $100 for each month of active duty service in the following locations during these specified dates:
- Persian Gulf: Between August 2, 1990, and March 3, 1991, the date when Iraq accepted the conditions for a permanent cease-fire. Eligible veterans can apply for a bonus until December 31, 2013.
- Afghanistan: Since October 7, 2001. Eligible veterans can apply for a bonus for up to three years after the President declares an end to U.S. involvement in Afghanistan.
- Iraq: Since March 19, 2003. Eligible veterans can apply for a bonus for up to three years after the president declares an end to U.S. involvement in Iraq.
The maximum benefit for service in those three areas is $1,000.
Eligible veterans may also apply for a $50 bonus per month they served during these time periods if they served anywhere else in the world. The maximum bonus under these provisions is $500 and the bonuses may be combined for a maximum of $1500.
Families of deceased Ohio veterans may also be eligible for the bonus. There also are other bonuses available to eligible veterans or the families of deceased veterans. For these eligibility details and specifications, please visit: veteransbonus.ohio.gov/odvs_web/Eligibility_Requirements.aspx
How to Claim the Ohio Veterans Bonus
To apply for the bonus, applicants should go to veteransbonus.ohio.gov, and complete the online application. You may also visit a public library if you do not have internet access or visit your local Ohio County Veterans Service Office for assistance.
The application must be signed, notarized, and mailed. The final application must be printed, signed, and notarized or acknowledged before it will be accepted. Mail your application to Ohio Veterans Bonus, P.O. Box 373 Sandusky, Ohio 44871.
The estimated processing time for Ohio Veterans Bonus Program applications is approximately eight weeks, depending on the volume of applications initially received.
Applicants with specific questions can call 1 -877-OHIO-VET or go online at veteransbonus.ohio.gov.
Please help spread the word
Please forward this information to any Ohio veterans you may know. Those who have been separated from the military for several years may not be aware of this benefit.
Pennsylvania Military Veterans Bonus
Pennsylvania offers a military veterans bonus for state residents who served in the Persian Gulf during specified dates. This bonus was enacted on April 24, 2006, when Governor Edward Rendell signed the Persian Gulf Veterans’ Benefit Act into law.
The bond issue created a fund to pay compensation to eligible current and former members of the US Armed Forces, Pennsylvania National Guard, or members of the Reserves. The bonus is $75 per month of eligible service (or prorated basis for a fraction of a month).
Pennsylvania Military Veterans Bonus Eligibility Requirements
Pennsylvania residents who served in the Armed Forces, including active duty, Guard, and Reserves, in the Middle East in support of the Persian Gulf conflict may be eligible for the Persian Gulf Veteran’s Benefit Program. Eligible members must have served anytime from August 2, 1990, to August 31, 1991, and must have been awarded the Southwest Asia Service Medal. Veterans must either still be on active duty or have received an Honorable Discharge to be eligible for this award.
Veterans who are not eligible: Service members, veterans or their surviving beneficiaries may not be eligible for the Persian Gulf Veteran’s Benefit Program, if they have received a bonus, gratuity, or similar form of compensation from another state if the service member or veteran has renounced his or her US citizenship, or separated from the armed forces under less than honorable conditions.
Survivors claims. Surviving relatives may also be eligible for this bonus if the military veteran is deceased or is deemed incompetent by a court of competent jurisdiction. Eligible beneficiaries of deceased veterans include, in the following in order of precedence:
- Surviving spouse.
- Surviving children.
- Surviving parents.
If declared incompetent, the order of precedence is Court-appointed guardian, spouse, children, parents, facility.
How to Claim the Pennsylvania Military Veterans Bonus
Veterans and military members must provide documentation to prove they received the Southwest Asia Service Medal and were Pennsylvania residents at the time they were awarded this medal.
Required information:
- Proof of Southwest Asia Medal: Member 4 copy of your DD Form 214 documenting your receipt of the Southwest Asia Service Medal during specified time periods and discharge under Honorable Conditions. If still active duty, must show official documentation proving receipt of Southwest Asia Service Medal.
- Proof of Pennsylvania Residency at Time of Award. Proof of residency can include listing Pennsylvania as the home of record on D Form 214, voter’s registration records, Leave and Earnings Statements, State tax return, driver’s license from the specified time period, or W2 Wage and tax statement from the time frame.
- Proof of relationship if claiming on behalf of another individual. Documents could include a marriage certificate (for spouse to make claim), birth certificate (for child to make claim), veteran’s birth certificate (for parents to make claim), or a Proof or authorization for a representative to make a claim.
- Other: Death certificate, if applicable, or DD 1300 or Veterans Affairs Rating Decision if applicable.
Application form: Applications for the Persian Gulf Veteran’s Benefit Program must be made on an official application form, PG-1. A short form (PG-1 Short) is available for veterans filing on their own behalf, of a long version (PG-1 Long) is available for persons filing on behalf of a veteran who is deceased or incapacitated. You can find these forms at the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs application page.
Deadline for claim: Applications for the Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans’ Benefit Program must be submitted by August 31, 2015.
Completed applications and supporting documents should be mailed to:
Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans’ Benefit Program
PO Box 1109
Harrisburg, PA 17108-1109
For more information: Please contact a representative during hours of operation: 9 am to 5 pm — Persian Gulf Conflict Veterans Benefit Program at 1-866-458-9182 (toll-free) or visit the Pennsylvania Persian Gulf Veterans Bonus Program website.
South Dakota Veterans Bonus
South Dakota has established a program for members of the military who are legal residents of the state.
South Dakota is paying a bonus of up to $500 for select active members an honorably discharged veterans of the Armed Forces who meet the membership criteria.
Military members must have been a resident of the state for no less than six months preceding their period of active service and who served during one or more of the following time periods:
- August 2, 1990 – March 3, 1991: all active service qualifies for payment
- March 4, 1991 – December 31, 1992: service must have been a hostile area that qualified for the Southwest Asia Service Medal qualifies for bonus payment.
- January 1, 1993 – September 10, 2001: service must have been in a hostile area which qualified for any US campaign or service medal awarded for combat operations against hostile forces qualifies for the bonus payment.
- September 11, 2001 – (end date to be determined) – all active service qualifies for the bonus payment.
Additionally, any Veteran with qualifying service before December 31, 1992, during Desert Storm and after January 1, 1993, during Operation Iraqi Freedom may be entitled to receive two separate $500 bonus payments. Veterans who have a service-related disability rated by the Veterans Administration as 10% or more disability will receive the maximum payment of $500. Verification of disability must be provided from the VA along with the application.
Any service member interested in applying for the South Dakota Veterans Bonus must provide the branch of the military along with dates of service on a completed application. Certification of the application must be completed by local County or Tribal Veteran Service Officer. For applicants in other states, a certification must be completed by a Post Service Officer from one of the recognized Veterans Service organizations. All applications must be accompanied by a copy of your DD Form 214, which shows proof of military service.
Interested applicants can obtain an application via email at [email protected], online at the State website. Additionally, applications may be requested by calling 605-773-7251 or via mail by corresponding to SD Veterans Bonus, 425 East Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501.
Applicants living in South Dakota may request an application through the nearest County or Tribal Veterans Service Officer. See the official South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs for more information.
West Virginia Veterans Bonus
The state of West Virginia has historically been a very patriotic state, sending many of their men and women into battle to defend this country.
In 2004, the governor of West Virginia signed into legislation the West Virginia Veterans Bonus Amendment which was approved by the state’s voters.
This made it possible to facilitate paid bonuses to veterans of the state who served in the most recent military conflicts including those in Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
The West Virginia Veterans Bonus bonuses include $600.00 paid to veterans who served in a combat zone and received a campaign badge or expeditionary medal; a $400.00 bonus for active duty service outside the combat zone for Afghanistan and Iraq during the specified time periods; or $2,000.00 for a surviving spouse or children of a veteran who was KIA during the specified time periods.
West Virginia Veterans Bonus Eligibility Requirements
In order to be eligible for the West Virginia Veterans Bonus, military members must have been “bona fide” residents of the state at the time of and at least six months prior to the time they entered into active duty. Any veteran who was separated from service under dishonorable conditions will not be eligible for the West Virginia Veterans Bonus. Also, any member of the armed forces or reserves who were called to active duty by the President are eligible. For military members KIA, the surviving spouse or children may apply for the bonus.
West Virginia Veterans Bonus Deadlines
Veterans who were serving on active duty in Afghanistan between October 7, 2001, and a date that has yet to be determined can apply for this bonus. The dates for those serving in Iraq began on March 19, 2003, with an end date not yet determined. Veterans who served in Kosovo and received a campaign badge or expeditionary medal for Kosovo between November 20, 1995, and December 31, 2000, are eligible for the veteran’s bonus.
How to Claim West Virginia Veterans Bonus
A surviving spouse or children of a veteran KIA during these periods may request an application for the bonus by calling 1-888-838-2332 or via email at [email protected] Applications can be mailed to the West Virginia Division of Veterans Affairs, 1321 Plaza East Suite 101, Charleston, WV 25301.
Living veterans of each conflict must fill out forms that vary based on the area in which you served. For more information on which forms must be completed as well as any other documentation required to receive the West Virginia Veterans Bonus, please visit the West Virginia Division of Veteran’s Affairs for more information.
Be sure to include a copy of your DD Form 214 with your application. This form shows proof of military service, campaign medals, and other important information to prove your claim.
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Crystal Bourgeois says
Thanks Ryan for always keeping the Veterans and Soldiers informed on information out there for us. I’m the go to person most Veterans call in my area for information. I always tell them to sign-up for the Military Wallet for all the latest and great information you provide to those signed up. I look forward for my Military Wallet in my in box.
Stay Blessed, Stay well.
MSG (Retired) C. Bourgeois
RICHARD SCALES says
my dad served between vietnan and korean conflict he was killed by drunk driver in 72 why was my family not elgible for any type of beneits
Leonard Eddie says
I received an increase in my VA disability rating in October 2018 with a retroactive date back to 2010. Since the increased rating was less than 50% the VA recouped all of the increase from my USAF retirement pay. Do you have any suggestions on how I can get a waiver for this or at least get the taxes I paid on my retirement pay refunded. This was over $30,000, and I could really use the money. I appreciate any help or advice you can give me.
Thank you in advance,
Leonard Eddie, MSgt, USAF, retired
sam jones says
any Vietnam bonus programs?
jeremy votaw says
My name is Jeremy Votaw and I was informed about the Ohio bonus program from my grandmother. I served in the Army from 03 to 06 as an Ohio resident. I now am a resident of Illinois. Knowing I do not qualify for the Ohio bonus I was wondering there was one for Illinois vets. Also I was wondering how would veterans who served in one state and due to economic challenges moved to another state how do they qualify? If I’m not mistaken it says that you must have been a resident and currently a resident of said state. This is my understanding of the program. Please by all means correct me if I’m wrong. Any info will be appreciated. Thank you for your time.
Ryan Guina says
Thank you for your service, Jeremy. There is an IL veterans bonus, however, it does not include the sates you served.
Most states that offer a bonus only do so for veterans who joined the service from their state, and who become residents of that state after they separate from the military.
BILLY GRIFFITH says
I sent in application for Cold War Recognition Certificate about 3 or 4 months ago and have not heard anything. Who do I need to contact or should I fill out another application and send it in?
Jason Manley says
I was in the army for 9 years. I completed over 5 tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. During my service I received 3 honorable discharges and Multiple medals for valor in combat. It is the proudest time in my life and am thankful for every experience. Sadly my love for serving in combat lead me to a severe case of PTSD. After my 4th tour I was diagnosed with chronic PTSD. Being the ranger I am I didn’t have quit in me and at the time mental health was still catching up to soldiers like me and I did another 3 tours before I hit my breaking point. And after all my service and acomplishments I began to loose it. I ended up getting in trouble while I waited for my medical board to finish and earned myself an other than honorable discharge. I got out and the va picked me up and determined me to be 100% disabled and due to all of my honorable discharges was able to award me with full benefits.
So my question is if I received multiple honorable discharges after the periods I would qualify for this bonus will I be eligible based on those or does my last discharge trump all the discharges I had prior?
Maurice Isler says
I applied for the bonus, sent all of my paperwork in certified mail, notarized and all. I received a notice with a claim number on it, which you can go to the Ohio veterans bonus website to check the status of your claim. [email protected]. That’s as far as I’ve gotten though. Seveal calls and emails, have done nothing but produce vague responses. They claimed they sent my approval letter and maybe it got lost in my spam inbox, but I added their email address [email protected] to my contact list…so It wasn’t lost. I asked my provider to recover my deleted mail, rechecked my inbox and spam no “approval letter”. Finally when I presented this information to them, they emailed my approval letter.
The following email was the last correspondence I received on July 23, 2012 nearly a month after I mailed may application.
Good Afternoon Mr. Isler
Attached is a copy of the approval letter you requested.
As you indicated, we continue to experience issues with the year-end/new fiscal year procession of warrants. We are working towards a solution to this matter. You will be notified when we have resolved. Thank you for your patience.
Sincerely,
Beth
Beth A. Deck
Veterans Bonus Program Manager
I’ve received several vague emails prior to this. Basically I think the state of Ohio has misappropriated the funds. There was supposedly 172 million dollars in the fund and only 42 million claimed and paid out as of Nov 2011. There’s no way they’ve paid out 131 million dollars in 8 months. As veterans we know the routing, when all else fails, screw the vet. They’re not thankful for anything…the people who paid into the fund are…but the government could care less.
SHELL says
how often can you apply for this bonus
SSG Jones, Douglas says
I have served in three different conflicts why is it that I cannot get a 1500 bonus or more from my state of residence, I have tour Kosovo in 1999, civil war in Macedonia during 911, Iraq in 2003, and Afghanistan in 2010 I just think that all states should show some type of appreciation for us I have been in for almost 16 years protecting my country.
John G says
Hello,
Even though I am 100% disabled and an Ohio vet all my life, I cannot get this boiuns because my dates are not in the “window”…What I dont understand is that all of these eligibility period “conflicts have no end date, and my dates of service was from 15APR93-20AUG94, why am I bing squeezed out?
…And are there any other programs like this for vets to receive financial help? …not including education?
Thanks and have a good one,
JG
John G says
Some people are really hurting right now and this can really help them. You can’t put a price or a benefit on the service we have provided.
I find your “quit your ********” comment out of line soldier.
There should be tons and tons of help for veterans no matter what the help is.
I am 100% service connected, and unemployable, so there is no way I can earn anymore funds, so this program is good for those who need it, especially in todays world financial meltdown.
MPGunner says
Iraq Veteran, twice, my wife is serving in Afghanistan currently. It’s sad to see all these negative posts about and complaining about free money. 1st of all, it’s taxpayer’s money, why would you want to take somebody else’s money, secondly if your counting on this for holidays or bills, then maybe you need to seek some financial counseling. From one vet to another, this is not how we should be reacting. looking at the states who do have a vet bonus program, only Ohio, I believe has one for the OIF/OEF campaigns. and it’s quite substantial. So quit your complaining and be glad your back on us soil. and healthy
NC Stanley says
Both me and my husband received the check (both disable vets) but my husband have to contact them a few times. However, since the new Governor took the office, a letter came in the mail that said we can no longer applied for the bonus (we were told that we could get the bonus once a year, until 2013). They need to show us the report of where the millions of dollars that was put a side for Veterans bonus went? I am so sick of politics, I might just have to run for the Governor!
John Dinger says
the Governor and the veterans affair board needs to get off their butts and do something for us Ohio veterans i think its time for ohioians to decide if this man we have as the governor is what we need for another 4 years we need someone who cares for the people of ohio and its veterans and get someone who cares and not try and delay things that was promise to us ohio veterans so let us ohio veterans stand up and vote no for relected Ted Strictland as our Governor for the next election for Ohio Governor
John Dinger says
Ohio goverment are trying to figure out on how to give us american fighting men annd women that served with pride and fought for our country that holiday bonus that they been promising us for years but dont know how to pay for it but yet they can find a way to give themselves a huge raise every year and so they forget about us that fought for our country i served almost 10 years in the army fought in desert storm of 1991 and got a check from the government for 200 dollars thats all that we are worth to ohio while the governor and other officials in in Ohio are living high on the hog and dont have to worrying about getting a bounus from serving their country or if they did we the ohio veterans are suffering and waiting on how or when they will decide on how to give us that holiday bonus ! They(the govrenment of ohio have no respect for us that served this great nation of ours but instead are filling their pockets with their pay raises
david l vargo says
I too was a Vietnam Vet who the summer I returned home from Active Duty began getting flashbacks (strange auras’) that after years I went to a neurologist in Columbus Oh… and found I had contacted complex partial epilepsy. Epilepsy caused me to loose my job which I held for 23 years. After applying I was granted a pension and disability which my monthly checks keep my family and 4 children partially alive. I take the drug lyrica which has caused memory impairment and to loose my job. I tried to file a claim but was denied compensation because Epilepsy was not caused by Agent Orange. But any money a Viet Nan Vet could receive would greatly be appreciated. I created ads for the Yellow Pages and still would like any job available.
hezekiah grice says
i finally received my bonus check for 1500. it took me some time and i had to resubmit some paper work but I did get a check. it took me some time to figure out that this is not a monthly thing but it was nice to get something back for my service. so to all those that are waiting for a check have patience trust me this is not a scam.
Terry Glass says
Does this program include veterans from OIF and OEF?
Ben says
I am a vet that is still currently active duty. I entered in Ohio and still pay taxes and have Ohio as my home of record. I submitted my packet back in August, 2010. I checked the status of my application often and finally in November recieved information saying that I had to submit my LES (Leave and Earnings Statement) showing that I still pay Ohio taxes. I did so and called them about a week later to verify they recieved it. They stated they did and told that it was going to be reviewed again, which would take 8 more weeks. Now it is February 10th 2011 and still no word. This is a mockery of my continued service to our country. I think as veterans we need to make this right. I am going to contact local VFW, DAV, and AMVETS to get the word out that we need to do something about this.
James says
I submitted my paper work back on Dec. 20, 2010. I did receive a letter from…The Department of Veteran Services…on Dec. 24th stating that my application was received on Dec. 22nd. It was signed by a guy named…John Cook, who’s title is…Veterans Bonus Program Director.
Tracy says
Hello, I wanted to give an update. Finally able to get in contact with someone at the vets bonus program office. They told me that they were overwhelmed with applications in the beginning and they are just now as of today(Dec 6) processing applications received in September. She told me not to expect the payment until 2011.
Tracy says
My husband also submitted the paper work on September 14th. A week later on the website it stated that the paperwork had been received and that processing would take 6 to 8 weeks. Not a single word since. They were suppsed to email if there was a problem with the application. Tried to call and after sitting on hold for over an hour was told that they couldn’t guarantee processing times and they hung up. If they did not have the money to fund this then they shouldn’t have opened up the application process. I know that people are counting on this money for the holiday. I guess that is a sad mistake on our part trusting the government to handle it. A new story claimed that it was estimated that over 175,00 would be eligible and that only 32,600 applications had been received. Out of the applications received 6,000 had been denied..only 3,000 checks have gone out in 3 months….that leads me to believe that they don’t have the money to pay for their program and are not being forthcoming with the information. What a poor way to treat those who served their country, some giving their lives.
Candice says
Has anyone received a document stating the application was received and is being reviewed?
Ryan Guina says
Justin, I understand your point. I am currently an OH resident, but I wasn’t when I joined, so I am not eligible for this bonus. I am also not eligible for any bonuses in Texas, which is where I was a resident when I joined, while I was in, and for a short time afterward. Many states implement these rules to keep their money in-state (which makes sense) and to prevent veterans from making similar claims in multiple states. In fact, some states have a provision the precludes veterans from receiving a state bonus if they have already received a similar bonus from another state.
James Poland says
They received my paper work august 31, status kept saying under review, finally called 29 Nov. I spent 20 years active duty Navy born and raised in Ohio, went in 1977 thru Columbus Ohio. Did 4 years and got out in 1981 and went back in after 9 months apr 1982. Because i re-inter in Arizona they say I am not eligable. I retire in 1998 and moved back to Ohio where I’ve been ever since. I sent two DD-214 the first with Columbus Ohio, the second with Arizona. I only was out there for about a month when i went back in. I asked them why they never e-mail me after 3 months no answer. She said she would looked back into it, and call back. Never called back 4 hours later my status said not eligible. Born and raised in Ohio first enter active duty Ohio a month after high school and not eligible. I love Ohio but now feel like 20 years and 29 days is not enough. Because I spent a month in Arizona where my wife’s family were I am not eligible.
Will says
I’m beginning to think this is going to fall through. I still haven’t heard anything about funding being provided for this. They tried to use the rainy day fund. but that got turned down. I submitted my paperwork late September and was expecting to get the check around this time to have some extra money for the holidays, but nothing. I have not heard of a single person receiving this check. Too bad.
Ryan Guina says
Megan, sorry to hear about your troubles – hopefully you will be able to get the bonus approved. The Character of Service at discharge is simply the type of discharge your husband received (for example, Honorable, Under Honorable Conditions (General), Under Other Than Honorable Conditions, Bad Conduct, Dishonorable, or Uncharacterized). This information will be found on the copy of the DD214 that they are requesting. The good news is you can request a new copy of your DD Form 214 from the government at no charge. Hopefully all you will need to do is obtain a new copy of the DD214 and submit it along with your husband’s claim. Best of luck, and thank you for your husband’s service and your support.
Justin says
This is great for Ohio veterans, except there’s a few vets getting lost in the mix.
This bonus requires you to have entered military service as a resident of Ohio AND also be a current resident.
But what about all of those vets who entered service as an Ohio resident, was an Ohio resident during all of their time in service, and was an Ohio resident for years after their honorable discharge, but are currently a resident of another state? What if this reason for leaving the state was to take advantage of their GI Bill?
As it is now, if all 50 states were to implement bonuses exactly like this one, any vet who ever relocated, either because of a job, schooling or other reason, will find themselves cheated out of a good program.
I was an Ohio resident before, during and after my military service — “after” for 2 years, and still consider it my permanent address, but I moved to California for college. I was even still a resident of Ohio when this bonus program was proposed, so I can’t help but feel that some of us have been (and will continue to be, by other states) forgotten.
M says
My husband too is awaiting his bonus…he filed and overnighted certified all needed paperwork…they recieved all said paperwork…and stated it would take 6-8 weeks to process. That was 15 Sept. It is now almost 10 weeks later and not a single word or payment. He spent over an hour on hold to be hung up on then he called back and waited again….the answer was it is awaiting approval…that is all they could say….no how long approval would take….not any kind of explaination as to why it was now in the 10th week…we actually mailed it 1 Sept to them….what a joke and a slap in the face. I know some vets…filed it early as soon as possible so they could have a little extra money for the holidays…like I said what a slap in the face to those who serve our country.
megan says
I am the spouse of an Iraq War Veteran. We submitted the paperwork they asked for but got an email today asking for “Supporting documents for Character of Service at discharge or continued active duty” which we’re not sure what exactly they want for that. They also said the DD214 he sent wasn’t good enough. They didn’t want the worksheet one. All he was given was the worksheet one. Do any of you have any idea what they are talking about or where we can go for help? Our local office seems as confused as us. ANY help what so ever would be appreciated. We are still fighting to get him disability for major PTSD with many denials. I hate to have to fight another battle for something he is entitled to.
Thanks in advance:) And good luck to everyone.
Robert Danley says
Same thing has happened to me. They say they never recieved my application with an original copy of my DD-214 (which they asked for). I have told them they WILL find my DD-214 and return it to me. If the State of Ohio has lost and is losing such important FEDERAL documents it is inexcusable. No recourse? I beg to differ. I have written my state representative and will contact my U.S. Congressman. I will contact attorneys to find out if the State of Ohio can made to answer for this.
This may be a case where those of us who have defended this Country may have to band together again to make this “news worthy”. Can you say “Class Action Lawsuit”?
James says
Hello Candice, in response to your question. I submitted my paper work back on Dec. 20, 2010. I did receive a letter from…The Department of Veteran Services…on Dec. 24th stating that my application was received on Dec. 22nd. It was signed by a guy named…John Cook, who’s title is…Veterans Bonus Program Director.
Anthony Cornett says
I was told the same thing. My wife and I both are vets and summited our applications on the same day. They updated our status the same day, saying that it was recieved. This was back in late August or 1st week in Sept. Her status has been updated this week saying you will receive bonus in less than 2 weeks. My status hasnt changed, called them and got the same response, being overwhelmed….blah blah blah, they hired more people to help process…blah blah blah, you will NOT have a check till after the 1st of the year, have a nice day!
James Given says
This is a SCAM. The voters of Ohio approved this LAST YEAR (2009) but this state run scam only became available in August. The reason I say it is a scam is because I am a disabled veteran and have many friends in Ohio that have applied for this bonus and ALL OF US have been excuse after excuse. They won’t pay the benefit because:
(1) They say they never receive your paperwork. After you resubmit they finally own up to getting it but then put it in for scanning then “review” then “re-review” then they need additional information that has already been submitted.
(2) The State of Ohio used 2 Million dollars of the Veterans Bonus fund that was created from the sale of bonds to pay for the web site, hire operators and buy new computer equipment.
(3) They have no oversight. There is not one agency of the state government that has been assigned to manage the program. They have absolutely no requirement to account for anything unless the Ohio congress asks them to.
(4) There is no complaint process other than to write a letter to the same P.O. Box that was used to submit your claim.
(5) As of October 29, 2010, no bonuses have been issued from this program.
(6) We have no recourse.
Please everyone read this and know that you will probably never receive this payment until it becomes an issue in the paper. I plan to travel to Columbus next week and meet with the Editor of the Columbus Dispatch. I attempted to contact the Dayton Daily News but this story is “not newsworthy” according to their editor.
William C. Fuller, MCPO, USCG (ret) says
Thomas, Ohio did pay out a Vietnam Veterans Bonus, I received mine in 1974. There was a deadline to apply for it.
Linda says
NC does not have a bonus, but here’s a link to everything veterans DO have from the state:
http://www.doa.state.nc.us/vets/benefits.htm
Ryan says
Thomas, I am not aware of a bonus at this time for Vietnam Vets. Your best bet is to contact the Ohio Department of Veterans Services for more information. Best of luck, and thanks for your service!
Thomas A galati says
What about VIET NAM VETS
Kate Kashman says
Been working all day on a post about this and other state veteran bonus programs! (And I’m still not finished.) Let’s get the word out to every Ohio veteran.
Ryan says
I live in OH now, but I wasn’t an OH resident when I joined the service, so I am ineligible. But I’ve been forwarding this to a lot of my military friends today. 🙂
I didn’t know there were other state programs… Looks like I need to do a little research!
troy says
Ryan is there a way to change your home of record was born and raised in ohio and all my other important papers to include my state id is ohio i get mail there im just trying to setup this i enlisted in the army in las vegas after only being there for three months so according to every state i was not a member of that state
Ryan Guina says
Shell, from my understanding, you can apply for it for each time you eet the eligibility requirements, however, the bonus is capped at $1,000 among all eligible deployments.