PIERRE, S.D. - The state of South Dakota is paying a veterans' bonus of up to $500 to certain servicemembers based on monthly service during qualifying dates.
Bonuses are available to servicemembers who:
- were legal residents of the state for at least six months immediately preceding entry into the armed forces.
- are currently on active duty or were honorably discharged from the armed forces.
- served on active duty during one of the following periods.
Aug. 2, 1990 to March 3, 1991 - All active service counts for payment.
March 4, 1991 to Dec. 31, 1992 - Only service in a hostile area qualifying for the Southwest Asia Service Medal counts for payment.
Jan. 1, 1993 to Sept. 10, 2001 - Only service in a hostile area qualifying for any United States campaign or service medal awarded for combat operations against hostile forces counts for payment.
Sept. 11, 2001 to a date to be determined - All active service counts for payment.
Veterans with qualifying service before Dec. 31, 1992 and after Jan. 1, 1993 may receive two separate bonuses of up to $500 each.
Application forms may be obtained by writing to: SD Veterans Bonus, 500 E. Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501, or by calling 605-773-7251. Forms can also be requested by e-mail by writing to jeri.smith@state.sd.us . Writers should include their service branch and dates of service, street or post office box number, city, state and zip code. South Dakota residents can apply through the nearest county or tribal veterans service officer.