By Tech. Sgt. Kyle King, 439th Airlift Wing Public Affairs / Published April 21, 2020
Westover service members may be eligible for a deployment bonus through the Massachusetts Welcome Home Bonus program. (Courtesy Graphic)
Westover reservists may be eligible for bonuses from past deployments.
Last year, the Massachusetts Office of the State Treasurer, Veterans’ Bonus Division launched an online application process for the Massachusetts Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Welcome Home Bonus.
This online application enables Massachusetts service members, veterans or families of deceased Massachusetts veterans the ability to apply online, streamlining the application process and expediting bonus payouts.
The Office of the State Treasurer, Veterans’ Bonus Division is still processing these bonuses remotely amidst the current stay at home orders.
“We believe there are many Westover reservists that are eligible” said Steven Croteau, Veterans' Bonus program manager. “The payments are sent 10 days or less from when the application is approved. This is a way that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts can provide immediate support to Westover Reserve personnel.”
It can take up to four to six weeks to process the application and send the payments to the member.
To qualify, service members must have lived in Massachusetts for at least six months immediately prior to entering the military, or prior to activation for Guard and Reserve personnel, and served on or after September 11, 2001.
Qualified applicants can receive bonuses for their active service and deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism.
For more information or to check eligibility please visit the links below, VetsBonusMA.com or contact the Veterans' Bonus Division by phone (617) 367-9333 ext. 859 or email veteransbonus@tre.state.ma.us.
https://www.mass.gov/global-war-on-terrorism-welcome-home-bonus-post-911-servicemembers
https://www.mass.gov/forms/veterans-bonus-inquiry
https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-welcome-home-veterans-bonus