Returning Veterans Now Eligible for Cash Bonus
from State
BOSTON – Representative John Keenan (D-Salem)
was pleased to learn that the first veteran of the Iraqi and Afghanistan
conflicts had been awarded the newly instituted “Welcome Home
Bonus” of $1,000. Earlier this week, Veterans Committee Chairmen
Representative Anthony J. Verga and Senator Stephen M. Brewer joined
State Treasurer Tim Cahill to announce the launch of the “Welcome
Home Bonus” Program for veterans, a tax-free cash payment available
to Massachusetts servicemembers activated since September 11, 2001.
Spearheaded by the newly formed Joint Committee on Veterans & Federal Affairs, “The Welcome Home Bill” was signed into law on Veterans’ Day, November 11, 2005. The bill contains a number of provisions that benefit Massachusetts veterans, servicemembers and their families. Representative Keenan was proud to be the leading cosponsor on the “Welcome Home Bonus” measure in the legislative package. The “Welcome Home Bonus” program provides a one-time $500 or $1000 tax-free payment to eligible servicemembers in the military. Those who have served in Afghanistan or Iraq will receive $1000, and those who have served domestically or in other foreign countries for a period of six months or more will receive $500. To officially launch the program, a $1000 check was presented to Matt Delorey (SPC-E4) who served two tours of duty, one in Iraq and one in Afghanistan, and submitted the first application for the “Welcome Home Bonus.” To apply for the “Welcome Home Bonus” program, servicemembers or their families must submit an application, which is available from Treasurer Cahill’s office, a Residence Certificate, a copy of Discharge Papers (DD214), and a W9 form. Treasurer Cahill’s office also administers a bonus program for veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam. The Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services administers a bonus program for Gulf War veterans. For more information about applying for the “Welcome Home Bonus” program, or for an application, please visit the State Treasurer’s website at www.mass.gov/treasury or call 617-367-9333 x ext. 350 or x ext. 505.
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