Military Stop Loss Veterans Still Being Sought Out for Extra Pay

According to the Department of Defense, there are still about 145,000 service members, families and veterans that are entitled to the retroactive stop-loss benefit of $500 for every month they where held beyond their discharge dates. Eligible individuals must apply for the benefits no later than October 21, 2010 for an average payout between $3,000 and $4,000.

Under the stop-loss military policy, active duty military members, reservists or National Guardsmen can be prevented from separating at their end of obligated service by presidential or congressional order. This policy legally forces the military member to be "involuntarily extended" for up to six months after the end of a war. Military members can also be prevented from transfering to new duty stations under the stop-loss provision.

A Pentagon official reported to The Washington Post that many veterans ignored letters sent to them regarding the stop-loss retroactive pay, forgot about filing the paperwork, or thought it was a gimmick of some sort.

"As your Commander in Chief, I'm here to tell you that this is no gimmick or trick," President Obama told the veterans in a public service announcment on September 15, "You worked hard. You earned this money. Wether you're a veteran who experienced stop-loss or the survivor of a servicemember who did, if your service was extended, you're eligible."

Eligible individuals may submit an application online prior to October 21, 2010 by visiting their specific service's website. Those without Internet access should print, complete and sign DD Form 2944, Claim for Retroactive Stop Loss Payment.

For more information and individual military branch applications:

Navy
901-874-4427
Navy Website

Marine Corps
877-242-2830
Marine Corps Website

Army
877-736-5554
Army Website

Airforce/National Guard
800-525-0102
Airforce Website

Resources

U.S. Department of Defense: Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay