WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall, D-N.M., today announced that the Department of Defense has extended until Dec. 3 the deadline for active duty service members, veterans, and beneficiaries of service members whose service was involuntarily extended due to "Stop Loss" to apply for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay.
Under the 2009 War Supplemental Appropriations Act, compensation is available to service members of every military branch who had their enlistment extended or retirement suspended between September 11, 2001, and September 30, 2009, due to "Stop Loss," a policy utilized during major conflicts to quickly retain and generate forces to surge. The original deadline for claims, October 21, 2010, was extended as part of the continuing resolution signed by President Obama last month. Eligible Service members will receive $500 for every month they were on active duty after their discharge date.
"Our servicemen and women have shown great dedication by continuing to defend America during its time of need and I am pleased that the deadline has been extended to allow personnel more time to apply for the benefits that they have earned," Udall said. "I encourage them to submit their applications as soon as possible."
According to the Department of Defense approximately 59,000 claims have already been paid out as of Oct. 1, with the average benefit being $3,700. The Department of Defense estimates that more than 145,000 personnel are eligible. For more information or to submit a compensation claim visit the Department of Defense's website at: www.defense.gov/stoploss . The deadline to apply is December 3, 2010. Those needing assistance filing a claim can contact their local Udall office.
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