South Dakota is paying a bonus to members of the Armed Forces who were legal residents of the state for no less than six months immediately preceding their period of active duty and who served on active duty during one or more of the following periods.
1. August 2, 1990 to March 3, 1991 - All active service counts for payment.
2 . March 4, 1991 to December 31, 1992 - Only service in a hostile area qualifying for the Southwest Asia Service Medal counts for payment.
3. January 1, 1993 to September 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.
4. September 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 $500.00 each!
Applicants living outside of South Dakota may obtain an application by email at john.fette@state.sd.us. Please include your branch of the military and dates of service. If you do not have email you may request an application and instructions by writing SD Veterans Bonus, 425 E. Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501 or by calling 605-773-7251.
Applicants living in South Dakota may apply through the nearest County or Tribal Veterans Service Officer.