MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- Active duty and reserve service members who are legal residents of the state of Massachusetts may be eligible to receive a chunk of change from their state government.

According to the state’s official website, www.mass.gov, the ‘Welcome Home’ Bonus program is administered by the state Treasurer’s office. It provides a one-time $500 or $1000 tax-free payment to service members activated since September 11, 2001. 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.

Peg McCobb, “Welcome Home” Bill administrator, explained service members should be sure they submit complete information to have their claims processed. To apply, for the welcome home program, active duty service members should have three years of active duty service after Sept. 11, 2001. Reservists should have 6 months on the books.

Required paperwork includes a residence certificate, a copy of discharge papers or a form from the commanding officer for active duty claimants, and a photocopy of their military ID with documentation of where they served.  All forms requested are available online.

“Claims take about 6 weeks to arrive once the request has been processed,” said McCobb.
“This is an expression of our gratitude to the people who serve our country,” said Treasurer Tim Cahill. “I am pleased to offer this bonus to servicemen and women of Massachusetts for their dedication and commitment.”
In order to download forms and address individual concerns, visit http://www.mass.gov/treasury/veteransbonus/welcomehomebonus.htm or contact the Massachusetts Treasurer’s office at (617) 367-9333.
According to the Website, Treasurer Cahill’s office also administers a bonus program for veterans of World War II, Korea and Vietnam and the Office of Veterans Services administers a bonus program for Gulf War veterans.