Press Release  State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg's Office Awards Over $1.8 Million in Veteran Bonuses Throughout 2020

Boston — The State Treasurer's Veterans' Bonus Division is pleased to announce that in 2020 they processed nearly 4,000 bonuses and awarded $1,850,451 in benefits to Veterans across Massachusetts. In addition, the division oversaw the creation of a new COVID-19 Bonus for Massachusetts National Guard members, activated in response to the state of emergency declared by the governor on March 10th, 2020. This initiative paid out $838,000 to over 1,500 service members beginning in November.

"In 2019, our team successfully transitioned the Welcome Home bonus to an online platform, which allowed us to successfully manage the increased number of applications during the pandemic," said State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg. "Our servicemembers selflessly give so much to others that we wanted to ensure that each and every one of them had the opportunity to promptly receive their bonus payouts during a time of economic uncertainty."

"We were thrilled when the legislature passed our COVID bonus for National Guard personnel that supported the Massachusetts' response to the pandemic," said Steve Croteau, Manager of the Veterans' Bonus Division. "This bonus helped relieve some financial stress and allowed the National Guard members to focus on their mission."

"This bonus was honestly a surprise but greatly appreciated. Aiding in the COVID response took up almost half of my year living away from my family. I think I can speak for myself as well as my fellow soldiers, this money makes us feel appreciated," said a Massachusetts Veteran after receiving their bonus. "I will be saving my money for a time where COVID is less of an issue and I can go on a relaxing vacation with my family."

The Veterans' Bonus Division distributes bonuses for eligible active duty, discharged, and deceased Massachusetts veterans who served during various conflicts. The State Treasurers Office has administered the state bonus program since the World War I bonus in 1919 was awarded to Massachusetts individuals who served in the armed forces during that period. To learn more about the Veterans' Bonus Division, visit VetsBonusMA.com.

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