The Department of Defense (DoD) announced that it is extending the deadline for submitting claims for Retroactive Stop Loss Special Pay (RSLSP) to October 12, 2012.  This is the latest in a series of extensions that have been provided either administratively by DOD or through congressional legislation since October 21, 2010—the original filing date. 

Even though DoD has engaged in a vigorous effort to contact eligible personnel through direct mail, veteran’s organizations, social networks, and the media., many eligible still have not filed.   “We highly encourage anyone who may be eligible to apply for this pay; you have earned it,” said Juliet Beyler, acting director of Officer and Enlisted Personnel Management.

Eligible recipients include servicemembers (including those who have separated from the military), veterans, and beneficiaries of servicemembers whose length of service was extended involuntarily between September 11, 2001 and September 30, 2009 under the “Stop Loss” program.  An eligible recipient can receive $500 for each month or partial month that they were in “Stop Loss” status.

DoD advises eligible members to visit their military service stop loss web sites and submit an application on-line.  The on-line submission provides a claim number and allows for automated status updates.  These web sites contain information on the appropriate method for submitting the claim form and available supporting documents based on service specifications.  If eligible members do not have internet access, they should complete and sign Department of Defense Form 2944, Claim for Retroactive Stop Loss Payment.