South Dakota Veterans Bonus (Veterans Bonus)
South Dakota pays a one-time bonus of up to $500 to veterans who were state residents before entering active duty and who served during certain wartime periods, and a separate bonus of up to $500 for later qualifying service, for up to $1,000 total.
Who it is for
Veterans who lived in South Dakota for at least six months before starting active duty and who served on active duty during specific periods: August 2, 1990 to March 3, 1991 (any active service), March 4, 1991 to December 31, 1992 (combat-zone service only), January 1, 1993 to September 10, 2001 (combat-zone service only), or September 11, 2001 to present (any active service). Active duty for training does not count.
Before you start
How you apply: Apply directly to the program.
How to apply
- Contact the SD Department of Veterans Affairs by phone (605-773-3269) or mail (SD Veterans Bonus, 425 E. Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501) to request the application form.
- If living outside South Dakota, email jeri.smith@state.sd.us to get the application.
- Complete the form and submit proof of qualifying service and South Dakota residency before active duty.
Deadline: No application deadline is listed on the program page. (Deadline not confirmed)
Amount: Up to $500 for the 1990-1992 qualifying period and up to $500 for the 1993-present qualifying period, up to $1,000 total
Verified as of 2026-07-05. Resources are checked periodically against their official source. Details, amounts, and deadlines change. Confirm the current information on the official page before you rely on it.