For Release: Monday, August 30, 2010
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR AIR FORCE STOP LOSS SPECIAL PAY IS OCTOBER 21

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Air Force is continuing to accept applications for stop loss special pay until October 21. “Stop loss” refers to personnel who had their enlistment or period of obligated service involuntarily extended, or whose eligibility for separation or retirement was suspended. The payment is $500 per month served due to stop loss.

According to the Air Force, stop loss was used for Operation Enduring Freedom from Oct. 2, 2001, through Jan. 31, 2003, and Operation Iraqi Freedom from May 2 through Dec. 31, 2003. Individuals who were deployed during either operation may be eligible beyond the inclusive dates depending on their Air Force specialty and deployment return date. Those eligible include active, retired and former members as well as Reserve component members, but not those who accepted a selective re-enlistment bonus subsequent to being affected by stop loss.

Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) wants to be sure everyone eligible receives this compensation.

“Serving under stop loss can be an especially difficult adjustment, as in many cases people have not served for several years or are anticipating retirement,” said Costello. “I encourage anyone who thinks they may qualify for this payment to find out for certain - these benefits were well-earned.”

To file a claim, eligible members or legally designated beneficiaries may download a stop loss claim application at www.afpc.randolph.af.mil/stoploss.

Applicants who were serving in the Reserve or Guard at the time of stop loss may apply by visiting the Air Reserve Personnel Center website at https://arpc.afrc.af.mil/vPC-GR.

For more information on program eligibility and claims instructions, call the Total Force Service Center at (800) 525-0102.

###