Codington VSO Delivers $1.4 Million in Retroactive Payments, Continues High-Volume Claims Work

Approval for VA benefits application in Codington County, South Dakota, highlighted in recent Northeast Radio SD segment.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Codington County Veterans Service Officer Jay Roberts continues to provide exceptional support to local veterans, reporting to the Codington County Commissioners that over $1.48 million in retroactive compensation payments have been delivered to area veterans and their dependents this year.

Roberts presented the latest monthly report, highlighting high claim volumes and ongoing challenges due to federal impacts.

Roberts provided impressive financial statistics for the past month and year-to-date:

· Total Retro Compensation (YTD): The total for the year now stands at $1,489,405.

· Monthly Retro Compensation: Veterans received $290,339 in retroactive compensation payments last month alone.

· Monthly Benefit Increase: Total monthly compensation increased by $21,017 in the last month, bringing the year-to-date increase to $146,480.

Roberts noted that the VSO's workload is comparable to that of Davidson County, serving a large veteran population efficiently. The office currently has 135 open claims and 656 pending actions with the Veterans Affairs (VA).

Roberts also detailed key operational updates and upcoming events for the veteran community:

·  Staff Certification Delay: Deputy VSO Eric [Last name not given] has faced delays in receiving full qualification from the VA due to impacts from the recent federal government shutdown. Roberts noted the Deputy VSO is actively prepping claims for submission to maintain the office's high pace.

·  VA Medical Transport: The VSO continues to coordinate the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) vehicle program, facilitating approximately two to five trips per month to transport veterans to VA health care appointments.

· Veterans Day Program Returns to WHS: The Veteran of the Year will be announced at the annual program on Veterans Day, which will be held at the Watertown High School Arena.

·  Joy Ranch Appreciation Event: Roberts reminded veterans of the upcoming Military and Veterans Appreciation Event at Joy Ranch on Saturday, November 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.