Earn more money while deployed Published May 2, 2005 By Army Capt. Patrick Sampsell 208th Finance Battalion AFGHANISTAN (AFPN) -- Do you remember when you were young being told "nothing good is ever free," and "if it sounds too good to be true then it probably is"?The U.S. government offers any servicemember serving in a designated combat zone, qualified hazardous duty area, or directly supporting of a combat zone, an opportunity to participate in a savings program that is free, guaranteed and fully backed by the U.S. government.Whether active duty, Reserve or National Guard, servicemembers are eligible to contribute up to $10,000 to a no-risk, no-fee, program that pays 10 percent annual interest, compounded quarterly. Moreover, they can leave funds in the program for up to 90 days after redeployment and the account will continue to draw interest.Servicemembers are able to contribute to their Savings Deposit Program account on a monthly basis. The maximum amount per month is limited to the individual's unalloted income, the amount remaining after the collection and payment of all existing taxes, allotments and debt obligations. Deposits to the program made on or before the 10th of the month accrue interest from the 1st of the month. Deposits made after the 10th of the month accrue interest from the first day of the following month. Servicemembers are able to make deposits into the program after serving 30 consecutive days in a designated area or by spending one day per month for three consecutive months in a designated area. To establish an account, visit the local finance office with a current Leave and Earnings Statement and make a deposit by cash, check or money order. With an appropriate power of attorney, outside parties can make deposits into the program, as long as it does not exceed the servicemember's monthly disposable income.There are limitations on when the money may be withdrawn. It is intended that deposits made remain in the program at least until the person redeploys or moves. Withdrawals are limited during the time within the designated area to those necessary to preserve the health or welfare of the servicemember or their family. Additionally, any interest accruing in the account which causes the account to exceed $10,000 may be withdrawn quarterly. Money must be withdrawn within 90 days of exiting the designated area. Interest will be accrued for as long as 90 days after redeployment.After 90 days, the money no longer accrues interest, but no penalties will be assessed either. The balance of the account will automatically be sent to the address provided by the account holder. To stop the allotment for the program, people must submit a DD Form 2558 upon arrival at home station. The program provides a safe, no risk opportunity for servicemembers to earn a considerable interest benefit while serving in a combat zone, qualified hazardous duty area, or while participating in certain contingency operations directly supporting a combat zone.