Military Taxes
Episode 97: I hear so many things about members of our armed forces. One thing people say is that military members are rich because they don't have to pay for anything and they don't pay taxes. Well, that's not exactly how it works.There's so much misinformation out there, and I don't want the people who serve our country to be misled. Thank you so much for your service, and happy early Veterans Day to our veterans!Today, we're talking about federal exemptions and special allowances for active duty, Reserve, and some retired military members. Some income is taxable, and some is tax exempt.What Military Income Is Taxable?Taxable income includes basic pay, special pay, reenlistment bonuses, reserve training pay, and incentive pay.Some states have a partial or full exclusion for military pay. Here in Kentucky, active duty and reserve military pay are not taxed at the state level. But on the federal return, that income is taxable.What Allowances Are Tax Free?Tax free allowances include the Basic Allowance for Housing, Basic Allowance for Subsistence, cost of living allowances, certain Permanent Change of Station moving allowances, and family separation pay.Now, here's where it gets a little tricky. Pay received while serving in a designated combat zone may be excluded from federal income tax. For enlisted members and warrant officers, the exclusion is unlimited. For commissioned officers, it's capped at the highest enlisted basic pay.Filing Extensions and Disability BenefitsIf you're stationed outside the United States or its territories, you generally get an automatic two month extension to file. If you're serving in a combat zone, the automatic extension can last up to 180 days. You don't have to file Form 4868 to receive these extensions.Disability income can also get people tripped up. VA disability benefits generally are not included in gross income, while regular military retirement pay is taxable. Certain disability compensation, grants, education benefits, and qualifying one time disability severance payments may also be tax free.Benefits for Your Family and Reserve MembersThe $100,000 death gratuity paid to survivors of deceased armed forces members is not taxable when the death occurred after September 10, 2001.For National Guard and Reserve members, if you stay overnight more than 100 miles away from home while in service, you may be able to deduct unreimbursed travel expenses. This can include meals, lodging, and transportation, subject to federal employee rate limits.Make sure you give these expenses to your tax professional. You're focused on serving, so let somebody else be the tax expert.Selling Your Home While ServingThere's generally a five year ownership and use test to exclude a gain from a home sale. For qualifying service members, that period may be extended up to 10 years during qualified official extended duty. This can apply to the service member or spouse.Need Help With Your Military Taxes?I know I threw a lot at you, but I hope you found something helpful when you file your taxes this spring.For more information, take a look at IRS Publication 3, Armed Forces' Tax Guide.And again, happy Veterans Day to those who have retired, those receiving retirement or disability benefits, and those who are currently serving. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your service.If you're looking for a tax professional, see if you're a good fit to work with me at Bowens Tax Solutions by booking an initial tax consultation. And even if it's not me, make sure you go get the help you need.Remember, Timalyn Bowens is America's Favorite EA, here to fill the tax literacy gap, one taxpayer at a time. Thanks for listening.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It provides a framework and possible solutions for solving your tax problems, but it is not legally binding. Please consult your tax professional regarding your specific tax situation.