MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, Ga. -- New tax law changes may help military personnel receive a larger refund on their federal income tax returns.
“There are specific changes to the tax law that directly impact military personnel and their spouses,” said Staff Sgt. Curtis L. Wilson, legal chief, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, MCLB Albany. “These include Homebuyers Credit, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and the Military Spouses Residency Relief Act, to name a few.”
These and other programs may create an opportunity for additional deductions and a larger return.
“Outside, non-military agencies may not be as familiar with these new changes as our local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance office preparers,” Wilson said.
The deadline to file income taxes returns is April 15.
According to Wilson, the tax office works by appointment only.
The VITA service here provides free tax preparation and electronic filing for eligible personnel, but there are limits.
"Our service is designed for individuals filing personal returns, we don’t prepare business returns or complicated returns,” Wilson added.
The following personnel may utilize VITA services: active duty military personnel of all branches, active reservists from all branches of service and National Guard members, retirees, and dependents of the above personnel.
“That list is not all-inclusive and special cases which do not fit the above criteria may be considered,” Wilson said.
“Staff Sergeant Wilson has been the tax center officer in charge for the last three seasons. He and his team are well qualified and work hard to become certified by the Internal Revenue Service each year,” said Lt. Col. Kevin M. Chenail, staff judge advocate. “They are responsible for assisting with approximately 800 to 1,000 tax returns per year, and I encourage those eligible to utilize their expertise and free assistance.”
Wilson says after an appointment is scheduled, personnel should collect necessary tax documents needed for the return, such as IRS Forms, W-2 and/or 1099s, state or federal identification, social security cards, and other information necessary for both parties, if filing jointly.
For tax filers who choose to have a refund deposited directly into a bank account, VITA personnel preparing their return need bank account and routing numbers. The accuracy of information you provide for tax preparation is your responsibility.
To schedule an appointment, call (229) 639-6186.