Minnesota soldiers, sailors and veterans who have served in combat zones can claim a significant state tax credit, whether or not they know it. More than 2,300 members of the Armed Forces who served during 2009 still have not filed and are facing an Oct. 15 deadline for making a claim, the Minnesota Department of Revenue says. The tax credit is refundable, meaning it applies even if the taxpayer has no income or does not owe any state income tax.
To file, use Form M99, “Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone.” (www.revenue.state.mn.us/Forms_and_Instructions/2009/forms_m99_09.pdf).
Soldiers and veterans who served in hazardous duty areas in 2010, 2011 and 2012 also can submit claims now.
The Minnesota Department of Revenue lists other tax breaks at its “Members of the Military” Web page.