Tax season is officially here, and it’s the time of year when many of us are reminded of our adult responsibilities. For those in the military and civilian positions within the Department of Defense, it’s especially important to know when W-2 forms will be available to ensure a smooth and timely tax filing process.
According to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) members can find their tax documents on the myPay website listed under “Tax Statement (W2)” bases on their their status and dates below:
- Active Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force W-2: Available January 17, 2025
- Reserve Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force W-2: Already available
- Civilian (DoD/Non-DoD) W-2: Available January 24, 2025
The official IRS tax filing deadline for 2024 is April 15, 2025, giving you plenty of time to gather your documents and file. Whether you’re the type who files right away or the one who waits until the last minute, it’s crucial to stay on top of these dates to avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Resources for Military Members and Families
For military members and their dependents, there are additional resources to make tax filing easier. According to the Military Family Readiness Center at Minot Air Force Base, Military OneSource is the best place for military members to get assistance with their tax returns. Through MilTax, a free e-filing software, military service members, eligible family members, survivors, and recent veterans (within 365 days of separation or retirement) can receive help filing their taxes.
MilTax Software will be available starting January 15, 2025, and offers several valuable features:
- Specialized software tailored to address the complexities of military life
- The ability to connect with a tax professional for additional assistance
- Free filing for federal and up to three state returns
This is a great way for eligible individuals to complete their taxes at no cost while taking advantage of the unique tax considerations related to military service.
Tax Filing Assistance at Minot AFB
The Minot AFB Legal Office has informed Northern Sentry that there will be no Installation Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) at Minot AFB available this year. According to MilitaryOneSource.mil, “the VITA program offers in-person tax assistance at many military locations. VITA coordinators are specially trained to address military-specific tax issues, such as combat-zone benefits and applying Earned Income Credit guidelines”. There is still a possibility they may partner with the Minot, ND IRS office, as they have in previous years, to assist members with submitting their tax returns. VITA has traditionally provided free tax preparation assistance, and it’s hoped that this partnership may continue in the near future.
In the meantime, service members can also turn to several commercial options for assistance, including H&R Block, TurboTax or other local Tax Filing Companies. These services offer user-friendly platforms and access to tax professionals, allowing you to file your taxes quickly and accurately. While there may be associated fees with these services, they can provide valuable help for those who may feel overwhelmed by the filing process or have more complex tax situations.
As tax season approaches, it’s essential to stay informed about the resources and deadlines that can make the process smoother. Whether utilizing MilTax for free e-filing, exploring potential partnerships with the Minot, ND IRS office, or turning to trusted services like H&R Block and TurboTax, there are multiple ways for military members and their families to file their taxes with confidence. By staying on top of key dates and taking advantage of these valuable resources, you can ensure a stress-free tax season and avoid any last-minute complications. Don’t wait, get your documents ready and take action now to file on time!
