Military pay is subject to federal tax in ways that are defined by federal law. Your regular pay is taxable in the same way that other income is taxed. In the case of a non-combat zone military bonus pay or others subject to a “no tax” clause, you are taxed upfront when the bonus is paid.
How is combat pay taxed?
Combat pay is a bonus paid to military service personnel who are serving in regions that are designated hazard zones. The additional pay is generally not subject to federal income tax although Social Security and Medicare taxes are deducted.
Where is the taxable combat pay?
The combat pay is not taxable, but it’s shown on your husband’s W-2, here in box 12, with Code Q. I will enter that into the system with the rest of the W-2 information because combat pay can increase some tax credits.
How are combat zone bonuses excluded from income?
Bonuses and special pays are also excluded from taxable income if within the previously stated limitations and earned in the same month in which you served in a combat zone. For example, an enlisted reenlistment bonus is excluded from taxes if the member reenlists in the same month in which the member served in a combat zone.
When does the CSB / Redux bonus become equal?
The multiplier under CSB/REDUX comes closer to the High-3 percent retirement plan multiplier the longer the individual stays in beyond 20 years, and finally the multipliers become equal at 30 years. Also, everyone that invests the bonus would have 5 to 15 years of compounded savings accumulated at their retirement point.
How is reenlistment bonus excluded from military income tax?
Since there is no limitation on amounts excluded for enlisted members, the entire reenlistment bonus would be excluded. As another example, an officer’s flight pay would also be excluded from taxable income, but only up to the point which basic pay and the flight pay do not exceed the maximum enlisted pay amount.
How much can you earn in a combat zone?
Military Compensation. Being assigned to or working in a combat zone triggers another tax advantage. Earnings received while in the combat zone are excluded from taxable income. This exclusion is unlimited for enlisted members and warrant officers and is limited to $7368.30 per month in 2009, for officers.
