Adaptability is key as a military spouse, whether adjusting to a new duty station or filling complex tax forms. What you may not realize, however, is that being a military spouse comes with its set of perks during tax time. In addition to supporting your partner in their service to the nation, you're entitled to a range of tax breaks and benefits that can help lighten the financial load. Here’s an extensive guide on available military spouse tax breaks and benefits you can leverage.

Miltax Benefits

Military spouses have the daunting task of navigating complex tax regulations to ensure financial compliance. Luckily, the Servicemember’s Civil Relief Act (SCRA) is a cornerstone of financial support. It has tailored provisions with protections and benefits to alleviate your economic burdens.

One notable provision of the SCRA allows military families to terminate residential leases without penalties. This clause offers relief during frequent and unexpected duty station changes or deployments. Additionally, the SCRA imposes a 6% cap on interest rates for loans, mortgages and credit cards incurred during active duty service, easing financial strain.

Furthermore, the SCRA safeguards against default judgments in civil proceedings, providing spouses adequate time to address legal matters amidst service obligations. Understanding and leveraging SCRA provisions can ease the burdens associated with military life.

Death Benefits

The looming possibility of death during active duty comes with overwhelming anxiety and financial uncertainty among military dependents. However, amidst these hardships, support systems exist to aid families during such tragic times.

One primary form of support is the Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program, availing low-cost life insurance coverage to eligible service members. SGLI offers financial stability to military dependents by covering expenses like funeral costs, mortgage payments and ongoing living expenses in the event of the service member's death.

SGLI premiums are deducted from the service member's pay, ensuring seamless coverage. In the unfortunate demise of the service member, the surviving spouse can receive a maximum of $400,000, exempt from taxation. Additionally, surviving spouses may be eligible for Survivor Benefits Plan (SBP) payments, providing a monthly allowance based on the service member's retirement benefits.

Home Benefits

Homeownership can be tricky for military families due to frequent relocations. Luckily, specific benefits exist to alleviate this concern. The Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (MSRRA) is one such benefit, offering protections regarding state taxes and residency requirements. MSRRA allows spouses to maintain residency status in their home state for tax purposes. This federal law prevents additional tax burdens or residency complications.

Service members can also register dependents to receive increased Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) compensation. BAH is designed to cover housing and utilities costs, varying based on location, pay grade and dependents. It is a vital resource to offset housing expenses for military families not provided government housing.

Education Assistance

Education provides military spouses with the chance for personal and professional development amidst the unique hardships of military life. Various military education programs are available to support your educational pursuits.

For instance, the My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) program offers financial aid to active-duty service members' spouses. It can facilitate your pursuit of certificates, licenses or associate degrees in lucrative fields. The Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program also provides resources to help spouses explore different career paths. These programs are invaluable support systems enabling you to realize your educational goals.

Thrive in Military Life: Choose MedCerts

MedCerts, a MyCAA-approved school, offers online training programs in high-demand IT and healthcare fields. We provide spouses with valuable skills and certifications to enhance their career prospects. Leveraging this cost-effective and flexible learning opportunity can empower you to thrive personally and professionally. Enroll today to receive the academic support you deserve as you continue to serve alongside your partners in uniform.