As part of this week’s upcoming Veteran’s Day observations, employers should honor employees and their family members that have served by helping them know and access various special resources available to military service members and veterans.

Military service members and veterans qualify for a broad range of special services and rights, many of which are highlighted on the VA.gov website.

In addition, military personnel, veterans and their families also may qualify for special services offered by a wide range of other agencies and businesses. One example of these services that can benefit many military families are the services for military members and their families offered by the Internal Revenue Services (the “IRS”). Here’s a list of some of these IRS resources:

• Tax Information for Members of the Military is the main page on IRS.gov where people can go to find links to helpful info, resources and services.
   
• A taxpayer’s military status affects whether they are eligible for certain benefits. Taxpayers can check their eligibility for military tax benefits by visiting IRS.gov. Qualifying employers include the Armed Forces, uniformed services and support organizations.
   
• There are rules specific to those who serve in combat zones. These taxpayers and their families can find out more on the Tax Exclusion for Combat Service page of IRS.gov. They should also review special rules for the earned income tax credit. If these apply to their tax situation, it could lead to a larger refund.
   
• The Armed Forces’ Tax Guide is a comprehensive IRS publication for military members. This includes:
  
  • Special rules for military personnel serving abroad, including deadline extensions
  • Unreimbursed moving expenses
  • Reserve component travel expenses
     
• Members of the military and qualifying veterans can prepare and e-file their taxes for free through MilTax. Taxpayers who do not qualify for MilTax have other options to prepare and e-file their federal taxes for free.
   
• Most military installations offer free income tax assistance through the military Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. Military service members can contact their installation’s legal office for details. Veterans may also qualify for free tax help at locations nationwide if they meet income or age requirements.

The Veterans Administration website provides information and links for other special rights and resources available for U.S. military families and veterans.

Of course, it goes without saying that all employers should ensure that their organization’s workforce and other practiees appropriately honor all employment, employee benefits and other rights guaranteed by federal and state law. Veteran’s Day is a great time to affirm your business’ commitment to compliance with these policies and redistribute information about applicable procedures for accessing these rights.

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