Radio & Newspaper Outreach

Messages for Veterans

2020 Tax Credit for Military Members Expires October 15

The Minnesota Department of Revenue reminds the state’s military service members to claim the 2020 Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone before it expires October 15, 2024.

The credit is $120 for each month of service. Partial months are counted as full months.

Who qualifies for the credit?

Service members may qualify if all these are true:

• Were a Minnesota resident during the time of service,
• Served in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty area during 2020, and
• Received combat pay that is exempt from federal and Minnesota income tax

Note: Kuwait is considered a combat zone for this credit.

How do service members claim the credit?

They can either:

• Use the MN Department of Revenue on line system (mndor.state.mn.us/tp/OnlineServices/_/)t o file electronically
• Complete and send 2020 Form M99, Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone to file by mail (available in the office or by email)

These documents are required for filing:

• Active-duty members must Attach a Leave and Earnings Statement for each month of qualifying service
• National Guard members, reservists, retired or discharged active-duty members must attach a Form DD-214 for each period of qualifying service.

Is the credit available for other years?

Yes. Qualifying service members can claim this credit for tax years 2021 through 2024. They no longer need to wait to claim the credit. They can now file and claim it any time during the calendar year. File Form M99 for the appropriate year and include the required documents.

FISHING TRIPS FOR VETERANS

Big Stone Lake Fish & Ride has scheduled two dates for special Veteran fishing trips.  The dates are July 26 and August 9.  The trips depart from the peninsula boat access at 10:00 am and everything needed to fish is provided.  However, if you require a fishing license, bring it.  Veterans are asked to call 4 days in advance to register for the trip at 320-305-2542.  All Veterans are invited, and the launch site is handicap accessible.

GOLD STAR FAMILY DAY at the Minnesota Zoo

AUGUST 3

Free Admission, Picnic Lunch & Parking!

10 a.m. Check-in.  11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Free picnic lunch and presentation. Zoo closes at 6:00 p.m.

Minneapolis Zoo

13000 Zoo Blvd,

Apple Valley, MN 55124

Learn more and register at: MinnesotaVeteran.org/Events or contact Jennifer Shumaker, Gold Star Family Coordinator, Phone: 507-701-6307

As with any of your potential Federal or state Veterans benefits, your Big Stone County Veterans Service Officer is ready to assist you.  Other than Tuesday and Wednesday morning outreach, the office in the courthouse is open 9 to 4 daily or call (320) 839-6375 or email [email protected].

This Message is brought to you with assistance of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and LinkVet. 

1-888-LinkVet (546-5838)