Tax Time Offers Opportunity to Help PA Military Families
PA Military Families in Need Can Apply for Emergency Assistance Grants
HARRISBURG, Pa., March 21, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Individuals filing their 2012 Pennsylvania personal income taxes can help Pennsylvania's military personnel and their families by donating part or all of their refund to the Military Family Relief Assistance Program.
The program provides grants of up to $3,500 to Pennsylvania members of the armed forces and their families who have a direct and immediate financial need as a result of military service. The tax form includes instructions on how to donate.
"All Pennsylvanians have a very special opportunity to make a donation to the Military Family Relief Assistance Program by simply checking off a box on their income tax return," Major General Wesley E. Craig, Pennsylvania's adjutant general said. "Service members and their families sacrifice so much, it's only right that we are there for them in times of adversity. This program is a great way for all of us to lend a helping hand."
Examples of how the grants helped service members in 2012 include:
- A service member from Cumberland County did not have the funds to cover the funeral and burial costs for his son. A grant for $3,500 was given to assist the family with this unexpected burden.
- A service member from Lackawanna County was unable to afford the replacement of the furnace in the family's home. A grant for $3,500 was given to assist with the cost.
- A service member from Westmoreland County had been wounded in action and had recently undergone surgery. The family needed assistance with monthly bills and car repairs until incapacitation pay would begin. The family received $3,500.
- A service member from Lebanon County received $3,500 after the family's home was completely destroyed in a fire.
Since the program began in 2006, more than $1 million has been donated by individuals filing their Pennsylvania personal income tax returns.
"I highly encourage service members to take advantage of this valuable benefit. If you think you might be eligible for a grant, you really should apply," Craig added.
Members of the armed forces who are residents of Pennsylvania are eligible to apply for assistance while they are serving on active duty for 30 or more consecutive days with the Army, Army Reserve, Navy, Navy Reserve, Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Marine Corps, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast Guard, Coast Guard Reserve, or the Pennsylvania Army or Air National Guard.
All members of the armed forces who were discharged for medical reasons are also eligible to apply for assistance for up to two years after a medical discharge.
In addition, reserve component service members (including Pennsylvania National Guard) and their families may be eligible for a grant for a period of up to one year after release from a qualifying tour of active duty.
The program also applies to certain family members of eligible service members who are Pennsylvania residents. Applicants must show that their need for assistance is directly related to their active military service.
In addition to the check-off box on the Personal Income Tax form, contributions can be made directly by sending a check to the Military Family Relief Assistance Program, c/o Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Bldg. 0-47 Fort Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA 17003.
Donations are tax deductible to the extent authorized by federal law.
To learn more about this program, visit www.dmva.state.pa.us and select DMVA Offices & Programs.
Media contact: Joan Z. Nissley, 717-861-8720
SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
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