A recent email highlights some of the confusion about the taxability of certain post-military benefits. While military retirement pay is always taxable, military disability benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are always non-taxable.
Dear Kate,
I recently completed a claim with the VA and was classified as 100% disabled. I was sent back pay to my checking account but I didn't receive a 1099 form that tells of my payment so that I can file my taxes. I have been trying for months to get a 1099R so that I can file my taxes, with no success. Can you help me please?
Mr. Jones
While military benefits and taxes may be a little bit confusing, this question is an easy one!
Dear Mr. Jones,
Disability benefits provided by the VA are always non-taxable income. You will not receive a 1099 for this income, and you do not need to report it on your income tax return. You can find more information about this at the IRS's Information for Veterans With Disabilities webpage.
I hope that helps!
Kate
The non-taxability of disability benefits is a big deal, especially for those veterans who have other income that would push them into a higher tax bracket. It is also one of the reasons why, dollar for dollar, disability benefits are preferred to military retirement pay.
I'm glad this reader was able to get his VA disability claim through the sometimes-challenging system and get started on the next chapter of his life!
