Federal Income Tax: Notes for Guard and Reserve Service Members
Almost everyone has to pay federal income taxes, but special considerations apply to those in
the Service.
Filing Extensions
Any U.S. citizen outside the United States or Puerto Rico on April 15 (the tax filing
deadline) is allowed an extension until June 15 for filing a federal income tax return for the
previous calendar year. This includes filing a joint return by a Service member and
spouse. However, the Internal Revenue Service charges interest on any unpaid amount due on the
April 15 deadline.
If you were exempted from paying Federal and or State Taxes based on being called-up, be
sure to find out when you must file once you have returned home and if you must pay any back
taxes.
Where to Obtain a W-2 Form
You will be able to access myPay and view your W-2 for one (1) year after you are no longer in
a pay status or on full-time active duty.
Date Last Reviewed: July 2, 2009
