Deployed Military Forces Can Get Free Tax Help

Ohio's deployed military personnel may receive free tax preparation services from volunteer tax experts.

From now until filing day, Ohio Society of CPA volunteers will prepare 2013 tax returns for military personnel who are permanent residents of Ohio and currently deployed outside of the state.

Operation CPA is a partnership with the Ohio National Guard, and officials said the service aims at providing assistance to military families.

“The Ohio Society of CPAs offers Operation CPA each year to support Ohio families who have a loved one serving away from home,” said Scott D. Wiley, CAE, president and CEO of the group.

To find an Operation CPA volunteer, call 888-959-1212 or send an email to: cpanswers@ohio-cpa.com.

Here are some tax tips:

–Moving expenses: If you are a member of the Armed Forces on active duty and move because of a permanent change of station, you can deduct the reasonable unreimbursed expenses of moving yourself and members of your household. Reasonable expenses include shipping, moving van or truck rental, travel expenses, packing, insurance and storage en route as well as utility connection and disconnection charges.

–Combat zone tax exclusions: Enlisted persons or warrant officers serving in a combat zone for any part of a month may exclude from gross income any military pay received for military service. Serving in a combat zone for any part of one or more days during a month qualifies for an exclusion of income for the entire month.

Information is online at www.financialfitnessohio.com.