Cook County News Herald

Service members can qualify for benefits because of the COVID-19 pandemic


The Minnesota Department of Revenue reminds Minnesota service members to take advantage of the refundable 2016 Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone.

The 2016 credit expires for most qualifying service members on October 15, 2020.

You may qualify for $120 per month or partial month served.

Service members have already claimed more than $551,000 in refunds for the 2016 credit, with an average refund of $672.

You may qualify if all of the following are true:

You served in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty area anytime since January 1, 2016.

You were a Minnesota resident during your time of service.

You received combat pay.

You claim these credits by sending us the following documents postmarked by October 15, 2020: 2016 Form M99, Credit for military service in a combat zone; Corresponding Form DD-214 for each period of qualifying service.

If you are still on active duty, attach your Leave and Earnings statements for each month of qualifying service.

You may also claim this credit for tax years 2017, 2018, and 2019.

If you have your DD-214 form contact Chuck Flickinger 218-475-2776 and we can fill out the M99s (for each year if needed), or call the department of Minnesota revenue at 651- 556-3000 or 800-657-3666 for help with these refunds.

If you do not have the DD-214 call the appropriate number below here they are: Army (Active Duty) 1-888-332-7411; Army (Reserve) 1-877- 462-7782; Army (National Guard) 1-877-276-4729; Air Force 1-888-332-7411; Marine Corps 1-888-332- 7411;

Navy 1-888-332-741.

Chuck Flickinger, Hovland

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