Schumer Urges Tax Relief for War Spouses

WASHINGTON -- Sen. Charles Schumer wants President George W. Bush to exempt soldiers' spouses from state and federal taxes during deployments, Newsday reported.

"They're making enough sacrifices," Schumer said yesterday at a news conference. "We don't need Uncle Sam taking their money away."

Under current law, if the president declares an area as a combat zone, then military personnel stationed in that area do not have to pay state or federal income taxes.

In a letter yesterday to Bush, Schumer said, he asked the White House to issue an executive order extending the benefit to their spouses at home, as they often must contend with some reduced income.

According to the senator, the tax break could help 3,500 families across New York State, allowing each to hold on to as much as $600 a month in a soldier's and spouse's income. In New York City, Schumer said, about 575 families would be eligible, and up to 834 families on Long Island. Department of Defense statistics show that half the members of the U.S. armed forces are married.

Click here for more information on military related assistance.

-- NYSSCPA.org News Staff

Posted on 03/31/03