NEW JERSEY – Good news for military veterans in New Jersey, as those who qualify can claim a $6,000 exemption on their state tax returns if they were honorably discharged or discharged under honorable circumstances active duty in the United States Armed Forces on or at any time. before the last day of 2022.
In addition, the beneficiary’s spouse or civil union partner also benefits from an exemption if he files a joint return. This exemption is in addition to any other exemptions you may be entitled to and is available on resident and non-resident returns.
How did you apply for the exemption?
- When completing your tax return, you must complete the oval (Resident Declaration) or check the box (Non-Resident Declaration) to indicate that you are claiming this exemption. Failure to do so will void the waivers.
- You must provide official documentation showing that you have been honorably discharged or discharged under honorable circumstances from active duty when you first request the waiver. If your spouse is applying for the exemption, they must also submit the appropriate documentation.
If you have submitted a Veterans Waiver application form and supporting documentation, you can check the status of your application by clicking here. The state will send an email or letter if you have not provided an email address, once your documents have been processed. You can file your New Jersey tax return even if you haven’t received a receipt.
How do I apply for the Veterans Exemption for a deceased spouse?
If your spouse died during the tax year, you can claim the deceased spouse’s veteran’s exemption if:
- You file a joint New Jersey tax return.
- You did not remarry before December 31 of the tax year or you were divorced/legally separated from your spouse on the date of your death.
- You may be required to provide proof of eligibility.
You will not be able to claim the Veterans Exemption for your spouse in subsequent years.
Provide documents
The beneficiary (and/or their spouse, if applicable) must provide official documentation showing that they have been honorably discharged or discharged under honorable circumstances from active duty when they first request the waiver.
The most common form of documentation provided is a copy of your Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, DD-214. The US National Archives and Records Administration can help you obtain a copy of your DD-214. We can only accept documentation that lists the features of your service. You only need to submit a copy of your records the first time you apply for the exemption, you do not need to provide this documentation every year.
You may qualify for the exemption by sending us your documentation and the Veterans Income Tax Exemption Filing Form before you file your return. You can send us the required documents:
Online: Use our secure document upload feature to submit your Veterans Income Tax Exemption Application Form and documentation. Enter the advice code VET and select PO Box 440;
By Mail: Send a copy of your documentation and the Veterans Income Tax Exemption Filing Form to: The New Jersey Division of Taxation, Veteran Exemption, PO Box 440, Trenton, NJ 08646-0440; either
By Fax: Send your documentation and Veterans Income Tax Exemption Application Form to 609-633-8427.