if you’ve served in the U.S. Military or are a veteran, you might be wondering if TurboTax offers special pricing or perks just for you. With benefits, allowances, combat pay rules, and moving orders, military pay can get complicated pretty fast, so we’re here to make sure you get the best possible deal when filing with TurboTax. Here’s today’s featured civilian offer, plus how members of the U.S. Military can get a discount on TurboTax or file free.
*View all TurboTax coupons here
Does TurboTax Have a Military Discount?
TurboTax does offer a “military discount,” but it’s not always a coupon code or special promotion. Instead, this discount is automatic if you’re an enlisted active duty or reserve service member with rank E-1 through E-9 with a W2 from DFAS (Defense Finance and Accounting Service).
To get the TurboTax Military discount, just enter your W-2 and verify your active military status and rank when prompted. If you qualify, TurboTax will then apply the Military benefit for you, making TurboTax free.
Tip: The TurboTax military discount excludes National Guard members and applies to online products only, and doesn’t apply to TurboTax Expert (LIVE) services, Desktop / CD versions, or MAX.
Is TurboTax Free for Military Members, Spouses, or Veterans?
Qualifying active-duty enlisted and reserve members do get free federal and state filing through TurboTax Online. That’s a generous perk, and the platform even understands common military tax situations like Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), combat pay exclusions, and PCS moves.
However, being a veteran who is no longer on active duty usually doesn’t get you that automatic free TurboTax filing benefit. Veterans and retirees generally need to file like civilians do, which means you may qualify for TurboTax’s regular free edition if your tax situation is simple, but you don’t automatically get the military “discount” like active service members do.
Military spouses can often file for free if they’re filing jointly with an eligible service member, but spouses filing independently usually don’t get the same benefit.
If you’re a veteran and need a free option, don’t worry, as there are alternatives like MilTax (free tax prep through Military OneSource) and the IRS Free File program, which sometimes offers free software options for active military and families who meet income limits.
Does TurboTax Have a Special Discount for Veterans?
TurboTax does not offer a specific discount or edition just for Veterans like they do for active-duty Military members.
That said, Veterans can still use the regular TurboTax Free Edition if they qualify with a simple return (no complex schedules, typical credits, etc.). This is the same free version available to many civilian taxpayers who meet certain criteria, regardless of military status.
If your are a Veteran with a more complicated tax situation (investments, itemized deductions, rental income, or business income) then you might need the Deluxe or higher version of TurboTax. These premium editions do cost money, but are guaranteed to find every deduction you deserve.
Tip: If you are a Veteran and don’t qualify for the TurboTax Military discount or Free Edition, consider their featured promotion for civilians for up to a 20% discount on online products including Expert assistance!
Why TurboTax Is a Good Choice for Military & Veterans
Even though high-ranking members of the U.S. Military and veterans don’t always qualify for a special discount, there’s good reason why TurboTax remains a popular choice for service members and veterans alike:
- Military-friendly filing tools: TurboTax understands military income elements like combat pay, housing allowances, and PCS moves, and helps you navigate the tax impact of those situations
- Step-by-step guidance: The interview style makes it easy to answer questions without feeling lost, especially if this is your first time tackling taxes on your own after military service
- Convenience: You can start on your phone, tablet, or computer and pick up where you left off later
- Support resources: Even if you don’t qualify for free filing through TurboTax, there are IRS tax tips and military-specific guidance built right in to help you find every deduction possible
TurboTax is also on top of popular U.S. military deductions like: Combat pay exclusions, moving expenses, travel deductions, Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and automatic filing and payment extensions if you were serving in a combat zone.
Hoohah! Thanks for Your Service
TurboTax does offer a military discount, but it’s most meaningful for active-duty enlisted and reserve service members. Veterans and retirees don’t automatically qualify for that free access, though simple returns may still be free via TurboTax Free Edition or other free filing options. Whatever stage of service you’re in, understanding your tax prep options can help you save time and money this filing season.
Thanks for your service, and I hope we were able to clarify how the Military and Veterans can file for free or at a discount with TurboTax.