The world of military forms can be a complex and daunting one, especially for those who are new to the armed forces or who are dealing with the aftermath of a military service member's passing. One such form that plays a crucial role in the process of honoring and compensating the family of a deceased service member is the DD Form 1351-2C. In this article, we will delve into the essential facts you need to know about this form.
What is the DD Form 1351-2C?
The DD Form 1351-2C, also known as the "State Tax Exemption (Summary of Orders)," is a military form used to notify state and local authorities of the deceased service member's tax-exempt status. This form is typically used in conjunction with other forms, such as the DD Form 1300 (Report of Casualty) and the DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), to verify the service member's eligibility for various benefits.
What is the purpose of the DD Form 1351-2C?
The primary purpose of the DD Form 1351-2C is to certify that the deceased service member was a resident of a particular state or locality at the time of their death. This certification is necessary to determine the service member's eligibility for state and local tax exemptions, as well as other benefits that may be available to their surviving family members.
Who is eligible to receive the DD Form 1351-2C?
The DD Form 1351-2C is typically issued to the surviving family members of a deceased service member, including:
- Spouses
- Children
- Parents
- Siblings
- Other dependents
To be eligible to receive the DD Form 1351-2C, the service member must have been a resident of the state or locality at the time of their death, and the family member must be able to provide proof of their relationship to the deceased service member.
What information is required on the DD Form 1351-2C?
The DD Form 1351-2C requires the following information:
- The service member's name and Social Security number
- The service member's date of birth and date of death
- The service member's branch of service and rank
- The service member's state and local residence at the time of their death
- The name and address of the surviving family member
- The relationship of the surviving family member to the deceased service member
How is the DD Form 1351-2C used?
The DD Form 1351-2C is used to notify state and local authorities of the deceased service member's tax-exempt status. This form is typically submitted to the state and local tax authorities, along with other required documentation, to claim the service member's tax exemptions.
The DD Form 1351-2C can also be used to verify the service member's eligibility for other benefits, such as:
- Death gratuity
- Burial benefits
- Education assistance
- Home loan guarantees
What are the benefits of the DD Form 1351-2C?
The DD Form 1351-2C provides several benefits to the surviving family members of a deceased service member, including:
- Tax exemptions: The form certifies the service member's tax-exempt status, which can result in significant tax savings for the surviving family members.
- Benefits verification: The form verifies the service member's eligibility for various benefits, making it easier for the surviving family members to claim these benefits.
- Streamlined process: The form simplifies the process of claiming benefits and tax exemptions, reducing the administrative burden on the surviving family members.
How to obtain the DD Form 1351-2C?
To obtain the DD Form 1351-2C, the surviving family member should:
- Contact the service member's branch of service or the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) to request a copy of the form.
- Provide required documentation, such as the service member's death certificate and proof of relationship.
- Submit the completed form to the state and local tax authorities, along with other required documentation, to claim the service member's tax exemptions.
Common mistakes to avoid when completing the DD Form 1351-2C
When completing the DD Form 1351-2C, it is essential to avoid common mistakes, such as:
- Inaccurate or incomplete information
- Failure to provide required documentation
- Incorrect certification or signatures
To avoid these mistakes, it is recommended that the surviving family member:
- Carefully review the form and instructions
- Seek assistance from a qualified military or veterans' service organization representative
- Verify the accuracy of the information provided
By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, the surviving family member can ensure that the DD Form 1351-2C is completed accurately and efficiently, and that they receive the benefits and tax exemptions they are eligible for.
As you can see, the DD Form 1351-2C plays a critical role in the process of honoring and compensating the family of a deceased service member. By understanding the essential facts about this form, you can navigate the complex world of military forms with confidence and ensure that you receive the benefits and tax exemptions you are eligible for.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DD Form 1351-2C, we invite you to comment below or share this article with others who may benefit from this information.
What is the purpose of the DD Form 1351-2C?
+The primary purpose of the DD Form 1351-2C is to certify that the deceased service member was a resident of a particular state or locality at the time of their death, in order to determine their eligibility for state and local tax exemptions and other benefits.
Who is eligible to receive the DD Form 1351-2C?
+The DD Form 1351-2C is typically issued to the surviving family members of a deceased service member, including spouses, children, parents, siblings, and other dependents.
How is the DD Form 1351-2C used?
+The DD Form 1351-2C is used to notify state and local authorities of the deceased service member's tax-exempt status, and to verify their eligibility for various benefits, such as death gratuity, burial benefits, education assistance, and home loan guarantees.