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Military Combat Zone Pay Exclusion in Phoenix, AZ 2026

Calculate your military combat zone pay exclusion tax savings in Phoenix, Arizona. With Arizona's 2.5% state tax rate, your combined savings are higher.

Arizona Tax Context

State Income Tax
2.5%
Local Income Tax
None
Property Tax Rate
0.59%
Tax Burden
Low

No local income tax; growing tech hub with moderate tax burden

$1,225
Est. Total Savings
No Limit
Max Deduction
Above-the-Line
Deduction Type
24.5%
Combined Tax Rate

Military Combat Zone Pay Exclusion Savings Calculator for Phoenix

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Federal Savings

$1,100

22% bracket

Arizona State

$125

2.5% rate

Local Tax

$0

0% rate

Total Savings

$1,225

24.5% combined

At a 24.5% combined tax rate in Phoenix, every $1,000 in deductions saves you $245 in taxes.

Savings by Tax Bracket in Phoenix

10%
$625
12%
$725
22%
$1,225
24%
$1,325
32%
$1,725
35%
$1,875
37%
$1,975

Includes 2.5% Arizona state tax on top of federal savings.

Eligibility Requirements

Military personnel serving in designated combat zones

  • 1Must serve in a combat zone designated by Executive Order
  • 2Enlisted members: all compensation is tax-free
  • 3Officers: exclusion capped at highest enlisted pay plus hostile fire pay

Arizona residents should verify that this deduction is also recognized on their state tax return for additional savings of up to 2.5%.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • !Not extending filing deadlines for combat zone service
  • !Forgetting that combat zone extends to qualifying hazardous duty areas
  • !Missing the option to include combat pay for EITC calculation
  • !Forgetting to claim the deduction on your Arizona state return (missing 2.5% additional savings)

Required Tax Forms

Form W-2Form 1040

File these forms with your federal tax return to claim the military combat zone pay exclusion. Arizona may require additional state-specific forms.

Calculate Your Full Tax Savings in Phoenix

Use our free tax calculators to optimize your entire tax return for Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can I save with the Military Combat Zone Pay Exclusion in Phoenix, AZ?

In Phoenix, Arizona, the military combat zone pay exclusion can save you an estimated $1,225 per year. This includes $1,100 in federal tax savings and $125 in Arizona state tax savings. The national average savings is $8,000/year.

What is the Arizona state income tax rate for Phoenix residents?

Arizona has a 2.5% state income tax rate. Phoenix residents have no additional local income tax. No local income tax; growing tech hub with moderate tax burden

Who qualifies for the Military Combat Zone Pay Exclusion in Phoenix?

Military personnel serving in designated combat zones. The eligibility requirements are the same whether you live in Phoenix or elsewhere in the U.S., as this is a federal tax deduction. However, your savings amount will vary based on Arizona's 2.5% state tax rate.

What tax forms do I need to claim the Military Combat Zone Pay Exclusion in Arizona?

To claim the military combat zone pay exclusion, you need to file Form W-2 and Form 1040 with your federal return. Arizona residents should also check if the state allows this deduction on their state return, which could provide an additional 2.5% savings. Filing status affects your deduction limits and tax bracket.

Is the Military Combat Zone Pay Exclusion better in Phoenix than in states without income tax?

Yes, Phoenix residents benefit more because Arizona's 2.5% state income tax means the deduction reduces both your federal AND state tax liability. In states with no income tax (like Texas, Florida, or Nevada), this deduction only reduces federal taxes. Your combined rate of 24.5% means more savings per dollar deducted.