Staffer Takes on New Role, Responsibilities in Policy and Legislation Office
The DMVA is excited to announce that Anna Sassaman from our team is taking on a new role as a legislative specialist and will serve as our constituent services specialist.
Constituent services are central to DMVA’s mission. This critical function involves supporting elected officials in assisting service members, veterans, and their families in navigating the vast array of programs, benefits, and services available to them. From addressing matters to resolving issues brought forward by executive office inquiries and congressional or general assembly members, Constituent Services ensures prompt, efficient, and compassionate support.
Whether it’s accessing VA benefits, resolving military record issues, or connecting with state and federal resources, our goal is to ensure every service member, veteran, and their family receives the support they deserve.
Sassaman brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for serving those who serve or have served. As a primary point of contact, she will facilitate connections between constituents and resources, maintain open lines of communication, and provide timely updates regarding inquiries. Her expertise and dedication will strengthen our ability to serve constituents across the Commonwealth.
If you have questions, need support, or want to learn more about DMVA’s services, Sassaman and the DMVA Policy Planning and Legislative Affairs Office are here to help. Feel free to reach out via email at RA-MVDMVAlegislative@pa.gov.
Tools and Contacts for Finding Your Legislator
With new legislators taking office, it is a great time to ensure you can contact the officials who represent you. Whether you are advocating for veterans’ benefits, seeking assistance with a local issue, or simply staying informed, knowing your legislator is the first step in being an engaged and empowered citizen.
Your state and federal legislators play a vital role in crafting policies that impact veterans and their families, from military or veteran benefits to health care access. Staying connected with your representatives ensures your voice, and the voices of other service members and veteran, are heard when important decisions are made.
Here is how to find your Legislator:
Use Online Tools: The easiest way to find your legislator is through official websites. Visit https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/home/findyourlegislator/ and use the "Find Your Member" tool.
Contact Local Offices: Many county and municipal offices maintain directories of elected officials. Reach out to your local government for assistance in finding your representatives.
Ask Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs): Groups like the American Legion or VFW often maintain contact information for legislators and can help you navigate outreach efforts.
Once you have identified your legislator, take the next step by following their newsletters, attending town halls, or engaging on social media. Building a relationship with your legislator’s office can help ensure that veterans’ concerns are consistently prioritized.
Your voice carries tremendous weight, especially as a veteran. Take the time to find and connect with your legislator today—it’s an easy but powerful way to ensure you can advocate for veteran and military needs and perspectives are represented by those we elect.
Learn the Important Difference Between Tax Year versus Calendar Year
Navigating taxes can be complex, particularly when distinguishing between terms like "tax year" and "calendar year." For veterans, military service members, and their families, understanding these concepts is essential for effective financial planning, accessing benefits, and meeting tax obligations.
A calendar year runs from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31. This is the timeframe most individuals, including veterans and service members, use for tracking income, benefits, and tax reporting. It aligns with key dates for filing federal and state taxes, ensuring consistency across personal and financial schedules.
A tax year, by contrast, is a 12-month period designated for reporting income and filing taxes. While individuals typically default to the calendar year as their tax year, certain organizations, such as veteran-owned businesses may choose a fiscal year that better aligns with their operational cycles. For example, a veteran-owned nonprofit might adopt a fiscal year running from July 1 to June 30 to match funding or program schedules.
Veterans and active-duty service members often have unique financial situations that require careful planning. For instance:
VA Disability Compensation: Non-taxable income that can influence tax planning and eligibility for certain benefits.
Combat Pay Exclusion: Active-duty service members deployed in combat zones can exclude combat pay from taxable income.
Property Tax Relief: Many states offer disabled veterans exemptions or reductions on property taxes.
Tax Credits for Veteran Entrepreneurs: Programs like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) incentivize hiring veterans and can be valuable for veteran-owned businesses.
For veteran-owned businesses, selecting a fiscal year that aligns with funding cycles or operational needs can optimize cash flow and simplify reporting.
Understanding whether a calendar year or a different fiscal year applies ensures timely filing, accurate reporting, and better long-term financial planning. If you’re uncertain about what applies to you, consult with a tax professional or your local Veterans Affairs office to ensure compliance and maximize benefits.
By staying informed, veterans and service members can take charge of their financial futures, ensuring they meet obligations while fully accessing the benefits they’ve earned through service.