One of the many perks of serving in the military is the wide range of military discounts available to veterans even after they leave active duty. From travel and entertainment to retail and education, numerous companies and institutions offer exclusive deals to show their appreciation for veterans’ service. Knowing where to find these discounts and how to access them can help veterans save money and make the most of the benefits they’ve earned.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best military discounts available to veterans, how to find these deals, and tips for taking full advantage of them.

Why Military Discounts Matter for Veterans

Military discounts offer more than just savings—they’re a way for businesses and organizations to recognize and honor the sacrifices veterans have made. These discounts help veterans stretch their budgets further, making life after service a bit more affordable. Discounts are available across a wide range of sectors, including travel, retail, dining, education, and healthcare, so veterans can enjoy special rates on everything from a family vacation to higher education.

How to Access Military Discounts

Before we dive into the specific discounts available, it’s important to understand how veterans can access these deals. In most cases, businesses require some form of military identification to verify eligibility.

Here are some common ways veterans can prove their military status:

• Veteran ID Card (VIC): The VIC is issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and is one of the easiest ways to prove your veteran status.
• Military Service Records (Form DD-214): Some businesses may accept a copy of your DD-214 as proof of service.
• State-Issued ID with Veteran Designation: Many states offer a special veteran designation on driver’s licenses or state ID cards.
• VA Health Identification Card: Veterans receiving healthcare through the VA can use their VA health ID card to qualify for discounts.

Additionally, several third-party organizations like ID.me and SheerID partner with businesses to provide verification services for veterans, allowing veterans to easily confirm their eligibility for online discounts.

Travel Discounts for Veterans

Traveling is one of the most popular ways veterans take advantage of their military discounts. Whether it’s a family vacation or a solo trip, veterans can find great deals on flights, hotels, car rentals, and more.

1. Airline Discounts

• American Airlines offers discounts on flights for veterans and active-duty service members through its Military Fares program. The discounts vary depending on the destination and the availability of military fares.
• Delta Airlines and United Airlines provide special military rates and offer free checked baggage for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

To access these deals, veterans must call the airline’s reservation line and request military pricing, or in some cases, use online verification through third-party services like ID.me.

2. Hotel Discounts

Many hotel chains provide special rates for veterans and their families. Some popular hotel chains offering military discounts include:

• Hilton Hotels offers exclusive military family rates for veterans and their loved ones.
• Marriott International offers special military rates at many of its properties worldwide. Veterans can find these deals by selecting the “government/military” rate when booking online.

3. Car Rental Discounts

Veterans can also save on car rentals through companies that provide military discounts. Examples include:

• Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers discounted rates for veterans and military families.
• Hertz provides up to 25% off car rentals for military personnel, veterans, and their families through its Veterans Advantage program.

Retail Discounts for Veterans

From everyday essentials to big-ticket items, many retailers offer year-round discounts for veterans. Here’s a look at some popular retailers that offer special savings:

1. Home Improvement Stores

• The Home Depot offers a 10% discount on in-store and online purchases for veterans year-round. To access the discount online, veterans must register with The Home Depot Military Discount Program.
• Lowe’s also offers a 10% discount to all veterans through their Lowe’s Military Discount Program. Veterans can register online with their VIC or other proof of service to receive the discount both in-store and online.

2. Apparel and Footwear

• Under Armour provides a 40% military discount on full-priced items for veterans through ID.me verification. This discount is available both in-store and online.
• Nike offers a 10% discount for veterans and military personnel. Veterans can verify their eligibility online via SheerID and use the discount for online and in-store purchases.

3. Technology and Electronics

• Apple offers veterans and military personnel up to 10% off select products, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Veterans can access the Apple Military and Veteran Purchase Program online after verifying their status through ID.me.
• Dell provides a military discount of up to 10% on computers and electronics through its Military and Veterans Program.

Dining Discounts for Veterans

Many restaurants and fast-food chains offer discounts to veterans, making it easy to save while dining out. These discounts can vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm the discount availability.

Some national chains that provide military discounts include:

• Applebee’s: Many locations offer a 10% discount for veterans, and some participate in Veterans Day Free Mealspromotions.
• Outback Steakhouse: Veterans can enjoy a 10% discount year-round with valid military ID or proof of service.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: Some locations offer a 10% discount for veterans and military personnel.

Education Discounts for Veterans

In addition to the GI Bill and other VA education benefits, veterans can access military discounts on education-related expenses, including tuition and professional certification courses.

1. University Discounts

• Arizona State University offers discounted tuition for veterans, as well as specialized programs designed to support military members transitioning into civilian careers.
• Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) provides up to 30% off tuition for veterans, as well as dedicated support services for military students.

2. Professional Certification Courses

Veterans looking to enhance their careers with professional certifications can take advantage of discounts offered by companies like Udemy and Coursera. These platforms provide special pricing on a variety of online courses, including IT, business, and healthcare certifications.

Additionally, the VA’s Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program can help cover the costs of certification courses for veterans with service-connected disabilities.

Tips for Finding and Using Military Discounts

Here are some strategies veterans can use to find the best military discounts and make the most of their savings:

1. Use Online Verification Platforms

Websites like ID.me, SheerID, and Veterans Advantage partner with businesses to provide easy military verification for online discounts. These platforms are trusted by many major retailers and can streamline the process of accessing deals.

2. Ask About Military Discounts In-Store

While many discounts are advertised online, some smaller businesses and local stores may offer military discounts that are not publicly promoted. It’s always worth asking the cashier or customer service representative if they offer discounts for veterans.

3. Look for Veterans Day Promotions

Many businesses and restaurants offer additional discounts or free services to veterans on Veterans Day. This is a great time to take advantage of special offers and enjoy free meals, discounted products, or special services.

Conclusion

Veterans have access to a wealth of military discounts that can make life after service more affordable and enjoyable. From travel and dining to retail and education, these discounts provide an easy way to save money while still enjoying the activities and services you love. By knowing where to find these discounts and how to verify your military status, veterans can take full advantage of the many deals available to them year-round.

Whether you’re planning a vacation, upgrading your tech, or simply enjoying a meal with family, there’s likely a military discount out there to help you save. Keep this guide in mind as you explore the best military discounts for veterans, and start enjoying the benefits of your service today.