To show gratitude to the brave servicemen and servicewomen who sacrifice their lives to protect the interests of their country, many stores and consumer brands offer discounts to military personnel. Although these discounts cannot make up for their sacrifices, they serve as a way for military personnel to feel appreciated and valued. It is essential to understand who qualifies for these discounts and how to access them to make the most of these offers. This article is for you!
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Things to Remember About Military Discounts
Serving the country takes bravery and commitment, and as a way of appreciation, many businesses offer military discounts to active-duty military members and veterans. However, these discounts are not always publicized, and it can be challenging to find out which businesses offer them. This article will provide you with some general rules and tips on how to take advantage of military discounts and maximize your savings.
Who Qualifies for Military Discounts?
There is no standard across American commerce for determining the eligibility of military personnel for discounts. However, discounts are often extended to active duty military, National Guard, or Reserve, and their dependents, who may be asked to present a Department of Defense dependent identification card. In addition, discounts are also frequently offered to first responders, law enforcement, veterans, DOD retirees, and members of veterans’ benefit groups such as Veterans Advantage, USAA, or Veterans of Foreign Wars.
If you are a service member but not affiliated with any of these groups, it may be worth considering joining one to take advantage of their discounts and services.
Valid ID Requirements
One of the most crucial aspects of getting a military discount is having a valid military ID. Active duty military members and retirees can use their military ID card, while veterans can use their VA health care card, VA-issued ID card, or state driver’s license with a veteran’s designation. It’s also possible to use your discharge paperwork or a veterans organization card, such as American Legion or VFW, as proof of military service.
Discount Availability
It’s essential to keep in mind that many military discounts are only available to current military members, although some businesses extend discounts to all veterans, especially around major military holidays like Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Veteran’s Day. Always ask if a military discount is available, as many discounts aren’t advertised.
Location-Based Variation
It’s crucial to note that military discounts can vary by location, as many franchises leave the decision of offering discounts at the discretion of the owner. When traveling, it’s always best to ask if military discounts are available, as some hotels and restaurants offer discounts only at certain locations.
Best Deals May Not Be Military Discounts
While military discounts are a great way to save, it’s essential to keep in mind that they may not always be the best deal. Shopping around can lead to bigger savings, especially in the case of airlines, hotels, and travel. Many businesses do not allow military discounts to stack with other promotions. So that black Friday big-screen TV may not qualify for a military discount!
Kindness and Respect
It’s essential to remember that military discounts are a blessing, not a right, and they’re offered as a gesture of kindness and respect for your service. If you don’t receive a discount, please don’t take issue, as discounts are subject to change or may not be available at all times.
Our Exclusive List of Discounts and Special Offers
Ranging from flights to hotel rates to rental cars to retailers to automakers, our ever-expanding list of discount programs for military and veterans is here to keep you in the know!
Use the search function to find specific discount values, businesses, or categories! You can also sort by column, print the list, or export as PDF if needed.
Easy Eligibility Verification For Military Discounts
Many retailers offer discounts through independent verification services such as ID.me, VerifyPass, or SheerID. These services offer free registration and make it easy for military personnel to access the discounts they deserve. Simply sign up for an account and provide proof of service to receive access to exclusive discounts and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perks & Rewards for Veterans and Active-Duty Military
What is a military discount?
Military discounts are special offers that are available to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. This is often offered as a way of thanking and honoring those who serve in the military for their dedication and sacrifice. Military discounts can take many forms, including special access, discounts on products, discounts on services, and discounts on entertainment. Often these discounts are used for marketing purposes alongside the intent of rewarding military families.
What types of military discounts are available?
There are many different types of military discounts available. Some of the most common include discounts on products and services, such as groceries, clothing, electronics, travel, and entertainment. Many retailers and businesses also offer military discounts on their websites and in their stores.
- Savings: The most obvious benefit of military discounts is the savings they offer. Military discounts can provide significant savings on a variety of products and services, which can help service members and their families stretch their budgets further.
- Recognition: Military discounts are a way for businesses to show their appreciation for the sacrifices that service members have made. This recognition can be especially important for those who have served in combat or who have been away from their families for extended periods of time.
- Access to Exclusive Offers: Some military discounts are only available to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. This can give these individuals access to exclusive offers and discounts that are not available to the general public.
How do I get a military discount?
To get a military discount, you generally need to provide proof of military service, such as a military ID card, a DD-214 discharge certificate, or a veteran’s ID card. Some businesses may also accept a driver’s license with a veteran’s designation. If you are not sure whether a business offers a military discount, it is best to call or check their website before making a purchase.
Do military discounts apply to everyone in a military family?
This depends on the business offering the discount. Some military discounts are available to all members of a military family, while others are only available to the service member themselves. It’s always a good idea to check with the business to see if the discount is available to family members.
Can military discounts be used in combination with other discounts?
Again, this depends on the business offering the discount. Some businesses allow military discounts to be combined with other discounts, while others do not. Before making a purchase, it’s always a good idea to check the details of the discount to see if it can be combined with other offers.
Can military discounts be used online?
Yes, many military discounts can be used online. To use a military discount online, you may need to enter a special code, show proof of military service at checkout, or use a third-party verification service such as ID.me or SheerID. Some retailers also offer exclusive online discounts for military members. It is always best to check the retailer’s website for specific details on how to use a military discount online.
Are there any limitations on using military discounts?
There are no universal guidelines on who offers discounts or to what extent they can be used. There may be some limitations, such as restrictions on the type of products or services that are eligible, or limits on the number of times a discount can be used. Some military discounts may also have expiration dates or require a minimum purchase amount. It is important to check the terms and conditions of available discounts before using them, to ensure that you are aware of any limitations.
What kinds of businesses offer military discounts?
All kinds! Many businesses offer military discounts, including retailers, restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, movie theaters, and more. Even luxury items like watches can be had with discounts. Some of the largest retail chains, such as Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and Best Buy, offer military discounts to their customers just to name a few. For a more extensive list, have a look at the table above. It is important to note that our list above is not all-encompassing. We have listed many of the more popular businesses that offer discounts. However, there are likely thousands more! When in doubt, simply ask politely if the business offers a military discount program!
Wrap-Up
Offering military discounts has become a common practice among businesses. The gesture of appreciation towards military service members and veterans not only aligns with the values of supporting the military but also attracts customers who support the cause. These discounts are a reflection of the meeting point between patriotism, profit motive, and appreciation for military service.
Military discounts are more than just a show of appreciation; they’re a way of giving back to those who have dedicated their lives to national defense. These discounts offer a significant financial advantage, allowing service members and veterans to save money on purchases and services. Businesses that offer military discounts not only support the military but also signal their patriotism and appreciation to a wider audience, attracting customers who share the same values. We encourage you to take advantage of these discounts and enjoy the benefits they provide!