Your service to our country is deeply appreciated. As a token of gratitude, many businesses across the United States offer special discounts to active military personnel, veterans, and sometimes their families. While many of us hear about special offers around Veterans Day or Memorial Day, you might be surprised to learn just how many valuable discounts are available all year long. These ongoing savings can make a real difference, especially when managing a household budget or planning for those important purchases and experiences.
This guide is here to help you discover some of these fantastic year-round military and veteran discounts. Think of it as a small thank you for your immense contribution. Remember, it’s always a good idea to confirm eligibility and the specifics of any discount directly with the business, as offers can sometimes change.
Why Year-Round Discounts Matter
Consistent savings, no matter how small they seem individually, can add up significantly over time. For many, especially those on a fixed income or carefully planning their expenditures, these year-round discounts are more than just a perk; they are a practical tool for financial well-being.
Imagine the possibilities: stretching your budget further for home improvement projects you’ve been dreaming about, making travel to see family and friends more affordable, or simply enjoying a meal out without worrying as much about the cost. These discounts empower you to do more and live more comfortably, recognizing the sacrifices you’ve made.
General Tips for Accessing Your Deserved Discounts
Before we dive into specific discounts, here are a few general tips to help you make the most of these opportunities:
- Always Ask! This is the golden rule. Many businesses offer military discounts but may not advertise them prominently. A polite inquiry, such as “Do you offer a military or veteran discount?” can often unlock savings.
- Carry Proof of Service: Be prepared to show valid identification. This could be a VA ID card, Military ID, DD Form 214, or a state-issued driver’s license or ID with a veteran designation. Having this ready makes the process smooth.
- Check Online: Many companies list their military discount policies on their websites. A quick search before you shop or travel can save you time and confirm availability.
- Online Verification: Some retailers, especially for online purchases, use third-party verification services like ID.me or SheerID. These platforms help securely confirm your military affiliation. Setting up an account can be convenient for accessing various online discounts.
- Understand the Terms: Discounts may vary. Some might apply only to the service member, while others extend to spouses and dependents. Some can’t be combined with other sales or promotions. Always clarify these details.
- Be Patient and Polite: Sometimes, a new cashier might not be aware of the discount policy. A patient and polite approach usually resolves any confusion quickly.
Now, let’s explore nine categories where you can often find valuable year-round discounts:
1. Home Improvement Havens: Lowe’s and The Home Depot
For those who enjoy DIY projects, gardening, or simply maintaining their home, both Lowe’s and The Home Depot offer significant year-round support for the military community. Both typically offer a 10% discount daily to active-duty personnel, veterans, and often their eligible spouses.
To receive the discount, you’ll usually need to enroll in their respective military discount programs online, often using a verification service. Once enrolled, the discount can typically be applied both online and in-store. This can lead to substantial savings on everything from paint and tools to appliances and lumber. Whether you’re fixing a leaky faucet, planning a garden refresh, or undertaking a larger renovation, these savings add up.
Imagine saving on those new energy-efficient windows you’ve been considering, or finally getting the materials for that raised garden bed!
2. Staying Connected: Wireless Phone Service Discounts
Mobile phones are essential for staying in touch with family, managing appointments, and accessing information. Major wireless carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile typically offer monthly discounts on their service plans for military members, veterans, and sometimes their families.
These discounts can range from a percentage off your monthly bill to special rates on unlimited plans. Given that a cell phone bill is a recurring monthly expense, these savings can be quite substantial over the course of a year. You’ll usually need to verify your military status through their websites or in-store. Don’t hesitate to ask your current provider or shop around to see what offers are available; keeping connected with loved ones can become more affordable.
3. Travel and Adventure: Hotel & Lodging Savings
Whether you’re planning a well-deserved vacation, visiting grandchildren, or attending a reunion, many hotel chains offer special rates for military personnel and veterans. Chains like Hilton, Marriott, Choice Hotels, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Best Western frequently provide discounted room rates. These are often referred to as “government rates” or “military rates.”
It’s always best to check directly on the hotel’s website or call their reservation line to inquire about military discounts and book accordingly. Sometimes, these rates are not available through third-party booking sites. Proof of service is usually required at check-in. These savings can make travel more accessible, allowing for more frequent trips or perhaps an upgraded stay.
Think about that cross-country road trip you’ve always wanted to take, or making visits to family more frequent and less of a strain on the budget.
4. On the Road Again: Automotive Parts and Services
Keeping your vehicle in good running order is crucial for independence and daily life. Several auto parts retailers and service centers offer year-round discounts to military members and veterans. Companies like O’Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, and Pep Boys often provide a percentage off regularly priced parts and accessories. Some may also offer discounts on services.
Additionally, some major car manufacturers, such as Ford and General Motors (GM), often have military appreciation offers that can provide bonus cash or special financing on the purchase or lease of new vehicles. If you’re in the market for a new car or just need to pick up some supplies for routine maintenance, be sure to ask about military discounts. You’ll typically need to present your military ID or veteran status verification.
5. Dining Out Delights: Restaurant Savings
Enjoying a meal out with family or friends is a wonderful way to connect and relax. Many restaurants, from national chains to local eateries, offer military discounts as a way of saying thank you. While these can vary widely and may not always be heavily advertised, it’s very common for establishments to offer anywhere from 10% to 20% off the bill (excluding alcohol).
Chains that have historically offered some form of ongoing military discount include places like Outback Steakhouse, Texas Roadhouse, and many casual dining spots. The key here is to always ask your server or the manager before ordering. Have your military or veteran ID handy. These small savings can make regular social outings more affordable and enjoyable.
6. Retail Therapy: Savings on Shopping and Apparel
Many well-known retailers offer year-round discounts on clothing, shoes, electronics, and general merchandise. For instance, Kohl’s often has “Military Mondays” or similar regular discount days (e.g., 15% off). Companies like Nike, Under Armour, and L.L.Bean also typically provide ongoing discounts, usually around 10-20%, often verified online through services like SheerID or ID.me.
Even stores under the Gap Inc. umbrella (like Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic) have been known to offer in-store discounts. Before you make a purchase, online or in-store, take a moment to check the retailer’s website for a military discount policy or simply ask an employee. This is great for everyday needs, gifts for loved ones, or treating yourself to something new.
Perhaps it’s time for new walking shoes to stay active, or a cozy sweater for the cooler months – these discounts can help.
7. Exploring America’s Beauty: National Parks Access Pass
This is an incredible benefit for those who love the great outdoors. U.S. military members (current and dependents) and Gold Star Families can get a free annual Military Pass to National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands. For veterans, there’s even better news: you are eligible for a free lifetime Military Pass.
This pass grants access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests. It covers entrance fees for the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle. You can obtain these passes in person at many federal recreation sites by presenting proper identification (like a DD214, VA ID, or current military ID). This is a fantastic way to explore the country’s natural beauty, stay active, and create lasting memories with family and friends, all without the cost of entrance fees.
8. Peace of Mind: Insurance and Financial Services
Several financial institutions and insurance companies offer special programs or discounts for military personnel and veterans. Organizations like USAA and Navy Federal Credit Union are well-known for serving the military community and their families, offering a range of tailored financial products, from banking and loans to insurance. Eligibility for these institutions is specific to military affiliation.
Beyond these dedicated institutions, other insurance companies like GEICO also offer military discounts on auto and property insurance. When reviewing your insurance needs or financial plans, it’s always wise to inquire if your military service qualifies you for any special rates or benefits. These can lead to long-term savings and provide valuable peace of mind.
9. Making Moves Easier: Moving and Storage Discounts
Life sometimes involves changes, and that can mean moving to a new home, perhaps to be closer to family, or downsizing. Several moving and storage companies offer discounts to make these transitions a bit more affordable. Companies like Penske Truck Rental often provide a percentage off truck rentals for military members and veterans. Similarly, portable storage solutions like PODS frequently offer military discounts.
Even some full-service moving companies or waste management services (like Waste Management, which sometimes offers discounts on Bagster products) may have special rates. If you’re planning a move, be sure to ask any service provider you contact if they have a military or veteran discount program. Every bit of savings helps during such a significant undertaking.
A Quick Note on Verification
You may have noticed mentions of services like ID.me and SheerID. These are secure, third-party online platforms that many companies use to verify military status or other affiliations (like student or teacher status) for online discounts. Creating an account with them can be a convenient way to access numerous discounts across different websites without repeatedly uploading documents.
While some may feel hesitant about online verification, these services are widely used and generally trusted. However, for in-person shopping, simply presenting your valid military or veteran ID is usually all that’s required.
Beyond the Big Names: Don’t Forget Local Businesses!
While this article highlights some of the larger, national companies offering year-round discounts, don’t overlook the businesses in your own community. Many local shops, restaurants, and service providers are proud to support military members and veterans, even if they don’t advertise it widely.
It never hurts to politely ask if they offer a military or veteran discount. You might be pleasantly surprised! Supporting these local businesses, especially veteran-owned ones, is also a wonderful way to give back to the community.
Enjoy Your Well-Deserved Savings
Your service and sacrifice are deeply valued, and these year-round discounts are one way for businesses and organizations to express their gratitude. We encourage you to explore these opportunities and take full advantage of the savings you have earned.
Remember to always carry your proof of service, ask about discounts, and check terms and conditions. By doing so, you can stretch your budget further, enjoy more of what life has to offer, and feel the appreciation that so many have for your dedication to our nation. Thank you for your service.
