Military discounts are a well-deserved benefit for those who have served in the U.S. military, as well as their families. These discounts can help veterans, active-duty service members, and military families save on everything from shopping and travel to healthcare and insurance. But who exactly qualifies for military discounts? In this article, we will answer that question and guide you on how to make the most of these valuable offers.
Military discounts are a significant perk for those who serve in the military or have served in the past. However, not everyone in the military community automatically qualifies. Understanding who qualifies for these discounts and how to access them is key. This article provides clarity on the eligibility criteria for military discounts, the process of verifying military status, and how military families can benefit.
What Are Military Discounts?
A military discount is a price reduction or special offer provided to individuals who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. military, as well as their families. These discounts can apply to a variety of goods and services, including:
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Retail shopping (clothing, electronics, home goods)
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Travel (airlines, hotels, car rentals)
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Restaurants (discounted meals)
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Insurance (auto, life, health)
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Fitness memberships (gym discounts)
These discounts are meant to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices made by military members and their families. However, the eligibility criteria for receiving these discounts can vary.
Who Qualifies for Military Discounts?
To qualify for military discounts, you must meet specific criteria set by each business or service provider. Here’s a breakdown of the individuals who typically qualify for military discounts:
Active-Duty Service Members
Active-duty military members—those currently serving in any branch of the military—are usually the first group eligible for military discounts. This includes members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Active-duty personnel can often get discounts on a wide range of items, including electronics, car rentals, home improvement supplies, and more.
Veterans
Veterans, or individuals who have honorably served in the U.S. military and are no longer active, are also eligible for military discounts. Many businesses offer lifetime discounts to veterans, with some even extending the discount to their families. Discounts may vary by store, so it’s always worth asking if you qualify as a veteran.
Military Retirees
Retirees—those who have served in the military for 20 or more years—are often eligible for discounts similar to those available to active-duty service members. Military retirees may receive discounts at retailers, hotels, car rental companies, and even on services like insurance.
Reservists and National Guard Members
Members of the Reserves and the National Guard may also be eligible for military discounts, although some businesses only offer discounts to those who are currently activated on active duty. While this group may not receive as many offers as full-time active-duty members, they still qualify for many discounts, especially during periods of activation or deployment.
Military Spouses
Spouses of active-duty service members, veterans, and retirees often qualify for military discounts as well. Many businesses recognize the sacrifices made by military spouses and offer them the same discounts that apply to the service member. This includes discounts on travel, shopping, and entertainment.
Dependents and Children of Military Members
In addition to military spouses, dependents and children of military service members can sometimes qualify for military discounts. Some businesses offer discounts on tickets for theme parks, restaurants, and travel to military families, including dependents under 18 years of age.
How to Verify Military Status for Discounts
To take advantage of military discounts, you will typically need to verify your military status. Different businesses and retailers have varying methods of verification. Here are some common ways to verify your eligibility:
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Military ID: The most common form of verification for active-duty members and retirees is a military ID card. This card is issued by the U.S. Department of Defense and can be used as proof of service.
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ID.me: This is a third-party service that allows military members, veterans, and their families to verify their military status online. It’s often used by retailers for online shopping to confirm eligibility for discounts.
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DD Form 214: For veterans who no longer have a military ID, a DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is often required to prove military service. Many companies accept this form as proof of veteran status.
Active-Duty Service Members and Military Discounts
Active-duty service members can access the largest range of military discounts. These discounts are often the most generous and apply to a variety of products and services. Examples of common military discounts for active-duty members include:
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Retail stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot often offer 10% off for active-duty military members.
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Airlines like American Airlines and Delta provide military discounts on flight tickets.
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Car rental companies like Hertz and Enterprise offer discounts to active-duty military members on car rentals.
Active-duty service members should carry their military ID and check with retailers to ensure they’re getting the best discounts available.
Veterans and Military Discounts
Veterans can also qualify for military discounts, and many businesses offer lifetime discounts to honor their service. Examples of veteran discounts include:
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Veterans Advantage offers exclusive deals for veterans, including discounts on travel, insurance, and retail products.
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Target offers 10% off for military veterans and their families on special days, like Veterans Day.
It’s worth noting that some discounts may be limited to certain branches of the military or require verification through services like ID.me.
Military Retirees and Eligibility for Discounts
Military retirees—those who have served 20 years or more—are eligible for many of the same discounts as active-duty members. Some of the benefits include:
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Retail discounts at stores like Walmart and Best Buy.
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Discounts on insurance through military programs and veterans’ groups.
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Travel benefits such as discounted hotel rooms and car rentals.
Retirees should keep their retired military ID handy and be prepared to show proof of service when asking for discounts.
Do Military Spouses Qualify for Discounts?
Yes, military spouses are often eligible for discounts. Many companies extend military discounts to spouses of active-duty service members, veterans, and retirees. For instance:
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Target offers military spouses special savings during Veterans Day promotions.
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Verizon Wireless provides military spouses with discounts on phone plans.
Spouses should inquire with retailers and verify their eligibility through ID.me or with military identification.
Eligibility for Reservists and National Guard Members
Reservists and National Guard members are often eligible for military discounts, particularly when they are called to active duty. Many businesses extend special offers and discounts during their deployment or activation as a way to show appreciation for their service. However, it’s important to note that the availability of these discounts may vary from one retailer to another, with some businesses offering them only during certain times or requiring specific proof of active duty military status. Always check with the retailer to confirm if you qualify for these savings.
Can Military Families Get Discounts?
Yes, military families, including children and dependents of active-duty service members, veterans, and retirees, can access military discounts. Some of the best military family discounts include:
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Discounts on theme park tickets, such as those offered by Disney and Universal Studios.
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Discounts on travel services, such as airlines and hotels, for military families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are military discounts available year-round?
Yes, many discounts are available throughout the year. Some retailers, however, may offer special discounts for veterans and military families during holidays such as Veterans Day and Memorial Day.
Do military families qualify for discounts?
Yes, military families—including spouses, children, and dependents—often qualify for the same discounts as service members.
Can retirees access discounts after service?
Yes, military retirees often have lifetime access to military discounts on a wide variety of products and services.
