Best Military and Veteran Discounts List
Unlock savings with the best military discounts — explore the world of military coupons and discounts with us.
We offer tips on how individuals and businesses can leverage these discounts effectively, and provide a military and veteran discounts list of companies currently extending their gratitude through army discounts.
What is a Military Discount?
Military discounts have long been a gesture of appreciation and support for those who serve or have served in the armed forces. Military veterans discounts are a valuable perk for active-duty service members, veterans, reservists, and their families. Whether you're dining out, booking travel accommodations, or shopping for everyday essentials, military discounts can significantly lighten the financial load.
Active military personnel, veterans, and their family members while using military discount coupon can save on:
- food and dining experiences,
- travel,
- recreation,
- healthcare,
- automotive services,
- sporting goods,
- apparels and home appliances,
- entries and tickets (for national parks, movie theaters, galleries, museums, etc.)
- and beyond.
We've compiled the best veteran discounts and military deals from retailers, websites, and other places that give military discounts, offer special prices, or free gifts for US military personnel.
Why Would a Business Want to Offer Military Discounts?
Companies that offer military discounts have their reasons — offering military discounts not only serves as a gesture of appreciation but also fosters brand loyalty. It's a mutually beneficial arrangement for businesses and the military community alike.
Places that offer military discount do so to:
- Express appreciation towards those who have served the country
- Build brand loyalty and foster strong bonds with military members and veterans within the community
- Attract additional clientele and build a valuable customer base
- Enhance public relations and spread the goodwill for businesses
General Rules about Military Discounts
While military and veterans deals are undoubtedly a thoughtful gesture, there can sometimes be confusion or inconsistency surrounding eligibility criteria. Each store or service provider who gives military discounts may have their own policies regarding who qualifies for discounts, leading to occasional challenges for military members, veterans, and their families trying to avail themselves of these benefits.
Thus, getting military discount online can sometimes feel like deciphering a secret code, but here are some general guidelines to help you make the most of these offerings:
- Inquiries about discounts: Many military discounts aren't advertised openly, so it's always worth asking whether one is available. Don't hesitate to inquire and read up on tips for maximizing your chances of securing a military discount. Sometimes they may not be available in the store but you can try a military discount app — store apps often provide an extended offer of deals.
- Availability for current military members: While some discounts may be open to all veterans, most are tailored for currently serving military personnel. However, exceptions may be made around major military holidays like Memorial Day, 4th of July, or Veteran's Day.
- Valid identification required: Typically, a valid military ID card is required to access military discounts. This could be a current Military ID Card or a retiree card.
Note: For veterans, accessing veteran discounts and military ID discount requires presenting approved forms of identification, such as the Veteran ID card confirming their status as qualified veterans.
- Alternate forms of ID: In some cases, alternative forms of identification may be accepted, such as a VA health care card to obtain VA discounts, state driver's license with a veterans designation, or discharge paperwork like a DD214. However, this may vary, especially during major military holidays.
- Location-based variations: Discounts can vary by location, as franchises often leave it to the discretion of individual owners. Be prepared for differences depending on where you are.
Tip: Shop around for better deals: While military discounts can be beneficial, it's worth exploring other options as well. Comparison shopping, particularly for airlines, hotels, and travel services, may lead to greater savings.
How Much is Military Discount?
Military discount stores span across various sectors, including retail, restaurants, hotels, entertainment venues, and transportation services. These discounts typically range from 10-15%, making a meaningful impact on the budgets of those who have served. However, the extent of these discounts can vary widely, ranging from as little as 5% to as much as a generous 60% off.
Military discounts list of possible savings
Shopping category | Offers and estimates discounts |
---|---|
Retail | 5-25% off |
Dining | 10% off |
Entertainment (e.g., discounted movie tickets) | 5-60% off |
Travel (e.g., discounted flights or hotel stays) | 5-25% off |
Automotive (e.g., discounted car rentals or repairs) | 5-15% off |
Apparel | 10-15% off |
Electronics | 5-15% off |
Health and Wellness (e.g., discounted gym memberships or medical services) | 5-60% off |
Home Goods | 5-20% off |
Note: It's worth noting that usually military discount code often cannot be combined with other coupons or promotions, meaning there may be occasions where alternative deals offer greater savings. By carefully assessing the terms and conditions of each discount, military personnel can ensure they are maximizing their savings and securing the best possible deals.
Who Is Eligible to Use the Military Discount Code?
Discounts for active military and their families
Active duty, reserve, retired, and veteran members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and National Guard — these are the ones who can often get a military promo code or discount, however, this eligibility criteria often spark debates due to the lack of a standardization across stores. It's important to recognize that military discounts are not an entitlement but rather a privilege extended by stores, and it's up to them to set the rules.
Typically, stores offering military discounts cater to a range of individuals, including:
- Active Duty Military: Those currently serving in the armed forces.
- Current Guard/Reserve: Members of the National Guard or Reserve components.
- Retirees: Individuals who have completed their military service and retired from active duty.
- Military Dependents: This category includes anyone possessing a Department of Defense (DoD) issued military or dependent ID. This encompasses spouses, children, and other family members of active duty service members or retirees who can benefit from discounts for military families.
- Veterans: While some stores may extend discounts to veterans, proof of service may or may not be required. However, this can vary widely, and some stores may have policies that exclude veterans who are no longer on active duty and did not reach retirement.
How to Get a Veteran Discount?
There are various ways to prove your military service to unlock extra savings and veteran deals, ensuring you get the best deals available.
When seeking veteran discounts, it's essential to present proof of military service, and one of the most convenient ways to do so is by obtaining a Veteran ID Card (VIC). Here's what you need to know about getting a veteran discount and the types of veteran identification cards available:
Types of Veteran ID Cards
Veteran Identification Card (VIC):
- A digital photo ID card for veterans
- Grants access to discounts at various establishments
- Does not provide entry to military bases or VA hospitals
State-Issued Driver's License or ID:
- Some states offer driver's licenses or IDs with a veteran's designation
- Provides access to the same discounts as a VIC card
- Can be used as an alternative to the VIC card
Department of Defense Identification Card (DoD):
- Common Access Card (CAC) for active-duty military personnel, Selected Reserve members, DoD civilian employees, and eligible contractors
- Uniformed service ID card (USID) for military retirees and family members
- Grants access to military base services and veteran discounts
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC):
- Received upon enrollment in VA health care
- Can be used for appointments at VA medical facilities and as a photo ID for veteran discounts
Note: A Veteran ID Card, or VIC, serves as a digital photo ID for U.S. veterans, providing access to various discounts without the need to present military discharge papers. It's a convenient and secure way to verify your veteran status and enjoy discounts offered by businesses, stores, and restaurants.