As a veteran, you know that military discounts can make a difference. They can help you save money on everyday purchases, big-ticket items, and even vacations. But with so many companies offering discounts for active military and veterans, it’s tough to keep track of them all.
You might find yourself scrambling for your ID at the checkout or searching for discount codes online. Some companies might not even be upfront about their military and veteran discounts. Let’s talk about the ins and outs of military discounts – who qualifies, how to find them, and where to find some great deals. Plus, we’ll cover common questions you might be too embarrassed to ask.
Table of Contents:
- Who is Eligible for Military Discounts?
- Where to Find Military Discounts
- A Personal Touch
- FAQs about military discounts
- Conclusion
Who is Eligible for Military Discounts?
Generally, “military discounts” apply to active-duty service members, veterans, and retirees. Often, these discounts extend to reservists and National Guard members too. You might even find discounts available for family members like spouses and dependents.
Eligibility can vary between companies, though. Some may only offer discounts to active duty personnel. Others might require a minimum length of service for veterans. You often need proof of service. Typically, you just show a military ID, but other forms of verification might include discharge papers or a Veterans Advantage card.
Verification and Discount Programs
As companies become savvier with preventing fraudulent discount claims, many now use third-party verification systems for online purchases. Popular verification services include ID.me and SheerID. They offer a streamlined way for businesses to confirm your military status while protecting your personal information.
While convenient, these services raise privacy concerns for some people. These companies collect data to confirm your eligibility. While both ID.me and SheerID claim to protect personal information, sharing any data online inherently involves risk. Some veterans may feel uneasy about using these services. This feeling is particularly common for those concerned about identity theft or data breaches.
Where to Find Military Discounts
Many companies, big and small, offer military discounts. These discounts may not always be well-advertised. To help with that, we’ve compiled a breakdown by category of some top brands offering savings.
Automotive Discounts
Saving on cars, auto parts, and maintenance are some of the most helpful “military discounts” out there. Let’s face it, cars are expensive. Some stand-out discounts are available on vehicle purchases through certain manufacturers. Here are some popular retailers that offer military discounts:
| Store | Discount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Ford/Lincoln | Discounts on leases and select new vehicles; identity verification required | Active duty, veterans, retirees, reservists, National Guard, dependents |
| General Motors | $500 to $1,000 off select new vehicles; identity verification required | Active duty, veterans, retirees, reservists, National Guard |
| BMW | $500 to $2,000 off leases and select new vehicles; identity verification required | Active duty, veterans, retirees, family |
| TrueCar | Additional cash allowance from select manufacturers, up to $4,000 in additional benefits; identity verification required | Active duty, veterans, family |
| Hyundai | $500 off leases and new vehicles | Active duty, veterans, retirees, reservists, National Guard |
Car rental agencies frequently offer “military discounts”, especially if you book online. You’ll often find special discounts on insurance rates as well through Geico. Make sure you ask. Parts retailers like Advance Auto Parts also commonly have in-store discounts.
Clothing and Retail Discounts
You served your country; why not treat yourself to some new threads or gear? Whether you’re looking for athletic wear, everyday clothes, or some sharp new shoes, several retailers offer solid military discounts. Companies like Adidas (with 30% off.) and Reebok (50% off for eligible shoppers) make getting fit in style more affordable for military members. Retailers like Kohl’s, with 15% off on Mondays, and Columbia, are popular spots to snag those everyday deals, too.
Even luxury retailers such as Tiffany & Co., Allen Edmonds, and Helzberg Diamonds understand the value of showing appreciation to our armed forces, so always inquire about “military discounts”. These companies extend exclusive offers, sometimes with extra perks, making quality craftsmanship and beautiful products accessible. Keep an eye out for deals on Apple Watches, as well.
Dining and Entertainment
Enjoying a night out at the movies, or treating your family to a delicious dinner doesn’t need to break the bank. Restaurant and entertainment companies show their appreciation with tasty “military discounts”. But, remember these offers can often change, be specific to locations, or just be available on certain days like Veterans Day. Be sure to check the specifics before assuming the discount applies. You don’t want any surprises on your bill. Chains like Bob Evans, California Pizza Kitchen, and Chili’s usually offer free meals to veterans and active military on Veterans Day.
Additionally, Apple and Microsoft have embraced these efforts and extend “military discounts” on various tech products, sometimes up to 30%. Their initiatives acknowledge the crucial role of technology and online services in contemporary military life and demonstrate how industries, beyond typical consumer goods, recognize the contributions of military families. You can also find deals on streaming services such as Apple Music.
Travel and Hospitality
Whether you’re going on vacation or just getting home for the holidays, getting there doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg. Booking flights and making hotel reservations might feel less stressful with special “military discounts”. Some major airlines, like Allegiant Air, Delta Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, often waive certain fees, and provide other travel perks.
Hotel chains, such as Hilton, Hyatt, and Wyndham extend discounted room rates and often free upgrades through their loyalty programs, too. Theme parks like LEGOLAND and Walt Disney World, known for their family-friendly experiences, understand that the needs of service members don’t end when they come home. These parks offer deals, including savings on tickets, making them a little less stressful.
A Personal Touch
Some retailers go above and beyond by participating in military-specific discount programs or initiatives. These might come from membership programs, collaborations, or philanthropic partnerships with veteran support organizations. They showcase genuine gratitude for their service and demonstrate that it’s not just about savings – it’s about understanding the specific challenges of military life and showing that their sacrifice matters. One instance I found helpful, after I had to make a sudden cross-country move, was PODS offering me 10% off. Their simple act of recognizing my service made the stressful transition a little bit smoother.
Support isn’t just limited to consumer goods. Educational platforms like Tutor.com understand the importance of accessible learning resources for military families. TurboTax assists military members with navigating their financial obligations, offering a valuable tool during a stressful time, particularly during PCS season. Many career resource sites like Hiring Our Heroes, 50Strong, FourBlock, The Honor Foundation, and Military Spouse Employment Partnership cater specifically to veterans and their families seeking new opportunities after service. These resources offer a range of tools, like resume assistance and networking opportunities.
Military Discounts: More than just a Deal
Don’t let the wide range of “military discounts” make you feel like these are just ordinary promotions. The availability of these savings represents recognition by brands of the service and dedication of our military. It’s about supporting our armed forces. This means looking for these discounts doesn’t need to feel awkward or transactional, it’s about benefiting from recognition you earned.
FAQs about military discounts
Does Amazon Prime have a military discount?
As of right now, there’s no specific Amazon Prime “military discount”. This might be surprising given Amazon’s commitment to supporting military families. They do, however, often have exclusive deals for military members through Amazon.com.
Does Walmart have a military discount?
While Walmart doesn’t have a standard nationwide “military discount”, many local Walmart stores run specials on days like Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Always ask at your local store.
Does Target give a military discount?
Currently, Target doesn’t have a national “military discount”. Like Walmart, many locations might have promotions for military members on specific holidays, so it’s always good to inquire at your nearest Target store.
How much is Netflix a month military discount?
Unfortunately, there’s no current Netflix military discount. However, T-Mobile offers a fantastic deal where you can get Netflix included with some of their Magenta plans if you qualify for their discounted plans for military members. This bundle option can help you save on both your phone bill and streaming service.
Conclusion
Navigating “military discounts” might seem confusing with the vast array of offerings and eligibility criteria. Always be prepared with verification, understand it’s perfectly ok to politely inquire, and leverage online resources to explore these options fully. Most importantly, remember that you deserve to make use of “military discounts”. These companies want to show their gratitude for your service. They value your contributions and offer these programs to make things easier, a little more enjoyable, and hopefully a lot more affordable.
