Hey Marines and Marine Corps Veterans,
When it comes to shopping, you might be surprised by the number of retailers offering military discounts. Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s provide a 10% discount to active-duty personnel and veterans year-round. All you need is your military ID or proof of service. Additionally, clothing retailers like Under Armour, Columbia, and North Face offer substantial discounts. These aren’t just seasonal; many are available all year long through their online stores by verifying your military status via platforms like ID.me or SheerID.
Your service opens doors to significant savings on travel too. Many airlines, including American Airlines, United, and Delta, offer discounted fares for military members and veterans. They often provide free checked bags, which is a huge plus when you’re traveling with family or for an extended period. Hotels like Hilton, Marriott, and IHG also extend military rates, ensuring you can enjoy your travels without breaking the bank. Additionally, car rental companies such as Hertz and Enterprise provide special rates and benefits.
Dining out doesn’t have to be expensive either. Numerous restaurants, from casual spots like Applebee’s and Buffalo Wild Wings to coffee chains like Starbucks, offer discounts to military members. These discounts might not always be advertised, so it never hurts to ask. Often, just showing your ID can score you a discount or even a free meal, especially on military appreciation days and holidays like Veterans Day and Memorial Day.
Entertainment is another area where your service earns you perks. Movie theaters like Regal and AMC offer discounted tickets, and you can often find special rates for events and concerts through organizations like VetTix, which provides free or discounted tickets to a variety of events. For those who enjoy amusement parks, places like Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld offer deeply discounted tickets for military families.
Education is a crucial benefit, especially if you’re looking to transition into a new career or advance your current one. The GI Bill is the cornerstone, offering substantial support for tuition and housing. Beyond that, many universities and colleges provide additional scholarships and grants specifically for veterans. For example, institutions like the University of Southern California and Syracuse University have dedicated programs to support veteran students.
Healthcare is another vital benefit. The VA provides comprehensive health care services, but did you know about the additional resources available? Many private companies offer discounted or even free health services to veterans. This includes mental health resources, dental care, and prescription discounts through programs like GoodRx. Moreover, fitness centers such as Gold’s Gym and 24 Hour Fitness provide discounted memberships to help you stay in top shape.
Housing benefits extend beyond the well-known VA loans. Many states offer property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, which can significantly reduce your housing expenses. There are also numerous non-profit organizations dedicated to helping veterans find affordable housing or even providing grants to adapt homes for those with disabilities.
On the tech front, major providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer military discounts on phone plans, which can add up to substantial savings over the year. Apple and Dell also provide special pricing on computers and accessories, ensuring you have access to the latest technology without the hefty price tag.
Finally, don’t forget about the financial services available to you. Many banks and credit unions offer special rates on loans and accounts for military members. Institutions like Navy Federal Credit Union and USAA are specifically tailored to the needs of service members, offering lower fees and better rates on everything from mortgages to car loans.
These are just a few ways you can maximize the benefits and discounts available to you as a Marine or Marine Corps veteran. It’s worth exploring and asking about these perks whenever you’re shopping, traveling, or looking for services. You’ve earned these benefits through your service, so take full advantage of them and enjoy the rewards of your hard work and dedication.
Semper Fi!
