If you’re an active military serviceman or woman, or if you are a veteran of the US military, you may be wondering what types of discounts will be available to you this Veterans Day.
On November 11, businesses nationwide will be honoring our country’s heroes, offering everything from discounts on products to free meals.
One popular restaurant offering a free meal to veterans this November 11th is Chili’s. Below, you’ll get an overview of what Chili’s Veterans Day special will encompass, who is eligible for it, and what type of ID you need to bring with you to the restaurant.
Happy savings and Happy Veterans Day!
How Does the Chili’s Military Discount Work?
Chili’s celebrates Veterans Day every year by doing a little something for the people who serve and protect the country.
It is the restaurant’s way of thanking veterans for all that they have done.
As one of the many restaurants that provide deals and discounts to veterans and active duty military personnel on November 11, Chili’s curates a special menu for veterans to eat for free at the restaurant’s many locations across the United States.
There are, however, some things that you must keep in mind before you head to the closest Chili’s and sit down to have a great (and free!) meal. Continue reading to know more!
What You Need to Take with You
Before you head to the nearest Chili’s to take advantage of their offer, you need to remember that the restaurant will ask for a valid proof of military service.
Providing this ID only helps the restaurant serve you better and avoid the misuse of the offer. There are a number of valid proofs of identity and military service that are accepted by Chili’s.
You can see some of them listed below:
- Your U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card
- Your U.S. Uniformed Service Retired ID Card
- A current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)
- Veterans ID Card or VA Healthcare ID Card
- A valid Veterans Organization Card – this can be from organizations like the American Legion or VFW
- Your DD Form 214 – the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty
- Drivers license with veterans tag
- Any citation or commendation that you may have earned during years of service
- A photograph in uniform
- Your uniform (wear it to the restaurant!)
Once your proof of service is verified, you will be able to choose an item of your liking from the special menu curated for Veterans Day by the restaurant. If you’re wondering about valid proofs of service, you can call the restaurant beforehand to confirm.
What Chili’s Veterans Day Deal Includes
Chili’s Veterans Day special allows all veterans and active duty military personnel who visit the restaurant to choose a complimentary dish from a special menu on Veterans Day.
This menu consists of some of the most popular dishes offered at the restaurant. However, it cannot be clubbed with any other offers or discounts.
It is also important to keep in mind that all locations of the restaurant may not be taking part in the offer. It is always a good idea for you to call your local Chili’s restaurant to confirm before you make the trip.
When Veterans Can Get Their Meal
As this is a Veterans Day special, it is valid only on Veterans Day, which falls on Sunday, November 11, 2018. This free meal offer is time bound and cannot be availed on any other day.
There may be some confusion regarding here since Veterans Day is falling on a Sunday this year and being officially observed on Monday, November 12, 2018, in the United States.
Even though we’ll officially observe Veterans Day on the 12th this year, Chili’s meal promotion will take place on the 11th.
Who’s Eligible for Chili’s Veterans Day Discount
It is important to keep in mind that this offer is valid only for veterans and active duty military personnel. If you are planning to go out for a meal with your family or a few guests, they will be expected to pay full price for the items they order.
You should also note that Chili’s Veterans Day promotion is limited to the items on the special menu and cannot be used on any day other than Veterans Day.
Special Menu and Meal Restrictions
Chili’s puts together a special menu for Veterans Day, meaning you are only allowed to order from the dishes on this menu.
This year’s menu is still not available to the public, but you can expect similar entrees to last year’s, which are listed below.
In 2017, the Chili’s special Veterans Day menu included Chicken Crispers, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, the Oldtimer with Cheese, the Classic Bacon Burger, and Chili or Soup with Salad.
If you order from any menu other than the Veterans special, you will be expected to pay the full price, so keep that in mind as you place your order.
Another thing to keep in mind while you’re enjoying your free meal is that beverages and gratuity are not included in this offer.
Last, remember that Chili’s Veterans Day free meal offer is valid only if you are dining in at the restaurant. Carryout meals will come at the full price.
Enjoy Your Veterans Day Discounts
Veterans Day is a remarkable opportunity for businesses to give back to the heroes who have given their all for our nation.
If you’re a veteran, don’t miss out on all the discounts and special offers available to you this Veterans Day.
Be sure to take advantage of these types of opportunities to show companies you appreciate their thanks. And if possible, take the opportunity to dine with other veterans from all the branches of the military.
Whether you love Chili’s or have another restaurant in mind, stay tuned to The Military Wallet’s guide to all the best Veterans Day dining discounts on the market and take advantage of all the opportunities to save on this most meaningful day.
