Many companies offer military discounts, which is an awesome way to show their appreciation for all military veterans have done for our country. As a veteran, I certainly appreciate the gesture, and I try to thank the company offering the discount whenever it is possible. As well-meaning as the military discounts are, however, they sometimes cause problems because there is no general standard among stores regarding discount eligibility.
In this article we will cover some helpful information about military discounts, including how to get them, how to find “hidden” military discounts, what to expect, and what to do if the discount isn’t honored.
Military Discount Eligibility
Let’s start off with the most important topic – who is eligible for a military discount. This is probably the most debated topic I’ve seen regarding military discounts. Unfortunately, there isn’t one standard. The important thing to remember is that stores aren’t required to give military discounts – it’s a privilege, not a right. The stores set the rules, and we as military members and veterans, should honor the standards set by the stores.
Let’s take a look at some different groups of people who are commonly offered military discounts at various locations:
- Active duty military
- Current Guard / Reserve
- Retirees
- Military dependents (anyone with a DoD issued military or dependent ID)
- Veterans (proof of service may or may not be required)
As you can see, there is a wide range of people in this list. And it doesn’t always make sense. Many stores which offer military discounts do so out of generosity, but sometimes their policies are made without understanding how the military ID card system works. Compounding this is the fact that there isn’t a standard for a national veterans ID card – yet (legislation has been passed into law, but the cards haven’t been issued yet). As a result, some military discount policies are misguided.
For example, some stores offer discounts for dependents of active duty service members or retirees, while they don’t offer discounts for veterans who served, but are no longer on active duty and didn’t reach retirement (this group of people represents the largest group of veterans).
I will be the first to say that it doesn’t make sense to give a military discount to a dependent, who is someone who never wore the uniform, then deny a discount to someone who served, but didn’t retire. Yes, spouses and dependents make sacrifices on the home front, but they don’t warrant greater recognition than someone who served in a combat zone, but didn’t remain in the military through retirement. (I am qualified to make this statement as I both both served in a combat zone, and was a military spouse after I separated from the military – my wife served on active duty while I was a civilian).
But here is the kicker: it doesn’t matter what you or I think – we don’t make the rules. The stores make the rules, and as this is an act of generosity on their part, it’s always best to honor their wishes.
Finding Hidden Military Discounts
Many stores publicize military discounts, while others don’t announce them publicly. You will be surprised how often companies will offer you a military discount if you just ask for it. All it takes is a simple question while you are ordering or checking out.
Just ask, “do you offer a military discount?”
In some cases you will be told no, but sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised. Just ask, and always thank the person if you receive a discount. And if not, no hard feelings. Remember, this is an act of generosity on their part, not a right veterans deserve.
*Bonus tip: Your odds of success increase substantially when asking for a military discount on a military related holiday, such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Veterans Day or other national holidays. In fact, many stores don’t offer military discounts, except on these holidays.
Proving Military Service
After determining eligibility, the next most important thing is to be able to prove you served in the military. If you are on active duty, or are a retiree, then this likely isn’t a problem, as you should have a military ID Card. But proving military service can be a lot more difficult for a military veteran who didn’t retire, and isn’t receiving disability from the VA.
Unfortunately, there is currently no standard for proving military service, outside of carrying around your current military or retiree ID card, or a DD Form 214. Carrying your DD Form 214 isn’t always a good idea as it has your Social Security Number and other personal information on it. The good news is Congress has passed a law that will allow veterans to get an official Veterans ID card through the VA. We don’t have word on when they will begin issuing these ID cards, but it looks like it will be sometime in 2017.
Here are the current forms of ID cards you can use to show proof of service:
- Military ID Card
- Dependent ID Card
- VA Issued Identification Card (for the VA health care system)
- Veterans ID Card (not yet available)
- Veterans Designation on Drivers License
- Locally issued Veterans ID Card (some counties offer these ID Cards)
- Other ID or Membership Card – examples include veterans groups such as the VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, etc.
Again, because there is no standard, some stores only accept certain forms of ID or proof of service.
Need proof of service? If you served in the military, but don’t have any records to prove it, you can get a copy of your DD Form 214 or a copy of your service records form the National Archives. Both are free and easy to do, and can help you prove your military service.
What to Do if a Store Doesn’t Honor a Military Discount
As mentioned above, some military discounts are seemingly misguided regarding who is eligible, and who is not. But it’s not our place to make that judgment. As military discounts are made out of the generosity of the store offering the discount, it’s in our best interest as military members and veterans to accept a discount with humble thanks when it is offered, and be understanding when it is declined.
If you believe you should be eligible for a discount, then politely ask to speak with a manager and explain the situation. But always be sure to fully understand the company’s policies on military discounts before doing so (and keep in mind policies may change at any time, so be sure to be up to date).
Some of the biggest complaints we have heard are about the Home Depot and Lowe’s discounts. These companies offer military discounts everyday, however, they have changed the eligibility a few times, so the military discounts may only be available to a segment of the military and veteran population. Be sure to review their corporate policies before arguing with management about the discount you are “entitled to.”
For example, the Lowe’s military discount is available to all current and former military members every day. You can register for a MyLowe’s account and provide your MyLowe’s card or phone number when you check out at the store to have the 10% discount automatically applied to eligible purchases. Your online purchases will also automatically receive the discount if you have registered with the MyLowe’s program and you are logged into your Lowe’s account when you make your purchase.
On the other hand, The Home Depot’s military discount is only available on a daily basis to current military members, retirees, and veterans with a service-connected disability and a VA ID card that specifies the service-connected rating. Non-retired military veterans without a VA rating are only eligible for the discount on certain days of the year, such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Veterans Day.
Remember, military discounts are an act of generosity, not a right. It is never worth making a scene over getting a military discount.
Do you have any other tips on asking for or receiving military discounts?
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TLS says
I have had nothing but a hard time at home depot on getting my miltary discounts. I basically stopped shopping there do to the hasssle of it all. I can walk into Lowe’s give them my phone number an that all it takes. At Home Depot you almost have to give your first born away to get the discount. I know either you don’t really want to give the miltary discount or your trying to make it so hard the Veteran just gives up and, goes some where else where it’s easier to do business.
I don’t carry my phone on me 24/7 and, I know you can make it alot easier for the Veterans to get their discounts as you advertise, just like Lowe’s and all the other places I shop. I either give them my phone number or just show them my Miltary ID card and that’s it. I don’t have to pull a damm app on my phone like when I go into Home Depot and, if I don’t have it on me I don’t get the discount. This is a very poor business practice for Home Depot and, the sad part I use to work there.
James Broyles military police veteran says
Home Depot needs to get their military veteran discount straightened out.
I have not been able to get it for 5 years now. When I signed up on line last
February they gave no directions for getting this discount. I think it’s about time
to just say goodby to HD. Any coments will be appreciated.
Brittany Crocker says
Hey James! Are you having problems with their verification service or the app?
Jeff rabe says
My son passed of PTSD during his 19 yr of service.Im I eligible for military discount card and if yes how would I go about getting one.
Karina S says
Good Afternoon, I’ve been trying to find some information and hoping someone on this platform may be able to assist. We are opening a new store and would like to offer military discounts in the future. Can anyone direct me to an article, person or website where I can find out more information about the enrollment process?
Jolene Meehan says
Hi! I am a widow of an Army veteran who passed away due to health conditions related to Agent Orange when serving in Vietnam. Am I a eligible to use his service ID at any commissaries or stores that honor this ? Thank you for your time.
Ryan Guina says
Hello Jolene,
I am sorry for your loss. If your husband was a military retiree, then you may still be eligible for certain benefits. If he was not a military retiree, then I am not aware of the ability to access the base for Commissaries, the Exchange, or other reasons. I recommend contacting the base Pase & ID or personnel office for more information. They can help you understand which levels of base access, if any, you will be eligible for.
Additionally, I recommend contacting the VA to see if there are any forms of survivor’s benefits based on his illness/injuries and the cause of death.
Again, I am sorry for your loss, and I wish you the best.
Jennifer Bean says
My son just went to Parris Island. I sell home made candy and some local farmers markets and want to show my appreciation by giving a gift of a free item (of their choice) to the first 20 active, retired or veterans that stop by my booth. I don’t have large profit margin so I can’t do much. Now I have two questions. Have they came out with the veteran cards and is this appropriate or offensive?
Ryan Guina says
Hello Jennifer, First – I wish your son the best in his military career! Second, thank you for supporting the military community.
Regarding military discounts: Yes, there is a new veterans ID card. However, the VA only just started printing them, and there are thousands of people who have applied for this card and have not yet received it. There are other forms of ID or proof of service, such as military ID cards, drivers license designation, Veterans Service Organization membership cards, discharge paperwork, and more.
In this case, I think the best thing to do would be to simply take someone’s word that they served. Many people served years ago and do not have any “official” proof of service they can carry around with them. Asking for ID or other proof of service for something small doesn’t seem necessary. At worst, some people may view asking for proof of service as questioning their integrity.
Instead, I would simply thank them for their service and use this as an opportunity to engage in conversation. Tell them why you are doing this – your son just joined the Marines, and you want to thank all servicemembers. Ask them about their service, where they served, their favorite assignment, favorite memory, what they did, etc. You will have more fun engaging with veterans in this manner and possibly make some new friends. And it’s very possible that giving someone a small gift may lead to additional sales, either that day, or in the future if they frequent that farmer’s market.
Again, I wish your son the best, and thank you for supporting the military community!
Jackson Bhloes says
I love this article its soo incorrect in many levels. The home depot policy hasnt changed in over 10 years. If you request to see the archived information they show it to you. In a day I have to turn down over 10 veterans. Some are nice, some require some explanation, and some are plain rude. I can not and will not break a rule to become unemployed not even once will I waiver and if you were a VETRAN you know what it is to follow rules. Do them or move out the way. So next time you want to quote an article from a company that isn’t affiliated with Home depot at least read the bottom line of the article
“Remember, military discounts are an act of generosity, not a right. It is never worth making a scene over getting a military discount.”
YES you served thank you for serving. No its NOT mandatory to give you a discount. Pay and move on.
My cousin is a Vet . He dosnt get a discount. Should he ? No he only sat in a office for 4 years.
My friend is a vet. He should get a discount. Why ? He got injured in the line of duty his life is for ever marred with that injury.
See the difference of why service connected (injured in line of duty) is honored every day . HE COULD OF DIED while others sat in a comfy office or were just janitors .
So next time you want to cause a scene n the store realize people are looking at you with respect they are looking at you with shame . He served for us ?!?! How did they put up with it .
Lori says
I will be starting an online business and would like to offer a discount to former military (current wont need the service) but purchases will be made online. Is there anything at all that I can ask for as a means of ‘confirming’ the person is really former military? For instance, “enter your xyz number here” and that number is always 10 digits so I would know if someone entered 5 it was not legit? Just wondering….thanks
Hunter Penton says
Sorry to ask a question on a 5 month old thread but I couldn’t find any information whatsoever as my situation is (somewhat) unique. I’m 17 and recently joined the LA Army National Guard, had my first RSP drill a few days ago. My question is since I’m still in high school and won’t ship to BCT until July, am I eligible for any discounts (once I get my Military ID that is, which will be a week from now)?
Also am I eligible for USAA and can I get a policy in my name if I’m 17?
Ryan Guina says
Hello Hunter, Thank you for contacting me. Military discounts are specific for each company. Not all companies offer military discounts. Those that do, usually require you to have a military ID card. If you have a card, you would likely qualify for the discount. As for USAA, membership eligibility is usually based on your service (you need to actually be in the military) or if you are the child of a current USAA member. You may already be considered a military member because you are already attending drills. But I’m not 100% certain on their policies in that situation. I would just contact USAA and ask them – they will be able to tell you if you are eligible or not. If not, you should be once you officially ship off to basic training. I hope this is helpful, and best of luck in your military career!
Ron Mills says
I am at 100 percent disability, can I buy at the military base stores
tommyD says
This is unrelated to this thread/subject.
I am sorry to hear you are disabled. I understand….I have serious debilitating medical issues myself, but have been fortunate enough to have been gainfully employed, made income, paid taxes, etc for over 35 years now. Nonetheless, what the heck does this question have to do with this subject/thread?
This is about military service records, discounts, proof of such, etc.
Disability is important of course, but a completely separate issue.
Cherish says
I am carrying a child by an active army soldier who is due soon. Is he eligible?
Ryan Guina says
Hello Cherish, Thank you for contacting me. Your child may be eligible for some military benefits, possibly including health care. I recommend working with the father of your child to enroll your child in the DEERS system, which is the benefits system for military members and their dependents.
Julie lewis says
Just found out when I went to get my drivers license renew in Texas there’s a different way to show you are a vet without taking a dd214/215, va benefit letter etc. since most of our military paperwork has private info we would prefer to not let the world know-txdmv will issue you your drivers license with veteran stamped on it. Yes you have to bring prooftomthe dmv but they won’t show it to the world and no one else can get your info. I feel it’s a win-win situation for discounts etc. check your state for drivers license info and see if they have something like Texas 🙂
Mary M. Lawler says
I, Mary Lawler, I’m 60 years of age and a Vietnam Era Veteran. I am now handicapped and I wish to use the nearby Military Facilities(Andrews AirForce Base) with my son, whom I need to help me in and out of the car and help me to find the needed household items. I presently only have a card to go to The VA Hospital.
I would appreciate a positive response. Respectfully, Mary Lawler
Ryan Guina says
Hello Mary, Here is the best information we have regarding replacement Military ID Cards: Replacement Military ID Card. Please keep in mind that the military only issues ID cards to current service members, retirees, and their dependents. If you are not a military retiree or a qualified dependent, it is unlikely you will be eligible to receive a military ID card and base access. The best thing I can do is recommend you speak with your local Pass & ID office for more information. I hope this points you in the right direction.
Jonny Crytzer says
Your local VA Medical facility can issue you a Medical Photo ID card…This can be used and is accepted at most businesses that give the Military discount..I have the new ID card, and have used it successfully for over a year now!..You go in gove them your info, get your picture taken, and you will receive your card within a couple weeks, in the mail..
Becky J. says
What should a Lodge offer for a military discount? Do you need to sign up with the gov for this or just go at it? Im trying to find out how the Lodge I work at can get on a list for military discounts for veterans and active duty so they can to stay here, play golf or even eat at a discounted rate. Just need to know the steps. Thanks!
Wendy says
I am a widow of a former military man, who left the military as a young man… he was trying to get a military card for me before he passed away, but well.. we just didn’t get it done. Am I eligible for a card?
Ryan Guina says
Hello Wendy, I’m sorry for your loss. Most likely not, unless he was a military retiree. Military ID cards are only issued to current and retired military members and their dependents. If he served less than 20 years in the military it isn’t likely he was a military retiree. Therefore you are most likely not eligible for a military ID card.
Jerald Taylor says
I would advise you to locate his DD-214 and then contact your local DAV Chapter, they will help you find answers, the correct ones.
Leighton A Hardy says
Lots of good information on this site. I have a copy of my DD214 form but, it is very deteriorated and can not be copied. Where would I to go to obtain a copy of my DD214 form and have it made into a wallet size ID card.
Thanks for your help in advance!
Ryan Guina says
Hi Leighton, Here is how to replace your DD Form 214.
Diane wife of USCG retiree says
We have not had a problem at Lowe’s. The problem lies with Home Depot and the rudeness of the associates when you tell them you want to use a military discount—disrespectful!!!! Sears offers it only on certain items ie: automotive or full priced items. Don’t be afraid to ask because the veterans are the one who have put their lives on the line for our freedom……A great big THANK YOU to all who have served and are serving and a shout out to the dependents and families who hold down the home fort……..
ANGELIC WIFE OF ARMY VET says
THE DISCOUNTS MAKE AN GREAT DIFFERENCE IN YOUR WALLET AND IS GREATLY APPRECIATED. WE BROUGHT TWO PAIRS OF GYM SHOES AND SAVED ABOUT FIFTY DOLLARS AND THEY WERE ON SALE TO SO ALL TOGETHER ABOUT $100 DOLLARS. IF U LIVE IN MICHIGAN , ASK FOR MILITARY DISCOUNT AT FOOTLOCKER AND FOOT ACTION SHOE STORE.
SSG Eastmon, Deonty says
While discounts are awsome, it doesnt make sence to make a scene if a businesses doesnt offer one. It most certainly isnt the employees falt. So stop emarrasing yourself and the rest of the military, vets and soldiers. You really kill it for for the rest of us. At the same time thanks to all the businesses that do offer a discount its well appreciated. It is true that you really have to ask at most places and you will really be surprised at who offers discounts, and who doesnt. Dont be affraid to just ask.
Jonny Crytzer says
First of all, my veterans info is in the system at Lowes, and I’ve never had problems there..In fact my son has a truck, and just gives them my phone number when picking things up for my many projects…Home Depot on the other hand requires presentation of my card..I have no problems with that..I am very appreciative of any and all discounts..At restaurants, I give my savings as an extra tip to the waitress…U.S. Army 1964-1967…
Jarhead says
Ryan
As a member of the military for the past 17 years I really appreciate all military discounts that are offered. However I just ask that everyone remember that it is a privlege and not a right. Thanks to all the businesses that do offer discounts. Also your chances of receiving discounts raises greatly if you ask for the discount.