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How to get the best military discounts

We've put together a list of special deals and discounts for active duty, veterans, reservists and their families.

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Honoring military service members doesn't just happen on holidays.

Hundreds of businesses offer special deals and discounts for you and your loved ones if you're affiliated with the military. Read on to learn how you can get them, what types of discounts are available, and where you can access them.

How do I qualify for a military discount?

Typically, you'll need to show a valid military ID or other proof of service to get a discount. This is easy to do when you're shopping in person, especially if you're in uniform.

For online deals, you may have to verify your eligibility by phone or email, or through a verification service like ID.me Opens in a New Window.‍ ‍ See note 1 Other military offers are available through these deal providers that verify your status when you create an account.

Although many military discounts are offered year-round, some are only available on certain days like Veterans Day or Military Mondays. They can also have other restrictions, such as location.

Where can I find military discounts?

A list of military discounts would be too long. For example, USAA members can take advantage of cashback discounts at more than 900 shops alone by visiting USAA MemberShop® Opens in a New Window.‍ ‍ See note 2

We've rounded up some of the best military deals in top categories to give you an idea of what's available and help you claim your well-deserved savings.

Keep in mind that not all businesses advertise their military discounts. If you're not sure whether a store or service provider offers a military discount, just ask. It can't hurt — and you might get lucky and score a great deal.

Military discounts for flights and travel

Got a getaway in mind? You can save on car rentals, flights, hotels and vacation packages with our travel discounts. Save money on car rentals, flights, hotels and vacation packages. You can also plan for the unexpected by purchasing travel insurance.

Airlines

Car and truck rentals

Many car rental agencies offer discounts or special rates for military members and veterans. Check out some of the offers available:

Ground transportation

Cruises

Hotels and resorts

Food and dining

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of restaurants that offer military discounts, usually from 10% to 20% off. This includes major national chains like Popeyes, Chili's, Outback Steakhouse, Whataburger, The Melting Pot, Pizza Hut and Zaxby's. Make sure you ask for a discount at your favorite local spots the next time you dine out.

Did you know you can even save big when you eat at home? Get a discount on a Costco membership Opens in a New Window.‍ ‍ See note 1 You can also enjoy deals from meal delivery companies like HelloFresh and BlueApron.

Learn more about meal kits Opens in a New Window.‍ ‍ See note 1

Entertainment

There are lots of great deals to keep military service members and their families entertained.

Don't forget to check with your local Moral, Welfare and Recreation or Information, Tickets and Travel (ITT) office Opens in a New Window.‍ ‍ See note 1 Here, you can find special deals on sporting events, zoos, national parks, museums, theme parks, recreation equipment, vacation packages, leisure travel services and more.

Amusement parks and waterparks

Movie theaters

Sporting events

Service members can score big with professional sporting events Opens in a New Window.‍ ‍ See note 1 Most discounts are available on a team-by-team basis, but there are teams in the NBA Opens in a New Window,‍ ‍ See note 1 NFL Opens in a New Window‍ ‍ See note 1and MLB Opens in a New Window‍ ‍ See note 1 that offer military discounts.

Ski resorts

Service members can benefit from seasonal or one-day pass discounts at many ski resorts. These discounts are typically subject to availability and can change. Check out some of the discounts below:

Save more on your home and car

As a member of the military, you can get great savings on major expenses for your home and vehicle — from insurance to your next DIY project.

Home and auto insurance

Car sales and care

Home improvement

Helping you save more

Military personnel can also get big savings on clothing and footwear, electronics, jewelry and more. When you get to the register, check with your retailer to see if they offer a military discount.

Make the most of your budget.

Any plan of attack starts with solid recon. Track your expenses to learn ways to save, manage and get more from your money.