Veterans have served their country with dedication and sacrifice, and in recognition of their service, numerous businesses and organizations across various industries extend their gratitude by providing them with special offers, freebies, and discounts. These gestures not only honor veterans but also help ease some of the financial burdens they may face. Here are some of the ways businesses show appreciation to veterans:
27 Amazing Free Stuff for Veterans
Government Assistance
Veterans can access various government programs that offer financial assistance, housing support, and other benefits. These programs aim to help veterans transition back to civilian life and provide them with the necessary resources they may need.
Health Services
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) operates VA hospitals and clinics across the country, offering free or discounted healthcare services to eligible veterans. Veterans can receive medical check-ups, treatments, prescriptions, and specialized care through these facilities.
Dental Services:
VA dental clinics and dental schools provide free or low-cost dental care to veterans. Dental health is an essential part of overall well-being, and these services ensure veterans can maintain good oral health.
Learn more about the Dental Care Lifeline Network to determine if free dental is available in your state.
Mental Health:
Veterans often face mental health challenges after serving, and the VA offers mental health counseling, therapy, and support groups to address these issues. Hotlines are also available for veterans in crisis.
The confidential crisis line is available for veterans by phone (1-800-273-8255) or chat 24 hours, 7 days per week.
Beds & Furniture:
Non-profit organizations like Heroes Warehouse and charitable groups often donate beds and furniture to veterans in need, ensuring they have a comfortable living environment.
Computers:
Some organizations like Computer Banc provide free or low-cost computers to veterans, enabling them to access educational resources, and job opportunities, and stay connected with their families. Similerly another tech company, Netsonic supports the military.
Transportation:
Special transportation services are available to veterans, including discounted public transit and shuttle services. Services like RelayRIDE and Lyft are giving back to service members and help veterans with commuting needs.
Veterans can request free transportation services to medical appointments, job interviews, or grocery shopping, showing appreciation for their service and support.
Home Repair:
Non-profit organizations and community groups like Home Depot Foundation offer assistance with home repairs and modifications to make homes more accessible for veterans with disabilities.
Lawn & Landscape Service:
Veterans may receive free or discounted lawn care and landscape services, reducing the burden of maintaining their property.
Cars
Certain programs provide free or discounted cars to veterans who might face transportation challenges.
Several organizations and car manufacturers like Cars4Heroes and 800-Charity Cars, offer exclusive benefits to veterans when it comes to purchasing or maintaining vehicles. Some of the perks for veterans include:
- Military Discounts: Many car dealerships and manufacturers provide special discounts and incentives to veterans as a gesture of gratitude for their service. These discounts can range from a certain percentage off the vehicle’s price to special financing options.
- Vehicle Purchase Programs: Some automakers have specific vehicle purchase programs designed exclusively for veterans, making it easier for them to buy a new car at a discounted price.
- Free Vehicle Maintenance: Certain organizations and automotive service centers offer free or discounted vehicle maintenance services, including oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections, to veterans.
- Adaptive Vehicle Modifications: Veterans with disabilities may be eligible for vehicle modifications that make driving more accessible and comfortable. These modifications can include wheelchair
Pets:
Some organizations offer service dogs and assistance animals to veterans, providing companionship and support. Pets for Vets is an exceptional organization that pairs veterans experiencing a difficult transition to civilian life with affectionate service animals.
Through this heartwarming initiative, veterans find companionship, support, and unconditional love from their furry friends, which can significantly enhance their well-being and quality of life during this critical phase of readjustment.
Education:
The GI Bill is a well-known program that provides educational assistance to veterans, helping them pursue higher education or vocational training. GI Bill is one of the most well-known educational benefits for veterans. It provides financial assistance for tuition, housing, and books for veterans and their eligible dependents to attend colleges, universities, trade schools, and other educational programs.
Employment Resources
Job placement assistance, career counseling, and resources are available to veterans seeking employment opportunities. There are some employment resources available that are very helpful.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) provide free rides to medical appointments as well as can help disabled veterans locate employment. Likewise, LinkedIn provides its premium membership for free to all veterans.
Tax Services
During tax season, veterans may receive free assistance with tax preparation to ensure they receive all eligible tax benefits.
Emergency Assistance:
Various organizations offer financial assistance to veterans facing emergencies, providing a safety net during difficult times.
Entertainment:
Veterans can enjoy various entertainment options and events organized specifically for them.
Airport Free Checked Bags:
Many airlines offer free checked bags for active-duty military and veterans, making travel more convenient.
Sports
Sports organizations often provide discounts or free entry to sports events for veterans as a gesture of appreciation for their service.
Participating in sports not only enhances physical fitness and mental well-being but also allows veterans to build connections with fellow veterans and members of the community.
The support from organizations and sports clubs provides veterans with the means to stay active, competitive, and engaged in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
Tickets (Concerts, Sporting Events, etc.):
Through partnerships and charitable initiatives, veterans may receive free or discounted tickets to concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment activities.
Veterans often enjoy attending concerts, sporting events, and various entertainment activities as a way to unwind and create cherished memories.
To honor their service, many event organizers, venues, and ticketing platforms offer special discounts and complimentary tickets for veterans, making it easier for them to experience the joy of live performances and sports competitions.
Lodging:
Hotels and lodging facilities may offer discounts to veterans, making travel more affordable.
Veterans, who have selflessly devoted themselves to serving their country, often face unique challenges and stressors. To provide them with opportunities for relaxation, rejuvenation, and reconnection with loved ones, various organizations and resorts offer vacations and retreats exclusively tailored to meet the needs of veterans and their families.
These specialized vacations and retreats serve as a well-deserved respite from the demands of daily life and the rigors of military service. They offer veterans a chance to step away from their routines, immerse themselves in serene environments, and partake in activities that promote physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, these experiences aim to enhance the overall quality of life for veterans and their families.
Organizations dedicated to supporting veterans often collaborate with resorts and retreat centers to provide these opportunities at little or no cost. Some of these vacations are designed to accommodate veterans with disabilities, ensuring that all veterans can enjoy a relaxing and comfortable experience.
Vacations / Retreats
Organizations and foundations arrange free or subsidized vacations and retreats for veterans, giving them a chance to relax and rejuvenate.
Veterans, who have selflessly devoted themselves to serving their country, often face unique challenges and stressors. To provide them with opportunities for relaxation, rejuvenation, and reconnection with loved ones, various organizations and resorts offer vacations and retreats exclusively tailored to meet the needs of veterans and their families.
These specialized vacations and retreats serve as a well-deserved respite from the demands of daily life and the rigors of military service. They offer veterans a chance to step away from their routines, immerse themselves in serene environments, and partake in activities that promote physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, these experiences aim to enhance the overall quality of life for veterans and their families.
Museums
Veterans can enjoy free or discounted admission to museums as a way to explore history and culture.
To acknowledge and honor their dedication, many museums across the United States extend special privileges to veterans, including free or discounted admission.
Whether showcasing art, science, technology, or historical artifacts, museums offer a diverse array of exhibits that captivate and enlighten visitors of all ages. From renowned art museums housing masterpieces by legendary artists to interactive science museums that spark curiosity, there is something for everyone to explore and appreciate.
Veterans, along with their families, can often enjoy complimentary or reduced-cost admission to participating museums on specific occasions like Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day. Some museums also extend this generosity year-round, granting free access to veterans with valid military identification or proof of service.
National Parks
Veterans can access national parks for free, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of nature.
The U.S. National Park Service (NPS) manages over 400 parks, monuments, historical sites, and recreation areas, encompassing millions of acres of diverse terrain. For veterans seeking solace or adventure in the great outdoors, these parks serve as a resplendent escape, offering a range of activities like hiking, camping, wildlife watching, stargazing, and much more.
On designated days such as Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day, the NPS commonly waives entrance fees for all visitors, including veterans and active-duty military personnel. This allows veterans and their families to experience the breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage preserved within these parks without any admission cost.
Haircuts
Barbershops and salons often provide free haircuts to veterans as a way to show appreciation for their service.
Veterans looking to stay well-groomed and stylish often find themselves with a welcomed perk from barbershops and hair salons across the country. As a meaningful gesture of appreciation for their service, many hair establishments offer complimentary haircuts or substantial discounts exclusively for veterans.
Throughout the year, veterans can take advantage of these special offers at various locations, whether it’s a local barbershop or a national chain. By showing a valid military ID or proof of service, veterans receive the royal treatment, enjoying a fresh haircut and, in some cases, additional grooming services at no cost.
Restaurants
Many restaurants offer discounts or free meals to veterans on special occasions or as an ongoing promotion.
Restaurants around the nation have embraced a heartwarming tradition of honoring veterans by offering special dining perks as a token of appreciation for their selfless service.
These generous gestures extend far beyond a simple discount; they create memorable experiences for veterans and their families while recognizing the sacrifices made for the country.
On designated days like Veterans Day or Memorial Day, many restaurants proudly invite veterans to enjoy complimentary meals or substantial discounts as a symbol of gratitude.
These offers often encompass a wide range of dining establishments, from local eateries to well-known national chains.
By presenting a valid military ID or proof of service, veterans can indulge in delicious meals, often including appetizers, entrees, and desserts, free of charge.
Gyms:
Gyms and fitness centers often offer discounted membership rates to veterans, encouraging them to stay healthy and active.
Gyms across the country have made it their mission to support veterans in their pursuit of health and wellness by offering special benefits and free memberships. These fitness establishments recognize the sacrifices made by veterans and aim to provide them with a space to focus on their physical and mental well-being.
Veterans’ free gym memberships are more than just access to exercise equipment; they represent a commitment to the health and happiness of those who have served. These offerings can include full access to gym facilities, fitness classes, personal training sessions, and more, allowing veterans to tailor their workouts to their individual needs and goals.
Fitness plays a vital role in the overall well-being of veterans, helping them maintain a healthy lifestyle and cope with the challenges that may arise post-service. Gyms understand this and go the extra mile to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for veterans to thrive.
Car Wash
Car wash businesses may offer free or discounted services to veterans as a gesture of thanks. Across the nation, car wash businesses and organizations extend their gratitude to veterans by offering complimentary car washes as a token of appreciation for their service and sacrifices.
These acts of kindness not only ensure that veterans’ vehicles remain in pristine condition but also serve as a heartfelt gesture of support and recognition for their dedication to the country.
Exclusive Military Discounts
Many businesses and retailers have exclusive discounts for veterans as a token of gratitude for their service.
It’s essential for veterans to inquire about eligibility requirements and availability of these benefits, as they may vary based on location and specific criteria.