Veterans, people who served in the military, get special benefits to help them after they finish their service. These benefits are meant to help them adjust to life outside the military. However, many veterans don’t know about all the free or cheaper services they can get. These services are really helpful, and veterans should know about them so they can take advantage of them.
17 essentially free benefits most veterans still pay full price for.
Healthcare Services
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers free or very cheap healthcare services to veterans. These services cover different types of medical care such as regular check-ups, special treatments for specific health issues, and help for mental health problems. The VA wants to make sure veterans get all the medical care they need without worrying about the cost.
Education Benefits
The GI Bill helped veterans go to college or vocational school without paying a lot of money. It can cover the whole cost at public universities and a big part at private ones. Veterans can also share this benefit with their families if they meet certain rules.
Life Insurance
Veterans can get life insurance through programs like Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI). This insurance helps their families if they pass away. It’s important because it financially supports them if something happens to the veteran. These insurance plans offer competitive rates. It’s a way for veterans to make sure their loved ones are taken care of even if they’re not around anymore.
Home Loans
VA home loans are special loans for veterans that come with good deals. Veterans don’t need to pay any money upfront (called a down payment) and they get low interest rates. This program helps veterans buy homes without having to worry too much about money.
Burial Benefits
Eligible veterans can be buried for free in a national cemetery, where they will receive a gravesite, a headstone, and ongoing maintenance of the site. The Veterans Affairs (VA) department also helps with funeral costs. These benefits honor and remember the veterans’ service to the country.
Travel and Leisure Services
Veterans can get special deals on travel, hotels, and entertainment. Companies like Amtrak and Delta Airlines offer lower rates for veterans. Many hotel chains do the same. Additionally, places like theme parks and museums often give veterans free or cheaper tickets.
Free Access to National Parks
Veterans can visit national parks and federal recreational areas for free. They get a special pass called the Interagency Annual Military Pass. It lets them enter over 2,000 sites across the United States without paying. This benefit is meant to encourage veterans to enjoy the beautiful natural places in the country.
Home Modification Grants
Veterans with disabilities can get grants to help them make their homes easier to live in. A program that offers this help is the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant. This grant helps financially so they can make important changes to their homes. Changes such as adding ramps or widening doorways.
Free Financial Counseling
The National Foundation for Credit Counseling provides free financial help to veterans. They offer services such as creating a budget, managing debt, and planning for the future. This support helps veterans manage their finances better and become financially stable.
Property Tax Reduction
Many states in the U.S. such as Florida, Hawaii, Iowa and more provide property tax exemptions or reductions for disabled veterans. These benefits, which differ from state to state, can greatly reduce the cost of owning a home. Veterans should contact their local tax offices to get detailed information about the specific benefits available to them in their area.
Free Museum Admission
Many museums in the United States, such as the Smithsonian and the Museum of Modern Art, allow veterans to visit for free. This means veterans can enjoy and learn from cultural and educational exhibits without having to pay admission fees.
Free Tax Preparation Services
Veterans can get help with their taxes for free from places such as VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance). They help make sure veterans fill out their tax forms correctly and before the deadline. Getting this free help can save veterans money and make doing taxes less stressful.
Cheaper Phone Plans
Big phone companies like Verizon and AT&T offer cheaper phone plans to veterans. These special plans give veterans lower prices and extra perks, such as more data or free calls. This will help them keep in touch with their loved ones. Veterans can save money and still stay connected with their families and friends easily.
Legal Help
Veterans can get help with legal problems from certain organizations without spending so much money. They can assist with things such as getting benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, dealing with family-related legal matters, and other legal issues.
Cheaper Pet Adoption Charges
Animal shelters give veterans a discount or don’t charge them at all when they adopt a pet. A program called Pets for Vets helps veterans find the right pet for them. These things help both the veterans and the animals in better being.
Employment Services
The VA (Veterans Affairs) helps veterans find jobs. It offers different services to make this transition easier. These services include teaching new job skills, helping veterans write their resumes, and finding job opportunities for them. Veterans with disabilities get extra help to make sure they can find a job that fits their needs.
Disability Compensation
Veterans who have disabilities because of their service can get financial help every month. The amount they get depends on how serious their disability is and if they have any family members who depend on them. The money they receive is tax-free.
Auto Insurance Discounts
Companies like GEICO and USAA offer these discounts. It means you pay less money for car insurance if you serve in the military. These discounts can help veterans save a lot of money on their car insurance bills.
Prescription Discounts
Veterans can get cheaper prices for their medicines through the VA, which helps them afford important medicines. The VA also has a service where veterans can get their medicines delivered to their homes, which makes it easier for them.