A military veteran is a person who has served in the army, navy, air force, or another branch of the armed forces. They are among the most respected members of the country because of their immense contribution to wartime operations and other efforts to safeguard the nation. As a result, veterans are entitled to several benefits. While most of them are aware of their perks, some may not be aware of every discount program and benefit available to them.

VetRewards Card
The Veterans Advantage Card Program is one of the most popular initiatives to honor military service members and their families. Under this program, eligible veterans get a VetRewards Card with their names and other details. The card gives them access to discounts on travel, shopping, and other things, helping them save money.

Hundreds of reputable businesses and organizations have collaborated with the Veterans Advantage Program to make it a success. Companies participating in the program come from various industries, including tourism, entertainment, home, office, health, business, and finance. They offer members discounts on their products and services. In addition, the federal government and collaborating state governments also offer benefits to cardholders.

As far as eligibility is concerned, military officers, retired military officers, members of the National Guard and Reserves, and family members of qualifying service people are eligible for VetRewards benefits. There are no constraints on the period of service, the branch of the military, or the rank of the individual participating. In most cases, you are qualified to join the VetRewards Program if you are an active duty or retired military member, current or past guard, or immediate family member of a veteran.

While getting a membership is not difficult, you may have to pay a fee depending on the level of benefits you want. As a result, many veterans wonder if they should get the VetRewards Card or do without it. Some businesses already provide veterans benefits and deals without requiring participation in the program. However, such discounts are limited. They are usually not for all service members (past and present) and their families. Further, some businesses only give these discounts to current service members with valid IDs. So if you are eligible, getting a VetRewards Card might be rewarding.

VA benefits for seniors
Elderly veterans are eligible for many benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These cover disability compensation, pension, education and training, healthcare, home loans, insurance, Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) schemes, and burial, among other things. Here are a few specific highlights regarding the VA benefits for seniors:

Special health insurance schemes and the option to contribute co-payments based on income
Discounts on a nursing home, supported living, home healthcare, and treatment
Pension programs like VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound Allowance
VA Survivors Pension for surviving wives and unmarried dependent children of wartime veterans

VA burial benefits
After the veteran’s passing, family members get a cemetery in any national cemetery with an open area, opening and shutting of the grave, permanent maintenance, a federal headstone, monument, or medal, a funeral flag, a President Memorial Award, and other services at no cost. Some veterans may be entitled to funeral payments as well. Cremated remains are cremated or buried in national cemeteries with the same respect and dignity as casketed remains.

In case of a service-connected death, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) covers the cost of funeral expenses up to a certain limit. Further, if the veteran is buried at a VA national cemetery, the expense of carrying the body may be refunded in part or whole. VA covers such costs even if the death is unrelated to service, but the amount is usually lower. They may also allow plot-interment allowance if not buried in a national cemetery. You can read more about the various burial benefits for veterans on the official VA website.

Other military benefits for veterans
Veterans benefits and deals keep changing from time to time. Here are a few other benefits members enjoy besides the ones already discussed:

A regular paycheck and cash bonuses
Advantages of education to the family
Advanced and specialized education
Annual paid vacation of 30 days
Travel benefits
A choice between full-time and part-time service

Room and allowances are tax-free
Dental treatment
Utilization of commissaries and military exchange shops
Discounts and special home loans

If you choose to serve in the military, your experience and contribution will impact the rest of your life. Veterans and service members share sentiments like patriotism, duty, honor, selfless service, and a sense of purpose that can only be achieved via military service. These, as well as leadership abilities, meaningful work, camaraderie, and achievement, are just a few soft skills that rank among the most valuable of all military benefits. Besides, military service develops self-control, earns respect, and exhibits a strong work ethic. People admire your military experience, training, and leadership ability, which is something to be proud of and happy about. The various veterans benefits and deals are only secondary.