What free stuff can military members get in 2026?

Military members and veterans can get free meals at dozens of restaurants on Veterans Day (November 11), free National Parks passes, 10-20% year-round discounts at most major retailers, free USAA banking and insurance, discounted wireless plans, and free or reduced admission at museums, theme parks, and attractions.

How do I verify my military status for discounts?

Use ID.me or SheerID for online verification (one-time setup), show your military ID, VA card, or DD-214 in stores. Many retailers now accept digital verification through their apps or websites.

Updated 2026-05-12 · Thank you for your service

Free Stuff for Military & Veterans 2026

Q: What restaurants give free meals on Veterans Day?

On Veterans Day, free meals are offered at Applebee's, Chili's, Denny's, IHOP, Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Outback Steakhouse, Golden Corral, Texas Roadhouse, Buffalo Wild Wings, and many more. Most require military ID or proof of service.

The best freebies for military in 2026: Free meals at 50+ restaurants on Veterans Day (November 11), 10% year-round discounts at Home Depot, Lowe's, and Target, up to 50% off wireless plans at T-Mobile and Verizon, free National Parks pass for Gold Star families and disabled veterans, and military discounts at Apple, Nike, and Under Armour.

Top Military Freebies & Discounts

National Parks Free lifetime pass $80 Gold Star Family or disabled vet

Applebee's Free meal on Veterans Day $12-15 Military ID

Home Depot 10% military discount 10% off Military ID or ID.me

Lowe's 10% military discount 10% off Military ID or ID.me

Target 10% off (twice yearly) 10% off ID.me verification

T-Mobile 50% off family plans $50+/mo savings Military verification

Verizon Military discount plans Up to $25/mo off Military verification

Under Armour 20% military discount 20% off ID.me

Nike 10% military discount 10% off ID.me

Apple Military discount Up to $200 off Military verification

How to Maximize Military Discounts

Set Up ID.me Once

ID.me is accepted at hundreds of retailers online. Verify your military status once, then use it everywhere - no need to show your ID each time for online purchases.

Plan for Veterans Day

Veterans Day (November 11) is the biggest day for free meals. Make a list of participating restaurants and plan your route - some families hit 3-4 spots in one day.

Check Exchange & Commissary

The military exchange (AAFES, NEX) and commissary often have the best prices. Online exchange shopping is available to all honorably discharged veterans.

Don't Forget Dependents

Many discounts extend to military spouses and dependents. T-Mobile, Verizon, and some retailers include family members in military discount programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants give free meals on Veterans Day?

Over 50 restaurants offer free meals including Applebee's, Chili's, Denny's, IHOP, Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Outback, Golden Corral, Texas Roadhouse, Cracker Barrel, and Buffalo Wild Wings. Check Freemania in early November for the complete list.

Do veterans get free National Parks passes?

Gold Star Families and veterans with permanent service-connected disabilities get free lifetime passes. All other veterans can get the $80 annual pass. Active duty military get free annual passes.

How do I verify my military status online?

Set up ID.me or SheerID - both are free and accepted at hundreds of retailers. You'll verify once with your DD-214, military ID, or VA card, then use it everywhere online.

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