Veteran Benefits You Shouldn't Overlook

When you’ve served this country, you’ve earned more than just the thanks of a nation - you’ve earned access to veteran benefits designed to make life a little easier. Whether you’re a U.S. military veteran or a family member supporting one, here are key perks you shouldn’t overlook - and how to make sure you’re taking full advantage.

1. Free Airport Parking & Toll Road Privileges

Veterans with Disabled Veteran or Purple Heart license plates can often get free airport parking and toll exemptions.

• Free or discounted airport parking

  • Many airports waive parking fees for eligible vehicles. In Texas, this often includes major airports in Dallas, Houston, and Austin (rules vary by airport and parking facility).

• Toll road exemptions in Texas

  • Some Texas toll roads offer free access to qualifying disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients. Learn which roads qualify and how to receive your benefits.  Eligibility steps differ by roadway authority.

Tip: Plan in advance. Prior to traveling, check your airport or state’s Department of Transportation website to confirm eligibility and requirements.

2. National Park Lifetime Pass

All U.S. veterans qualify for the America the Beautiful Lifetime Military Pass, granting free entry to over 2,000 national parks and federal recreation sites.

• What the pass covers:

  • Entrance fees for the veteran and all passengers in a non-commercial vehicle
  • Up to four adults at per-person fee sites

• Who is eligible:

• • Honorably discharged veterans
  • Active duty service members
  • Gold Star Family members

• How to get the pass:

  • Pick it up in person at a federal recreation site
  • Or order online through the USGS store

Tip: Bring a form of veteran ID, like a VHIC, DD214, or a driver’s license with a veteran mark. This will help you get verified for your pass.

3. Commissary & Exchange Privileges

Thanks to the Purple Heart and Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act of 2018, qualifying veterans and caregivers can shop in person at military commissaries and exchanges.

• In-person eligibility includes

  • Veterans and Retirees — including those with a service-connected disability, Purple Heart, POW status, or caregiver designation — can shop in person at military commissaries and exchanges thanks to the Purple Heart and Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act of 2018.

• Online shopping for all veterans

  • All honorably discharged veterans can also shop online at military exchange websites. These stores are tax-free and often 20–30% cheaper than civilian retailers.

Tip: Confirm access using your Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) or other approved ID.

4. The VA Home Loan Benefits (one of the best veteran perks)

The VA Home Loan remains one of the most valuable veteran benefits available. Here's what makes it so valuable:

• No down payment required in most cases.
• No private mortgage insurance (PMI).
• Competitive interest rates and easier qualification standards.
• Can be used multiple times throughout your life.

How to get started

1. Request your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) early

2. Work with a lender experienced in VA loans

3. Compare options for purchase, refinance, or new construction

Tip: Work with a lender experienced in VA loans and obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) early.

🏡 As a VA-approved lender, Fairway can help you get pre-approved and guide you through your home loan options step-by-step.

5. Free Event Tickets through VetTix

Here’s a benefit many veterans don’t know about: the nonprofit Veteran Tickets Foundation (VetTix) gives eligible veterans, service members and families free (or low-cost) tickets to events: concerts, sports games, festivals, and more. 

How VetTix works

• Register online, verify your service, and request tickets in your area. etTix requires that you attend the event if you are given tickets or you will lose your privileges.

6. Military & Veteran Discounts

Many national and local businesses offer veteran discounts year-round.

• Retail & services

  • Savings on electronics, apparel, home goods, and professional services.

• Travel discounts

  • Reduced airfare, hotels, and rental cars via American Forces Travel.

• Recreation

  • Discounts on theme parks, gyms, and entertainment nationwide.

Tip: Always ask, even if it’s not advertised. Many websites verify status through ID.me and apply discounts automatically at checkout.

Other Benefits You Might be missing

• Transportation assistance

  • The VA Veterans Transportation Program helps eligible veterans get to medical appointments.

• Education & business incentives

  • Many states offer tuition assistance, business grants, or property tax exemptions for veterans.

• Outdoor recreation

  • Some states also waive fees for hunting, fishing, and camping permits for veterans or disabled vets..

• Job hunting and career training

  • Veterans have access to several programs designed to help them find meaningful work. Check out the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program for career counseling, job training, and resume support. You can also use the Veterans Employment Center to connect directly with employers who want to hire Veterans.

Final Thoughts

You’ve served, and you’ve earned these benefits. The challenge often isn’t what, but how: how to know which benefits apply to you, how to claim them, and how to make them work in your lifestyle.

Take one step this week: pick one benefit you haven’t used yet - maybe the National Park Pass, VetTix, or a VA Home Loan - and explore it. You’ve already done your part; now make sure you enjoy the rewards of your service.

Featured Expert

Artis Alexander - Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation
NMLS #1461251

Artis Alexander, a proud U.S. Army veteran and loan officer with The Wood Group of Fairway in Belton, TX, is dedicated to helping families achieve homeownership with personalized guidance and integrity. Known for his attention to detail and commitment to serving military families, Artis makes the mortgage process smooth, transparent, and stress-free for every client.

This article is provided for informational purposes only. Omega does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and makes no representations associated with the use of this information as it is not intended to constitute financial, legal, tax, or mortgage lending advice. Omega Builders encourages you to seek the advice of professionals in making any determination regarding, financial, legal, tax, or mortgage decisions as only an informed professional can appropriately advise you based upon the circumstances unique to your situation.

Veteran Benefits FAQ

1. What new communities or homes are near fort hood?

Omega Builders is proud to build homes for military families and has homes near post in the Three Creeks community in Belton, TX. Those that live in Three Creeks have a short commute to Fort Hood in under 25 minutes! Simply exit Three Creeks, jump on the highway and head towards post - you'll be at the Fort Hood main entrance in 23 minutes time! With an established large military presence, Three Creeks is the perfect community for your next PCS.

2. Who is eligible for military commissary and exchange privileges?

Veterans with a VA-documented service-connected disability, Purple Heart, or POW status, as well as approved caregivers, can shop in person at military commissaries and exchanges. All honorably discharged veterans can shop online at exchange websites like ShopMyExchange.com and MyNavyExchange.com.

3. How do I apply for a VA Home Loan?

You’ll need to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) through the Department of Veterans Affairs or your lender. Then, choose a VA-approved lender to start the home loan process. The VA loan offers no down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates.

4. Are there free or discounted travel benefits for veterans?

Yes. Many states offer free toll roads and airport parking for veterans with qualifying license plates. Airlines, hotels, and rental car companies also provide veteran travel discounts through programs like American Forces Travel.

5. What is the National Parks Lifetime Pass for Veterans?

The America the Beautiful Lifetime Military Pass gives veterans and Gold Star Families free lifetime access to more than 2,000 national parks and federal recreation sites. You can get the pass online via the USGS Store or in person at most national parks.

6. What are some lesser-known veteran benefits I might be missing?

Many veterans overlook benefits such as:

• Free or discounted event tickets from VetTix.org

• State tax exemptions or tuition assistance programs

• Hunting, fishing, and camping fee waivers

• Transportation help for medical appointments through the VA

7. Are there job resources or programs for Veterans?

• Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) offers job training, resume help, and career counseling.
• The Veterans Employment Center connects Veterans directly with employers who are actively hiring.
• USAJOBS.gov lists federal government jobs with hiring preferences for Veterans.
• Many states also host Veteran career fairs and provide state-level employment assistance through their workforce commissions.

8. What education benefits are available to veterans?

9. Can veterans receive help starting a business?