When you’ve served this country, you’ve earned more than just the thanks of a nation - you’ve earned access to a variety of benefits designed to make life a little easier. If you’re a veteran (or supporting one), here are key perks you shouldn’t overlook - and how to make sure you’re taking full advantage.
Veterans with Disabled Veteran or Purple Heart license plates can often get free airport parking and toll exemptions.
In Texas, many toll roads are free for eligible veterans. Learn which roads qualify and how to receive your benefits.
Airports often waive parking fees for qualified vehicles (note that the exemptions differ for each airport parking lot/garage). This includes airports in Dallas, Houston, and Austin.
Tip: Plan in advance. Prior to traveling, check your airport or state’s Department of Transportation website to confirm eligibility and requirements.
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.
The Lifetime Military Pass covers entrance fees for the veteran and all passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (or up to four adults at per-person sites).
It’s available to all U.S. military veterans, active duty service members, and Gold Star Family members.
You can get the pass 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.
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.
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 eligibility with your Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) or other approved ID.
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.
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.
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.
Tip: Register online with VetTix, get verified, then request tickets for events in your area. VetTix requires that you attend the event if you are given tickets or you will lose your privileges.
Many national and local businesses offer veteran discounts year-round.
Retail & Services: Discounts on electronics, clothing, and more.
Travel: Reduced airfare, hotels, and rental cars via American Forces Travel.
Recreation: Theme park, gym, and entertainment discounts nationwide.
Tip: Always ask - some offers aren’t advertised. Verify your status with ID.me which many websites use to automatically apply discounts during checkout.
Transportation Assistance: VA’s Veterans Transportation Program helps eligible veterans reach 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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