39 Practical Ways Veterans and Transitioning Service Members Can Save Money

Saving money after military service or while preparing to transition doesn’t mean living without. It means getting creative, taking advantage of what you’ve earned, and making moves that bring you closer to your goals. It also means knowing what support resources are available to you and using them without guilt, shame, or judgment. Because using what you’ve earned isn’t a sign of struggle. It’s a smart, strategic financial decision. 

That’s why we’ve pulled together 40 real ways to save, from hidden Veteran benefits to fresh savings strategies that actually fit your lifestyle. 

This isn’t just another list. These are practical, thoughtful, and Veteran focused tips you won’t find just anywhere. 

Everyday Smart Moves 

Use TSA PreCheck for free  Active duty service members and Reservists receive TSA PreCheck at no cost. Military spouses may be eligible for a five-year discounted rate at select enrollment centers. 

Visit America’s National Parks at no cost  Veterans and Gold Star families qualify for a free America the Beautiful pass, giving access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. 

Take the 72-hour pause before making purchases  Waiting 72 hours before buying nonessentials helps curb impulse spending and allows time for smarter decisions. 

Automate your savings  Set up an automatic transfer into a separate savings account. Even $5 a week adds up over time. 

Cancel unused subscriptions  Review your streaming, app, and other recurring charges quarterly. If you haven’t used it in 30 days, let it go. Utilize military discounts available on streaming services. 

Get free financial coaching through Veteran Saves  Our partnership with the Foundation for Financial Planning connects eligible Veterans and transitioning service members with free, one-on-one financial coaching. Learn more here. 

Apply for Veteran-specific scholarships  Scholarships aren’t just for college. Many cover certifications, trade programs, and continuing education. 

Shop secondhand with intention  Use community groups or marketplaces to buy what you need at a fraction of the cost. Set a budget before browsing. 

Use a high-yield savings account  Many traditional checking accounts don’t keep up with inflation. Look for online or military-friendly banks that offer higher interest on savings. 

Health & Wellness Savings 

Ask about generic prescriptions  Generic medications are often equally effective and significantly cheaper. Talk to your provider. 

Use available wellness benefits  Some VA facilities and health plans offer access to gyms, yoga classes, and wellness programs at little or no cost. 

Get free flu shots through VA health care  Veterans enrolled in VA health care can get flu shots at many local pharmacies without needing a VA appointment. 

Access mental health care through telehealth  The VA and nonprofit partners offer low-cost or free online therapy and counseling. Prioritize your mental health. 

Use sliding-scale dental clinics  Local dental clinics may offer reduced fees for veterans. Ask if they participate in the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP). 

Housing & Home Hacks 

Ask your utility company about discounts  Some providers offer discounted rates, payment plans, or seasonal protections for Veterans. 

Weatherproof your home  A $10 roll of weatherstripping can save you hundreds in heating and cooling costs annually. 

Talk to your landlord about a rent freeze  Veterans who are long-term tenants may be able to negotiate rent stability or upgrades. It never hurts to ask. 

Work with a housing navigator  Veteran-specific housing support programs can help prevent eviction, negotiate with landlords, and locate affordable options. 

Check for local property tax exemptions  Many states and counties offer property tax breaks for disabled or retired Veterans, especially those who receive VA disability. 

Career & Employment Tips 

Use your free year of LinkedIn Premium  Veterans can access premium job-seeking tools and online courses for one year at no cost through LinkedIn’s military program. 

Use VR&E (Chapter 31) for job training and supplies  The VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment benefit may cover things like certifications, laptops, and books. 

Use commuter benefits if your employer offers them  Some employers allow you to pay for public transportation or parking using pre-tax dollars. 

Track job-related expenses  Moving for a job, buying uniforms, or taking certification tests? These may be tax-deductible. Check with a tax professional. 

Search for Veteran employment programs in your state  Many states prioritize Veteran applicants or offer exclusive job boards. 

Food & Family 

Apply for WIC if eligible  Veteran households with young children or expecting mothers may qualify for nutritional support through the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program. 

Ask about farmers market vouchers for Veterans  Some states offer vouchers to help Veterans purchase fresh produce directly from local farmers. 

Visit a community food share — no crisis required  Many local pantries and food programs serve Veterans proactively, without requiring proof of hardship. 

Use grocery cash-back apps wisely  Apps like Fetch or Ibotta let you earn money back on purchases. Just be careful not to overspend chasing deals. 

Host low-cost potlucks with friends or neighbors  Community doesn’t have to cost money. Share the load — and the leftovers. 

Financial Wellness & Banking 

Take the Veteran Saves Pledge  Start small and commit to building savings your way. Take the pledge and set a goal that works for your life. 

Set up text alerts for your bank account  Real-time alerts help you avoid overdraft fees and catch suspicious charges early. 

Join a military-friendly credit union  Many offer reduced fees, early paydays, and financial counseling for veterans and their families. 

Ask about insurance discounts for veterans  Auto and renters insurance companies may offer lower rates with a VA ID or DD214 as proof of service. 

Use a budgeting app that fits your lifestyle  Whether it’s a simple spreadsheet or a tool like Mint or YNAB, tracking your spending helps you stay on top of your goals. 

Creative Ways to Save with Kids 

Look for free admission days at local attractions  Zoos, museums, and aquariums often host military appreciation days or offer free admission for Veterans. During the Summer the Blue Star Museums offers free admission to active-duty military personnel, including the National Guard and Reserves, and their families. 

Borrow items from your local library  Libraries now offer more than books — think museum passes, games, toys, and even STEM kits. 

Try a family savings challenge  Let your kids decorate a jar and set a small family savings goal. It’s a simple way to make money talk fun and engaging. 

Look into spouse specific scholarship programs  Many transitioning/Veteran families don’t realize military spouses are eligible for education funding too , even outside of active duty. 

Know your alternative ID options  If you don’t have a CAC card, many programs accept a VA health ID, DD214, or state-issued Veteran designation for verification. 

Bonus: Share Your Saver Story — and Win 

Have you made a financial decision you’re proud of? Paid off a credit card? Set up emergency savings? Stuck to a goal? We want to hear it. 

Submit your Saver Story to Veteran Saves and you could be selected to receive a $50 gift card. Share your Saver Story here. 

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At Veteran Saves, we’re here to help you take the next step wherever you’re starting from. 

Take the Pledge. Make a Plan. Start Saving. 
Visit VeteranSaves.org to begin today.