Going on deployment? Don't leave your car's health to chance. Check out these discounts exclusive to the military community.

Don't overpay for flights. Learn how to unlock exclusive military discounts on airfare and travel for less.

Find discounts on sports, movies, theme parks, and more—all to honor your service. Looking for even more ways to save on fun?

Hungry for a deal? Find out where you can get exclusive military discounts on dining out, from your favorite chains to local gems.

Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) Not Stretching Far Enough? 
Here’s the Harsh Reality of the 2025 Housing Crunch

If you’re an active-duty service member in 2025, chances are you’ve already felt the squeeze. Whether you're stationed in high-cost hubs like San Diego, Norfolk, or Honolulu - or even in mid-sized towns like Fayetteville or Killeen - the message is the same: housing is more expensive, and your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) isn’t going as far as it used to.

Military families are being forced into tough decisions:
* Settle for subpar or overcrowded housing
* Dip into savings
* Or rack up credit card debt - just to keep a roof over their heads

Let’s break down what’s really going on, why BAH is falling behind, and what it means for those living on or off base.

BAH vs. Real-World Rent - What’s the Disconnect?
BAH was designed to cover about 95% of local housing costs-rent plus utilities-based on your duty station’s ZIP code. But in 2025, that formula just isn’t cutting it. 

Here's why:
🔥 Housing Costs Are Soaring
* Over the last 3 years, rent prices in military-heavy areas have jumped 12% to 30%, while BAH has only increased by an average of 4.2% annually.
* That gap adds up-fast.

📍 Military Towns Are Feeling the Heat
* Places like Colorado Springs, Jacksonville, and Honolulu have seen some of the steepest rent increases in the country.
* Even junior enlisted and some NCOs are now struggling to find housing they can afford-especially near base.

📈 Utilities Are Up, Too
* Rising costs for electricity, water, and internet are putting even more pressure on budgets.
* And those increases aren’t always reflected in BAH rates.

Real-World Example: Naval Base San Diego (ZIP 92136)
In 2025, an E-5 with dependents receives $3,066/month in BAH.
But the average rent for a modest 3-bedroom home within commuting distance? $3,550+, not including utilities.

That’s a monthly gap of $500 or more, which often has to come out of pocket.

Taking Action: Practical Steps and Resources

Know Your BAH Rights and How to Appeal:
If you're facing financial strain or your housing costs significantly exceed your BAH, you may be eligible to request rate protection or file an appeal through your chain of command. Keep thorough records to support your case.

Make the Most of DoD Housing Resources

• Military Housing Offices (MHO): Assist with vetted rental listings and lease negotiations.
• Automated Housing Referral Network (AHRN): Find available rentals near your installation.
• Military OneSource: Access free financial counseling and PCS planning support.

Consider Shared Housing Options
Roommates aren’t just for single service members. Some families are reducing costs by co-renting larger homes, especially in high-rent areas.

Push for Long-Term Change
Service members and spouses can:

• Contact elected officials to support BAH reform.
• Participate in base housing advisory councils.
• Partner with advocacy groups like Blue Star Families or MOAA working to improve military housing policies.

Think Carefully Before Buying
If you're likely to stay put for a while, using your VA loan to buy a home can offer stability and tax benefits. But be cautious—research the market to avoid buying at a peak or in overinflated areas.

Your Voice Matters
Housing isn’t just a line item—it affects your family’s well being and your mission readiness. The BAH system has flaws, but awareness is growing, and change is possible.

In the meantime, military families must navigate a difficult housing market with limited support. By staying informed, using available tools, and speaking up, you can take charge of your situation-and help push for the changes our community urgently needs.

The 2025 government shutdown began at 12:01 a.m. on October 1, 
when Congress failed to approve a funding bill.

Military Duty and Pay During the 2025 Government Shutdown Overview

Even during a government shutdown, essential missions related to national defense, public safety, and the protection of property are classified as “excepted” and will continue without interruption. That means service members—including Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen—are still required to report for duty.

However, the paycheck you’re expecting on October 15 may be delayed.

While this isn’t the first time a shutdown has occurred, the uncertainty brings real financial strain—especially for military families living paycheck to paycheck who can’t afford to wait weeks for back pay.

How Military Pay Is Affected

Under the Antideficiency Act, the Department of Defense cannot legally pay service members during a lapse in federal funding. You will still be required to work, but your pay is put on hold until Congress either:

Passes a full appropriations bill, or approves separate legislation to fund military pay (such as the proposed but not-yet-passed Pay Our Troops Act)

Here’s what you need to know:

• The October 1 paycheck was processed and delivered as scheduled.
• The October 15 paycheck is the first at risk if the shutdown continues.

Once funding is restored, all service members are expected to receive full back pay.

PCS, Travel, and Daily Operations

Across all branches, mission-essential duties—including training, deployments, and operational support—will continue without interruption during the government shutdown.

However, disruptions may occur in areas that rely heavily on administrative or civilian support staff.

• Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and Temporary Duty (TDY) orders are generally paused, unless they are already funded or classified as mission-critical.
• If you’re scheduled to move or travel, check with your transportation or travel office before making any out-of-pocket expenses, as reimbursements may be delayed.

TRICARE and Medical Care

One area you can rely on during the 2025 shutdown is healthcare.

• TRICARE coverage remains fully active.
• Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs) will stay open.
• Private network providers will continue to see patients.
• Emergency and urgent care services are unaffected.

However, you may experience delays in:

• Routine or elective appointments, particularly where civilian medical staff are impacted by furloughs.
• Claims processing, which could slow down if the shutdown continues for an extended period.

What Happens If the Pentagon’s Plan Moves Forward?

If the Department of Defense (DoD) follows through with its plan to use leftover research and development funds, active-duty service members would likely receive their October 15 paychecks on time.

This would provide immediate relief to hundreds of thousands of military families, maintain troop morale, and temporarily reduce political pressure on Congress.

But while the short-term benefits are significant, the decision carries long-term risks for key stakeholders.

The Risks of Using Leftover R&D Funds

Congressional Opposition
Lawmakers could reject the reallocation of funds, demand repayment, or reduce future defense budgets in retaliation. If Congress intervenes, the DoD might be forced to reverse payments or cut spending elsewhere—creating instability for defense planning and personnel.

Impact on Research and Modernization

Redirecting money from RDT&E (Research, Development, Test & Evaluation) could delay or cancel key defense projects, including weapons systems and tech upgrades.
For example, funding shortfalls could stall upgrades to the F-35 stealth fighter—a flagship program—with an estimated $500 million gap. This illustrates the real-world trade-offs involved.

Legal and Career Consequences

If the Government Accountability Office (GAO) rules that this action violates the Antideficiency Act, DoD officials could face audits, administrative sanctions, or even career-ending penalties.
Additionally, if penalties are enforced, future pay disruptions for service members could become more likely.

Precedent and Oversight Concerns

Allowing this workaround without challenge could weaken Congress’s control over federal spending. Setting such a precedent may open the door for future administrations to redirect funds without legislative approval, undermining the separation of powers and long-term budget discipline.

A Temporary Fix with a Hard Stop

The proposed $8 billion covers only one pay period. If the government shutdown continues beyond that, service members could again face missed paychecks, renewing financial stress for military families.

Broader Impacts: Civilians and Contractors Left Out

The plan applies only to uniformed DoD personnel. Civilian employees and defense contractors may face delayed payments, low morale, and operational disruptions—impacting the broader defense ecosystem.

If the DoD Doesn't Use R&D Funds

If the Pentagon decides not to—or is barred from—using the leftover funds, troops will miss their October 15 paychecks unless Congress passes emergency funding.
For many military families, already living paycheck to paycheck, the financial strain would be immediate and severe.

In 2013, similar circumstances led Congress to pass the Pay Our Military Act. This time, no such safeguard exists.

Without funding, troops would be required to keep working without pay until Congress acts—exacerbating food insecurity, debt, and family hardship nationwide.

The U.S. Coast Guard: Still Left Out

The Pentagon’s workaround does not include the U.S. Coast Guard, which falls under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), not the DoD. Because the funding mechanism applies only to DoD accounts, Coast Guard personnel are excluded.

In official guidance, the Coast Guard confirmed that during the shutdown:

Excepted employees must work but won’t be paid until funding resumes.

Furloughed employees neither work nor receive pay during the lapse.

Both groups are entitled to back pay under the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019, but only after the government reopens.

This mirrors the 2018–2019 shutdown, when Coast Guard members worked without pay, relying on food banks and emergency aid while the DoD remained funded.

Although Congress has reintroduced bipartisan bills like the Pay Our Troops Act and Pay Our Coast Guard Act, none have passed as of now.

Stop leaving money on the table. Hundreds of dollars in military discounts are waiting for you to claim, so start saving on the brands and services you use every day.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Applebee’s Military Discount

Do Any Car Rental Companies Give Military Discounts?

Does Home Depot Give Military Discount on Appliances?

Your service to our country is truly appreciated - and you deserve to be recognized for it. 

Fortunately, military discounts are available across nearly every industry, from automotive and dining to retail and more. Our guide to the best year-round military discounts makes it easy to find the savings you’ve earned.

Featured discount categories:

• Cars & Maintenance
• Flights
• Hotels
• Retailers
• Gyms & Exercise Programs
• Entertainment
• Restaurants

Maintenance 🛞

Valvoline
Valvoline is renowned for its top-quality oil changes. And now, you can stay in your car while they take care of your oil change. Plus, military members can enjoy a 15% discount on their total bill when showing a valid military ID.

Discount Tire
Active-duty military personnel can enjoy a 10% discount all year at Discount Tire. Simply verify your service through their ID.me portal to receive the savings.

Pep Boys
Pep Boys shows its support for military service members by offering a 10% discount on any purchase at their service centers. It's just one way they say "thank you" for your service.

New Car Discounts 🚙

Nissan Military Discount
Nissan shows its appreciation by offering military members a discount between $500 and $1,000. And the best part? These discounts can be stacked with other ongoing promotions.

Toyota Military Discount
Toyota offers a $500 rebate for active-duty military members and their families. Simply present your valid military ID when purchasing your new vehicle to claim the discount.

Subaru Military Discount
Subaru’s Military Discount Program gives you a $500 discount on a new Subaru vehicle as a thank-you for your service.

Jeep Military Discount
Military members can enjoy $500 in bonus cash when purchasing select 2021 or 2022 Jeep models.

Volvo Military Discount
Volvo offers military members a $500 bonus incentive on the purchase or lease of a new Volvo.

VW Military Discount
Active military personnel can get a $500 bonus when buying select new Volkswagen models.

Honda Military Discount
Honda appreciates military service by offering $500 off any 2020 or newer model as part of their Military Appreciation Offer.

Mitsubishi Military Discount
Mitsubishi's Military Rebate Program allows you to save up to $750 on select vehicles as a token of their gratitude for your service.

Insurance Discounts 🚗

GEICO

GEICO offers military members a discount of up to 15% off their total premium. Plus, if you're deployed, you can take advantage of special Emergency Deployment Discounts. Fun fact, in 1970 Warren Buffett took controlling interest in the insurance company and the company was started in 1936.

USAA

USAA provides military members with discounted car insurance, and their spouses and children can also qualify for exclusive savings. Get a quote to find out how much you could save.

Liberty Mutual

Liberty Mutual offers a special discount to all active-duty service members. Start by getting a quote to discover how much of a discount you can receive.

Travel on a Budget 🏨

Disneyland Hotel Military Discount
Disneyland already offers a wide range of military discounts on tickets and vacation packages for active-duty personnel. For select rooms at the three Disneyland Resort hotels, you can enjoy discounted rates. These prices may vary based on the hotel and the dates of your stay, so be sure to check for the best deals.

Military Discount Hotels in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a popular destination for active-duty military members, with its exciting food scene, vibrant nightlife, and diverse entertainment. And with these great military discounts at top hotels, your stay can be even more affordable:

Excalibur Hotel & Casino
Save 10% on your stay at the iconic Excalibur Hotel & Casino, located right on the Las Vegas Strip. Just remember—don’t gamble away those savings!

Circus Circus Hotel, Casino, & Theme Park
A perfect mix of fun for both adults and kids, Circus Circus offers military members 15% off when you prepay for your stay.

The STRAT Hotel, Casino, & Skypod
Active-duty military personnel get 10% off the already low rates at The STRAT. Plus, enjoy stunning views of the Las Vegas Strip from the sky pod and observation deck at the top of the hotel.

IHG Hotels
Military members and their families can save on stays at IHG hotels with their Military Appreciation Rate. Discounts vary depending on the location and property, but most of their hotels participate in this program. 

Some popular IHG brands include:

• Holiday Inn
• Holiday Inn Express
• Holiday Inn Club Vacations
• Avid
• Atwell Suite
• Candlewood Suites
• RegentCrowne Plaza
• Voco
• Six Senses
• Hotel Indigo
• Kimpton

Disney Military Discount
Disney World Resort offers military members special discounts on both 4-day and 5-day tickets. You can also purchase the Memory Maker at a discounted military rate. Visit your local ITT Office for ticket details and availability.

Dollywood Military Discount
Dollywood offers a fantastic 30% discount to military personnel. Nestled in the beautiful mountains of Pigeon Forge, TN, you can enjoy all the park’s attractions and entertainment at a discounted rate. Fun fact, On August 4, 2025, Dollywood was ranked No. 1 theme park in the US.

SeaWorld Military Discount
Dive into fun with SeaWorld! Active-duty military members can get 50% off their own tickets, as well as discounted tickets for up to three guests.

Car Rentals, Flights, Movies and Sports Discounts ✈️

JetBlue Military Discount

JetBlue offers active-duty military personnel a 5% discount off their base fare. Veterans Advantage members can enjoy an additional 5% off flights to over 85 destinations. Plus, military members can check their bags for free - just show your DoD CAC and bring fewer than two bags for leisure travel or fewer than five for duty-related trips.

Delta Airlines Military Discount

Delta Airlines offers several perks for military personnel. In addition to receiving more free checked bags than civilians, military members can also take advantage of a special military pet policy to make traveling with pets easier.

Hawaiian Airlines Military Discount

Hawaiian Airlines provides 5% off coach fares through the Veterans Advantage program for both domestic flights and select international routes. Plus, you get two free checked bags on leisure trips and five free checked bags if you're traveling on official orders.

Lufthansa Military Discount

Lufthansa partners with Veterans Advantage to offer military members a 5% discount on flights purchased directly through their website.

United Airlines Military Discount

Through their collaboration with Veterans Advantage, United Airlines offers military members a 5% discount on most fares (excluding basic economy and children's fares).

GovX
GovX partners with numerous professional sports teams to create an extensive database offering military members exclusive discounts on tickets for the NFL and other sports and entertainment events. You can find discounted NFL tickets for teams like the Titans, Patriots, Steelers, Broncos, Cowboys, and many more through GovX.

Military Discount Basketball Tickets
Ticket Club offers a wide range of military discounts on basketball tickets. Simply verify your service through ID.me on their website, and start saving! Military members also enjoy free membership with no upfront costs.

Military Discount NHL Tickets
Vet Tix is dedicated to supporting active-duty service members and veterans by providing free tickets to a variety of events, including NHL games, through ticket donations.

Military Discount at Movie Theaters
AMC
AMC offers military discounts to those who present a valid military ID at the box office. Be sure to check if your local AMC location participates before you go!

Regal Cinemas
Regal Cinemas provides military members with special pricing on tickets. To find participating locations, check their website for details.

Cinemark
Show your valid military ID at the box office and enjoy discounted tickets at Cinemark theaters.

Malco Theaters
Veterans Advantage members can save 20% on VIP tickets at Malco Theaters, which are located in Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee.

Harkins Theaters
With Veterans Advantage, you can save up to 30% on movie tickets at Harkins Theaters.

Eating Well, While Saving Some Dough 🍽️

Subway Military Discount
At participating Subway locations, military members can enjoy a 10% discount by simply showing a valid military ID.

Denny’s Military Discount
Denny’s offers military members a discount ranging from 10% to 20% off their order, depending on the participating location.

Carrabba’s Military Discount
Carrabba’s Italian Grill offers a 10% “Hero’s Discount” for military members every time you visit.

Cracker Barrel Military Discount

At select Cracker Barrel locations, you can enjoy a 20%-30% discount on your meal. It’s the perfect way to save on their comforting, home-style dishes. Cracker Barrel operates almost 660 locations and are throughout the country, as well as a perfect stop while traveling out of town. 

Fuddruckers Military Discount

Fuddruckers shows appreciation for military members with a 25% discount on meals. Enjoy all the burgers you can eat without the worry of the bill! This classic restaurant is in most states and near some great bases.

Pro-Tip with Dining in AppleBee's 
3 Smart Ways to Make the Most of Your Applebee’s Military Discount

Applebee’s Military Discount: How to Get the Most Out of It
Applebee’s offers a military discount at participating locations, making it even easier for those with a military ID to “Eat Good in the Neighborhood” for less. By showing your military ID, you can enjoy up to 15% off your check (excluding certain items like alcohol, which may not be discounted). However, keep in mind that discounts and policies may vary by location.

Maximizing Your Applebee’s Military Discount

To get the most out of your Applebee’s military discount, it’s important to be aware of some potential limitations and exclusions. For example, certain deals or promotions may not be combinable, and the discount will likely only apply to regularly priced items. So, if you order a discounted meal and full-priced entrees, your discount will likely apply to the full-priced items.

Additionally, discounts can vary by store—some locations offer a set dollar amount off your meal (e.g., $5), while others may offer a percentage discount. Regardless of the specific offer, the fact that there’s a discount at all is a great perk!

Applebee’s has long been known for giving back to the military community through various national and local initiatives, and their military discount is another way they show appreciation.

So, how can you make the most of your Applebee’s military discount? Here are some tips to help you save more:

1. Join Club Applebee's
Signing up for Club Applebee’s is a smart move. Not only will you receive a free appetizer just for signing up, but you’ll also gain access to exclusive daily deals, free food offers, and discounts. Military members can even receive a free dessert on their birthday, plus enjoy discounts on entrees and appetizers throughout the year.

2. Turn Happy Hour Into a Meal
Applebee’s happy hour isn’t just for drinks! After a long day, you can unwind and take advantage of the Applebee’s military discount during happy hour at participating locations. Whether you’re enjoying a cold beer or a delicious meal, you can apply your discount to regular entrees during these times for an even better deal.

3. Follow Applebee’s on Social Media
To stay up to date on special offers and local deals, make sure to follow your local Applebee’s on social media. This is a great way to catch limited-time military discounts or hyper-local promotions available only at your favorite location.

4. Don’t Miss Out on Veteran’s Day Free Meals
Each year, Applebee’s offers free meals to military members on Veteran’s Day. In 2025, you can enjoy a free hearty entrée at Applebee’s on November 11. Whether you’re a veteran or currently serving, this is a great way to enjoy a delicious meal, plus receive $5 off your next meal.

Since Applebee’s started offering free meals on Veteran’s Day, they’ve served over 11.3 million meals to the military community, and that number continues to grow. If you're in the Potomac area, Applebee’s is especially supportive, and their local fundraisers help raise money for military-affiliated organizations.

With locations across across the United States of America, there are plenty of local options for you to enjoy these special offers either solo, friends or with your family.

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Their Families with Savings and Great Content

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