Can a veteran use the commissary?

Can a Veteran Use the Commissary?

The commissary is a military-run store on military bases that offers discounts on food, household goods, and other essential items to military personnel and their families. But what about veterans? Can they still use the commissary after leaving the military?

Direct Answer:

In general, veterans are not eligible to use the commissary as a general rule. Commissary benefits are exclusive to active-duty military personnel, retirees, and certain other authorized personnel, including:

• Military retirees who are receiving retired pay (not just veterans with a separation pay)
• Medal of Honor recipients
• Paralyzed Veterans of America members
• Active-duty National Guard and Reserve personnel on active duty for 90 days or more
• Commissioned officers of the Public Health Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• Commissioned officers of the Coast Guard (active duty and retired)

Exceptions:

However, there are some exceptions and special circumstances where veterans might be eligible to use the commissary:

• Veterans with a Disability: Veterans with a service-connected disability rated 100% disabled or who are severely injured may be eligible to use the commissary. This is because their disability rating makes them part of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) group, which is authorized to use the commissary.
• Veterans with a Purple Heart: Purple Heart recipients who are not receiving retired pay may be eligible to use the commissary as part of their benefits.
• Veterans enrolled in the Veterans Affairs Program: Veterans who are enrolled in the VA’s Comprehensive Assistance Program, which provides financial assistance and other benefits to eligible veterans, may be eligible to use the commissary.

Other Options:

If a veteran is not eligible to use the commissary, they may still be able to access discounted prices on similar items through other channels:

• Veterans Discount Programs: Many retailers and organizations offer special discounts and promotions to veterans, often through partnerships with the military or veterans’ organizations. These discounts may be more accessible than the commissary.
• Discount Stores: Discount stores and warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club offer competitive prices on everyday items, often with membership plans that can be more accessible than the commissary.
• Online Deals: Online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and other e-commerce sites often offer discounts, sales, and promotions on various products.

Table: Commissary Eligibility

Conclusion:

In summary, while veterans may not be eligible to use the commissary under normal circumstances, there are exceptions and special circumstances that may grant them access to the commissary’s discounted prices. Additionally, veterans can explore other options for accessing discounted prices and promotions through veterans’ programs, discount stores, online deals, and other means.