What Benefits Do You Get from the Military?
Serving in the military can be a rewarding and challenging experience, but did you know that there are numerous benefits that come with it? From educational assistance to housing perks, and from health insurance to retirement plans, the benefits of military service can last a lifetime.
Financial Benefits
**GI Bill Benefits
One of the most significant financial benefits of military service is the GI Bill, which provides education assistance to veterans and their dependents. With the GI Bill, eligible veterans can get up to 36 months of educational benefits, which can be used to pursue higher education or vocational training. The benefit can be used for up to 12 months at a time, and is typically paid on a monthly basis.
- Additional Benefits:
- Hazlewood Act (Texas residents only)
- Fry Scholarship
- Yellow Ribbon Program
- Types of Education Covered:
- Colleges and universities
- Vocational training
- Online education
- Certification programs
Housing Perks
Military personnel receive housing allowance, which helps offset the cost of rent or a mortgage. Additionally, on-base housing options are often available, with many modern amenities and competitive prices.
- Basis Points:
- Army: 3.5% of basic pay
- Navy: 3.4% of basic pay
- Air Force: 3.1% of basic pay
- Marine Corps: 2.9% of basic pay
- Special Allowances:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
- Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA)
- Furniture Replacement Allowance
Health and Wellness
Veterans Affairs Benefits
As a veteran, you become eligible for a range of health benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA provides comprehensive healthcare, including mental health services, pharmacy services, and rehabilitative treatment.
- Key Health Benefits:
- Medical care at VA hospitals and clinics
- Mental health counseling and treatment
- Prescription medications and medical equipment
- Rehabilitation programs and home healthcare
Home Ownership Benefits
VA Home Loans
The Department of Veterans Affairs offers specialized home loans with favorable terms, making it easier to purchase a home. The VA Guarantee ensures that you won’t be required to put 20% down, and the loan often requires a lower interest rate.
- Key VA Loan Features:
- Lower interest rates and closing costs
- Lower monthly payments
- Zero down payment requirement
- No PMI (private mortgage insurance)
Other Benefits
Insurance Discounts
Military personnel are eligible for exclusive insurance discounts, including car, health, and life insurance plans.
- Car Insurance Discounts:
- USAA Car Insurance: up to 20% off
- Liberty Mutual Car Insurance: up to 25% off
- Health Insurance Discounts:
- USAA Health Insurance: up to 10% off
- Assurant Health Insurance: up to 20% off
- Life Insurance Discounts:
- USAA Life Insurance: up to 15% off
- Lincoln National Life Insurance: up to 10% off
Travel Opportunities
Transportation
As a military personnel, you have access to specialized transportation services, including airline discounts and exclusive military transport options.
- Travel Discounts:
- Military airline discounts
- Hotel and resort packages
- Travel clubs and loyalty programs
Recreation Benefits
Recreation Programs
Military personnel have access to numerous recreation programs and activities, including outdoor activities, sporting events, and entertainment programs.
- Key Recreation Benefits:
- Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs
- Leisure activities and recreational programs
- On-base sports and fitness programs
- Outdoor recreational activities and camps
Job Readiness and Employment Assistance
Transition Assistance Programs (TAP)
As you transition from active duty to civilian life, you have access to the Transition Assistance Program (TAP), which provides valuable assistance in finding a new job and starting your new life.
- TAP Components:
- Pre-separation counseling
- Financial planning assistance
- Employment resources and job readiness training
Conclusion
As a military personnel, you deserve the recognition and appreciation that comes with your service. The benefits mentioned above are just a few of the many perks that come with serving in the military. Whether it’s educational assistance, housing perks, health benefits, or insurance discounts, the military has a way of taking care of its own. Whether you’re serving now or have already transitioned, make sure to take advantage of the benefits that you’ve earned.
