VMF Tips: Key Resources and Perks for Veterans and their Families

Veterans may ride public transit for free or at a discount—Here’s how:

If you’re a veteran, a little-known benefit could save you thousands of dollars a year: free or reduced fares on public transit. From commuter trains in Chicago to bus routes in Boston, veterans nationwide may be eligible for substantial savings—sometimes paying nothing at all.

A monthly pass for a central commuter line like Metra in Chicago can cost as much as $135, or over $1,600 a year. But many states and cities offer special programs for veterans, especially those with disabilities or who meet age requirements. These programs aren’t just about saving money—they’re about recognizing your service and making everyday travel easier as you age.

Public transportation remains essential in many metro areas. More than half of New York City residents use public transit, followed by 37% in Washington, D.C., 34% in Boston, and nearly 28% in Chicago, according to U.S. Census data. Veterans living in these cities— or even in rural areas served by microtransit, which offers flexible, on-demand rides within designated zones—may be eligible for transit perks they haven’t tapped into yet.

Veteran transit discounts 

Billings, Montana: Veterans with service-connected disabilities ride free on all Billings Metropolitan Transit (MET) buses with an Eligible Veteran Identification Card issued by MET. To obtain one, veterans must verify their service-connected disability at the MET office.

Chicago: Veterans with qualifying disabilities ride free on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), Metra and Pace if they obtain a Military Service Pass. Seniors and veterans who qualify for the state’s Benefit Access Program may also be eligible for discounts throughout the metropolitan area through the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA).

Columbus, Ohio: The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) offers half-off fares for veterans and riders age 65 and older and discounted paratransit services for those with disabilities. Passengers must apply for the discount in person at COTA’s Customer Experience Center.

Massachusetts: The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) system is free for all riders, including veterans. In Boston, the MBTA offers free rides on select high-traffic bus routes 23, 28 and 29 (and the SL1 from Logan Airport).

Minnesota: Disabled veterans can ride fixed-route buses and trains free across the state by showing a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) ID marked service-connected.

Phoenix Metro Area, Arizona: Microtransit programs in cities like Avondale and Goodyear offer low-cost, on-demand rides with discounts for veterans and older adults 65 and over. A VA or state-issued ID is required to qualify.

Washington, D.C.: Veterans under 65 with a disability of 60 percent or higher may apply for a reduced fare SmarTrip card, which takes half off bus and rail fare. A discount is also applied to regional bus service providers that accept SmarTrip cards. Anyone 65 and older may apply for a Senior SmarTrip card.

Free tickets to concerts, sporting events, more

As a veteran over 50, chances are you’ve missed your share of birthdays, holidays, and major family milestones while serving. Hopefully, you’ve got more time on your hands these days—and there’s never been a better moment to make up for it with front-row seats.

Here’s a tip: Sign up for Vet Tix—a nonprofit that provides free tickets to concerts, pro and college sports, theater, festivals, and more, exclusively for veterans, service members, and Gold Star families.

Since 2008, Vet Tix has delivered over 16 million free tickets to more than 200,000 events, including:

• Major league sports (yes, even the Super Bowl)
• National concert tours
• Broadway hits like Hamilton
• Festivals, rodeos, motorsports and more

These aren’t cast-offs either—tickets come from professional sports teams, performing artists, private donors, and entertainment venues who want to honor those who served.

How to join

If you’re a veteran from any era, signing up is simple:

1. Go to VetTix.org.
2. Create your free account.
3. Verify your service through VA’s ID.me portal.
4. Start browsing upcoming events near you.

Tickets are free, though a small delivery fee applies. And if you’re a caregiver, encourage the vet in your life to join—many use their tickets to show appreciation to the people who support them.

Vet Tix isn’t just about getting out of the house—it’s about reconnecting with what makes life meaningful. Veterans often describe these experiences as therapeutic. One VetTixer put it best: “This wasn’t just a ticket to a game. It was a ticket to the rest of my life.”

Free, Discounted Veteran IDs: What You Need to Know Before REAL ID Takes Effect

Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or passport to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. However, veterans living in all 50 states and Puerto Rico may qualify for a free or discounted driver’s license or state ID with a veteran designation. This “veteran” identifier on your ID highlights proof of service and may unlock various benefits and discounts.

You’ll typically need to present proof of honorable discharge, like a DD214 form, at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to get it. Some states offer it for free, while others may charge a small fee—check with your DMV for details.

State-specific ID programs

Illinois: If you’re a veteran 65 or older, you can get an updated state ID for free. Want to add the “Veteran” designation to your driver’s license or ID? Bring a qualifying document, like a DD214, to a Secretary of State facility. If you add it during your regular renewal, there’s no extra charge. But if you want it before your renewal date, it’ll cost $5 for a driver’s license and $10 for a state ID.

Texas: Veterans with a service-related disability of at least 60% and an honorable discharge may be eligible for a free Texas driver’s license or ID card. To qualify, you must provide the DMV with a DD-214, a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA0 disability letter, or other acceptable proof of eligibility.

Florida: Veterans who are fully disabled can receive a free driver’s license by providing the DMV with VA documents that confirm their 100% disability. To add a veteran’s designation to your ID, present your DD-214 showing your honorable discharge from active duty.

Other ID cards for veterans

Veteran ID Card (VIC): This free, digital photo ID lets you access discounts at many stores, businesses, and restaurants. With a VIC, you don’t need to carry your military discharge papers or request another photo ID to prove your veteran status. Learn how to apply here.

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC): This option is better for VA health care patients. Not only can you use it to check in at VA medical centers, but it can also be used to scare discounts at many stores, businesses, and restaurants. If you have a VHIC, there’s no need to get another ID to prove you’re a veteran, such as a VIC. Learn how to obtain your VHIC here.

Free tax services for veterans

Filing taxes can be stressful, but veterans can access several free resources to make the process easier and more affordable.

IRS Free File: Veterans with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $84,000 or less can file electronically through IRS Free File. Those earning more may use Free File Fillable forms to file independently.

IRS Direct File: If you live in one of the 25 participating states, use IRS Direct File to e-file your federal tax return directly with the IRS—completely free.

IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): Veterans with an AGI of $67,000 or less, as well as those with disabilities or language barriers, can receive free basic tax return preparation through VITA. Additionally, those who are 60 or older who have unique questions about pensions and retirement-related topics can utilize the IRS’ Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE).

A majority of TCE sites are operated by the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide Program, the largest free volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program in the U.S. The nationwide program is aimed at people 50 and older or those with low to moderate incomes, but Tax-Aide is open to anyone at no cost. You don’t need to be an AARP member to take advantage of Tax-Aide’s knowledgeable volunteers, nor will there be any sales pitch for other services.

Military OneSource: Recently separated or retired veterans can use MilTax software to file federal and state taxes free for up to 365 days post-service. MilTax offers tax prep, e-filing, and expert consultations.

Additional Free & Discounted Services:

• TaxSlayer: Free federal e-filing for active-duty military.
• TurboTax: Free filing for enlisted active-duty military and Reservists; USAA members get special offers.

Fraud Protection Tip: Watch out for scams—The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will never ask for your personal information through text or phone calls. Federal agencies only contact individuals by phone if a request has been made. Find more ways to protect yourself from scams and fraud at AARP's Veterans Fraud Center. 

Free or discounted fishing and hunting licenses for veterans

Most states offer free or discounted fishing and hunting licenses to veterans. Eligibility is often based off a minimum Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability rating of at least 50% or higher. Other perks such as a lifetime hunting license may be available for Purple Heart recipients and former prisoners of war. For example:

• Wisconsin offers a $7 Disabled Veteran Recreation Card for fishing, small game hunting, and state park access.
• Illinois provides free Hunting and Fishing Privilege Cards for veterans with a VA disability rating as low as 10%.
• Florida and California provide free and discounted fishing and hunting licenses to veterans with a 50%  disability rating, while South Carolina offers free licenses for veterans with a 10% rating or more.
• Some states, like Texas, offer free hunting and fishing licenses to non-residents, in addition to state residents.

Want to learn more? Contact your state’s wildlife agency or VA office to explore what’s available where you live.

VA health care for military caregivers

Military caregivers may enroll in benefits through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). Eligible caregivers must assist veterans enrolled in VA healthcare who need help with one or more daily living activities, or require supervision due to neurological ailment or other impairment or injury.

To find out if you qualify, you’ll need to apply for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

VA grants for home construction or modifications to eligible veterans

As a veteran, you may qualify for significant financial assistance to modify your home if you have a service-connected injury. These grants help disabled veterans create safer and more accessible homes tailored to their specific mobility challenges.

Not sure if you qualify? You or a caregiver can get no-cost help to determine your eligibility. For more information, contact a VA Specially Adapted Housing staff member at sahinfo.vbaco@va.gov or 877-827-3702.

Learn more with AARP’s Veterans Home Modification Benefits Guide.

Property tax breaks for veterans with disabilities

Many veterans with service-connected disabilities qualify for significant tax reductions or full exemptions, but the potential savings vary widely from state to state.

For example, many states limit their exemption to veterans with certain types of 100% VA disability ratings. A few states reduce property taxes for all veterans regardless of medical condition but may consider criteria like age or income. To see if you qualify, contact your state’s tax office or VA office for more information.

Learn more about your state’s eligibility criteria.

One-year LinkedIn Premium subscription and expert resume review

Service members can receive one year of LinkedIn Premium for free, along with a complimentary expert résumé review. Veterans will also get personalized recommendations to enhance their résumé and can access discounted writing packages for rewriting résumés, cover letters or LinkedIn profiles. Service history is verified through ID.me.