Lots of you read our Remembrance free travel guide last week. The perks don’t stop when the poppies come off, though. These ones last all year, and plenty of people who qualify have never claimed them.
1. Your Veteran Card
It’s free. If you left before December 2018 you have to apply for one, because it won’t arrive automatically. You can also keep it on your phone, and it counts as photo ID when you vote. Several of the perks below ask for proof of service, and this is the easiest proof to have.
Apply Now
2. A Veterans Railcard
You get a third off rail fares for you and one named adult companion, plus 60% off kids’ fares. That’s useful if you’re travelling to see family over Christmas.
Apply Today
3. Defence Discount Service
This is the official MOD discount scheme. Signing up and using the online discounts is free. The Privilege Card for in-store discounts is optional.
Military Discounts UK: Which Schemes Are Worth Using and How to Get the Most From Them
4. Tell your GP you served
Being recorded as a veteran can get you into NHS services built for ex-forces. You can refer yourself to Op COURAGE for mental health support without going through your GP. For physical injuries caused by service, ask your GP to refer you to Op RESTORE.
5. Compensation you may not know you can claim
If service caused an injury or illness, or made one worse, you may be due compensation. War Pension Scheme claims have no time limit. Armed Forces Compensation Scheme claims usually have to be made within seven years, so don’t sit on it.
Armed Forces Pensions: Know Your Scheme, Know Your Entitlement
Forward this to someone you served with. They’ve probably missed at least one.