Unbeknownst to many, our brave veterans are entitled to a range of surprising benefits upon return to civilian life. From exclusive home loans, potential student debt forgiveness, to certain tax breaks and even free outdoor experiences, these top five military benefits often remain overlooked.
You signed up, you served, and now you're back home, contemplating the magnitude of defense service; a military discharge certificate in your hand, and a treasure trove of life experience in your pocket. It's time to consider what else Uncle Sam put forth for your heroic derring-do. You saved the world, Batman-style, and now it’s payback time. Your military service guarantees you some pretty sweet perks that you might not even know about.
Education benefits aren’t just limited to the G.I. Bill anymore, though that's already extraordinary. It rises above mere mortals’ tales about “when I was in college,” with opportunities to learn while actually earning. The Tuition Assistance (TA) program offered by each branch of the military contributes up to $250 per semester hour for service members who fancy grabbing a degree in their spare time. Think of it as a hot cup of free knowledge that won't burn a hole in your pocket. The program means that you could potentially complete a degree during your service running at zero cost. Even some superheroes don't get such perks.
Yes, we are talking about the VA Home Loan. This program helped over 22 million veterans; Superman has saved fewer people. Unlike Billy Batson (Shazam, for the under-informed), no magical phrase is needed. All you need is a Certificate of Eligibility from the VA and a good lender, and you're on your way to homeownership. These superhero-style benefits don't stop there. Have you ever seen Justice League negotiating for loan down payments, or private mortgage insurance? Exactly my point. The VA loans require no down payment, no private mortgage insurance and offer lower interest rates. Say goodbye to grumbling landlords; say hello to your new fortress of solitude.
We mere mortals love sales; the scent of a good deal makes us go bananas. But for you veterans, getting a good deal is not a hunky-dory ride. More than 8 million businesses nationwide offer military discounts. It means you can slash prices, just like Wolverine's adamantium claws, for everyday purchases, special occasions, and holidays. And no, it's not limited to car rentals and hotel rooms. These discounts can be on anything, from utility providers, amusement parks, restaurants, cell phone providers, to luxury brands. So next time you step out of your Batmobile, remember your secret identity.
Yes, we know, filing taxes can get as complicated as Doctor Strange's magic spells. But as a service member, you earned tax preparation services for free. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free tax advice, preparation, return filing, and other tax help to military members and their families. Now, even Thanos won't dare to mess with the IRS, but with VITA, you can snap your fingers and make all your tax troubles disappear. With this benefit in your belt, you can go head-to-head with the IRS in the ultimate battle of deductions and credits.
Returning to the civilian world can feel like coming back to earth after a cosmic, otherworldly experience. Fear not, Captain Veterans! Job opportunities are abundant in the federal sector for our veterans. Veterans' preference allows for those who served to be placed at the top of the hiring pool. Just like Superman has his day job as Clark Kent, you can find your dream job with the federal government. Save the day in your cubicle while battling the mundane villainous tasks, enjoying the benefits of job security and career advancement opportunities. So there it is, your Superhero survival guide; just a glimpse into some of the tremendous military benefits available to you. They might not come with cool capes or magic lassoes, but they’ll help you transition into your civilian life a little smoother. Remember, your service guarantees you these rewards, so you might as well make the most of them. Power up with education, secure your fortress, slice through prices, wrestle with the IRS, and claim your place in the civilian job market. After all, we already knew that with or without the fancy spandex and incredible powers, our military heroes are every bit as monumental as their comic book counterparts.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.