Veteran Health Identification Card Benefit

Starting in January, about 3 million more service-connected disabled veterans will be able to shop at on-base commissaries and exchanges, known for its tax-free shopping.  Any veteran with a VA disability rating will be able to gain access to their local military bases, according to the Department of Defense.

Veterans with VA disability ratings of zero to 90 percent will be allowed to access on-base exchanges and commissaries, as well as some morale, wellness and recreation – or MWR – facilities.  Those veterans must have a VA-issued Veteran Health Identification Card to have access.

For veterans who will be given entry to bases in January, a surcharge of 5 percent will be added to every purchase with a credit or debit card.  However, veterans may use cash, check or a Military Star card (a part of the Exchange Credit Program) to avoid the fee.

Before the change, only veterans who had a VA disability rating of 100 percent, as well as Medal of Honor recipients, were allowed access to shop on base. Military retirees also have access to shop at any exchange or commissary.

All honorably discharged veterans currently are eligible to shop online at the Army / Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard exchanges. The 5 Percent surcharge does not apply to online Purchases.

Eligible veterans can apply for a Veteran Health Identification Card online or in person by visiting a VA medical facility. VA.gov: How to apply for VA health care.