Why can't veterans use the commissary?

Asked by: Mr. Sven Hansen  |  Last update: October 16, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (57 votes)

Eligible Veterans who do not have a VHIC, as well as eligible caregivers, will still need to provide a copy of their VA-issued caregiver patronage letter, VA-issued service-connected disability letter, or VA Health Eligibility Center Form H623A to show eligibility at the commissary.

Are veterans allowed to use commissary?

Veterans and caregivers who are eligible for commissary, exchange and MWR retail privileges under Section 1065 of Title 10, United States Code, are allowed access to the same products and services of these activities that military retirees have in the United States and in the U.S. territories and possessions.

Are veterans allowed to use the px?

All disabled Veterans can use their hard-earned Exchange benefit in person at PXs and BXs.

Can veterans use the gym on base?

You won't be able to use the gym; the fitness centers are one of the critical MWR programs that supports mission readiness for our military members. But you will be able to shop at the Exchange and commissary, and buy gas. And you can always shop online tax-free at shopmyexchange.com.

Can 100% disabled veterans use the USO?

While we value the service of other U.S. military constituent groups, including veterans, 100% disabled veterans, and other members of the uniformed services, these groups are not permitted access to USO centers as our primary purpose is to support currently serving military personnel and their dependents.

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Can 100% disabled veterans fly free?

Veterans who are rated by the VA as permanently and totally disabled can travel Space-A (space available) on military aircraft for free. If you qualify you can travel in the continental United States (CONUS) or directly between CONUS and Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa.

Can disabled veterans get on base?

As of Nov. 1, disabled veterans who do not have a VA-issued Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC), as well as eligible caregivers, can now enroll for installation access at the base's visitor center using their REAL ID Act-compliant driver's license or non-driver's identification card.

Can I use my VA health ID to get on base?

Veterans who are eligible to obtain a Veteran Health Identification Card must use this credential for base access and to use these privileges. The card must display the veteran's eligibility status, whether that be service-connected disabled, former POW or Purple Heart recipient.

What does 90% VA disability entitle you to?

Individuals with 90 percent VA disability ratings are eligible for VR&E benefits. These benefits provide career services and counseling, including training, resume development, and other assistance.

Who can shop at the commissary now?

Basically, you can shop at a commissary if you're in one of these groups:
  • Active, reserve or retired uniformed services members.
  • Medal of Honor recipients.
  • Wage marine personnel and retired wage marine personnel of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

What are the hidden benefits of 100% VA disability?

What Other Benefits Are Available to Individuals with a 100% Rating?
  • CHAMPVA Benefits. ...
  • VA Health Care Benefits. ...
  • Long Term Care Benefits. ...
  • Commissary and Exchange Benefits. ...
  • Educational and Employment Benefits. ...
  • VA Home Loan Guarantee. ...
  • Free Tax Return Preparation. ...
  • Student Loan Forgiveness.

Can veterans carry guns?

Yes, most states permit military personnel to carry concealed handguns even if their state does not have a concealed-carry law. However, this doesn't allow them to carry handguns on military installations or any federal facility unless official duties require that.

Can veterans use GI Bill?

Veterans and their dependents may qualify for GI Bill benefits through the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty or the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve.

Can veterans shop at the BX?

Retired Service members and their I.D. card-holding Family members are eligible to purchase merchandise and services from the Exchange.

What VA rating do you need for base access?

The law that took effect in 2020 extended eligibility to veterans with VA-documented service-connected disability ratings from 0% to 90%; Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war; and individuals approved and designated as the primary family caregivers of eligible veterans under the VA Program of Comprehensive ...

Who has access to the commissary?

Am I eligible to shop in the commissary? Authorized commissary patrons as defined by Department of Defense Instruction 1330.17, Dod Commissary Program , include active duty, Guard and Reserve members, military retirees, Medal of Honor recipients, 100 percent disabled veterans, and their authorized family members.

What is the hardest VA claim to get?

1. Mental Health Conditions (e.g., PTSD, Depression) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of the most frequently filed claims by veterans, but it's also one of the hardest to get approved.

Do I get my husband's VA disability if he dies?

If you're the surviving spouse, child, or parent of a service member who died in the line of duty, or the survivor of a Veteran who died from a service-related injury or illness, you may be able to get a tax-free monetary benefit called VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC).

Can disabled veterans fly free?

A popular perk among retirees, now eligible Veterans can take advantage of the program and fly for free. So, whether the Veteran is looking for a getaway to Hawaii or a trip to catch-up with their Veteran brothers and sisters on the other side of the country, the Space-A travel program can fly you there.

Can all veterans use the commissary now?

To shop at the commissary, qualified patrons must either have a valid DoD-issued military or family member identification card (active duty, Guard and Reserve members, military retirees, Medal of Honor recipients, 100% disabled veterans, and their authorized family members) or a veteran health identification card, VHIC ...

How do I get a VA commissary letter?

You may contact the VA directly at (800) 827-1000, voice prompt “Letters” and have a Summary of Benefits Letter faxed or mailed to you. Alternatively, you may also use the resources below to print this letter directly from the websites.

Can all veterans go on base?

But If the veteran doesn't have a VHIC, they'll be directed to go get one. Only with a VHIC can the veteran get access to the base. All a veteran has to do is take their VHIC, along with valid state ID, driver's license or passport, to an installation's Pass and ID office.

Can a 100% disabled Veteran live on base?

Yes, You Can! Living in base housing isn't just for active-duty military personnel. Retirees, civilians, and other eligible individuals can also take advantage of the benefits that come with moving onto a military base.

What color is a 100% disabled veteran ID card?

A 100% disabled veteran ID card, also known as a DoD ID card, is tan in color. This distinctive color sets it apart from other military ID cards and makes it easily recognizable.

What grants are available for 100% disabled veterans?

Specially Adapted Housing Grant

Specially Adapted Housing Grants (SAH) primarily help 100-percent-disabled veterans with mobility issues. For example, a veteran may need a wheelchair-accessible home to live independently. You can use the money to do things such as build ramps or widen doorways.