Using a Veteran card as a service leaver
HM Armed Forces Veteran card uses.
What is a Veteran card
A HM Armed Forces Veteran card is a quick and easy way to prove your status as a veteran.
It’s a recognition of your service and can be one of the ways that helps you maintain a link with your service identity.
Who can get a Veteran card
If you have left service since 2019, you should have received a HM Armed Forces Veteran card when leaving.
If you left service before 2019, you will be able to apply for an HM Armed Forces Veteran card soon.
Ways to use a Veteran card
There are many services available to ex-members of the armed forces.
To access these services some organisations, including charities, may need to verify that you are a veteran. This is to ensure that only those who are eligible access services specifically for veterans and their families.
As a veteran you can prove your status in many ways, and a HM Armed Forces Veteran card is a simple way to do this.
For example you need to verify your veteran status when you:
- get a Veterans’ railcard, entitling you up to up to 1/3 off most rail travel in England, Scotland and Wales.
- get a Defence Discount Service Card, to get discounts in over 12,000 restaurants and shops, on the highstreet and online.
- access specific offers during special events. For example, free travel on public transport to and from remembrance events on the weekend of Remembrance Sunday.
There are other services and Government initiatives available to veterans where your Veteran Card may be useful. Examples of services and Government initiatives for veterans include:
- employment initiatives such as
- National Insurance Relief for your employer in your first civilian role after service for up to 12 months.
- housing support and guidance from the Op FORTITUDE team.
- support and services from criminal justice agencies such as the Police, Probation Service and the Prison Service as part of Op NOVA.