Serving your country is one of the most honorable things you can do. It is also something that takes a lot of time, energy and often doesn’t leave you with a lot of extra cash. In many ways, what businesses can offer military personnel is helpful, and a great way to say, “thank you,” for your service.
Cars are one of the biggest necessities in this country—they allow you to get to and from work, take a vacation and do your daily errands. It isn’t any different for someone in the military. In fact, access to a reliable car is crucial for many service members. One way used car dealers help the men and women that serve this country is by offering military discounts for car sales. Here’s how it works:
Finding the Military Discounts Available to You
Military discounts work on several levels. Not only can they get you a discount on vehicles themselves, but they are also available for a variety of things after the sale. For example, you may get a discount on an oil change or accessories. The key to finding discounts is to ask. Here are some questions you can use:
- To dealerships – Do you have any military discounts available? What vehicles (makes/models) offer discounts?
- To auto services/mechanics – Do you have military discounts available for any of your services? This could cover oil changes, service checkups or even repairs.
- To parts/accessory stores – Many businesses are happy to offer a military discount. Simply ask, do you have a military discount program available? Two places that do are O’Reilly Auto Parts and Pep Boys.
Remember in most of these circumstances you’ll need your military ID—so have it readily available. Also, look to the web for other ideas and places you may find discounts surrounding a car purchase and ownership. Even check with auto insurance carriers. Places like Geico have several discount programs to choose from and help available for overseas service members.
Buying a Car
Buying a car as a military service member is much like the experience of the average person. You still need to focus on a few key things:
- Budget – The first step for buying your car is to look at your income less your expenses. Factor in everything you have to pay out each month, then create a budget for the money left over. Your car payment shouldn’t stretch you—it should feel manageable no matter what circumstances may arise. If you’ve never made a budget, there are several resources that will help you do so. For a car, you’ll want to factor in monthly payments, insurance, gas, maintenance and an emergency fund.
- Fix credit – If you don’t have good credit, you’ll want to take some time to fix it. Start by paying down debt and eradicating any bad debt.
- Find a good lender and dealer – Just because you’re in the military doesn’t mean you won’t run into predatory lending. Look for lenders and dealerships that have solid reputations.
- Research cars – Before you shop, take the time to look closely at your needs. What do you want from a car? Good mileage, the ability to haul or something that fits multiple children? Research used cars with good reviews and that are within your price point. Always know something about what you're getting before you buy.
- Protect yourself – As a military service member, you will face moves, overseas deployments and situations the average person doesn’t. Be aware of how all those things could affect you, and work to protect yourself should they occur. Watch out for predatory lenders that target military personnel. Remember that as someone in the military you need to keep your financial situation solid. Also, realize you are easy to locate. Don’t get in over your head with a loan, but look for something that you can afford no matter what happens.
Your service is greatly appreciated, and one way for businesses to show that is through discounts and programs. Never feel ashamed to ask—it is one of the benefits of serving the country—and one that is well deserved.