American Express

American Express
✓ Last verified: May 8, 2026
American Express offers a military discount that helps active-duty military members and their families manage finances and enjoy exclusive perks. How the Discount Works The American Express military discount includes:
  • Waiving of all annual membership fees for active duty military members, National Guard & Reserve members, and veterans.
  • 0% APR for military service members during deployment and for up to a year after completing active duty.
  • Who Qualifies The military discount is available to:
  • Active duty military members.
  • National Guard & Reserve members.
  • Veterans.
  • Legally married spouses of active duty military service members.
  • How to Claim & Verify To claim the American Express military discount:
  • Apply for any American Express card.
  • Call the number on the back of your card or visit the company’s website to request the discount.
  • Verify your military status, which may require your social security number or DoD ID number.
  • American Express will verify your active duty status through the Department of Defense’s Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC). Pro Tips Consider the following when applying for the military discount:
  • All American Express credit cards qualify for the annual fee waiver.
  • Review the benefits of different cards, as they offer various advantages such as travel benefits, purchase and travel insurance, concierge service, and dining perks.
  • Keep your information with the DoD up-to-date to ensure continued eligibility for the discount.
  • This military discount from American Express provides significant savings and peace of mind for those who serve.

    How to Verify Your Military Status & Redeem the American Express Military Discount

    Most retailers verify your military status through one of three trusted services. The exact method depends on the brand:

    1. ID.me – Used by most major US brands. Create a free account at id.me, upload your military ID or service documents once, and get a discount code.
    2. SheerID – Common for outdoor, fitness, and lifestyle brands. Verification is instant against DoD records in most cases.
    3. In-store ID check – Show your CAC, VA card, retiree ID, or DD-214 at checkout. Available for active duty, Guard/Reserve, retirees, veterans, and qualifying dependents (varies by retailer).

    Who qualifies for the American Express military discount?

    Eligibility typically extends to: active duty (all branches), National Guard, Reserves, retirees, military veterans, and immediate family members (spouses and children) where the retailer permits. Always check the brand's current policy at checkout — terms can change.

    Pro tips before you check out

    • Verification accounts (ID.me, SheerID) work across hundreds of brands — set one up once and reuse it.
    • Some brands stack military discount with seasonal sales; others do not. Test before you commit.
    • Keep your service documents handy: a photo of your ID on your phone speeds in-store verification.

    Looking for more savings? Browse all military discounts on Military Markdown