Unlike Lowe’s, the Home Depot does not have an official military discount printed anywhere on their website. This has created a lot of confusion as vets and active military try to figure out what, if any, military discount exists. So I thought I’d take this opportunity to investigate and see what I could find out. What I discovered was really enlightening. Hopefully you can take advantage of this information at the Home Depot and save some money. Let’s get into it…

What Exactly is the Home Depot Military Discount?

I went straight to the top and called the Home Depot corporate office and spoke personally with a big-whig who basically read me their internal “military discount” policy.

Essentially the discount breaks down into 2 main categories:

1. The Everyday Discount:

The “Everyday” discount at the Home Depot is a flat 10% off and it’s available 365 days a year.

It’s good for four types of service men/women:

– Active military

– Reserve personnel

– Retired veterans who served for at least 20 years.

– Those with a Service-Connected disability.

2. The Holiday Discount:

The “Holiday” discount is also 10% and is good for all other veterans who don’t fit into the four “everyday discount” categories above.

But…it’s only available on these 3 holidays: Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Veteran’s Day.

See Also: Lowe’s Military Discount: If You Served, It’s a No-Brainer Way to Save

Do I Need to Show Proper I.D.?

Yes.

This is especially true when getting the “Everyday” discount.

You’ll need to show one of these eight ID’s:

• Active Duty Military ID card w/ picture (Green Background)
• Retired Military ID card w/ picture (Blue Background)
• VA Card with word “Service” on it.
• DD-214 form.
• Valid driver’s license with the U.S. flag  -OR- “Veteran” designation.
• A service-connected VA Medical Center card.
• Common Access Card (CAC).
• Active Military and Retired Military ID card for spouse or dependents. (Yellow/Beige Background)

Unfortunately you’ll have to show proof every time you shop as they have no way of recording your information…yet.

I’m not sure what evidence is required to get the “Holiday” discount. Please let me know in the comments if you have the answer to that question.

See Also: Veteran & Military Discounts: 90+ Places Where Heroes Get a Deal

Are Any Items Excluded from the Discount?

Yes there are a few exclusions. Here are the most notable:

– Installation Services: Think carpet, blinds, tile, HVAC, closet shelving, and windows.

– Special Purchase Appliances: If you have to buy the appliance at the special services desk then you probably won’t get the 10% discount.

– Gift Cards.

Can the Discount Be Used Online?

Unfortunately, NO.

The military discount is only available in-store.

Are Spouses or Dependents Eligible?

Unfortunately, NO unless the eligible veteran happens to be shopping with them and can show proof of eligibility at checkout.

FYI, at Lowe’s spouses can get the 10% discount. They just tell the cashier their phone number and the information is already in the system.

Is There a Maximum Discount?

Yes.

While you can use the discount as often as you want, you’re restricted to a maximum order size of $500.

So the most you can save on any single purchase is $50.

Can It Be Combined with Other Discounts?

No.

You cannot combine the Home Depot military discount with coupons or other discounts of any kind.

So What’s the Big Controversy?

Because the Home Depot does not post an official military discount policy online, or in their stores, it’s often misinterpreted by managers and cashiers.

This leads to a lot of confusion and frustration among veterans and active military members.

I’ve read of some HD managers refusing the discount altogether and some cashiers being completely unaware of its existence.

I think if the Home Depot corporate office came out with an official policy, and made it easy to register (like Lowe’s), all of this confusion would go away.

Why Shouldn’t I Just Shop at Lowe’s?

Many vets are already opting to shop exclusively at Lowe’s.

There’s no doubt the Home Depot is loosing a lot of business because of this.

Your military information at Lowe’s is put into their system JUST ONCE and you get your 10% discount every time you shop, no questions asked.

Come on Home Depot, it’s time to copy your competitor and do the same!

I’d also like to see them open up their “Everyday” discount to ALL vets. After all, isn’t a vet a vet? They are in my book.

Ask the Reader: Have you ever asked for a military discount at the Home Depot? Was it an easy process or not worth the hassle?

Final Note: If you have some further information that I don’t have in this article please leave a comment and I’ll be sure to investigate, thanks.

By Kyle James