The Thank A Vet Discount Program, administered by the Erie County Clerk, honors local veterans while supporting commerce at participating Erie County businesses.
Hundreds of local businesses voluntarily participate by offering discounts on purchases and services when a Thank A Vet card is presented. The continued growth of participating businesses reflects our community’s appreciation for the men and women who have served.
What Is the Thank A Vet Card?
The Thank A Vet card is a complimentary photo ID certified by the Erie County Clerk. It verifies that the veteran has presented original discharge papers and has been honorably discharged.
The card may be used at participating businesses throughout Erie County to receive designated discounts.
Eligibility
The Thank A Vet card is available to any veteran who:
- Is a resident of Erie County
- Was honorably discharged from any branch of the United States Armed Forces
How to Receive a Thank A Vet Card
Veterans must file their original discharge papers with the Erie County Clerk’s Office.
Accepted discharge documents include:
- DD-214
- DD-256
- NGB-22
- Other official discharge documents
Upon filing:
- Your original discharge document is returned immediately after recording
- A scanned copy is securely stored for safekeeping
- Your photo will be taken
- A Thank A Vet discount card will be issued
There is no charge to file discharge papers.
Certified complimentary copies of recorded discharge documents are available to veterans and their immediate family members whenever needed.
Discharge papers are not public records and are not subject to the Freedom of Information Law (FOIL).
Where to File Discharge Papers and Receive Your Card
Discharge papers are filed at: Old County Hall Basement Records Office
After filing, your photo will be taken in the Clerk’s Administrative Office on the first floor. Your Thank A Vet card will then be issued.
Lost Your Original Discharge Papers?
Original discharge papers serve as proof of military service and may be required to establish eligibility for benefits such as:
- Property tax exemptions
- Civil service credits
If you have lost your original discharge papers, you may request a certified copy from the National Archives and Records Administration in St. Louis, Missouri.
On average, it takes 3 to 4 weeks to receive a certified copy.
Participating Businesses
The Thank A Vet program currently includes over 1,400 participating Erie County businesses. These businesses voluntarily offer discounts to cardholders when the Thank A Vet card is presented.
Participating Businesses
- Searchable Database: Find participating businesses by name, location, or category.
- Printable PDF List: View and print the full Thank A Vet business list.
(To search the PDF by company, town, or other criteria, press Ctrl + F.)
Enroll Your Business
Businesses that would like to join the program can:
- Complete the Online Enrollment Form
- Or download the Merchant Membership Form and return it by email or mail
Upcoming Outreach Events
Check the Thank A Vet and Clerk on the Go outreach events page for upcoming events and locations where cards may be issued in the community.