We understand the unique bond you share with other veterans of overseas
conflicts because we, too, have been there. Since 1899, the VFW has been
the nation’s leading veterans service organization in the fight to
better the lives of all those who’ve worn the uniform of the United
States military. No matter which conflict called you to service, we
invite you to join us. Stand strong with the nearly 1.7 million members
of the VFW and its Auxiliary as together, we continue to fight for all
that’s good
FOR VETERANS. Become an Annual Member today.
Annual Membership
As the largest combat veteran organization around, VFW membership spans the globe. We’re an elite group of combat warriors who have each other’s backs long after the fight is over.
Camaraderie. Empowerment. Access to a vast network of resources. Assistance securing the benefits you've earned. Numerous discounts on a number of products and services. With a VFW membership, you'll find all this and more! Further, your VFW membership establishes your place in the VFW legacy that dates back to our founding in 1899.
Your dues of just $45.00 will cover the cost of your membership for a full calendar year as a Member-At-Large for your state. ($1.98 of your membership dues goes toward your VFW magazine subscription.)
Life Membership
By becoming a VFW Life member, you make a lifetime commitment to serving your fellow service members and veterans. That's something to take great pride in.
You'll also enjoy many great benefits of being a Life member! You will:
- Avoid annual dues and renewals.
- Maintain your membership in any Post you choose, worldwide!
- Never pay an increase in dues—Guaranteed!
- Receive a 10% discount on exclusive VFW Store merchandise for the first year.
You can become a VFW Life member by making a one-time payment, or you can pay for your Life membership through our installment plan with an initial $45 payment and 11-month payment plan for an amounted depending on your age at time of applying.
Legacy Life Membership: Must be a life member before applying for the Legacy Life Membership.
Legacy Life Membership
Legacy Life membership enables VFW Life members to leave a lasting impression on our great organization.
Three prestigious levels of Legacy Life membership are available: Gold, Silver and Bronze.
Each level offers generous benefits reserved exclusively for Legacy Life members. Once your Legacy Life membership begins, an annual endowment in your name will be made to your Post, Department and the national organization. You will feel confident knowing your contributions to our organization are not only helping today’s veterans but the veterans of tomorrow.
You may also purchase a Memorial Legacy in the name of a deceased VFW Life member to help future generations know and remember their sacrifice and contributions.
View our list of current Legacy Life members by state.
Eligibility
To qualify for membership in the VFW you MUST meet the following TWO requirements:
1: Honorable Service – must have served in the Armed Forces of the United States and either received a discharge of Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) or be currently serving.
2: Service in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil or in hostile waters*. This can be proven by any of the following:
- An authorized campaign medal (see a full list of qualifying medals and badges)
- Receipt of Hostile Fire Pay or Imminent Danger Pay (verified by a military pay statement)
- Service in Korea for 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days
*This information is usually available through a veteran’s DD-214. If other information is needed or if a veteran’s DD-214 is not complete, they can contact the National Personnel Records Center online or at 314.801.0800 to request more information.
More detailed information on VFW eligibility can be accessed here.
If you are not eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars but you have a parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, sibling, or spouse who would be eligible then you may apply for membership in the VFW Auxiliary. You can learn more at vfwauxiliary.org.
Celebrating the Legacy: History of the VFW Video For 125 years the Veterans of Foreign Wars has carried the torch for veterans.
