The Department of Defense announced extended benefits for veterans on Monday. 

Veterans who received an honorable discharge are now eligible to shop at online military exchanges, which are mega discount retailers where veterans can shop for items such as electronics, jewelry, and military items. 

The shopping privileges are lifetime benefits, which went into effect on Veterans Day and include the Army, Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps Exchanges. Previously, only active duty military and military retirees could shop online at the exchange. 

Buying uniforms, alcohol and tobacco products are excluded in the exchange. 

Officials said the expanding the exchange is a small way to thank our service members for their contributions. 

Eligibility for the exchange is determined by VetVerify that asks for your name, date of birth and social security number. You can access VetVerify by clicking here.