Get The Scoop On Senior Discount Programs

Getting older does have its advantages. You care less what other people think, you can rely on wisdom from your life experiences, and if you play your cards right, you get lots of senior discounts.

When you’re living on a tight budget, senior discounts can help you add some breathing room to your budget. To help you take advantage of as many senior discounts as possible, AARP Foundation put together a list of where you can save money simply because of your age.

Of course, if you don’t see a specific discount on this list, that doesn’t mean there isn’t one. It’s always a good idea to ask about possible senior discounts before handing over your hard-earned money. As you’ve no doubt learned by now, you never know unless you ask.

Drug Stores 
Nationwide chains like Walgreens, Rite Aid, and CVS each offer special savings for those of a certain age. Some give you a special discount once a month while others offer discounts for seniors all the time as part of their existing rewards program. While prescriptions aren’t discounted for seniors, many over-the-counter items like vitamins, pain relievers, and toothpaste usually are. 

Grocery Stores
Many grocery stores offer some sort of senior discount program, either on a certain day of the week or a few times a year. To get the discounts, you usually need to be over age 55, but some stores require you to be age 60. The discounts are typically 5 to 10 percent off and are limited to certain items or brands. Because these programs vary so widely, it’s best to ask what’s available for seniors at your local store.

Thrift Shops
Used-good stores are already a great place to find things you need for less money. Many resale stores like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Savers also offer special savings days just for seniors, where you can save anywhere from 10 to 50 percent. Programs vary by location but you usually have to be at least over 55 and offers typically don’t apply to new items just added to the store.

Amazon Prime
While Amazon doesn’t have an official discount for seniors, you still may be able to enjoy the perks of membership at a discount. If you meet certain income requirements and receive qualifying government assistance like SNAP or Medicaid, you can get a Prime membership at a discounted rate of $6.99 a month. The program, called Prime Access, is billed as “All of Prime, half the price.” You get fast, free delivery, Prime Video, Prime Gaming, Prime Reading, Prime Music, and unlimited photo storage once you’re qualified.

Retailers
On Wednesdays, Kohl’s shoppers age 60 and older can save 15 percent on in-store purchases. Ross Dress for Less offers 10 percent off for seniors 55 and older every Tuesday. To make sure you’re getting the best deal, be sure to ask which coupons and special offers can be combined with the senior discount.

Cell Phones
T-Mobile and Verizon offer special plans and discounts for those over 55. If you’re with another carrier, call them and ask what discounts they offer to older adults. (AARP membership includes a percent discount with Consumer Cellular.)

It’s always a good idea to ask about possible senior discounts before handing over your hard-earned money. As you’ve no doubt learned by now, you never know unless you ask.