18 of the Best Senior Discounts You Need to Know
When you’re out and about, don’t be afraid to ask if a place has a senior discount. It’s a good business practice for stores, and those savings can really add up. So we put together a list of the most common types of senior discounts, along with some specific retailers. From restaurants to car insurance to banking, there are plenty of savings here to be had.
1. Grocery stores
Most (but not all) grocery stores offer senior discounts on certain days. These range from 5% at Publix and Piggly Wiggly to as much as 15% at Fred Meyer. Some local grocery stores will offer small discounts, too. It never hurts to ask, then put it on your calendar so you remember when to go!
2. Cell Phone
Sprint, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon all have cell phone plans with senior discounts. If you’re over 55, you can save on a plan, and it’ll likely include unlimited data.
3. Restaurants
This is probably one of the longest lists when it comes to discounts available to seniors. Whether it’s on a certain day or a specific block of time, many restaurants offer something. Ask around at your favorite places, and ask your friends, too —this kind of knowledge should be shared!
4. Auto Insurance
This is one insurance that should actually get cheaper as you get older. If you think you’re paying too much for auto insurance, make sure to specifically request the senior discount, even through your current insurance carrier. Ask if you can bundle, too.
5. Movies
Many of the major movie chains offer great discounts on tickets for seniors. You just have to know when to go. AMC Theatres give a 30% discount if you’re over 60. Marcus has $5 Fridays if you go early in the day. And many other national and local chains have senior days or times as well.
6. Prescriptions
Almost every pharmacy out there wants your business and offers some sort of senior discount program. Rite Aid, Costco, CVS, and Walgreens all have types of membership programs with savings that can really add up.
7. Airlines
You won’t find a coupon code to use or a drop-down menu available when booking online, but you can get some great discounts on air travel through airlines like Southwest, American Airlines, and United Airlines. Call them directly to book and they’ll apply the senior discount if and when available. (Yes, it’s kind of vague that way.)
8. Car rentals
AARP will definitely get you some discounts on car rentals, but there are some companies that do their own thing. For instance, Budget and Dollar both offer a savings of 10% or more, and you only have to be 50+ to qualify.
9. Cruises
Nearly every cruise line out there offers a senior discount for those 55 and older. Before you book, be sure to call and ask. Another tip is to wait to get the best deal/offer available to you, and then ask to apply your senior discount on top.
10. Hotels
This discount is not always advertised. Again, many of the programs are aligned with AARP membership, but there are plenty of others that offer their own independent discount. For instance, Days Inn, Hyatt, La Quinta, Marriott, Travelodge, and Comfort Suites all have a senior rate. These are not always advertised, so again, just ask!
11. National Parks
For just $80, you can get a lifetime pass to the national parks, which also includes access to more than 2,000 other federal sites. It used to be $10 for a lifetime pass, but it was recently raised. It’s still a pretty amazing deal, though, and you’ll be able to use it for years to come.
12. Thrift Stores
You can save even more at thrift stores if you know the days to shop. St. Vincent de Paul, for instance has savings up to 25% every Wednesday for those over 55. Goodwill has their savings day on Tuesdays for those over 60. The Salvation Army is worth checking out for discounts, too. They can get up to 50%. The exact rates can vary by state and store, but it’s worth checking out.
13. Retail Stores
Many retail stores also have certain days where seniors can save. One of the best is Kohl’s because they offer 15% off every single Wednesday for those 55 and older. While they might be one of the top options, it doesn’t hurt to check with others. Retailers like Dressbarn, Banana Republic, and others have offers, too.
14. Greyhound
You can save as much as 20% on Greyhound fares if you’re 62 or older. This can be a really cost-effective way to travel overall. Gather up some friends and do a Greyhound road trip so they can do all the driving.
15. Amtrak
If you like the idea of traveling by train, then look up the Amtrak senior discount. Those 62 and older can get a 15% discount (or more) on the lowest fare.
16. Amusement Parks and Events
This one can be a little hit and miss, but if you’re traveling with family, be sure to check for senior rates. At Sea World, you can expect a few bucks off your admission, and the same is true for Busch Gardens. Theatres and event venues can sometimes offer senior discounts, too. Don’t forget to check.
17. Banking
Banks want your business, so many offer senior discounts that will include free (or low-cost) checks and other perks. If you’re looking for a new bank, ask around to get the best option.
18. Coffee
If you’re a coffee drinker, then it’s worth knowing about restaurants that give seniors free coffee. It can vary a lot by location, but some of those known for giving out free coffee include Dunkin’, Big Boy, Wendy’s, Whataburger, and even some McDonald’s (though some require a purchase). Another easy hack is to ask for your free refill at Starbucks. Yep, this coffee giant gives free refills for regular coffee when you go inside and hang out for a while.
More from Woman’s World
4 Ways You Could Be Saving Extra Money at Walmart and Other Discount Stores
