Although the age to claim Medicare is 65, many senior benefits and discounts begin much earlier. When you turn 50, you can join AARP or AMAC and start taking advantage of senior discounts right away. Other discounts have minimum age requirements, which vary by employer or location and can range from 50 to 65 years.
Are you unsure if you are eligible for a senior discount? Look into it, and don’t be afraid to ask. Because not all establishments advertise discounts for seniors, some asking around may be necessary.
Save Big on Shopping
As a senior, stretching your budget can help you save money, and taking advantage of available discounts can make everyday shopping much more affordable. Before your next shopping trip, remember that there are a variety of money-saving opportunities available across popular retailers:
Every Tuesday, Goodwill offers a 10% discount to shoppers aged 60 and older. Seniors on Medicaid or SNAP can enjoy full Amazon Prime benefits for just $6.99 per month, which is significantly less than the standard fee. Every Wednesday, Kohl’s offers a 15% discount to customers aged 60 and up, while Michaels gives a 10% discount to those over the age of 55. Every Wednesday, Hy-Vee customers aged 55 and up can save 5% on their groceries. Rite Aid also provides savings for seniors 65 and up, such as 20% off on the first Wednesday of each month. Walgreens offers discounts to customers 55 and older and AARP members, making wellness essentials more affordable. Finally, on Thursdays, seniors 55 and older receive a 20% discount at select Habitat for Humanity ReStores.
Save On Groceries
If you want to stretch your grocery budget, many stores in the United States offer senior discounts, which can add up over time. While these offers may differ by location and are subject to change, they provide excellent opportunities to save money on necessities.
Every Monday, American Discount Stores offers a 10% discount to customers over the age of 62. Every Wednesday, Bi-Lo offers a 5% discount to customers aged 60 and up. On the first Wednesday of each month, Fry’s Food Stores offers a 10% discount to customers aged 55 and up. Every Thursday, Harris Teeter offers a 5% discount to customers over the age of 60. Hy-Vee also participates, offering a 5% discount on Wednesdays for seniors 55 and up, though the exact offer may vary by store. Every Wednesday in the Pacific Northwest and California, New Seasons Market offers a 10% discount on most items to customers over the age of 65.
Cut Down Auto Insurance Payments
Many seniors pay far too much for car insurance, often because they simply allow their policies to renew automatically year after year without considering other options. If you’re over 45 and paying over $38 per month, you’re probably overpaying for your coverage. Fortunately, most seniors can now save more than $400 per year by using Coverage.com, a free car insurance comparison website.
All you have to do is go to the website, answer a few simple questions, and review the insurance options it offers. That’s all it takes—it’s quick, simple, and could save you a lot of money.
Slash Your Auto Service Bill
As a senior, saving money on car maintenance can make a significant difference, especially as costs rise. Before having your vehicle serviced or repaired, check for senior discounts, which can help you save money on things like oil changes, new tires, and general maintenance. Many auto service providers provide special discounts to older adults.
For example, at participating Jiffy Lube locations, AARP members receive a discount. Midas provides a 10% discount on labor and services, whereas Pep Boys provides a 10% discount at select locations to customers aged 60 and up. STS Tires & Auto Centers also supports seniors by providing a 5% discount on tires, services, and accessories to anyone aged 55 and up. Taking advantage of these deals allows your money to go further while keeping your car in good condition.
Take Advantage of Health Discounts
American seniors frequently overspend on their healthcare needs, ranging from routine medications to essential wellness items. These expenses can quickly add up, causing financial hardship for many. Fortunately, there are several programs available to assist seniors in better managing their expenses.
For example, Rite Aid’s Wellness 65+ Program provides a 20% discount on purchases on the first Wednesday of each month, as well as a free consultation with a pharmacist. Walgreens’ free myWalgreens membership offers seniors 55 and older 20% off both online and in-store purchases. The RxFreeCard also saves seniors money on prescription medications, and Atera Spas offers special pricing on products designed specifically for older adults. Additionally, AARP Prescription Savings enables members to save an average of 61% on FDA-approved prescriptions that are not covered by insurance.
Reduce Travel Costs
If you enjoy traveling, vacationing, or visiting family, it’s always a good idea to look into travel discounts for seniors. Travelers aged 55 and up can frequently receive special benefits and savings from a variety of travel providers.
For example, American Airlines offers a variety of senior discounts on select trips, but you must call for details. Amtrak offers a 10-15% discount to seniors in most locations, and Alaska Airlines offers savings of up to 10% depending on the travel date. Southwest Airlines offers special Senior Fares for passengers over the age of 65, which can be booked online or through customer service. United Airlines also offers special pricing for travelers over 65; simply select the “Over 65” option when booking. Hertz’s Fifty Plus Program provides a 20% discount for customers aged 50 and up, as well as benefits such as expedited service and reward points.
Read this article and watch the video to learn more.
Source: Walletjump