Getting older can definitely pay off. While there are great benefits like wisdom, there’s also one tangible benefit that can be enjoyed by many. One of the best parts about getting older is qualifying for great senior discounts almost everywhere you go. Many discounts are available once you reach 55 to 60 years old and apply to almost everything, from cell phones and haircuts to auto insurance and museum admission. In most cases, you do not need a special membership to qualify and you may not need to provide proof of your age.
Of course, most companies don't advertise that they offer any discounts or deals for seniors. This means you will need to ask. To help you get started in your search for deals, here are answers to some common questions you may have.
Questions About Senior Discounts
1. Do Seniors Qualify for Auto Insurance Discounts?
A: Many car insurance companies offer discounts for senior drivers. With your years of experience driving, you have an advantage over inexperienced drivers who are more likely to get in an accident. The most common discount is 10-15% off your premium once you reach a certain age, such as 55 or 60. You can also earn a discount for driving less once you retire. This low-mileage discount usually requires driving less than 7,500 miles annually.
2. Can Seniors Get Discounts for National Parks and Museums?
A: Most museums offer a reduced admission rate for seniors that may be worth a few dollars per visit. If you live in a city, you may also qualify for a senior discount museum card that grants discounted admission to several museums for a specific period of time. If you are at least 62, you can also get a lifetime America the Beautiful pass for yourself and up to three adults for just $10 that grants free admission to over 2,000 federal recreation sites and national parks.
3. Which Restaurants Offer a Senior Discount?
A: A huge array of restaurants offer a discount to seniors aged 55 and older. Some restaurants, such as IHOP, offer a senior menu with smaller portions and discounted prices. Applebee's, on the other hand, offers a flat discount of 10% for seniors aged 60+ with the Applebee's Golden Apple Card. If you have an AARP card, you can get 20% off at Denny's. Sonic offers the choice of 10% off or a free beverage for seniors 60 and older. Several restaurants, such as McDonald's and KFC, only offer a free drink with a meal.
4. Where Do Seniors Receive Travel Discounts?
A: If you plan to hit the road and travel, you can earn a sizeable discount on travel expenses and hotel stays. With an AARP card, Alamo Car Rental and Avis offer discounts of up to 25%. Southwest Airlines and American Airlines also offer discounts for seniors that can be as high as 50% on non-peak travel days. Amtrak provides seniors with a 15% discount with some restrictions. If you stay at a Best Western, you get 10% off if you're at least 55, while Comfort Inn offers a larger discount of 20-30% for seniors who are 60+. Your AARP card can also get you discounts at other hotel chains with up to 20% off at Weston and Ramada and up to 10% off at Best Western and Hyatt.
5. Can Seniors Qualify for a Grocery Discount?
A: Numerous grocery stores offer discounted days for seniors to receive 5% to 10% off their grocery purchase. Kroger offers 10% off shopping days for seniors, but the day varies by location. At Albertson's, seniors aged 55+ receive 10% off on the first Wednesday of each month. Fred Meyer offers the same discount on the first Tuesday of every month. To make sure you're eligible, contact your local grocery store and ask if they have a senior discount day and the minimum age to qualify.
6. Where Do Seniors Get Retail Discounts?
A: If you're in the mood for shopping, being at least 55 can earn you a discount of 10% or more. Kohls offers a great 15% off discount in-store for seniors 60 and older every Wednesday. At Ross, you get 10% off on Tuesdays if you are at least 55. Goodwill always offers a 10% off day for seniors every week, although the day varies by location. The age requirement at Goodwill also depends on the location; most stores require that you are at least 60. At Walgreens, you can get 20% off if you are at least 55 and an AARP member on the first Tuesday of every month.
7. Are There Other Discounts Available to Seniors?
A: Almost every type of company will offer some sort of discount for senior citizens, as long as you ask. With your utility companies, you may qualify for a low income assistance discount or medical discount. Many phone companies have plans designed for seniors, such as the $19.99/month plan from AT&T for wireless service. Regal Cinemas and AMC Theaters both offer a discount of up to 30% for seniors at least 60 years old. You can get $2 off haircuts at Supercuts and $3 off at Great Clips if you're at least 60.
If you think to ask whenever you're shopping, renting a car, traveling, or changing service providers, it's worth asking if they offer a senior discount. While 10% may not sound like a lot, it definitely adds up and may help you save hundreds every year.
