7 Discounts Seniors Get Only If They Ask

Reaching a certain age often brings eligibility for various discounts. Many businesses offer these savings to older customers, though they frequently remain unadvertised. Proactively inquiring can unlock savings, as businesses may not openly promote discounts to avoid assumptions about age. When seeking these discounts, be prepared to present identification to verify your age.

Discovering Discounts Through Inquiry

Retail Store Discounts

Many retail stores provide special discounts to older shoppers, commonly a percentage off the total purchase. These savings are available at various types of stores, including department stores, clothing retailers, and general merchandise outlets. Some retailers offer 10% to 15% off on specific days of the week, often mid-week, for individuals aged 55 or 60 and older. Inquire at the checkout counter before the transaction is finalized.

Restaurant and Dining Discounts

Dining establishments frequently offer reduced prices or special menus for older patrons, ranging from fast-food chains to casual dining restaurants and local eateries. These discounts might include a percentage off the entire bill, a special senior menu with reduced prices or smaller portions, or discounted beverages. Many offer benefits for customers aged 55 or 60 and above. Ask about any available senior discounts when ordering or before receiving the bill.

Travel and Accommodation Discounts

Travel and accommodation providers often extend reduced rates for older adults, covering hotel stays, car rentals, and certain travel services. Major hotel chains and car rental agencies frequently have dedicated senior rates, offering savings of 10% to 15% or more off standard prices. These discounts may be available for individuals aged 50, 55, or 60 and older, with some requiring AARP membership. Inquire about senior discounts when booking online, over the phone, or upon check-in.

Entertainment Venue Discounts

Numerous entertainment venues offer discounted admission for seniors, including movie theaters, museums, art galleries, and local attractions. These savings often translate to lower ticket prices for films, exhibitions, or performances. Many venues provide reduced rates for individuals aged 60 or 65 and older, sometimes with specific senior discount days or matinee showings. Ask for the senior rate when purchasing tickets at the box office or online.

Grocery Store Discounts

Grocery stores are another common place where older individuals can find savings, often in the form of specific senior discount days or through loyalty programs tied to age. These discounts typically involve a percentage off the total grocery bill, such as 5% to 10%, on designated days of the week. While some national chains may have eliminated these, many regional and local supermarkets continue to offer them, with eligibility often starting around age 55 or 60. Inquire at the customer service desk or with a cashier about senior discount policies before shopping.

Personal Service Discounts

Various personal service providers may offer discounts for older customers, encompassing services such as hair salons, dry cleaning, and auto repair shops. These savings can vary from a small percentage off the service fee to specific discounted service packages. These types of discounts are often found at smaller, independent, or locally owned businesses rather than large national chains. Directly ask the service provider when scheduling an appointment or before the service commences.

Public Transportation Discounts

Public transportation systems frequently provide reduced fares for older adults on local bus services, regional trains, and subways. These discounts can significantly lower the cost of daily commuting or travel within a city or region, often reducing fares by 50% or more. Eligibility for these reduced fares typically begins at age 62 or 65, though this can vary by transit authority. To obtain these fares, individuals usually need to apply for a special senior transit ID card through the local transportation agency.