10 Often Overlooked Discounts For Seniors, That Are Easy To Get
Aging has its perks, and one of the most valuable perks for seniors is the wide array of discounts available. However, many of these discounts often go unnoticed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 10 often overlooked discounts for seniors that are easy to get, ranging from travel and dining to entertainment and healthcare. These discounts can make a significant difference in your budget and overall lifestyle.
1. Travel Discounts
Traveling can be a great way to enjoy retirement, and many companies offer senior discounts that can make your trips more affordable.
a. Airlines
Many airlines offer senior discounts, but they are not always advertised. For example, American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines often have special fares for seniors. To access these discounts, it’s best to call the airline directly or check their website for senior fare information.
b. Railroads
Amtrak offers a 10% discount for passengers aged 65 and older on most rail fares. This can be a great way to explore the country without the stress of driving or flying.
c. Car Rentals
Companies like Hertz and Budget offer discounts for AARP members, often around 20% off. It’s worth mentioning your senior status when booking to see if you can get a better rate.
2. Dining Discounts
Eating out doesn’t have to be a luxury. Many restaurants offer special deals for seniors.
a. Restaurant Chains
- Denny’s: Offers a 15% discount for AARP members.
- IHOP: Provides a special menu with reduced prices for guests aged 55 and older.
- Outback Steakhouse: Offers 10% off for AARP members on food and non-alcoholic beverages.
b. Local Eateries
Many local restaurants offer discounts for seniors, especially on certain days of the week. It’s always a good idea to ask if any senior discounts are available.
3. Retail Discounts
Shopping can be more enjoyable when you know you’re saving money.
a. Clothing Stores
- Kohl’s: Offers a 15% discount every Wednesday for customers aged 60 and above.
- Ross Stores: Provides a 10% discount every Tuesday for those 55 and older.
b. Grocery Stores
- Albertsons: Offers discounts of up to 10% on the first Wednesday of each month for seniors aged 55 and older.
- Kroger: Some locations offer a senior discount on certain days, usually around 10%.
4. Entertainment Discounts
Whether you enjoy movies, theater, or museums, there are plenty of ways to save on entertainment.
a. Movie Theaters
Many chains, like AMC and Regal, offer discounted tickets for seniors, often on specific days of the week.
b. Museums and National Parks
- Smithsonian Museums: Many offer free or reduced admission for seniors.
- National Park Service: Offers an annual Senior Pass for $20 or a lifetime pass for $80, providing free admission to over 2,000 federal recreation sites.
5. Health and Wellness Discounts
Staying healthy can be less expensive with these senior discounts.
a. Pharmacies
- Walgreens: Offers a “Seniors Day” once a month with 20% off in-store purchases.
- CVS: Provides discounts through their ExtraCare Senior Savings program.
b. Fitness Centers
- YMCA: Many locations offer reduced membership fees for seniors.
- 24-Hour Fitness: Offers special rates for seniors and often partners with health insurance plans to provide discounts.
6. Insurance Discounts
Saving on insurance can lead to significant yearly savings.
a. Auto Insurance
Many providers, such as GEICO and Allstate, offer discounts for senior drivers, especially those who take a defensive driving course.
b. Home Insurance
Companies like State Farm and Liberty Mutual offer discounts for seniors, particularly those who have home safety features installed.
7. Technology Discounts
Staying connected is important, and there are discounts available for tech-savvy seniors.
a. Cell Phone Plans
- AT&T: Offers a Senior Nation plan with discounted rates.
- Verizon: Provides a 55+ Unlimited Plan with savings for seniors.
b. Software and Hardware
- Apple: Offers educational discounts that can sometimes be applied to seniors.
- Dell: Provides discounts through AARP on various products.
8. Transportation Discounts
Local transportation can be more affordable with senior discounts.
a. Public Transit
Many cities offer reduced fares for seniors on buses and trains. For example, New York City’s MTA offers half-price fares for seniors.
b. Ridesharing Services
- Uber: Occasionally offers promotions for senior riders.
- Lyft: Has partnerships with organizations to provide discounted rides for seniors.
9. Utility Discounts
Even your utility bills can be reduced with the right discounts.
a. Electricity and Gas
Many utility companies offer senior discounts or budget billing plans to help manage costs.
b. Phone and Internet
- Spectrum: Offers a discount program for seniors on fixed incomes.
- AT&T: Has low-cost internet plans available for seniors.
10. Miscellaneous Discounts
Here are some other discounts that might surprise you.
a. Hair Salons
Many local salons offer senior discounts on certain days of the week. It’s always worth asking your stylist.
b. Professional Services
- Tax Preparation: Companies like H&R Block offer discounts for AARP members.
- Legal Services: Some law firms offer reduced rates for seniors needing assistance with wills and estate planning.
How to Find and Claim These Discounts
1. Ask Directly: One of the simplest ways to find out if a discount is available is to ask. Whether you’re dining out, shopping, or booking travel, always inquire about senior discounts.
2. Check Online: Many companies list their senior discounts on their websites. A quick search can often yield surprising savings.
3. Join AARP: Membership in AARP comes with a wealth of discounts across various categories, from travel to dining to insurance.
4. Local Senior Centers: Your local senior center is a great resource for information on discounts and services available in your area.
5. Sign Up for Newsletters: Many companies send out special offers and discounts via email to their subscribers. Signing up for these can keep you informed about the latest deals.
Why Do These Discounts Matter
Senior discounts can provide significant savings that add up over time. Here are a few reasons why taking advantage of these discounts is beneficial:
- Budget Stretching: Fixed incomes can only stretch so far. Discounts help make the most of your budget.
- Better Quality of Life: Savings on essential and leisure activities can improve your overall quality of life.
- Increased Opportunities: With the money saved, you might find you can afford to travel more, dine out more frequently, or engage in new hobbies.
Conclusion
Taking advantage of senior discounts is a smart way to manage your finances and enjoy your golden years to the fullest. Whether it’s saving on travel, dining, shopping, or health services, these often overlooked discounts can make a significant difference. Remember to always ask about available discounts, check online resources, and utilize memberships like AARP to maximize your savings. Happy saving!
Clickable Links:
- AARP Membership Benefits
- Senior Discounts at Amtrak
- Walgreens Seniors Day
- Kohl’s Senior Discount
- YMCA Senior Membership
- National Park Senior Pass
Taking advantage of these senior discounts can significantly enhance your lifestyle and savings. Be proactive, ask about available discounts, and enjoy the benefits that come with being a senior!