Senior Benefits & Discounts

There’s a long list of discounts to save you money in retirement.

State and federal agencies have programs that may help you meet your expenses that Social Security and Medicare may not.

Businesses and organizations also provide discounts that make shopping, dining and travel more affordable.

Dozens of retail stores offer senior discounts — some for people as young as 50. It’s a good idea to ask a store manager or cashier if the place where you shop offers a discount.

The list is too long to name all of the retail stores that offer senior discounts, but here are some examples from popular stores.

It appears that grocery stores are phasing out senior discounts in favor of overall savings, according to some groups that follow these trends.

Not every store in the chain may participate in senior discounts. But you should ask your local store if they do and you can still find discounts at many checkout counters.

If you enjoy dining out, there are plenty of options, from fast food and casual dining to even more pricey restaurants, that offer discounts to seniors. Having an AARP membership will add even more restaurants to your discount list.

Be sure to ask about senior discounts at these and other restaurants before ordering.

Many retirees spend their extra free time traveling. Knowing what travel discounts are available can help extend those travels while putting less stress on your bank account.

Some discounts require AARP membership, but others may just require proof of age.

Senior discounts have become increasingly rare among airlines. These are some that are still available as of the time of writing.

Landing a senior discount on a flight can be tricky to do online. It’s best to call the airline and ask if they have any discounts available.

Likewise, it’s best to call a hotel about senior discounts before booking a room. Those that offer discounts may not have them available at all hotels in the chain. Here’s a sample of some that offer senior discounts.

Public transit systems typically offer senior discounts to get around major cities. If you want to get across the country instead of across town, Amtrak and major bus lines also offer discounts.

Rental car companies sometimes offer discounts, but it’s wise to check with them before reserving a car. Some may also partner with AARP to provide discounts to members.

You can save money while spending time doing the activities you love — movies, hobbies and games all offer senior discounts.

Hobbies can be expensive, but you can get a break on hobby costs if you ask around.

Drug stores, eyeglass retailers and other health services frequently offer senior discounts that can save you money whether you are on Medicare or still using your employer’s insurance.

The age to qualify for these discounts varies, but it’s wise to ask.

Most large, national pharmacy chains offer prescription discount programs you sign up for at any age.

Senior discounts on fitness programs and memberships can help you keep in shape while keeping your wallet lined.

Local fitness centers may also offer senior discounts. Be sure to check with your local gym or fitness center about any discounts available.

Especially since 9/11, dozens of companies have offered discounts to active duty military, and many of those also offer discounts to veterans long after they have served. You will need to show valid military ID in most cases.

You can find discounts on things such as restaurant meals, travel and auto parts. If you served, it’s smart to ask if a business offers a veteran’s discount before ordering or ringing up a purchase.