Many retailers and service providers give senior price breaks on everything from dining to apparel and more. A surprising number of them begin offering these savings well before you reach the classic senior age of 65.
Younger years have their perks, and plenty of people resist being labeled “senior” too early.
But when it comes to your finances, why not use any discounts you qualify for? Don’t let pride or a tag keep extra money out of your account!
How to Claim Senior Discounts
For some discounts, a photo ID showing your birthdate is all you need. For others, you may be asked to join a complimentary store membership — a process that typically takes just a minute.
If a discount isn’t announced, don’t hesitate to ask — politely inquiring can pay off. Even if a business doesn’t list a senior reduction, a friendly question could get you one.
For instance, while confirming discounts for this piece, a customer service rep told me his employer didn’t officially offer a senior deal, but he might be able to arrange one anyway.
Confirm Your Local Location’s Policy
Because many businesses operate as franchises, age thresholds and discount availability can vary by site. It’s always smart to call ahead and ask about the policy at your nearby location.
Also remember to weigh all potential offers. Other promotions — like online coupons or BOGO deals — might save you more than a senior discount, or you may even be able to combine them with your senior price cut.
Senior Discounts Starting at 50
1. Kmart: Its GoldK membership provides up to 20% off prescriptions for members 50 and older.
2. Banana Republic: Many stores give 10% off in-store purchases.
3. Bealls Department Stores: Club 50 Plus members receive 20% off purchases on the first Tuesday of each month at participating stores. Exclusions may include Clinique, Estee Lauder and gift card purchases. Bealls operates locations in 38 states.
4. Alamo Rent A Car: The company advertises 10% off plus unlimited mileage at airport rental counters, per corporate communications.
Senior Discounts at 55
5. IHOP Restaurants: The 55+ offerings typically amount to roughly 10% off regular menu pricing.
6. Ross: Shoppers 55 and older can get 10% off on Tuesdays, a staff member told us by phone.
7. Walgreens: Enrolled members in the free Balance Rewards program can receive 20% off on the first Tuesday of each month, according to store staff. Sign-up is available in-store or via phone.
8. Best Western: Guests 55 and older get at least 10% off rates at hotels and resorts worldwide. You’ll need to show proof of age at check-in.
9. Ponderosa Steakhouse: Some locations feature a senior menu, with age requirements differing by restaurant. For example, in Kissimmee, Florida, diners 55 and up receive a free beverage and 10% off entrees Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Senior Discounts at 60
10. Kohl’s: Customers aged 60+ get 15% off every Wednesday.
11. Golden Corral: The senior buffet saves about 50 cents off regular prices, but the best value is the early bird special for guests 60 and over — Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the buffet (drinks included) can be as low as $7.59.
12. Ryan’s Restaurant: From 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., the senior buffet is usually about 10% off standard prices, and the price includes a beverage, staff noted by phone.
13. Radisson Hotels: Guests 60+ may receive 10%–15% off the best available rates depending on the property, per staff information.
14. Choice Hotels: Seniors can save up to 10% on advance reservations made by phone.
15. AMC Theaters: Senior ticket prices and discounts differ by location and showtime; for example, seniors might save around 8% in Destin, Florida.
16. Regal Entertainment Group: Senior prices vary by theater. In Miami, patrons 60 and up can save roughly 8%–10% depending on the screening time.
17. Cici’s Pizza: Many franchise locations provide senior discounts, though age thresholds differ. For instance, some Orlando stores give $3 off orders to customers 62 and older.
AARP Alternatives and Perks
Joining AARP can be an economical option for people 50 and older who want savings on a variety of goods and services. Membership currently runs about $16 per year, and AARP occasionally offers discounted introductory rates.
Numerous businesses honor AARP membership, and for several companies, AARP is the only route to obtain a senior reduction.
You can preview the discounts and perks before joining by visiting its site or subscribing to promotional emails. While there are many offers on the site, here are a couple of examples:
18. Denny’s: AARP members typically receive 15% off menu prices.
19. Target Optical: AARP members can save up to 60% on eye exams and about 30% on eyeglasses.
Also look into other helpful resources like best senior discounts compiled for older savers; they can reveal additional ways to reduce everyday expenses.
Linda Harrow is a longtime freelance writer with a background in communications and consumer advocacy. Her interest in personal finance and helping readers find practical savings inspired her contributions to Savinly.
