AARP Discount on Walmart+ Membership
For seniors who are AARP members, the primary discount available at Walmart is a reduced price on the Walmart+ annual membership. This offer provides a significant saving on the subscription fee, which can help offset the costs of daily essentials and groceries. The membership includes a suite of benefits designed to enhance convenience and affordability for shoppers, particularly older adults who may appreciate services like home delivery.
How to Redeem the AARP Walmart+ Discount
To access this benefit, AARP members must sign up for Walmart+ through a special AARP partnership page on the Walmart website. The process involves confirming your AARP membership to secure the discounted annual rate. Current Walmart+ members who are also AARP members can switch to this offer at the end of their current billing cycle by signing up through the same link.
Benefits Included with Walmart+ Membership
The Walmart+ membership offers a variety of perks beyond just discounts. These benefits add value for seniors and others looking to streamline their shopping experience. Key benefits include:
- Free Delivery from Store: Enjoy free grocery and pharmacy delivery right to your door with a minimum purchase amount. This is especially helpful for those with mobility issues or who prefer the convenience of at-home service.
- Free Shipping: Receive free shipping on online orders from Walmart.com with no minimum purchase required.
- Fuel Savings: Save up to 10 cents per gallon at participating fuel stations, which can add up to significant savings over time.
- Video Streaming: A complimentary Paramount+ Essentials subscription is included with your membership, offering access to a wide range of movies and shows.
- Mobile Scan & Go: This feature allows you to scan items with your phone as you shop in-store and pay with Walmart Pay, offering a contact-free and faster checkout experience.
- Returns from Home: Avoid a trip to the store by arranging for returns to be picked up from your home.
Comparison of Walmart Senior Savings Options
While Walmart doesn't offer a traditional senior discount, comparing the Walmart+ AARP offer with other savings programs can help seniors decide which option is best for them. The following table compares the AARP discount, the Walmart+ Assist program, and general savings methods.
| Feature | Walmart+ AARP Discount | Walmart+ Assist Program | General Savings at Walmart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Confirmed AARP members | Recipients of government assistance (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid, WIC) | All Walmart customers |
| Cost | Annual discounted rate (e.g., $58/year with current promotion) | Half-price annual or monthly membership | Free (excludes cost of items) |
| Key Benefits | Free delivery, free shipping, fuel savings, Paramount+, Mobile Scan & Go | Same benefits as regular Walmart+ at half the cost | Rollbacks, Flash Deals, Pharmacy programs, Walmart Cash |
| Best For | Seniors who are AARP members and want the full suite of Walmart+ benefits | Seniors receiving government aid who need maximum membership savings | Seniors who prefer not to purchase a membership and focus on in-store discounts |
Other Ways to Save Money at Walmart as a Senior
Beyond the AARP discount, seniors can take advantage of several other savings opportunities at Walmart. These options are available to all customers but can be particularly beneficial for those on a fixed income.
Pharmacy Discount Programs
Walmart's $4 prescription program offers many generic medications at a low price, which can result in significant savings over time, especially for those managing multiple conditions. It's a great alternative for medications not covered or with higher copayments under insurance plans.
Rollback and Flash Deals
Walmart regularly features Rollbacks and Flash Deals on its website and in stores. By keeping an eye on these temporary price drops, seniors can find substantial savings on a wide variety of merchandise, from electronics to household goods.
The Walmart App and Walmart Cash
The free Walmart mobile app is a powerful tool for maximizing savings. It allows users to receive alerts on deals, scan barcodes for price checks, and use Walmart Cash, a rewards program that lets you earn money back on certain purchases. Walmart Cash can then be redeemed for future purchases or cashed out.
Using Medicare Benefits at Walmart
For seniors on Medicare Advantage plans, many plans offer an Over-the-Counter (OTC) benefit card. This card can be used to purchase eligible health and wellness products at Walmart, helping to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for essentials like bandages, vitamins, and pain relief.
Understanding Walmart's Pricing Strategy
Walmart's decision not to offer a traditional senior discount stems from its “Everyday Low Price” strategy, which aims to provide competitive prices to all customers, regardless of age. While this may differ from retailers with specific senior discount days, the variety of savings programs like Walmart+ for AARP members, Walmart+ Assist, and everyday deals still provides plenty of opportunities to save. By combining AARP membership benefits with other available promotions, seniors can effectively maximize their savings at Walmart. The AARP website also provides a broader list of other retailers and services offering discounts to members, allowing for even more opportunities to save.
What the AARP Discount Does Not Include
It's important for seniors to understand that the AARP benefit does not apply to regular in-store purchases at the cash register. The discount is exclusively tied to the annual Walmart+ membership fee. Attempting to use an AARP card at checkout will not result in a discount on your total grocery bill or other merchandise.
The Evolving Landscape of Senior Savings
The shift away from traditional, age-based discounts by large retailers like Walmart and towards membership-based programs reflects a broader trend in the retail industry. For seniors, this means being aware of all the available programs and benefits, not just those tied to age. By exploring options like the Walmart+ AARP discount, Walmart+ Assist, and leveraging tools like the Walmart app, seniors can create a comprehensive savings strategy that fits their needs and budget, ensuring they can take advantage of the best deals available. For savvy seniors, it's about being informed and strategic with their shopping habits to unlock the most value.
