A Multi-Faceted Partnership for Your Wallet
Unlike a simple single-use coupon, the AARP and Walgreens partnership offers multiple layers of savings that you can use concurrently. By understanding the different programs involved, you can save on everyday health and wellness products, beauty items, and even prescription medications. The key is knowing how to navigate the benefits to your advantage.
The AARP Prescription Discounts Program at Walgreens
The most direct way to save is through the AARP® Prescription Discounts program, provided by Optum Rx®. This program offers a free prescription discount card that can be used at over 66,000 participating retail pharmacies nationwide, including Walgreens Pharmacy.
How it Works
To use the card, you simply present it to the pharmacist. It can help you save on all FDA-approved medications, including both brand-name and generic drugs. AARP members benefit from deeper discounts and access to additional services like home delivery, and the coverage extends to any dependents regardless of age. It's crucial to understand that you cannot combine the discount card with your regular insurance. You should compare the prices to see which offers the best deal for your specific medication.
Exclusive Seniors Day Discounts for AARP Members
Beyond prescriptions, your AARP membership provides a significant retail discount. Walgreens hosts a monthly “Seniors Day” on the first Tuesday of each month, offering a substantial 20% off eligible regular-priced merchandise. AARP members qualify for this discount regardless of age, as long as they are enrolled in the free myWalgreens rewards program.
Activating Your Seniors Day Discount
In-store purchases: Inform the cashier you are an AARP member during checkout on Seniors Day. You may need to show your AARP membership card and provide proof of age (if not an AARP member) to verify eligibility.
Online purchases: To receive the discount when shopping at Walgreens.com, you must be a myWalgreens member. Use the designated promo code (e.g., SENIOR20) at checkout. The online discount is often extended for a full week, providing more flexibility.
Linking Your AARP and myWalgreens Accounts
To maximize your savings, especially on retail items, it is highly recommended to link your AARP membership with your myWalgreens account. This unlocks exclusive offers and boosts your rewards on specific purchases.
Linked Account Benefits
- Higher Rewards: Earn boosted Walgreens Cash rewards on Walgreens-branded health, wellness, and beauty products.
- Automatic Discounts: Once linked, your exclusive benefits will be applied automatically, so you won't miss out on savings.
- Easy Access: You can manage both your AARP and myWalgreens benefits from a single digital account.
AARP vs. Walgreens-Only Discounts: A Comparison
Understanding the differences between the various programs is crucial for maximizing your savings. Here is a table comparing the benefits available to AARP members versus standard myWalgreens members.
| Program/Benefit | AARP Member Benefit | Standard myWalgreens Member Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription Discounts | Deeper discounts via the AARP Rx card, access to home delivery. | Access to the free Optum Rx card, but with standard discounts. |
| Seniors Day Discount | Eligible for 20% off with myWalgreens account, regardless of age. | Eligible for 20% off with myWalgreens account, but must be 55+. |
| Ongoing Retail Rewards | Enhanced Walgreens Cash rewards on select beauty and wellness items when accounts are linked. | Standard Walgreens Cash rewards (e.g., 1% on most items, 5% on Walgreens brands). |
| Membership Cost | $16 per year for standard annual membership. | Free to join. |
How to Maximize Your Discounts at Walgreens
- Timing is Everything: Schedule your major shopping trips for the first Tuesday of the month to take full advantage of the 20% Seniors Day discount on eligible items. For online shopping, remember the discount often lasts for the first full week.
- Stack Strategically: While you can't typically combine Walgreens coupons with manufacturer coupons on a single item, you can use your Seniors Day discount on eligible products while simultaneously earning Walgreens Cash rewards. Check store policy for the latest rules.
- Use the App: Download the myWalgreens app to clip digital coupons, track your rewards, and get notified of special promotions.
- Compare Prescription Costs: When filling a prescription, ask the pharmacist to compare the price using the AARP Rx discount card versus your standard insurance copay. The discount card may sometimes offer a lower price.
- Utilize Exclusive Offers: AARP members can earn even more through the myWalgreens Health Goals program by completing health-related challenges. For the most current information and to access your digital card, you can visit the official AARP website.
Important Restrictions and Exclusions
It's important to be aware of the restrictions that apply to the Seniors Day discount. Some items are typically excluded from the 20% off offer, including:
- Prescription medications and pharmacy services
- Alcohol and tobacco products
- Dairy products
- Gift cards
- Magazines and newspapers
- Select other items and services
By staying informed about these limitations, you can avoid surprises at the checkout and plan your purchases more effectively.
A Final Word on Your Savings
Using your AARP benefits at Walgreens is a straightforward and effective way to lower your healthcare and household costs. By signing up for the free myWalgreens program, linking your AARP account, and using the prescription discount card, you can leverage a robust system of savings that goes beyond a single annual discount. This multi-layered approach ensures that you are getting the most value from your membership every time you shop.
