What discounts do you get when you turn 60?

By age 60, many people have earned the opportunity to enjoy significant savings on everything from travel to groceries. Knowing what discounts you get when you turn 60 can dramatically improve your budget and make your retirement years more financially comfortable.

Quick Summary

Turning 60 often marks the start of eligibility for a wide array of senior discounts offered by restaurants, retailers, travel companies, and entertainment venues, with savings sometimes requiring an AARP membership or specific shopping days.

Key Points

• Travel Savings: Many hotel chains, airlines, and car rental companies offer senior discounts starting at age 60, with enhanced benefits often available through AARP.

• Retail and Grocery Perks: Retailers like Kohl's and Goodwill offer weekly or daily discounts for seniors, while some grocery stores also have dedicated senior savings days.

• Dining Deals: Many popular restaurant chains provide specialized 55+ menus or percentage-based discounts to diners aged 60 and over.

• National Park Access: At age 62, you can purchase an affordable lifetime pass to U.S. National Parks, though many 60+ discounts exist for various attractions.

• Membership Benefits: Consider joining organizations like AARP at age 50 for access to a broader range of exclusive discounts, including those for wireless providers and insurance.

• Ask and Compare: The best discounts are not always the advertised "senior" ones; always ask for senior pricing, but also compare it to any other promotions or coupons available.

Unlocking Your Senior Savings at 60

Reaching the age of 60 brings with it a host of new opportunities, not least of which are the numerous discounts and special offers available to you. While many businesses begin offering deals to individuals aged 50 or 55, turning 60 solidifies your status for a broader range of savings. These discounts can be found in a variety of sectors, from dining out to booking your next vacation.

Travel and Leisure Discounts

Many travel and entertainment companies recognize the 60-plus age group with special pricing. These savings can make traveling more affordable and your leisure activities more frequent.

• Airlines: United Airlines offers discounted senior fares on certain flights, though you may need to call to book. Airlines often change their policies, so always ask when making a reservation. Some carriers, such as British Airways, offer AARP members discounts on flights.
• Hotels: Numerous hotel chains provide special rates for guests over a certain age. Marriott Hotels offer discounts of at least 10% for those 62+, while Wyndham Hotels offer special rates for those 60+. Motel 6 also has a senior rate for those 60+. Always mention your age when booking to see if you qualify.
• Car Rentals: Discounts can often be found with major rental car companies. Hertz offers up to 20% off for individuals over 50, and both Avis and Budget provide significant discounts for AARP members.
• Cruises: Cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean often feature special deals and reduced rates on select cruises for those aged 55 and up.
• National Parks: While not exclusive to age 60, anyone 62 or older can purchase the America the Beautiful Senior Pass for a low, one-time fee to access thousands of national parks and federal recreational lands for a lifetime.
• Entertainment: Movie theater chains like AMC, Regal Cinemas, and Cinemark offer special senior pricing for certain showtimes. It's always best to ask the box office for their senior discount policy, as it can vary by location.

Retail and Grocery Store Discounts

Saving money on everyday items can significantly impact your budget. Several retailers and grocery stores recognize seniors with special weekly or monthly discount days.

• Kohl's: Offers a 15% senior discount every Wednesday for customers aged 60 and older.
• Goodwill: Many locations provide discounts of 10% or more on a specific day of the week for seniors, with eligibility age often starting at 55 or 60.
• Ross Dress for Less: Customers aged 55 and up can receive a 10% discount every Tuesday.
• Jo-Ann Fabric and Crafts: Offers a senior discount day for customers 55+, where they can receive a percentage off their purchase.
• Grocery Stores: Some grocery chains like Harris Teeter and Fred Meyer offer special discount days for older shoppers. Policies and eligibility vary by location, so inquire at your local store.
• Walgreens: The first Tuesday of every month is Senior Day for myWalgreens members aged 55+. Discounts can be as much as 20% off.

Restaurant Discounts

Dining out can be a major budget item, but senior discounts can make it more affordable. Many chains offer specific menu items or a percentage off your total bill.

• Denny's: Offers a 55+ menu with smaller portions and lower prices. AARP members often receive an additional 15% off regular menu items.
• IHOP: Features a dedicated 55+ menu with a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items at a reduced cost.
• Golden Corral: Provides a senior buffet price for those 60 and older.
• McDonald's: Offers a daily discount on coffee and other drinks for seniors at participating locations.

Understanding Membership Discounts vs. Age-Based Offers

It's important to distinguish between discounts that are simply age-based and those that require a membership, like AARP. While many discounts are tied directly to your age, many businesses partner with organizations to provide exclusive deals to their members. AARP membership starts at age 50 and offers a vast network of savings on everything from travel and entertainment to telecommunication services and prescriptions. Weighing the cost of the membership against the potential savings is a wise financial move for many.

Comparison of Common Senior Discounts at Age 60

Business Type	Common Discounts at 60	Potential AARP Benefits (at 50+)	Requirements/Details
Travel	Senior rates at select hotels, possible airfare discounts.	Up to 35% off car rentals, discounts on British Airways, cruise line specials.	Always ask for the senior rate. AARP requires membership.
Retail	15% off at Kohl's (Wed), 10% off at Ross (Tues).	Up to 15% off at UPS Store, various benefits.	May require specific days or membership accounts.
Dining	55+ menus at Denny's and IHOP, some percentage discounts.	10% off at Bonefish Grill, Outback, and others.	Discounts and age requirements vary by restaurant location.
Groceries/Pharmacies	Senior day discounts at select stores (Walgreens, Harris Teeter).	10-50% off select vision items at LensCrafters.	Policies vary greatly by store and location.
Entertainment	Discounted movie tickets at chains like AMC and Regal.	Offers on tickets and package deals at certain venues.	Check local venue for senior rates and showtimes.

Conclusion

Upon turning 60, you gain access to a wide variety of discounts that can help you save money and enjoy your retirement years to the fullest. From weekly deals at grocery and retail stores to reduced prices on travel and dining, these benefits are often just a simple question away. Always carry proof of age and remember to ask about any available senior discounts, even if not explicitly advertised. Joining organizations like AARP can further expand your savings opportunities, making 60 an age of financial smarts and newfound advantages.

For more information on the wide range of benefits for seniors, including government programs and additional savings, visit the National Council on Aging's website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical age for senior discounts?

The age for senior discounts varies widely by company, with some starting eligibility as early as 50 (often with an AARP membership), while many others begin offering discounts at 55, 60, or 62. It is always best to ask for the specific age requirement.

Are senior discounts automatic when you turn 60?

No, senior discounts are typically not automatic. You must proactively ask for the discount at the point of sale and may need to show a valid ID with your date of birth to prove your age.

Does my AARP membership give me discounts at 60?

Yes, an AARP membership, which you can join at age 50, provides access to a wide array of discounts that are separate from age-based senior offers. These include savings on travel, dining, and more, which you can use when you turn 60 and beyond.

Can I get discounts on my cell phone plan when I turn 60?

Yes, major wireless carriers such as T-Mobile and Verizon offer special senior plans for customers typically aged 55 and older. Eligibility and plan specifics can vary by carrier and location.

How can I find out about local discounts for people my age?

To find out about local discounts, check with your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), community senior centers, and local businesses. Many cities offer special deals for seniors at local museums, parks, and restaurants.

Are there federal benefits I can claim when I turn 60?

While the lifetime National Park Senior Pass is available at 62, some government aid programs may become accessible. For example, some tax counseling and property tax relief programs are available to people at 60+, depending on state and income. Social Security retirement benefits can be claimed as early as 62, though at a reduced rate.

What kind of proof do I need for senior discounts?

The most common form of proof is a photo ID that shows your date of birth, such as a driver's license. For AARP benefits, you will need your membership card. Some establishments may simply rely on an honor system.