What kind of discounts do you get when you're 55?

According to the National Council on Aging, over half of U.S. seniors say discounts are very important for managing expenses, a benefit you can start enjoying well before retirement age. At 55, a new tier of savings opens up, but what kind of discounts do you get when you're 55?

Quick Summary

Turning 55 grants access to a variety of discounts in categories like retail, travel, dining, and more, often available through specific programs, memberships like AARP, or simply by asking at participating locations.

Key Points

• Retail and Grocery Savings: Many stores like Ross, Michaels, and Walgreens offer weekly or daily discounts for shoppers aged 55 and over.

• Travel and Lodging Perks: Travelers over 55 can find discounts on hotel stays at places like Best Western and receive reduced rates on car rentals from companies such as Hertz.

• Dining and Entertainment Deals: Restaurants like IHOP and Denny's offer special 55+ menus, while many movie theaters have senior day pricing for discounted tickets.

• Leveraging an AARP Membership: Joining AARP, which is available at age 50, unlocks an extensive range of additional discounts on everything from health and wellness to travel and insurance.

• Always Ask for Discounts: Many businesses do not advertise their senior discounts, so it is always wise to politely ask if one is available before paying.

Unlocking Retail and Grocery Savings at 55

Many retail stores offer special savings to shoppers once they hit 55, often on a designated day of the week or month. These can include anything from clothing to craft supplies, helping your budget go further for hobbies or everyday necessities. Similarly, many grocery stores participate by offering a percentage off your total bill on certain days. These can be excellent opportunities to stock up on essentials at a lower cost, but it's important to know when and where to shop to maximize your benefits. Some stores have eliminated universal senior discounts, so always check with your local store, but many regional and national chains still participate.

Notable Retail and Grocery Discounts for the 55+ Crowd

• Ross Dress for Less: Offers a 10% discount every Tuesday for customers aged 55 or older.
• Michaels: Provides a 10% discount on your entire purchase, including sale items, if you are 55+ and enrolled in their rewards program.
• Goodwill: Many locations offer a weekly senior discount day, with savings that can range from 10% to 25% off. Always check with your local store for details.
• Walgreens: On the first Tuesday of each month, myWalgreens rewards members aged 55+ get 20% off eligible regular-priced items.
• Fred Meyer: Gives shoppers 55 and older a 10% discount on select items on the first Tuesday of every month.

Travel and Leisure Deals for the 55+ Explorer

Your mid-fifties can be an ideal time for travel, and numerous discounts can help make those trips more affordable. The travel industry offers a wide array of discounts for people aged 55 and up, encompassing everything from hotels and car rentals to cruise lines. While some airline and train discounts may begin at a later age, many travel perks start at 50 or 55. These can include special rates, complimentary upgrades, or savings on vacation packages.

Travel Deals That Start at 55

1. Best Western: Offers discounted room rates for guests who are 55 years or older.
2. Hertz Car Rental: The Fifty Plus Program offers travelers 50 and older up to 20% off base rates.
3. Carnival Cruises: Has special savings for individuals 55 and older on select sailings.
4. Royal Caribbean: Provides exclusive senior pricing on specific cruises for those 55 and up.

Dining and Entertainment Discounts for the Over-55 Set

Whether it's a casual dinner out or a movie night, discounts are often available for those 55 and older. These savings vary widely by location and franchise, so asking about a senior discount is always a good idea. Many restaurants offer specific senior menus with smaller portions and lower prices, while others provide a percentage off your entire bill on certain days.

Comparison of Restaurant Discount Offerings

Restaurant	Typical Discount	Eligibility	Notes
IHOP	55+ Menu	55+	Smaller portions, discounted prices.
Denny's	55+ Menu & AARP	55+, AARP (15% off)	Senior menu, plus extra savings for AARP members.
Arby's	10% Off	55+	Discount amount may vary by location.
Chili's	10% Off	55+	Discount varies by location.
Dairy Queen	10% Off or free small drink	55+	At participating locations; must ask.

For entertainment, many theaters offer discounted movie tickets for seniors, often with special pricing on a specific day of the week. Live performance venues, museums, and local attractions are also likely to have senior rates, so always remember to inquire before purchasing tickets. This can make exploring your local area or enjoying a night out significantly more affordable.

The Power of AARP Membership at 55

At 55, one of the most powerful tools for securing discounts is joining AARP. While the minimum age for standard senior discounts is often higher, AARP membership begins at age 50 and unlocks a wide range of benefits for those 55 and over. AARP benefits extend across travel, health, financial services, and retail, often surpassing standard senior discounts.

Benefits of AARP Membership at 55

• Health and Wellness: Access to discounts on eyeglasses and eye exams at retailers like LensCrafters and Target Optical.
• Travel: Save on hotels with brands like Best Western and Choice Hotels, and on car rentals with Avis and Budget.
• Insurance: Discounts on auto insurance from providers like The Hartford.
• Technology and Wireless: Special pricing on phone plans with Consumer Cellular and AT&T.
• Dining and Shopping: Many restaurant and retail partnerships offer exclusive savings.

Maximizing Your Discounts and Savings

Finding and using discounts is not just about knowing which companies offer them—it's about adopting smart habits to ensure you always get the best deal. Always ask, carry ID, and look for alternative deals that may be even better than the advertised senior rate. Joining membership organizations like AARP can unlock substantial savings across numerous categories. By staying informed and proactive, you can significantly reduce your everyday expenses and free up more money for the things you enjoy in this new and exciting stage of life.

The Importance of Always Asking

Many businesses offer discounts but don't advertise them prominently. Making a habit of asking if a senior discount is available can pay off, especially at local, independently-owned establishments. A simple question at the checkout counter or when booking a reservation can lead to unexpected savings. Your identification is your key to accessing many age-restricted perks, so ensure it's always accessible. Staying up to date on these benefits allows you to continue aging well by using your resources wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary benefit of an AARP membership for someone over 55?

An AARP membership, available starting at age 50, provides access to a vast network of partner discounts and benefits across numerous categories, including travel, insurance, health products, and more. For someone 55+, it can greatly expand the number of discounts available beyond those tied solely to age.

Do I need to carry my ID to get discounts when I'm 55?

Yes, it is highly recommended to always carry a form of identification that shows your age, such as a driver's license. Many businesses will require proof of age to grant a senior discount.

Are senior discounts the best deal available?

Not always. While senior discounts are great, sometimes other promotions, like coupons or special sales, may offer a better price. It's smart to compare options to ensure you are getting the maximum savings.

Can I get discounts on my cell phone bill when I'm 55?

Yes, several major carriers, including T-Mobile and Verizon, offer discounted plans specifically for those 55 and older. The availability and details can vary, so it's best to check with the provider.

Do grocery store senior discounts apply to all items?

It depends on the store. Some grocery stores offer a percentage off your entire purchase on a specific day, while others may have restrictions on what is eligible for the discount. Always check with your local store for their specific policy.

Are there discounts for entertainment besides movies when you're 55?

Yes, many venues like museums, theaters, and local attractions offer senior rates. You can also get discounts on national park passes at age 62, which is just a few years away from 55.

What kind of discounts can I find for my vehicle at 55?

Travelers over 55 can get discounts on car rentals from companies like Hertz and Thrifty. Additionally, AARP members can access savings on auto insurance and services like oil changes from partners like Valvoline.