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Do Walmart Accept AARP Discounts?: How to Save at Walmart Without a Senior Discount

3 min read

While many retailers offer senior-specific discounts, do Walmart accept AARP discounts on general purchases? The answer is no, but a partnership between the two companies provides significant savings on a Walmart+ annual membership. This arrangement allows AARP members to access an exclusive discount on the retailer's premium subscription service, not on individual products in-store or online.

Quick Summary

Walmart does not provide AARP discounts on general purchases. However, AARP members can save on an annual Walmart+ membership, which includes benefits like free shipping and delivery. Other ways to save include the Walmart+ Assist program for eligible individuals and everyday low pricing.

Key Points

  • No General Discount: Walmart does not offer a traditional AARP discount on groceries or general merchandise due to its "Everyday Low Price" philosophy.

  • Walmart+ Membership Discount: AARP members can get a significant discount on an annual Walmart+ subscription, which provides other benefits.

  • Walmart+ Assist for Eligibility: A special, deeper discount on Walmart+ is available for individuals receiving government assistance through programs like SNAP or Medicaid.

  • Alternative Savings Methods: Shoppers can save money at Walmart through the $4 prescription program, manufacturer offers, and by using the Walmart app.

  • Exclusive Pharmacy Savings: An AARP-sponsored Prescription Discount Card can provide additional savings on medications not covered by your insurance.

  • Scan & Go for Convenience: A Walmart+ membership includes access to Scan & Go, allowing members to check out faster in-store.

In This Article

No General AARP or Senior Discount at Walmart

Walmart operates on an "Everyday Low Price" strategy, meaning it does not offer age-based senior or AARP discounts on most products. This applies to both in-store and online shopping.

The Exception: AARP's Walmart+ Annual Membership Discount

The key exception is a special offer for AARP members on a Walmart+ annual membership. This partnership provides a discount on the subscription service, which includes various benefits:

  • Free shipping on eligible items without a minimum order.
  • Free grocery delivery from local stores on orders over $35 (with some potential restrictions).
  • Fuel savings at participating stations.
  • A complimentary Paramount+ Essential subscription.
  • Access to the Scan & Go feature in the Walmart app for faster in-store checkout.

Alternatives to AARP Discounts for Saving at Walmart

Several other options can help shoppers save money at Walmart:

  • Walmart+ Assist: This program offers a 50% discount on a Walmart+ membership for customers receiving government assistance like SNAP, Medicaid, or WIC.
  • Walmart's $4 Prescription Program: Many generic prescriptions are available for as low as $4 for a 30-day supply.
  • Walmart Cash: Earn cash back on eligible purchases and redeem it on future shopping trips. Manufacturer offers through the app can increase savings.
  • The Walmart App: Get alerts on deals, rollbacks, and promotions. The app also features a price scanner and account management.
  • Manufacturer Coupons: Use digital or printable coupons for specific products from manufacturer websites or the Walmart app.

AARP vs. Traditional Senior Discounts at Walmart

AARP focuses on member advocacy and partnerships for exclusive deals, rather than universal age-based discounts. Here's a comparison:

Feature AARP Benefits at Walmart Traditional Senior Discounts
Application Discount on Walmart+ membership only. Discount on general purchases.
Eligibility AARP membership (open to ages 18+). Specific age requirement (typically 55, 60, or 65+).
Benefit Type Fixed amount off annual Walmart+ fee. Percentage off on select days.
Location Online via AARP benefits portal. In-store with ID.
Scope Includes various Walmart+ perks. Usually limited to a single purchase on specific days.

How to Maximize Your Overall Savings

Combining savings strategies is often the most effective approach. For instance, an AARP member can use their Walmart+ discount for delivery and gas savings while also looking for rollbacks and manufacturer offers. Since there's no single AARP discount for an entire purchase, using multiple tools is key to maximizing savings.

Conclusion

While Walmart does not offer AARP discounts on general merchandise, there is a partnership providing AARP members with a discounted annual Walmart+ membership. Other ways to save include Walmart+ Assist, the $4 prescription program, and the Walmart Cash rewards program. By utilizing these options and Walmart's everyday low pricing, shoppers can find various ways to reduce costs.

Ways to maximize AARP benefits at Walmart include enrolling via the AARP benefit page for the discounted Walmart+ membership and using the AARP-sponsored Prescription Discount Card. Other savings methods not tied to AARP benefits include the Walmart app, checking eligibility for Walmart+ Assist, looking for rollbacks, and using Walmart Cash.

AARP Resources for Maximizing Member Benefits

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Walmart does not accept AARP cards for a percentage-off discount on general purchases. The company’s focus is on providing low prices for all customers, and it does not offer age-based discounts.

The primary AARP benefit available at Walmart is a discount on an annual Walmart+ membership. This subscription includes perks like free shipping, free grocery delivery, and fuel savings.

You must enroll or link your AARP membership through the specific AARP member benefits portal on the Walmart+ website. The discount is applied during the sign-up process.

Yes, both new and current Walmart+ members can get the AARP discount. Current members can switch to the AARP offer at the end of their current billing cycle.

Walmart+ Assist is a program offering a 50% discount on a Walmart+ membership for people receiving government assistance. It's a separate savings opportunity and is not directly tied to AARP benefits, though some seniors may qualify for both.

Yes, through the AARP Prescription Discounts provided by Optum Rx, members can get deeper discounts on medications. This program is available at participating pharmacies, including Walmart Pharmacy.

Beyond AARP benefits, you can save money at Walmart by taking advantage of the $4 prescription program, using the Walmart app for alerts on deals, earning Walmart Cash through manufacturer offers, and shopping during rollbacks.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.