The Truth Behind AARP and Walmart Discounts
It's a common misconception that major retailers like Walmart offer across-the-board discounts simply for showing an AARP card. The reality is that Walmart does not provide a general, age-based discount for seniors on everyday purchases. Their business model is built on offering what they call “Everyday Low Prices” to all customers, rather than special promotions for specific groups.
However, AARP members can unlock savings in a different way. The only official partnership between AARP and Walmart is a discount on the annual Walmart+ membership. This benefit is a specific collaboration between the two organizations and does not apply to in-store shopping directly.
The AARP and Walmart+ Membership Offer
As of the most recent offer, AARP members can get $40 off an annual Walmart+ membership. Since the regular annual membership is $98, this brings the cost down to a more affordable $58 per year. It is important to note that this discount is for the membership fee only and does not translate into a percentage off your shopping cart at checkout. The membership includes a variety of perks designed to offer convenience and savings, especially for regular shoppers:
- Free delivery from your local store ($35 minimum order).
- Free shipping with no order minimum from Walmart.com.
- Free pharmacy delivery.
- Access to the Paramount+ Essential streaming service.
- Fuel savings of 10 cents per gallon at participating gas stations.
Why Walmart Ditches Traditional Senior Discounts
Walmart's core philosophy centers on maintaining consistently low prices for everyone. This strategy is different from retailers who offer weekly specials or specific senior discount days. The company believes that providing low prices to all customers, all the time, offers better overall value than age-based promotions. This approach can be both a benefit and a drawback for seniors. It means they never have to worry about missing a 'Senior Tuesday,' but it also requires them to actively seek out alternative savings methods.
How to Maximize Savings Without a Senior Discount
Even without a traditional age-based discount, savvy senior shoppers have multiple ways to save money at Walmart. By combining different strategies, you can reduce your expenses and make your budget go further.
The Walmart+ Assist Program
For seniors on a fixed income, especially those receiving government benefits, Walmart offers the Walmart+ Assist program. This provides a 50% discount on the regular Walmart+ membership for individuals verified to be receiving certain types of government assistance, such as SNAP, Medicaid, or WIC. This brings the annual cost down to just $49, an even greater value for eligible members.
Prescription Savings
Walmart's pharmacy offers a competitive and widely used $4 generic prescription program. For a 30-day supply of many common medications, the cost is only $4, or $10 for a 90-day supply. In some cases, this can be even cheaper than using a Medicare drug plan co-pay. The AARP also has its own prescription discount program through Optum Rx, which can be used at over 66,000 pharmacies, including Walmart, to potentially achieve even deeper savings on specific medications.
Leveraging the Walmart App and Website
- Walmart Cash: Look for manufacturer offers and deals within the Walmart app or on Walmart.com to earn Walmart Cash on eligible items. This can be redeemed for future purchases.
- Rollbacks and Flash Deals: The app and website prominently feature limited-time rollback prices and flash deals, offering significant discounts across various product categories.
- Easy Shopping: The app features mobile Scan & Go for a contact-free checkout experience, saving time and simplifying your shopping trip.
Comparison of Retailer Senior Discounts
While Walmart takes a different approach, many other retailers still offer traditional senior discounts. Here is a comparison to help you choose where to shop for specific items:
| Retailer | Standard Senior Discount | Eligibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | No age-based senior discount | N/A | Focuses on "Everyday Low Prices" for everyone. AARP offers a discount on Walmart+ memberships only. |
| Kohl's | 15% off | Age 60+ on Wednesdays | Discount applies in-store only. Some exclusions may apply. |
| Walgreens | 20% off | Age 55+ on the first Tuesday of the month | Requires a MyWalgreens rewards membership. Discount applies to eligible products. |
| Michaels | 10% off | Age 55+ every day | Requires a Michaels Rewards account. Includes sale items. |
| Jo-Ann Stores | 20% off | Age 55+ on Senior Discount Day | Date varies by location; check with your local store. |
Conclusion: Navigating Savings at Walmart
While the simple answer to "Do Walmart give AARP discounts?" is no, it doesn't mean AARP members or seniors can't save. The $40 discount on a Walmart+ annual membership provides substantial value through free shipping, grocery delivery, and fuel savings. By understanding Walmart's pricing model and utilizing programs like Walmart+ Assist, the $4 generic prescription list, and the mobile app, senior shoppers can still find excellent deals. For traditional age-based discounts, other retailers are better suited, but for low everyday prices combined with membership perks, Walmart still offers compelling options. Always compare your options to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. For more comprehensive information on your AARP benefits, visit the official AARP website.
