Do you get discounts when you turn 60? A Complete Guide to Finding Senior Savings

According to the National Council on Aging, many retailers and businesses offer discounts for older adults, and the eligibility age is often much lower than 65 [1.2]. Navigating the world of senior savings can be overwhelming, but knowing where to look can help answer the question, "Do you get discounts when you turn 60?".

Quick Summary

Yes, many businesses offer discounts starting at age 60, though eligibility varies widely [1.2]. Savings can be found in retail, dining, travel, and more, often requiring you to simply ask and show identification [3.4]. Taking advantage of these perks, sometimes through membership organizations like AARP, can significantly boost your budget [6].

Key Points

• Variable Age Requirements: Many companies offer discounts to those 60 and over, while some start at 50 or 55, and others wait until 65.

• Everyday Savings: Discounts for the 60+ demographic are common at retail stores like Kohl's and many grocery stores, often on specific days of the week.

• Travel and Leisure Perks: You can save on travel with reduced hotel rates, train fares, and park passes, including the National Parks Senior Lifetime Pass for those 62+ [2.4].

• AARP is a Savings Gateway: Joining AARP at age 50 provides access to a broad range of discounts on car rentals, hotels, dining, and more through partner businesses [6].

• Ask and Verify: The best way to find discounts is to always ask at the point of purchase and be ready to show proof of age, as policies can vary by location.

• Maximize Your Budget: By combining discounts, leveraging membership organizations, and planning ahead, seniors can significantly increase their savings.

Understanding the Landscape of Senior Discounts

Turning 60 is a significant milestone that often brings with it access to a variety of discounts and benefits [2.3]. While senior discounts are commonly associated with age 65, many companies begin offering perks to those as young as 50 or 55 [4.7]. Eligibility criteria are not standardized and vary by business. Being proactive in identifying these opportunities can lead to considerable savings [4].

Where to Find Discounts for People Over 60

Discounts for those in their 60s are available across numerous sectors, from daily necessities to leisure activities [2.4]. Always be prepared to present a valid ID to confirm your age [3].

Retail and Grocery Store Savings

Many retail establishments and grocery stores provide discounts, often on specific days. Examples include Kohl's offering 15% off for customers 60 and over on Wednesdays, and various Goodwill locations having Senior Discount Days with savings between 10% and 25% for those 60+. Regional grocery chains may also have specific senior discount days, like Harris Teeter offering 5% off on Thursdays in some areas [2].

Dining Discounts to Enjoy

Numerous restaurants provide reduced prices or special menus for older adults. For instance, some Ben & Jerry's locations offer a 10% discount for customers 60 and older, and Sizzler features a special senior menu [2.3]. Golden Corral may also offer a 10% discount for those 60 and over [3].

Travel and Entertainment Perks

Discounts are widely available for travel and entertainment for individuals in their 60s and beyond. AMC Theatres and Regal Cinemas offer senior pricing for those 60 and older [2]. The America the Beautiful Senior Pass, available for a one-time fee for those 62+, provides lifetime access to federal recreation sites [2.4]. Amtrak passengers 65 and older can receive a 10% discount on many fares, and numerous hotel chains offer reduced rates for seniors, often starting at age 60 [2.4].

A Comparison of Senior Discount Age Tiers

Business Type	Common Starting Age	Example Businesses	Example Discount
Retail	55+ or 60+	Kohl's (60+), Michael's (55+)	10%–15% off on certain days
Dining	55+ or 60+	IHOP (55+ menu), El Pollo Loco (60+)	Reduced menu items or 10% off
Travel	50+ to 65+	Hertz (50+), Amtrak (65+), National Parks (62+)	Up to 20% off rentals, 10% off fares, Lifetime Pass
Entertainment	55+ to 65+	AMC Theatres (60+), Regal Cinemas (60+), Baseball Hall of Fame (65+)	Reduced admission or ticket price
Telecommunications	55+	T-Mobile	Exclusive senior plan pricing

The Role of Membership Organizations like AARP

Joining organizations like AARP at age 50 can provide access to a broad network of discounts [6]. An AARP membership often unlocks deals that may be more significant than standard senior discounts, covering areas such as travel, dining, and mobile phone services through partnerships with companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz, AT&T, and Consumer Cellular [6].

For more detailed information on available discounts, the National Council on Aging is an excellent resource, providing a comprehensive list of opportunities. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) offers a valuable guide to help seniors find savings [1].

Maximizing Your Senior Savings

To make the most of senior discounts, consider the following tips [4.7]:

1. Always ask: Many businesses offer discounts even if not advertised [4.7]. Inquiry is key.
2. Check for specific days: Some discounts are only valid on certain days of the week [2.3]. Plan accordingly.
3. Combine deals: Explore if senior discounts can be used alongside other offers for enhanced savings [4].
4. Utilize online resources: Numerous websites and apps compile lists of senior discounts to help you find offers [4.7].
5. Look beyond age: Some programs, like discounted Amazon Prime for those receiving government assistance, are based on factors other than age and are worth exploring [4].

Conclusion: Start Saving Today

Turning 60 presents numerous opportunities for savings [2.4]. By understanding that discounts can begin earlier than 65 and vary by business, you can actively seek out valuable deals. Savings are available for everyday purchases, travel, and entertainment. By asking about discounts and utilizing resources such as AARP and online guides, you can effectively take advantage of the benefits available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common age for senior discounts to start?

The age for senior discounts is not standardized, but many businesses begin offering perks at age 55 or 60 [1.2]. Some programs, particularly for government-related services or memberships like AARP, start even earlier at 50 or 62.

Do you need an AARP membership to get discounts after turning 60?

No, an AARP membership is not required for all discounts. Many companies offer discounts based on age alone, but an AARP card can provide access to exclusive deals that may offer better savings, particularly for travel and telecommunication services [6].

Can I get a discount on groceries after turning 60?

Yes, many grocery stores offer senior discount days, though policies can vary by location and chain [2]. It's best to check with your local store to see if they participate and if there are specific age or day requirements for savings [4].

What kind of travel discounts can you get when you turn 60?

Upon turning 60, you can begin to access a variety of travel discounts [2.4]. Many hotels offer reduced senior rates, and at 62, you become eligible for the National Parks Senior Pass [2.4]. At age 65, Amtrak offers discounts on certain rail fares [2].

How do I prove my age to get a senior discount?

Most businesses will accept a valid form of photo identification, such as a driver's license, to prove your age [3]. If you are using an AARP or similar membership for a discount, you will need to present your card [6].

Are senior discounts available online?

Yes, some senior discounts are available for online purchases, but they are less common than in-store offers [4]. You may need a discount code or an online account tied to a program like AARP to receive the savings [4.6].

Why don't all businesses advertise their senior discounts?

Companies have various reasons for not advertising senior discounts [4.7]. It's always smart to ask [4.7].

Do utility companies offer discounts for people over 60?

Some service providers like mobile carriers have special plans for customers aged 55 or older, such as T-Mobile [8]. You should contact your specific providers to ask about available senior programs [4].