Understanding the El Pollo Loco Senior Discount Policy
El Pollo Loco's official discount and coupon policy states that the company offers a 10% senior discount for customers who are 60 years of age or older. While this sounds like a great deal, it comes with a significant limitation: the discount is capped at a maximum value of $1. This means no matter how large your order is, the most you can save on a single transaction with the senior discount is one dollar.
Furthermore, this discount is only available at participating locations. Since El Pollo Loco has many franchised restaurants, the availability and specific policy can vary by store. The best practice is to always ask your cashier about the discount before placing your order and completing the payment process. You may need to provide a government-issued photo ID to verify your age.
How to get the senior discount
To ensure you receive the senior discount, follow these simple steps:
- Verify eligibility: Make sure you are 60 years of age or older.
- Confirm participation: Before you order, ask the cashier if that specific restaurant location honors the senior discount.
- Request the discount: Politely ask for the 10% senior discount to be applied to your order.
- Present ID: If asked, be prepared to show a valid photo ID to confirm your age.
Maximizing your savings at El Pollo Loco
Given the relatively low maximum saving on the senior discount, it's worthwhile to explore other, potentially more lucrative, options for saving money on your meal. For many diners, these alternative methods will offer greater overall value, especially on larger purchases.
Join Loco Rewards for better deals
El Pollo Loco's Loco Rewards program is the most reliable way to consistently save money. The program is free to join and offers a tiered system with more benefits the more you use it.
- Sign-up bonus: New members typically receive a sign-up offer, such as a free Original Pollo Bowl with any purchase.
- Earn points on every purchase: Members earn 100 points for every dollar spent. At higher tiers, this multiplier increases.
- Redeem points for free food: Points can be redeemed for various free food items, such as large drinks, churros, or even a three-piece leg and thigh meal, depending on your point balance.
- Exclusive offers: App and email subscribers receive personalized offers, BOGO deals, and early access to new menu items.
- Birthday reward: Members receive a special gift during their birthday month.
Check for mobile app and website promotions
Beyond the loyalty program, El Pollo Loco frequently runs short-term promotions that are often advertised on its website or through the mobile app. These promotions are generally more valuable than the static $1 senior discount.
- Digital coupons: Scan for coupons on the website or in the app that might offer larger discounts or specific meal deals.
- Seasonal deals: Keep an eye out for promotions around holidays or special events, like a recent BOGO quesadilla deal mentioned in the news.
Comparison of discount options
To help you decide the best way to save, here is a comparison of the senior discount and the Loco Rewards program.
| Feature | Senior Discount (60+) | Loco Rewards Program |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | At participating locations only | All locations via app/website, points earned everywhere |
| Discount Value | 10% off, but capped at $1 maximum | Varies; earns points for free items, special offers, etc. |
| Value on Small Order | Higher percentage on smaller purchases (e.g., $1 off a $10 order) | Builds points for a future reward |
| Value on Large Order | Lower percentage on larger purchases (capped at $1) | Can earn significantly more points, potentially leading to larger rewards |
| How to Redeem | Ask cashier before paying; show ID | Scan app QR code or apply offer in app/online |
| Other Perks | None | Birthday rewards, tier status, exclusive access |
Conclusion: How to maximize your savings
While El Pollo Loco does offer a senior discount for guests 60 and older, its maximum value is limited to $1 at participating locations. For most diners, the Loco Rewards program and mobile app promotions represent a better and more consistent path to savings. By joining the free loyalty program, you can earn points on every purchase and redeem them for more substantial free food items and exclusive deals. The best strategy is to take advantage of the Loco Rewards program first and use the senior discount only if a more significant coupon or offer is unavailable for your specific purchase.
For additional details on promotions and to sign up for rewards, visit the official El Pollo Loco website.
Final Recommendations
- Join Loco Rewards: This is the most consistent and often most valuable way to save. The free Original Pollo Bowl for new members is a significant benefit.
- Download the app: The mobile app is your hub for exclusive deals, personalized offers, and a seamless way to redeem your rewards.
- Ask at the counter: If you prefer not to use the app, always ask the cashier if they are a participating location for the senior discount. It's a quick and easy way to get a dollar off your meal.
- Prioritize coupons: Check your email and app notifications for special coupons that often provide a better discount than the static senior rate.
By following these steps, you can ensure you're getting the best possible deal on your next visit to El Pollo Loco.
