AARP and Walgreens: The Benefits Connection
While Walgreens doesn't offer a blanket, AARP-exclusive discount on all purchases, the two organizations have a strategic partnership that provides significant benefits. Most notably, AARP members are eligible to participate in Walgreens' monthly Seniors Day and receive extra perks through the pharmacy's rewards program. These offerings are designed to help seniors save on a wide range of health, wellness, and household products. To get started, members need to link their AARP and myWalgreens accounts to unlock exclusive rewards.
Maximizing Your Savings as an AARP Member
To get the most out of your shopping trips, AARP members should be aware of several key savings opportunities at Walgreens:
- Link your accounts: AARP members should link their AARP account to their free myWalgreens account to earn special rewards automatically. This includes bonus Walgreens Cash on qualifying purchases and access to other exclusive benefits.
- Shop on Seniors Day: Walgreens offers a monthly Seniors Day, typically on the first Tuesday of the month. On this day, shoppers aged 55 and older can receive a percentage discount, usually 20%, on eligible regular-priced merchandise. Both online and in-store options are often available, with a promo code used for online purchases.
- Use the Rx discount card: Through the AARP® Prescription Discounts provided by Optum Rx®, all individuals (not just AARP members) can get a free prescription discount card. However, AARP members receive even deeper discounts on medications and home delivery services. The card is accepted at Walgreens and other participating pharmacies.
- Combine with coupons: You can stack manufacturer's coupons with your Seniors Day discount on separate items. While you cannot combine a manufacturer's coupon and a Walgreens coupon on the same product, strategic shopping can still lead to substantial savings.
Walgreens Seniors Day vs. AARP Benefits
It's important to understand the difference between the general Seniors Day event and the added benefits for AARP members. While anyone aged 55+ can participate in Seniors Day, AARP membership unlocks extra value.
| Feature | Walgreens Seniors Day (Ages 55+) | AARP Member Benefits (at Walgreens) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Typically the first Tuesday of every month, both in-store and online. | Continuous, available after linking your accounts. |
| Primary Benefit | A percentage discount (e.g., 20%) on eligible regular-priced items. | Bonus Walgreens Cash rewards, often higher than standard members. |
| Prescription Savings | Does not apply to prescription services or co-pays. | Deeper discounts on prescriptions via the Optum Rx discount card. |
| Account Requirement | Requires a free myWalgreens account. | Requires linking your AARP membership to a myWalgreens account. |
| Bonus Perks | Primarily focused on the monthly event discount. | Special offers, exclusive coupons, and bonus Walgreens Cash. |
How to Link Your AARP and MyWalgreens Accounts
Linking your accounts is a simple process that ensures you receive all the exclusive AARP benefits available at Walgreens. Just follow these steps:
- Visit the Walgreens website: Navigate to the dedicated AARP partnership page on Walgreens.com.
- Log in: Sign into your existing myWalgreens account. If you don't have one, you'll need to create a free account first.
- Enter your AARP info: Provide your AARP membership number when prompted.
- Confirm and connect: Click the submit button to finalize the link between your two accounts.
Once linked, you'll be all set to start earning your exclusive rewards and savings. The benefits are automatically applied when you use your myWalgreens account at checkout.
Exclusive Savings with the Optum Rx Prescription Card
Beyond the retail discounts, AARP provides a powerful way to save on prescriptions at the Walgreens Pharmacy. The AARP® Prescription Discounts program, powered by Optum Rx, offers significant savings on all FDA-approved medications. While the card is free for anyone to use, AARP members receive even greater discounts, especially on home delivery options. This is a crucial benefit for those managing ongoing medication costs.
How to use the Optum Rx card at Walgreens:
- Access the card: You can get your free card instantly from the AARP website or via the AARP Now app.
- Present at pharmacy: Show your digital or physical card to the pharmacist at the Walgreens Pharmacy counter to receive your discount on eligible medications.
Conclusion
So, does Walgreens have an AARP discount? The answer is a resounding yes, though not in the form of a single, store-wide discount. Instead, AARP members gain access to a tiered system of savings by linking their myWalgreens account and leveraging the Optum Rx prescription card. By strategically shopping on the first Tuesday of the month and taking full advantage of the bonus rewards and prescription discounts, AARP members can maximize their benefits and significantly lower their out-of-pocket costs at Walgreens.
Other ways to save at Walgreens
Even without an AARP membership, there are other ways for seniors and general shoppers to save at Walgreens, including:
- MyWalgreens rewards program: All members of the free myWalgreens program earn 1% Walgreens Cash on most purchases, with 5% back on Walgreens-branded products.
- Weekly ads and digital coupons: Check Walgreens' weekly ad for sales and clip digital coupons on the app or website for additional savings.
- Walgreens credit card: The myWalgreens credit card offers enhanced rewards, including higher percentages of Walgreens Cash back on in-store and out-of-store purchases.
- Register Rewards: Look for deals that offer Register Rewards, which print as paper coupons at the register for future purchases.
