Understanding Standard Delivery Costs
For customers without a Walmart+ membership, the cost of delivery is on a per-order basis and can vary. Fees for standard delivery typically range between $7.95 and $9.95, depending on the delivery window you choose. This fee applies to orders delivered from a local store to your doorstep.
Keep in mind that there is usually a $35 order minimum to qualify for delivery. If your order total falls below this threshold, an additional "below order minimum fee" of $6.99 is added to your total. For occasional users, this can quickly add up, making the convenience of delivery expensive over time. The key takeaway for non-members is that the more frequently you use the service, the more you pay.
Additional Delivery Options for Non-Members
Beyond standard delivery, Walmart offers other, faster services for an extra cost:
- Express Delivery: For last-minute needs, Express Delivery can get your items to you in two hours or less. This option carries an extra $10 Express fee on top of any regular delivery charges.
- InHome Delivery: This premium service allows a trusted Walmart associate to deliver and put your groceries directly into your fridge or pantry, or leave them in your garage. This is only available as an add-on to a Walmart+ membership for an additional monthly or annual fee.
The Benefits of a Walmart+ Membership
The most cost-effective way to get free delivery from Walmart is by signing up for a Walmart+ membership. The standard membership costs $12.95 per month or $98 per year. For this fee, members receive a range of benefits, including:
- Free standard delivery from a local store: This applies to orders over $35, which waives the per-order delivery fee.
- Free shipping from Walmart.com: No minimum order is required on eligible items, which is great for small household necessities.
- Fuel discounts: Members save up to 10 cents per gallon at participating gas stations.
- Access to Paramount+ Essential: An ad-supported streaming subscription is included at no extra cost.
- Mobile Scan & Go: Pay for items with the app while shopping in-store to skip the checkout line.
For many seniors, especially those who rely on delivery frequently, a Walmart+ membership can pay for itself quickly by eliminating per-order fees.
Walmart+ Assist: A Discounted Program for Eligible Seniors
While there is no age-based senior discount, older adults on government assistance programs may be eligible for Walmart+ Assist, a 50% discount on the standard membership price. This makes a membership far more accessible and provides all the same benefits.
What you need to know about Walmart+ Assist:
- Cost: Only $6.47 per month or $49 per year.
- Eligibility: You must be a recipient of a qualifying government program, such as SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, or others.
- Verification: The process is handled by a third-party verification provider, SheerID, which does not impact your credit score.
Other Savings for Seniors and AARP Members
Aside from Walmart+ Assist, there are other ways to save:
- AARP Discount: AARP members may receive a discount on the annual Walmart+ membership, with details found on the AARP website. This provides another avenue for savings, even for those not eligible for Walmart+ Assist.
- Walmart App Deals: All shoppers can use the free Walmart app to get alerts on sales, use manufacturer offers, and earn Walmart Cash rewards on eligible purchases.
Delivery vs. Pickup: A Comparison
For older adults, the choice between delivery and pickup depends on convenience and budget. Here’s a quick overview of the key differences:
| Feature | Walmart Delivery | Walmart Pickup |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free with Walmart+ ($35+ order); otherwise, $7.95–$9.95+ per order. | Free on orders over $35. |
| Convenience | Most convenient, groceries come directly to your door. | Requires traveling to the store, but no shopping time. |
| Accessibility | Best for those with mobility issues or without transportation. | Better for those who are able to drive and leave the house. |
| Control | You can track your order and communicate with your shopper via the app. | You get a text or email when your order is ready and an associate loads your car. |
| Time | Can be subject to delivery window availability, especially during busy times. | Typically faster than delivery as you only need to go and collect. |
For seniors who have transportation and can travel to a store, free curbside pickup is an excellent alternative that provides similar contactless convenience without the need for a membership or delivery fee.
The Case for Walmart Delivery
For many seniors, especially those with mobility limitations or health concerns, paying for delivery or a Walmart+ membership is an investment in independence and well-being. It provides reliable access to groceries, medications, and other essentials without the physical strain of in-store shopping. The convenience, especially in adverse weather, is a significant benefit to healthy aging and allows for greater control over one's schedule.
Ultimately, understanding the tiered options—from paying per delivery to leveraging a discounted Walmart+ Assist membership—empowers seniors to make the most informed decision for their personal budget and lifestyle. For more information on eligibility for Walmart+ Assist, visit the official Walmart+ Assist page.
