No Age-Based Discount, but Other Savings Exist
Unlike many other retailers that offer specific age-based discounts, Walmart operates under an “everyday low price” philosophy and does not provide a standard senior discount. This policy extends to its Walmart+ membership service. However, the company provides alternative discounted paths to membership that many seniors may be eligible for. These programs focus on financial need rather than age alone, and AARP affiliation also provides an avenue for savings.
Walmart+ Assist: A Program for Government Aid Recipients
The most significant discount available for a Walmart+ membership is the Walmart+ Assist program, which cuts the regular membership price in half. This program is specifically for individuals who receive government assistance. If you are a senior who qualifies for any of the following federal programs, you may be eligible for a discounted membership:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF)
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
To enroll in Walmart+ Assist, you will need to verify your eligibility through Walmart's third-party partner, SheerID. The process is secure, and successful verification provides a full Walmart+ membership for a much lower cost.
How AARP Membership Can Save You Money
Another way for many seniors to get a discount is through an AARP membership. AARP members can save $20 on an annual Walmart+ plan. This offer provides access to all Walmart+ benefits at a reduced rate, with eligibility confirmed on an annual basis.
Comparison of Walmart+ Membership Options
To help you decide which option is best, here is a comparison of the different ways to get a Walmart+ membership.
| Feature | Standard Walmart+ | Walmart+ Assist | Walmart+ with AARP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $12.95 | $6.47 | Not available monthly |
| Annual Cost | $98 | $49 | $58 (first year at $98-$40) |
| Eligibility | Open to all customers | Recipients of qualifying government assistance programs | Active AARP members |
| Verification Required | No | Yes (via SheerID) | Yes (via AARP membership number) |
| Free Trial Available? | Yes, 30 days | Yes, 30 days (for new members) | No (for this specific offer) |
| Full Benefits Included? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Maximizing Savings Beyond Membership
Even without a specific age-based discount, Walmart provides numerous ways for all customers, including seniors, to save money. These strategies can be used in conjunction with a discounted membership or on their own.
- Free Mobile App: The Walmart mobile app is a powerful tool for finding savings. It provides instant alerts on deals, allows you to scan items in-store for faster checkout, and helps you manage your pharmacy prescriptions.
- Weekly Deals and Rollbacks: The Deals section of the Walmart website and app features weekly Flash Deals and Rollbacks, offering significant price drops on a wide range of merchandise.
- Walmart Cash: Look for manufacturer offers online or in the app that allow you to earn Walmart Cash on eligible purchases. This can be redeemed for future purchases.
- $4 Generic Prescription Program: Walmart offers a low-cost program for common generic medications, with prices starting at $4 for a 30-day supply and $10 for a 90-day supply. This program is available to everyone, regardless of insurance status or age.
- Other Senior Discount Programs: While Walmart doesn't offer one, remember that many other retailers and services do. For example, Kohl's and Walgreens have dedicated senior discount days. You may find additional savings with your AARP membership at various other stores as well.
Conclusion: Focus on Alternative Pathways to Savings
While the answer to "Is there a senior discount for Walmart+ membership?" is a straightforward "no," this does not mean seniors cannot save on the service or at Walmart in general. By taking advantage of the Walmart+ Assist program for government aid recipients or the AARP member discount, many older adults can secure a membership for half the standard price or more. Coupled with the store's regular rollbacks, app deals, and the low-cost generic prescription program, seniors have multiple avenues to reduce their spending and maximize their budget. Individuals should explore all options to find the best savings opportunity for their situation.
Visit the official Walmart+ Assist page to see if you qualify for the reduced membership rate.
Keypoints
- No Age-Based Discount: Walmart does not offer a specific senior citizen discount for its Walmart+ membership.
- Walmart+ Assist Program: Eligible recipients of government aid (like SNAP, Medicaid, or WIC) can receive a Walmart+ membership for 50% off the standard price.
- AARP Member Discount: AARP members can get $20 off an annual Walmart+ membership, bringing the yearly cost down.
- Alternative Savings Methods: All shoppers, including seniors, can save money by using the Walmart app, looking for weekly rollbacks, and taking advantage of the $4 generic prescription program.
- Third-Party Verification: Eligibility for the Walmart+ Assist program is verified securely through SheerID.
- Full Benefits for Discounted Members: Walmart+ Assist and AARP members receive all the same benefits as a standard, full-price membership.
