No Age-Based Discount, but Other Savings Exist
Unlike many other retailers that offer specific discounts based on age, Walmart does not have a dedicated senior citizen rate for its Walmart+ membership. The company operates on an "Everyday Low Price" strategy, which it maintains offers consistent value for all customers. However, this does not mean seniors have no options for saving money on a membership. Walmart offers two primary avenues for discounted rates that many seniors can take advantage of: the Walmart+ Assist program and a partnership with AARP.
Walmart+ Assist: A Discount for Qualified Seniors
For seniors who qualify for certain government assistance programs, the Walmart+ Assist program provides a powerful way to get a membership for half the price. This program offers all the same benefits as a standard Walmart+ membership but at a significantly reduced cost.
How to Qualify for Walmart+ Assist
Eligibility for the Walmart+ Assist program is based on participation in certain government assistance programs, not on age alone. Programs that can qualify you for the 50% discount include:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)
- Medicaid
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
The Cost of Walmart+ Assist
For eligible individuals, the Walmart+ Assist membership costs exactly half of the standard rate.
- Monthly Plan: $6.47 (instead of $12.95)
- Annual Plan: $49 (instead of $98)
The eligibility process is simple and is handled through a third-party verification provider called SheerID. The process is confidential, does not involve a credit check, and will not impact your existing benefits. To begin, you can visit the official Walmart+ Assist page to verify your eligibility and enroll.
AARP Membership Discount
Another option for cost savings is available to AARP members. AARP has partnered with Walmart to offer members a $20 discount on an annual Walmart+ membership.
Details of the AARP Discount
- Annual Cost: For AARP members, the annual membership fee is $78, rather than the standard $98.
- Discounted Offer: This offer is applied annually, subject to confirmation of your AARP membership.
- Availability: Unlike the Assist program, this discount applies to all AARP members, regardless of income level or government assistance status. However, it cannot be combined with other offers like Walmart+ Assist.
Comparing Walmart+ Membership Options
| Feature | Standard Walmart+ | Walmart+ Assist | AARP Member Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Price | $98 | $49 | $78 |
| Monthly Price | $12.95 | $6.47 | N/A (Annual only) |
| Eligibility | Anyone | Recipients of select govt. programs (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid) | Valid AARP membership |
| Verification | Simple signup | Third-party service (SheerID) | AARP membership confirmation |
| Benefits | Full access | Full access | Full access |
What's Included in a Walmart+ Membership?
Whether you pay the standard rate or a discounted rate, all Walmart+ members receive the same suite of valuable benefits, which can be particularly useful for seniors.
- Free Delivery from Your Store: Get unlimited free delivery of fresh groceries and more from your local store on orders over $35.
- Free Shipping with No Order Minimum: Receive free shipping on items from Walmart.com, with no minimum order required.
- Fuel Savings: Save 10 cents per gallon at over 13,000 locations nationwide, including Exxon, Mobil, Walmart, and Murphy stations.
- Free Paramount+ Essential Plan: Stream thousands of movies and TV shows at no extra cost.
- Scan & Go Mobile Shopping: Scan items as you shop in-store and pay with your phone for a quick, contactless checkout experience.
- Early Access to Deals: Get exclusive early access to special promotions and events, including major sales like Black Friday.
- Free Returns from Home: Members can schedule a return pickup for eligible items right from their doorstep.
Additional Ways for Seniors to Save at Walmart
Beyond membership discounts, seniors can take advantage of several other savings opportunities at Walmart.
- $4 Prescription Program: Many generic medications are available for a 30-day supply for just $4 or a 90-day supply for $10.
- Medicare OTC Benefits: Some Medicare Advantage plans allow seniors to use their Over-the-Counter (OTC) benefit cards for eligible items at Walmart, often trackable through the app.
- Rollbacks and Flash Deals: Walmart regularly offers temporary price drops on various products. These can be found on the company's website or app.
- Walmart Cash: Earn rewards on eligible purchases, including those from manufacturer offers.
- Walmart App: Using the free Walmart app can help you find deals, manage pharmacy orders, and take advantage of Scan & Go.
Is a Walmart+ Membership Worth It for Seniors?
To determine if a Walmart+ membership is worthwhile, a senior should consider their individual needs and spending habits. For those who regularly shop for groceries online, use the pharmacy, or fill up at partner gas stations, the free delivery and fuel savings alone could offset the cost, especially with a discounted rate through the Assist or AARP programs. The convenience of delivery can also be invaluable for older adults with mobility concerns or those who prefer to avoid crowded stores.
For those who primarily shop in-store and do not require delivery services, the benefits might not justify the membership cost. However, the fuel savings and exclusive early access to deals could still provide value. Carefully weighing the potential savings from gas, delivery fees, and other perks against the annual membership fee will help you make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Final Thoughts on Walmart+ for Seniors
While Walmart does not offer an age-specific discount, it provides clear pathways for many seniors to secure a membership for less. Through the Walmart+ Assist program for government aid recipients or the AARP member discount, a significant portion of the senior population can access a reduced rate. Even without a discounted plan, the various benefits and additional savings strategies available to all customers can help make a Walmart+ membership a smart financial choice for many older adults.
