Ultimate Guide: What Discount Cards Can You Get at 60?

Did you know that many senior discounts start well before the traditional retirement age? Hitting 60 opens the door to significant savings across travel, retail, and dining. This guide explores what discount cards can you get at 60.

Quick Summary

At age 60, you can access numerous discount cards and programs, including Kohl's weekly 15% off, the UK's Senior Railcard for 1/3 off fares, and various deals on hotels, restaurants, and groceries.

Key Points

• Age 60 is a Key Milestone: Many valuable discounts at retailers, restaurants, and travel companies become available at age 60.

• Retail Savings: Kohl's offers 15% off on Wednesdays and Harris Teeter provides 5% off on Thursdays for those 60 and over.

• UK Travel Cards: The Senior Railcard offers 1/3 off all UK train fares for a small annual fee for anyone 60+.

• US Travel Perks: Hotel chains like Choice Hotels and Wyndham offer senior rates starting at age 60, while an AARP membership unlocks deeper travel deals.

• Dining Discounts: Chains like Applebee's, Ben & Jerry's, and El Pollo Loco offer specific discounts for customers aged 60 and over.

• Always Ask: Many senior discounts are not advertised, so it is crucial to inquire at checkout or when booking.

• Membership Programs: Joining AARP (eligible from age 50) provides access to a wide array of discounts that are beneficial at age 60.

Your Guide to Savings: Unlocking Discounts at Age 60

Turning 60 is a milestone that brings more than just wisdom; it unlocks a new world of savings. While some senior discounts are reserved for those 62 or 65, many valuable offers become available right at 60. These aren't just minor coupons; they are substantial, recurring discounts that can significantly lower your expenses on everything from groceries to international travel. Many companies offer these perks directly, while membership programs like AARP (which you can join at 50) provide a gateway to even more deals. The key is to know where to look and always ask for a senior discount, as many are not heavily advertised. This guide will walk you through the various discount cards and programs you can take advantage of starting at age 60.

Retail and Grocery Store Discounts

Many retail and grocery chains recognize the value of shoppers aged 60 and over by offering special discount days or consistent savings.

• Kohl's: Offers a generous 15% discount every Wednesday in-store for customers aged 60 and older [1.2.7, 1.2.8]. This is a popular and reliable way to save on clothing, home goods, and more.
• Harris Teeter: Provides a 5% discount every Thursday for those aged 60 and up [1.2.2, 1.2.7]. Link your VIC card to activate the savings.
• Goodwill: Depending on the location, Goodwill offers a senior discount day with savings ranging from 10% to 25% for customers 60+ [1.5.6].
• Ross: While the primary age for their weekly 10% discount on Tuesdays is 55, it naturally includes those who are 60 [1.2.7].
• UK Specific - Boots: In the UK, the Boots Advantage Card offers enhanced rewards for those over 60, providing 8 points for every £1 spent on Boots' own brands [1.3.3].

Travel and Transportation Savings

Travel becomes more affordable at 60, with significant discounts available on rail, hotels, and car rentals.

United States Travel Discounts

• Hotels: Many hotel chains offer senior rates starting at 60. For instance, Choice Hotels and Motel 6 provide discounts for this age group [1.2.3, 1.2.7]. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts also offers special rates for guests 60 and older [1.2.7].
• Amtrak: While the primary discount of 10% is for ages 65 and up, it's always worth checking for special promotions [1.6.4].
• AARP Benefits: Since membership is available from age 50, by 60 you can be a seasoned user of AARP travel discounts. This includes up to 30% off car rentals from companies like Avis and Budget, and discounts on British Airways flights [1.2.1, 1.6.3].

United Kingdom Travel Discounts

• Senior Railcard: A must-have for UK residents aged 60 and over. For an annual fee, you get 1/3 off standard and first-class rail fares across Britain [1.3.2, 1.3.4]. The card costs £30 for one year or £70 for three years and can also be linked to an Oyster card for London travel discounts [1.3.3].
• National Express Senior Coachcard: Save 1/3 on coach fares across the UK with no time restrictions [1.3.3].
• 60+ London Oyster Photocard: For London residents, this card provides free travel on TfL services [1.3.5, 1.3.6].

Restaurant and Dining Deals

Dining out can be more budget-friendly by taking advantage of senior menus and discounts. Many offers begin at 55, but here are some that specifically mention age 60.

• Applebee's: Offers a 10-15% discount with the Golden Apple Card for those 60 and over [1.2.1].
• Ben & Jerry's: Get 10% off your purchase at age 60+ [1.2.2].
• El Pollo Loco: A 10% discount is available for customers aged 60 and up [1.5.7].
• Golden Corral: Offers a 10% discount for seniors aged 60+ [1.2.2].
• Sizzler: Features a special 'Honored Guest Menu' for those 60 and older [1.5.6].

It's important to note that many restaurant discounts are at the discretion of the franchise owner, so it's always best to ask.

Comparison of Popular Discount Programs

To maximize savings, it's helpful to compare the most popular cards and programs available to you at age 60.

Program/Card	Age Requirement	Key Benefit at 60	Cost	Best For
Kohl's Senior Discount	60+	15% off on Wednesdays	Free	In-store retail shopping
UK Senior Railcard	60+	1/3 off train fares in Britain	£30/year or £70/3 years	Frequent train travelers in the UK
AARP Membership	50+	Wide range of travel, dining, & retail discounts	Starts at $12/year	All-around savings, especially travel
Choice Hotels Senior Rate	60+	Up to 10% off room rates	Free to book	Hotel stays in the US
Harris Teeter Club 60	60+	5% off on Thursdays	Free (with VIC card)	Weekly grocery shopping

Conclusion: Your Strategy for Savings

Reaching the age of 60 marks a significant opportunity to reduce your daily and long-term expenses. The most crucial step is to be proactive. Many of these discounts require you to ask for them or sign up for a specific program. Keep a valid ID with your date of birth handy. For larger programs like the AARP, the small annual fee can pay for itself after just one or two uses, especially on big-ticket items like car rentals or hotel stays. By combining in-store discounts, travel cards, and dining deals, you can make your budget stretch further and enjoy the perks that come with this milestone birthday. Start exploring these options today and make your 60s your most financially savvy decade yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special card for all senior discounts at 60?

Not always. Many discounts, like those at Kohl's or some restaurants, simply require you to show a valid ID with your date of birth. However, programs like the UK Senior Railcard or AARP require a membership card (physical or digital) to access the benefits [1.3.4, 1.4.1].

What is the best discount card for travel in the UK at age 60?

For travel within the United Kingdom, the Senior Railcard is one of the best options. It provides a 1/3 discount on most rail fares for anyone aged 60 or over for an annual fee [1.3.2].

Is AARP membership worth it at 60?

Yes, AARP can be very valuable. While you can join at 50, the wide range of discounts on travel (hotels, car rentals), dining, and retail can lead to significant savings. The annual fee is low, often paying for itself with just one or two uses [1.4.2, 1.4.4].

Are there grocery store discounts for 60-year-olds?

Yes, several grocery stores offer discounts. For example, Harris Teeter offers 5% off on Thursdays, and Compare Foods Supermarket gives 10% off on Wednesdays to customers aged 60 and over [1.2.1, 1.2.2].

Can I get discounts on entertainment at age 60?

Yes. Many movie theaters, like AMC and Regal, offer discounted senior pricing for guests aged 60 and older. Museums and other attractions often have senior rates as well, so it's always a good idea to inquire [1.5.3, 1.6.3].

How do I find out if a store offers a senior discount?

The best way is to ask an employee or check the store's website. Some stores, like Kohl's, advertise their senior day, but many smaller or local businesses may offer a discount if you simply ask at the checkout counter [1.2.7].

Do all restaurants offer a discount at age 60?

No, not all of them. Discounts are more common at large national chains, but even then, they can vary by location as many are franchises. It is always best to ask your server before ordering [1.2.1, 1.5.6].