What discounts do you get when you turn 55? A Comprehensive Guide to Senior Savings

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the senior population is growing rapidly, making it a lucrative market for businesses that offer deals. Understanding what discounts you get when you turn 55 is the key to unlocking significant savings across various aspects of your life, from shopping to travel.

Quick Summary

Reaching age 55 can open up a vast array of discounts on travel, dining, retail purchases, and telecommunications services, with many programs and memberships offering substantial savings at participating businesses, both nationwide and locally.

Key Points

• Travel Discounts: Many hotels (like Best Western and Hyatt), car rental companies (like Hertz for 50+), and cruise lines offer special deals for customers aged 55 and older.

• Retail and Grocery Savings: Stores like Michaels (55+), Ross (55+), and Walgreens (55+) offer daily or weekly discounts, while Goodwill provides varying senior discount days.

• Dining Deals: Restaurants such as Denny's and IHOP feature special 55+ menus, while many others offer discounts to AARP members or older patrons.

• Mobile Phone Plans: Carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon provide special 55+ plan options with reduced rates for unlimited wireless service.

• AARP and Memberships: AARP membership, available at age 50, unlocks thousands of discounts and benefits on travel, dining, and more, outweighing the low annual cost.

• Always Ask for a Discount: Many smaller, local businesses may provide a senior discount even if it isn't advertised, so it's always worth asking.

• Don't Settle for One Deal: Compare senior discounts against other promotions, like coupon codes or seasonal sales, to ensure you're getting the best possible price.

Your Guide to Unlocking Senior Savings at 55+

Turning 55 marks a significant milestone, and it's also the age when many companies begin offering special discounts and benefits. While some major senior benefits might kick in at later ages, being proactive at 55 can put more money back in your pocket. Knowing where to look and what to ask for is crucial to maximizing your budget.

Travel Deals: Hotels, Cars, and Cruises

One of the most popular discount categories for individuals 55 and older is travel. Many companies in the travel industry recognize this demographic as a key customer base.

Hotels

• Best Western: Many Best Western properties offer special discounted rates for guests aged 55 and older. While the discount percentage and availability can vary by location, it is always worth asking when you book.
• Best Western: The chain offers special room rates for guests 55 or older at participating locations.
• Hyatt Hotels: Senior rates are also available at select Hyatt properties. These discounts can be especially helpful for extended stays or during off-peak seasons.
• Motel 6: Guests 60 and older are eligible for a 5% discount on the nightly rate.
• La Quinta by Wyndham: Many locations offer discounted rates for seniors aged 60+.

Car Rentals

• Hertz: Known for its senior-friendly policies, Hertz offers discounts of up to 20% on car rental base rates for customers aged 50 and over.
• Avis and Budget: While requiring an AARP membership, both companies offer significant savings on rental rates for members who are 50 and older.

Cruise Lines

• Carnival Cruise Lines: The cruise giant frequently features special promotions and reduced rates for guests aged 55 and older on select sailings. These deals are often unadvertised and may require direct inquiry.
• Royal Caribbean: Similar to Carnival, Royal Caribbean offers discounted cruise fares on specific sailings for seniors aged 55 and older. It is always wise to check their website or speak with a travel agent to find available deals.

Retail and Grocery Store Discounts

Saving money on everyday items and hobbies is a huge benefit of turning 55. Numerous retailers and grocery stores have specific days or programs designed to give back to their older customers.

• Michaels: Crafters and artists aged 55 and up can get a 10% discount on their entire purchase every day, which can be combined with sale items.
• Ross Dress for Less: Shoppers 55 or older receive a 10% discount every Tuesday.
• Walgreens: As part of their myWalgreens program, members who are 55 and older can get special discounts, often on the first Tuesday of the month.
• Kohl's: Many Kohl's locations offer a 15% senior discount on Wednesdays for customers aged 60 and older.
• Goodwill: Most Goodwill thrift stores offer a senior discount day, where shoppers 55 or older can receive 15% to 25% off their purchases. The day of the week can vary by location, so it is best to call ahead.
• Fred Meyer: Adults aged 55 and up get 10% off select items on the first Tuesday of every month.

Dining and Restaurant Deals

Enjoying a meal out doesn't have to break the bank. Many chain restaurants offer discounts or special menus for older patrons.

• Denny's: Known for its 55+ menu, offering smaller portions at discounted prices.
• IHOP: Another breakfast favorite, IHOP also features a 55+ menu with reduced prices on classic dishes.
• Dairy Queen: Participating locations offer a senior discount, often 10% off.
• Outback Steakhouse: AARP members can get 10% off their check.
• McDonald's: Discounts for seniors vary by location, with some offering free coffee or reduced prices on beverages.

Telecommunications and Technology

Staying connected is essential, and mobile providers recognize this by offering plans tailored for older adults.

• T-Mobile: T-Mobile offers discounted plans for customers 55 and older, providing unlimited lines at a reduced monthly rate. This can be a significant saving for those with multi-line plans.
• Verizon: Florida residents aged 55 and older may be eligible for special 55+ wireless plans from Verizon.

Comparison of Major Retailer Senior Discount Days

To help you plan your shopping trips, here is a quick comparison of some popular retail stores and their senior discount offers.

Retailer	Age Requirement	Discount	Discount Day
Michaels	55+	10% off	Every Day
Ross Dress for Less	55+	10% off	Tuesdays
Kohl's	60+	15% off	Wednesdays
Walgreens	55+ (myWalgreens)	Up to 20%	First Tuesday of Month
Goodwill	55+	15-25% off	Varies by location

Other Programs and Tips

Membership Programs

Joining an organization like AARP at age 50 can give you access to thousands of discounts on travel, dining, and other services well before 55. An AARP membership is a small investment that can provide outsized returns through its extensive network of partners. Organizations like AAA also offer travel and insurance benefits that are useful for older adults.

Just Ask

Many smaller, local businesses may not advertise a senior discount but are willing to provide one if you ask. A polite inquiry can often lead to a small but welcome percentage off your purchase.

Conclusion

Turning 55 isn't just about celebrating another year; it's about entering a new phase of life filled with opportunities for financial savings. By being aware of the various discounts available, from travel and dining to retail and mobile plans, you can significantly reduce your expenses. Remember to always ask for a discount, especially at independent businesses, and consider joining membership organizations like AARP to maximize your savings. Every dollar saved on a purchase is a dollar you can put towards your savings, hobbies, or next adventure.

For more information on discounts and financial planning for seniors, consider visiting the National Council on Aging (NCOA) website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need an AARP membership to get discounts at 55?

No, you do not need an AARP membership for all discounts. While some companies partner specifically with AARP, many others offer deals based on age verification alone. However, an AARP membership can unlock additional savings not available otherwise.

How do I prove my age for a senior discount?

Most businesses will accept a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license, that shows your date of birth. If you are an AARP member, you will need to show your membership card.

Are senior discounts available for online purchases?

Availability varies by company. Some retailers, like Michaels, allow senior discounts to be combined with online promotions, while others require in-store verification. For AARP partners, discounts are often available through the AARP online portal.

Can I combine a senior discount with other coupons or promotions?

This depends on the retailer's policy. Some stores allow stacking discounts, while others only permit one form of discount per purchase. Always check with a store associate or review the fine print of the offer.

How do I find out about local senior discounts?

For local businesses, the best method is to ask directly. Many cities and local chambers of commerce also maintain lists of participating businesses that offer senior rates. Local newspapers and community center newsletters can also be great resources.

Do all airlines offer discounts to travelers aged 55?

No, most major U.S. airlines, such as American and United, typically start their senior discounts at age 65. However, some carriers or special promotions, like the one sometimes offered by Frontier, may begin at age 55. AARP members often have access to travel discounts at younger ages.

Are senior discounts standardized across all locations of a chain store?

No. Especially for retail and dining chains, senior discount policies can vary by franchise owner or even location. It is always wise to confirm the specific offer and age requirement at the store you plan to visit.