Walgreens Senior Discount: A Comprehensive Guide
How to get the Walgreens senior discount
To take advantage of Walgreens' senior discount, you must first enroll in their free myWalgreens rewards program. This membership is essential for unlocking the special savings offered during their monthly Seniors Day event. The program is free and can be joined online or in-store, and it offers additional benefits, including earning Walgreens Cash rewards on everyday purchases.
Once you are a member, you can access the 20% discount during Seniors Day. For in-store purchases, the discount is typically applied on the first Tuesday of every month. It is always a good practice to confirm the exact date with your local store or on the Walgreens website, as dates can occasionally change. When checking out, inform the cashier that you are there for Seniors Day and be prepared to show identification to verify your age.
For online shoppers, the discount is often available for a more extended period, sometimes for a full week, usually starting the Sunday before Seniors Day. To apply the discount online, simply enter the designated promo code at checkout. For instance, in previous promotions, the code has been SENIOR20. The online discount may have slightly different brand exclusions than in-store purchases, so it is always wise to check the details on the Walgreens website.
Eligibility and verification
To qualify for the Walgreens senior discount, you must be 55 years of age or older. This age requirement is more generous than many other retailers who set the threshold at 60 or 65. To prove eligibility, especially for in-store purchases, you may be required to present a valid form of identification. Acceptable forms of ID typically include a state-issued driver's license, U.S. passport, or military card. While a birth certificate is technically acceptable, a photo ID is usually the most convenient option. It is important to note that the discount is for personal use and is non-transferable.
What the discount includes and excludes
While the 20% senior discount is a significant saving, it is not applicable to everything in the store. The discount generally applies to regularly priced merchandise and cannot be combined with other offers, such as Buy One, Get One (BOGO) deals. There is an extensive list of product categories that are typically excluded from the discount:
- Prescriptions and pharmacy services, including prescription drugs and co-pays.
- Alcohol, tobacco, and dairy products.
- Gift cards, stamps, and lottery tickets.
- Newspapers and magazines.
- Clinic services and charitable donations.
- Bulk orders and back-ordered or out-of-stock items.
Online purchases may have additional brand-specific exclusions, so reviewing the offer details on the Walgreens website is crucial for maximizing your online savings.
Tips for maximizing your savings at Walgreens
Beyond the monthly Seniors Day, there are multiple ways to save money while shopping at Walgreens, ensuring you get the most out of your budget. Leveraging these strategies can result in substantial savings throughout the year.
- Combine manufacturer's coupons: When shopping, you can often combine manufacturer's coupons with the senior discount. Always review Walgreens' coupon policy to ensure you use your coupons correctly for maximum effect.
- Use the myWalgreens Credit Card: For even greater rewards, consider applying for a myWalgreens Credit Card. Cardholders can earn enhanced Walgreens Cash rewards on their purchases, including bonus rewards on Walgreens-branded products.
- Stay updated on promotions: Besides the senior discount, Walgreens consistently runs other promotions. Check their weekly ads online or in the store for information on ongoing sales. By planning your shopping trips around these promotions, you can stack your savings.
- Take advantage of AARP benefits: AARP members can also receive additional benefits at Walgreens, particularly regarding prescription savings through the AARP® Prescription Discounts provided by OptumRx®. AARP members aged 55 or older can also combine their AARP membership with Seniors Day discounts.
- Look for Register Rewards: Some purchases at Walgreens trigger Register Rewards, which are coupons printed on your receipt for future savings. Keep an eye out for these to further reduce costs on subsequent visits.
Comparison of Walgreens Senior Discounts to other retailers
| Retailer | Age Requirement | Discount Details | Key Exclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walgreens | 55+ | 20% off eligible items on Seniors Day (first Tuesday of the month). | Prescriptions, gift cards, alcohol, tobacco, sale items. |
| Kohl's | 60+ | 15% off in-store purchases every Wednesday. | Premium brands, electronics, gift cards, Sephora products. |
| Michaels | 55+ | 10% off entire purchase, including sale items. | Custom framing, technology, clearance. |
| Ross Stores | 55+ | 10% off purchases every Tuesday. | None specified, but check local store policy. |
| Goodwill | 55+/60+ | Discount varies by location and day, often 10-25%. | Typically none, but check local store for details. |
The myWalgreens rewards program
The myWalgreens rewards program is the key to accessing senior discounts and other savings. It is a simple, free program that replaces the old Balance Rewards system, providing a straightforward way to accumulate Walgreens Cash rewards. In addition to rewards on purchases, the program offers personalized deals and opportunities to earn extra rewards by completing health-related challenges. Joining is easy and can be done online or through the mobile app. Once enrolled, you can link your myWalgreens account to your AARP membership for even more exclusive offers, further maximizing your savings.
Conclusion: Planning for maximum savings
While Walgreens offers a generous 20% senior discount on their monthly Seniors Day, the best approach for older adults looking to save is a strategic one. By understanding the eligibility requirements, checking the date of Seniors Day, and combining the discount with other available promotions and coupons, you can significantly reduce your household and health-related expenses. Remember to enroll in the free myWalgreens program and link any existing AARP memberships to unlock the full potential of your savings at Walgreens. Combining a little planning with these loyalty programs can lead to substantial financial benefits throughout the year. For further information and official updates, always consult the official Walgreens website at https://www.walgreens.com.
