Demystifying Walmart+ Assist and Its Benefits
Many seniors living on fixed incomes are on the lookout for ways to save money, and it's common to wonder about potential retailer discounts. While some companies offer age-based savings, Walmart focuses on affordability for all through various programs. This article will clarify what Walmart+ Assist is, who is eligible, and how seniors can access these benefits, along with other ways to save at Walmart.
What is the Walmart+ Assist Program?
Walmart+ Assist is not a traditional senior discount program but a special, discounted membership for individuals enrolled in qualifying government assistance programs. It offers a 50% reduction in the cost of a standard Walmart+ membership. Eligibility is based on participation in programs like SNAP, WIC, or Medicaid, and is not determined by age alone. For qualifying seniors, this program can provide significant savings on everyday necessities and services, greatly easing financial strain.
Eligibility Requirements and the Verification Process
To join Walmart+ Assist, individuals must verify their eligibility through a third-party service called SheerID. The process is secure, quick, and easy, and does not affect existing government benefits. The following are some of the government programs that can qualify a person for a discounted Walmart+ Assist membership:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Upon successful verification, members can enroll in the discounted plan, which costs significantly less than the regular Walmart+ membership.
Comparing Walmart+ Assist to a Standard Membership
| Feature | Walmart+ Assist | Standard Walmart+ Membership |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 50% off regular price ($6.47/month or $49/year) | $12.95/month or $98/year |
| Eligibility | Qualify for specific government assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, Medicaid) | Open to all customers |
| Free Delivery | Yes, with a $35 order minimum | Yes, with a $35 order minimum |
| Free Shipping | Yes, with no minimum | Yes, with no minimum |
| Fuel Savings | Yes (10¢ off per gallon at participating stations) | Yes (10¢ off per gallon at participating stations) |
| Paramount+ | Free Essential Plan | Free Essential Plan |
| In-Store Mobile Checkout | Yes (Scan & Go) | Yes (Scan & Go) |
As the table shows, Walmart+ Assist provides all the same benefits as the standard membership for half the price, making it an excellent value for those who qualify.
The Application Process for Walmart+ Assist
For seniors who believe they are eligible, the process to apply is straightforward. Follow these steps to enroll:
- Visit the official Walmart+ Assist page on the Walmart website:
[Walmart+ Assist Membership](https://www.walmart.com/plus/assist). - Click on the button to begin the sign-up process.
- You will be directed to the third-party verification site, SheerID.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to provide the necessary information for your qualifying government assistance program.
- Once verified, return to the Walmart site to complete your enrollment and select your payment plan.
Other Savings Opportunities for Seniors at Walmart
For seniors who may not qualify for Walmart+ Assist, several other avenues exist for saving money at Walmart. These programs and tips can help stretch a fixed income further:
- $4 Prescription Program: Walmart offers a program for many common generic medications, with a 30-day supply for just $4 and a 90-day supply for $10. This can be a significant cost-saver, potentially even beating insurance prices.
- Medicare OTC Benefits: Many Medicare Advantage plans offer an Over-the-Counter (OTC) allowance. Walmart has integrated a feature that allows members to link their benefit cards online or use the app to scan items in-store. This feature highlights eligible products, making it easier to use these valuable benefits.
- AARP Discount on Walmart+: AARP members are eligible for a discount on a Walmart+ annual membership. This offers another way to access the delivery and shipping benefits at a reduced rate.
- Walmart App & Rollbacks: The free Walmart app can be a powerful tool for savings. It notifies users of flash deals, price rollbacks, and helps track manufacturer offers for Walmart Cash rewards.
Is Walmart+ Assist the Right Choice for You?
Deciding if Walmart+ Assist is worth it depends on your individual needs and eligibility. If you receive government assistance and frequently shop at Walmart for groceries or other essentials, the cost savings and convenience of free delivery can be substantial. The added benefits of fuel savings and streaming access further increase the value. Taking a few minutes to complete the eligibility check could unlock significant savings, making daily life easier and more affordable.
Conclusion
Walmart does not offer a specific, age-based discount for seniors. Instead, the Walmart+ Assist program provides a discounted membership to individuals who qualify for various government assistance programs. This program, combined with other cost-saving measures like the $4 prescription program and Medicare OTC benefits, ensures that budget-conscious seniors have numerous ways to save money. By understanding the eligibility criteria and leveraging all available tools, seniors can make the most of their shopping experience at Walmart.
