What kind of discounts do you get when you turn 50?

While the official retirement age is often higher, many businesses offer age-related perks as early as 50. A wealth of opportunities awaits as you explore what kind of discounts do you get when you turn 50, from travel deals to everyday purchases.

Quick Summary

Turning 50 makes you eligible for various discounts in retail, travel, dining, and insurance, often through membership with organizations like AARP or by meeting a company's age criteria.

Key Points

• AARP is key: Eligibility for AARP membership starts at 50 and unlocks extensive discounts on travel, dining, and insurance.

• Age requirements vary: Many discounts start at 55 or 60, but some retailers and car rental companies begin offering perks as early as 50.

• Always ask: Many businesses, especially local ones, have unadvertised senior discounts. A quick question can lead to a surprise savings.

• Carry your ID: Be prepared to show a government-issued ID to prove your age and claim a discount.

• Combine and conquer: Maximize savings by pairing age-based discounts with membership benefits, loyalty programs, and weekly specials.

Your Passport to Savings: AARP Membership at 50

One of the most significant doors to savings that opens at age 50 is eligibility for an AARP membership. This non-profit organization provides access to hundreds of discounts and benefits across numerous categories. For a modest annual fee, AARP members can unlock savings that far outweigh the cost of membership.

AARP benefits for the 50+ individual

• Travel and hotels: Access to discounts on car rentals, hotels, cruises, and vacation packages.
• Insurance: Members can secure special rates on auto insurance through partnerships with companies like The Hartford.
• Dining: Numerous restaurant chains offer AARP members 10% to 15% off their meals.
• Shopping: Deals on clothing, technology, and other everyday purchases from various retailers.
• Health and wellness: Exclusive savings on vision plans, prescription drugs, and pharmacy items.

Maximizing Retail and Grocery Savings

Beyond AARP, many retail and grocery stores offer their own age-based discounts, though the minimum age often varies between 55 and 65. Many of these require you to shop on specific days of the week.

Retail and apparel

• Kohl's offers a 15% discount for shoppers aged 60+ on Wednesdays.
• Ross Dress for Less provides a 10% discount for shoppers 55+ every Tuesday.
• Michaels craft stores extend a 10% discount for customers 55+ every day.
• Goodwill stores often have specific senior days with discounts, though policies vary by location.

Grocery stores

• Albertsons frequently offers a 10% discount on the first Wednesday of each month for those aged 55+.
• Fred Meyer provides a 10% discount on select items on the first Tuesday of the month for customers 55+.

Dining and Entertainment: Delicious Deals and Fun for Less

Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing your social life. Many restaurant chains and entertainment venues offer deals that add up to significant savings over time.

Restaurant discounts

• Denny's offers a special 55+ menu with discounted prices and smaller portions. AARP members can get 15% off regular menu items.
• IHOP features a 55+ menu at many locations.
• Krispy Kreme has offered a 10% discount for customers 50+ at participating locations.
• Many local restaurants may have unadvertised senior specials, so it never hurts to ask.

Entertainment discounts

• Movie theaters like AMC and Cinemark offer special senior pricing or discount days.
• National parks offer the America the Beautiful Senior Pass, an $80 lifetime pass for those 62+, but it's great to be aware of even at 50.

Affordable Travel Options at 50 and Beyond

Your 50s can be a great time to travel, and many companies recognize this by offering age-related discounts on transportation and accommodation.

Car rentals and airlines

• Hertz offers up to 20% off base rates for customers 50+ at participating locations.
• British Airways provides significant discounts on flights for AARP members. For more details, visit the official AARP Travel Benefits website.

Accommodations

• Many hotel chains, including Best Western and Choice Hotels, provide discounts for guests aged 55 or older.

Securing Your Finances: Insurance and Tech Savings

As you reach 50, it’s a great time to reassess your insurance policies and technology services to see where you can save.

Car insurance

• Many insurers offer a 'mature driver' or defensive driving course discount, which can reduce your premium.
• Bundling auto and home insurance can also provide substantial savings.

Mobile phone plans

• Major carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon offer special 55+ unlimited plans, though availability and specifics vary by state.

Comparing Discount Eligibility and Benefits

Category	Company	Eligibility (Age)	Notes
Retail	Kohl's	60+	15% off on Wednesdays
Dining	Denny's	55+	15% off for AARP members, 55+ menu
Car Rental	Hertz	50+	Up to 20% off base rates
Travel Pass	National Parks	62+	$80 Lifetime Senior Pass
Entertainment	AMC Theatres	60+	Special senior pricing

Conclusion: Turning 50 Means Smarter Spending

Turning 50 is more than just a milestone birthday; it's an entry point to a world of financial benefits you may not have known existed. By proactively seeking out discounts, joining key organizations like AARP, and understanding the varying age requirements, you can significantly reduce your expenses on everything from a restaurant meal to a vacation. Making a habit of asking about senior discounts and carrying identification is a simple step that can lead to substantial savings and help you make the most of your money as you age gracefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I automatically get senior discounts when I turn 50?

No, discounts are not automatic. You must proactively ask for them and, in many cases, present a valid ID to verify your age with the business.

What kind of discounts do you get when you turn 50 without joining AARP?

Many companies offer discounts directly to customers who meet certain age criteria, which can start as low as 50. For example, Hertz offers discounts to individuals 50 and over.

Are senior discounts limited to certain days of the week?

For many retailers and grocery stores, yes. Stores like Kohl's and Ross offer senior discounts on specific days, so it's a good idea to plan your shopping trips accordingly.

How can I find out about local senior discounts in my area?

Check with your local senior center, community newspapers, and online discount directories. Also, simply asking at local restaurants, museums, and shops can uncover special deals.

Can I get senior discounts on my phone bill at age 50?

While some carriers like T-Mobile and Verizon offer special 55+ unlimited plans, you might need to wait a few more years to qualify. Check with your specific carrier for details.

Is it considered rude to ask for a senior discount?

No, it's not rude. Businesses that offer senior discounts do so as a marketing strategy. Employees are accustomed to this question, so don't hesitate to ask.

Will my car insurance go down when I turn 50?

Your rates may go down as you enter your 50s due to lower statistical risk, but they may rise again later. Completing a defensive driving course can often secure you a specific 'mature driver' discount.