Major retailers offer senior discounts starting as early as age 50, though most companies don’t publicize these deals. The savings can add up significantly for older shoppers.
Walgreens provides 20% off during monthly Seniors Day events, while Kohl’s offers 15% discounts every Wednesday for customers over 60. Several grocery chains feature 5-10% savings on designated days, and travel companies like British Airways give AARP members up to $65 off flight prices.
This article explores 10 unpublicized senior discounts available at popular retailers. These hidden deals span multiple categories including shopping, dining, entertainment, and travel, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually. The following sections detail these lesser-known perks that seniors should know about when planning their purchases.
Walgreens Seniors Day Savings
Walgreens offers one of the most generous retail discounts for older adults, though many seniors walk right past these savings. The pharmacy chain provides a substantial 20% discount to qualifying customers on the first Tuesday of every month.
Walgreens senior discount eligibility
To qualify for Walgreens’ senior discount, you must be 55 years or older. This age threshold is considerably lower than many other retailers, which typically require customers to be at least 60 or 65. Additionally, you must be enrolled in the free myWalgreens rewards program to access these special savings.
When shopping in-store, be prepared to present identification. Walgreens may request proof of age through acceptable forms including a state-issued ID card, driver’s license, U.S. passport, military card, or birth certificate. This verification ensures the discount is properly applied to eligible customers.
How to access Walgreens Seniors Day deals
Accessing the Walgreens senior discount requires timing your shopping strategically. In-store discounts are available exclusively on the first Tuesday of each month during what Walgreens calls “Seniors Day”. However, the online discount provides more flexibility.
For online shoppers, Walgreens extends the 20% discount for approximately one week at the beginning of each month. This period typically starts the Sunday before Seniors Day and continues until the Saturday following it. To receive the discount when shopping online, simply:
- Create a free myWalgreens account if you don’t already have one
- Shop for eligible items on Walgreens.com
- Enter promo code SENIOR20 at checkout
- Verify your age when prompted
For in-store shopping, inform the cashier you’re there for Seniors Day. Some locations feature special displays of products targeting common senior health concerns like hypertension and diabetes positioned near the front of the store during these promotional periods.
Walgreens senior discount limitations
Despite the generous percentage off, Walgreens’ senior discount comes with numerous restrictions. The 20% savings applies only to regular-priced merchandise and cannot be combined with other promotional offers such as BOGO (buy one, get one free), BOGO 50% off, or buy two get third free deals.
Furthermore, many product categories are excluded from the discount. These exclusions include:
- Alcohol, tobacco, and dairy products
- Prescriptions and pharmacy services
- Gift cards, stamps, and lottery tickets
- Newspapers and magazines
- Money orders and transportation passes
- Clinic services and charitable donations
- Pseudoephedrine or ephedrine products
- Bulk orders and out-of-stock items
Online shoppers face additional restrictions, including exclusions on select brands like Similac, Enfamil, Hasbro, Marvel, and Philips products. The discount also doesn’t apply to CBD products, COVID-19 test kits, electronics, and photo orders when shopping on Walgreens.com.
Nevertheless, considering the breadth of merchandise still eligible for the 20% discount, planning your Walgreens shopping around Seniors Day can lead to meaningful savings throughout the year.
Ross Dress for Less Tuesday Discount
Ross Dress for Less offers a consistent senior discount that many bargain hunters overlook. Unlike seasonal sales or limited-time promotions, this discount is available weekly, making it a reliable option for anyone seeking quality merchandise at reduced prices.
Ross senior discount day details
Ross Dress for Less runs a special program called the “55+ Tuesday Discount” exclusively for older shoppers. This program provides eligible customers with 10% off their entire purchase every Tuesday.
Notably, this discount applies to all in-store purchases, giving seniors a significant advantage when shopping for clothing, home goods, and accessories. Since Ross operates as an off-price retailer with already reduced prices, this additional 10% discount creates even deeper savings on brand-name items.
The discount is available every Tuesday throughout the year, unlike some retailers that limit senior discounts to specific days of the month or seasonal periods. Moreover, Ross maintains this discount policy across their nationwide locations, although it’s always wise to confirm with your local store.
How to claim the Ross 10% discount
Claiming the Ross senior discount is straightforward, but requires a few specific steps:
- Shop at any Ross Dress for Less store on a Tuesday
- Select your items as normal
- At checkout, notify the associate that you qualify for the 55+ Tuesday Discount
- Be prepared to show identification if requested
The associate will then apply the 10% discount to your entire purchase. Remember that you must personally notify the cashier about your eligibility. The discount isn’t automatically applied, regardless of how apparent your age might be.
Furthermore, the discount is non-transferable, meaning you cannot send someone else to shop for you using your discount. The eligible senior must be physically present at checkout to receive the savings. Additionally, since Ross doesn’t sell merchandise online, this discount applies exclusively to in-store purchases.
Ross senior discount age requirement
To qualify for the Ross senior discount, you must be 55 years of age or older. This age threshold is somewhat lower than many other retailers’ senior programs, which typically begin at 60 or 65.
When claiming the discount, be prepared to verify your age. Ross associates may request identification showing your date of birth. Acceptable forms of ID typically include:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued identification card
- Passport
- Other government-issued photo identification with birthdate
Since the discount is specifically for individuals 55 and older, proper verification ensures the program benefits its intended audience. The age verification process is generally quick and straightforward, requiring only a moment to show your ID to the cashier.
Ross has maintained this 55+ age requirement consistently, whereas some retailers have gradually increased their senior discount age thresholds over time. For shoppers between 55-65, this represents an excellent opportunity to access senior discounts earlier than at many other establishments.
Amazon Prime Access for Seniors on Assistance
While Amazon doesn’t offer a traditional senior discount, their Prime Access program provides substantial savings for older adults receiving government assistance. This little-known program gives qualifying seniors the same Prime benefits at half the cost of a standard membership.
Amazon Prime Access eligibility for seniors
Amazon Prime Access is available to seniors who participate in specific government assistance programs. Currently, seniors can qualify if they receive benefits from any of these programs:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – not regular Social Security
- Medicaid
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- Direct Express Debit Card
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC)
- National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TTANF)
- Puerto Rico’s Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP)
Alternatively, seniors in households with income within 150% of the Federal Poverty Guideline can qualify through income verification.
Amazon Prime Access pricing for seniors
Prime Access offers significant savings compared to standard Prime membership. Qualifying seniors pay just $6.99 per month, which represents more than 50% off the regular Prime membership price of $14.99 per month.
Even with this reduced price, Prime Access members receive all the same benefits as regular Prime subscribers. These include free shipping, Prime Video streaming, prescription discounts through Amazon Pharmacy, and more.
First-time Prime members who qualify for Prime Access receive a free 30-day trial before the $6.99 monthly charge begins. This allows seniors to test the service before committing financially.
How to apply for Amazon Prime Access
The application process for Prime Access is straightforward, requiring documentation to verify eligibility:
- Visit amazon.com/primeaccess
- Select “Get Started”
- Choose your qualifying government assistance program
- Upload a photo of your EBT card or eligibility letter as verification
- Enter payment information for after your free trial (if applicable)
For document verification, ensure your uploaded image is legible and shows the issue date (within the last 12 months) or valid expiration date.
Importantly, members must reverify eligibility every 12 months to maintain the discounted rate. Amazon sends reminder emails when it’s time to reverify. The discount can be maintained for up to four years from initial signup, after which members can sign up for a different Prime membership type.
For seniors seeking affordable access to Amazon’s services, Prime Access represents a valuable opportunity to enjoy premium benefits at a significantly reduced cost.
Michaels Rewards Senior Discount
Michaels offers a consistent 10% discount on entire purchases, including sale items, for crafting enthusiasts aged 55 and over through their senior discount program.
Michaels senior discount program overview
Michaels provides a year-round 10% discount for customers aged 55 or older. Unlike seasonal promotions or monthly discount days, this benefit applies every day of the year, making it exceptionally convenient for seniors interested in crafting. Initially designed as an in-store benefit, Michaels has expanded this program to include online purchases as well.
The discount applies to regular and sale-priced merchandise, essentially creating a double discount on already reduced items. Seniors can use this benefit both in physical stores and on Michaels.com, provided they’ve properly enrolled and verified their age. This makes Michaels one of the more accessible retailers offering consistent senior benefits.
How to sign up for Michaels Rewards
Enrollment requires a few straightforward steps:
- Create a free Michaels Rewards account either in-store or on their website
- Verify your age by providing a government-issued ID showing your full name and birth date
- Acceptable verification documents include birth certificates, driver’s licenses, passports, or state-issued IDs
For in-store verification, simply present your ID at checkout, and your status will be synced with your Rewards account within 24 hours. Online verification typically happens instantly through a trusted third-party service, though occasionally additional documentation may be required.
Once verified, the discount automatically applies to eligible purchases when you provide your phone number at checkout or log into your account online.
Michaels senior discount exclusions
Even with this generous offering, certain restrictions apply. The discount is limited to one use per day and one discount per product. Numerous product categories are excluded from the program, primarily falling into these groups:
- Custom framing services and photo gifts
- Craft technology (Cricut, Glowforge, Silhouette, etc.)
- Sale categories (clearance items, MichaelsPro Packs)
- Food items (beverages and candy)
- Media (books, magazines, rolled posters)
- Gift cards and services (classes, birthday parties, events)
- Specific brands (Lego, Pokémon, Lorcana, etc.)
- Third-party marketplace items
Canadian shoppers should note that exclusions and requirements may differ slightly, though the core 10% discount remains the same for those 55+.
Goodwill Weekly Senior Discount Days
Thrift shopping at Goodwill becomes even more affordable for seniors through discount programs that vary across their 3,300+ North American locations. Every dollar saved helps stretch retirement income further, especially on everyday necessities and household goods.
Goodwill senior discount availability
Goodwill stores throughout the country offer special senior savings days, yet there’s no company-wide standardized policy. Instead, each regional Goodwill organization independently manages their discount programs. Most locations (but not all) provide these discounts weekly, typically on a Tuesday or Wednesday.
The age requirement primarily starts at 55 years, though some regions set eligibility at 60+. Verification typically requires presenting a valid ID at checkout, though anecdotally, some locations may not always check. First-time shoppers should call ahead or visit their local store’s website to confirm availability before planning their shopping trip.
How to find your local Goodwill discount day
To discover your area’s specific senior discount:
- Visit your local Goodwill’s website – Many regional sites list their discount days under “Sales,” “Promotions,” or “Ways to Save” sections
- Call the store directly – Speak with staff about current senior discount policies
- Ask in person – Customer service representatives can provide complete details about discount days and requirements
- Sign up for email alerts – Some locations offer “GoodPerks” email programs that notify subscribers about sales and discount days
Remember that each regional organization operates independently, so discount information from one area may not apply to another location.
Goodwill senior discount percentage
The discount percentages vary significantly by region, ranging from 10% to 30% off purchases. For instance:
- Goodwill Southern California: 15% off on Tuesdays for shoppers 55+
- Goodwill San Francisco: 25% off entire purchase every Tuesday for those 55+
- Goodwill Southwestern Pennsylvania: 25% off on Mondays for customers 55+
- Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake: 30% off on Wednesdays for shoppers 55+
- Goodwill Easter Seals Minnesota: 25% off on Wednesdays for seniors 55+
Typically, these discounts come with certain limitations. Most locations stipulate they cannot be combined with other promotions or offers. Some regions also exclude specific merchandise categories from the discount. For example, Goodwill Canada notes their senior discount doesn’t apply to “SEE THE WORTH” items or purchases at Goodwill Outlet locations.
Krispy Kreme Unofficial Senior Perks
Among the most elusive senior perks in the retail world are the unofficial discounts at Krispy Kreme, which often require insider knowledge and a bit of confidence to access.
Krispy Kreme senior discount rumors
Krispy Kreme’s senior discount exists in a gray area – it’s neither prominently advertised nor officially denied by the company. According to multiple sources, select Krispy Kreme locations offer older adults a 10% discount on their purchases. Yet others mention alternatives like a free donut with coffee purchase for seniors. The common thread across reports is that these perks are typically available to customers aged 50 and older.
Unfortunately, this discount isn’t standardized across all Krispy Kreme stores. The company hasn’t published an official list of participating locations, making it somewhat of a treasure hunt for discount-seeking seniors. Even more perplexing, these discounts aren’t honored at grocery stores that sell Krispy Kreme products, including major retailers like Walmart and Publix.
How to ask for a senior discount at Krispy Kreme
Given the unofficial nature of this discount, actually receiving it often depends on how you approach the situation:
First, call your local Krispy Kreme directly to inquire about senior discounts before visiting. This saves potential embarrassment and confirms whether your location participates.
Second, when ordering in-store, simply ask the cashier politely if they offer a senior discount for customers over 50. Be prepared to show identification if requested, as age verification may be required.
Third, don’t be discouraged if one location declines – another nearby store might honor the discount. The inconsistent application means persistence sometimes pays off.
Typical Krispy Kreme senior deals
When successful, seniors can typically expect a 10% reduction on their entire purchase. The savings become particularly noticeable on larger orders – for instance, a Classic Assorted Dozen normally priced at $26.99 would cost approximately $24 after the discount.
Interestingly, many seniors report receiving the discount without specifically requesting it. As one customer shared on social media, “The cashier just asked me if I was over 50 and I said yes… and she just deducted $2.17 from my total”. Others noted similarly unexpected experiences: “I got my first discount at Dunkin last week, the dude didn’t even ask my age, I just saw ‘senior discount’ pop up on the register”.
Overall, while Krispy Kreme’s senior discount isn’t guaranteed, the possibility of saving 10% on those iconic glazed donuts makes it worth asking about—particularly if you’re planning to purchase multiple dozen for an event or gathering.
AutoZone In-Store Senior Discounts
Car maintenance costs can add up quickly for seniors on fixed incomes, making AutoZone a potentially valuable stop for those seeking age-based discounts. Yet information about their senior savings program remains inconsistent across stores nationwide.
AutoZone senior discount policy
The truth about AutoZone’s senior discount policy is rather complex. First and foremost, there’s contradictory information in circulation. Some sources report that AutoZone offers up to 20% discounts for adults 65 and older at participating locations, while others mention a 10% senior discount only at select stores. Conversely, other research indicates that AutoZone does not offer any official senior discount program.
Given these inconsistencies, it appears that senior discounts at AutoZone are largely at the discretion of individual store managers rather than corporate policy. Hence, availability varies substantially by location, with no standardized approach. Items potentially eligible for discounts include brake pads, oil filters, garage items, battery testing services, and automotive fluids.
How to request a senior discount at AutoZone
To inquire about potential senior savings:
- Visit your local AutoZone store in person
- Select your automotive parts or products
- Politely ask the cashier if they offer a senior discount before completing your transaction
- Be prepared to present identification verifying your age if requested
In lieu of a guaranteed senior discount, consider alternative savings methods at AutoZone. The company regularly offers promotional pricing, coupons, and free in-store services like battery testing, code reading, and fluid recycling.
AutoZone discount eligibility age
The reported age requirements for AutoZone’s possible senior discount vary between sources. One mentions adults 65 and older may qualify, whereas another suggests the discount might apply to those 60 years or above. Ultimately, due to the lack of standardized policy, eligibility criteria—including minimum age—are determined by individual store location policies.
Remember that discounts and terms remain “at the discretion of store managers”. Coupled with these varying reports, seniors should always inquire directly at their local store to determine exact discount availability and requirements in their area.
Color Me Mine Pottery Studio Deals
Creative hobbies become more accessible for seniors at Color Me Mine pottery studios, with select locations offering age-based discounts that help make this artistic activity more affordable. These discount programs vary by studio, requiring some research to maximize your savings.
Color Me Mine senior discount availability
Senior discounts at Color Me Mine studios range from 5-10% off your total purchase, depending on location. Typically, this discount applies to customers aged 65 and older. The Lancaster studio offers 5% off, while the Camp Hill location provides a more generous 10% discount. Currently, these discounts are available exclusively on weekdays (Monday through Friday), with no weekend savings offered.
One important limitation: senior discounts cannot be combined with other offers, coupons, or promotions. For frequent visitors, the VIP Membership Pass might provide better value than the senior discount, as it eliminates studio fees for a year and provides 10% off all pottery purchases.
How to find participating Color Me Mine locations
Finding studios with senior discounts requires some legwork, as these offers aren’t consistently available throughout the chain’s 144+ international locations. To locate participating studios:
- Call your nearest location directly to inquire about senior discount availability
- Check individual studio websites under “Promotions” or “Events/Adults” sections
- Visit in person and ask about current discount policies
Primarily, franchise-owned locations set their own discount policies, explaining why offers vary between studios. Thereafter, confirming discount details before visiting ensures you won’t be disappointed.
Color Me Mine discount day details
Beyond senior-specific discounts, many Color Me Mine studios simultaneously offer other money-saving opportunities that seniors might find valuable. The studio experience includes selecting undecorated ceramic pieces, painting them with provided materials, and having them professionally glazed and fired.
Standard studio fees (around $12 per person) cover approximately two hours of studio time, materials, glazing, and firing. Your completed pottery is typically ready for pickup within 7-10 days. Clearly, planning your visit on discount days can significantly reduce these costs.
Simultaneously, several locations welcome walk-ins when space permits, though reservations are recommended for guaranteed seating, particularly during busy periods.
Empire State Building Senior Admission
The iconic New York City skyline experience becomes more affordable for older travelers through the Empire State Building’s lesser-known senior discount program. Offering modest but worthwhile savings, this program helps make this bucket-list attraction slightly more accessible for tourists on fixed incomes.
Empire State Building senior ticket pricing
Senior visitors to the Empire State Building receive a modest discount off standard admission prices. According to the official Empire State Building website, senior tickets (ages 62+) start at $42, compared to regular adult prices starting at $44. However, pricing information varies across sources, with some reporting senior tickets as low as $31.
The discount amount typically ranges between $2-$3 off the standard adult admission price. This pricing applies to the main observation deck on the 86th floor. For visitors wanting access to both the 86th and 102nd floor observatories, senior prices start at $77, compared to the regular adult price of $79.
Fortunately, these discounts apply to both advance online purchases and same-day tickets bought at the attraction. Given the premium pricing of this world-famous landmark, every bit of savings helps when planning a New York City visit.
How to get the senior discount at the Empire State Building
Obtaining the senior discount is straightforward. When purchasing tickets online, simply select the “Senior” option during checkout. The website automatically applies the appropriate discount. For in-person purchases, request the senior rate at the ticket counter.
Visitors should bring valid identification to verify age eligibility. Accepted forms typically include government-issued photo ID, passport, or driver’s license showing date of birth.
In reality, the Empire State Building offers several other discount opportunities beyond senior rates. Military personnel in uniform receive free admission, while veterans with military ID qualify for $2-$3 off regular ticket prices.
Empire State Building senior age requirement
The Empire State Building defines “senior” as anyone 62 years of age or older. This age threshold is consistent across different ticket types and experiences at the attraction.
Interestingly, the Empire State Building also provides free admission for children under 6 years old when accompanied by a paying adult. This makes it a more economical choice for grandparents visiting with young grandchildren.
Starbucks Discretionary Senior Discounts
Coffee lovers seeking senior citizen discounts might be disappointed at America’s most popular coffee chain. Starbucks does not offer an official senior discount program according to research conducted as recently as June 24, 2023.
Starbucks senior discount policy (or lack thereof)
In contrast to many retailers that proudly advertise their senior savings, Starbucks maintains no corporate policy for age-based discounts in the United States. This absence of formal senior benefits stands out among major chains where such programs are common. The company focuses its discount strategy on its Starbucks Rewards loyalty program rather than age-specific promotions.
Even though official discounts don’t exist, isolated reports suggest some locations might offer unofficial courtesies. As one source notes, “While Starbucks does not officially offer a discount to patrons older than 65, if you ask at the register, many baristas may oblige”. These discretionary discounts remain inconsistent and completely dependent on individual store practices.
How to ask for a senior discount at Starbucks
Should you attempt to request a senior discount? The approach matters significantly. Simply ask: “Do you offer any discounts for seniors?” rather than assuming such a program exists. Maintain reasonable expectations—most locations will politely decline as this isn’t company policy.
In numerous cases, success depends entirely on the individual barista’s discretion. The experience varies widely, making this truly one of those surprising discounts for seniors that isn’t guaranteed but occasionally works.
Tips for getting a deal at Starbucks as a senior
As an alternative to hunting for elusive senior discounts, consider these reliable money-saving approaches:
- Join Starbucks Rewards for free birthday drinks and ongoing promotions
- Visit during happy hours or special promotion days
- Purchase discounted Starbucks gift cards from warehouse clubs
- Bring your own reusable cup for a small discount
To put it simply, while official senior discounts remain absent at Starbucks, strategic approaches can still help reduce your coffee budget.
Comparison Table
Store/Service | Age Requirement | Discount Amount | Availability/Frequency | Key Restrictions | How to Claim |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Walgreens | 55+ | 20% off | First Tuesday of each month | Excludes prescriptions, alcohol, tobacco, dairy products, and sale items | Show ID and myWalgreens membership |
Ross Dress for Less | 55+ | 10% off | Every Tuesday | In-store only, non-transferable | Show ID at checkout |
Amazon Prime Access | N/A | 50%+ off Prime membership ($6.99/month) | Year-round | Must receive qualifying government assistance | Apply online with proof of assistance |
Michaels | 55+ | 10% off | Daily | Excludes custom framing, technology, clearance items | Enroll in Michaels Rewards with age verification |
Goodwill | 55+ (varies by region) | 10-30% (varies by location) | Weekly (typically Tuesday or Wednesday) | Varies by location | Show ID at checkout |
Krispy Kreme | 50+ | 10% (unofficial) | Varies by location | Not standardized, store discretion | Ask politely at checkout |
AutoZone | 60-65+ (varies) | 10-20% (varies) | Varies by location | Store manager discretion | Ask at checkout with ID |
Color Me Mine | 65+ | 5-10% (varies by location) | Weekdays only | Cannot combine with other offers | Verify at participating locations |
Empire State Building | 62+ | $2-3 off admission | Daily | Limited to standard admission tickets | Show ID when purchasing tickets |
Starbucks | Not specified | No official discount | N/A | No corporate policy, store discretion | Individual store discretion |
Conclusion
Smart seniors know saving money requires research and strategic shopping. Although many retailers keep their senior discounts quiet, substantial savings await those willing to ask. Rather than assuming discounts don’t exist, a polite inquiry often reveals hidden deals ranging from 10-30% off regular prices.
These lesser-known perks start as early as age 50 at some stores, with most programs beginning at 55 or 60. Walgreens leads with a generous 20% discount, while Ross and Michaels consistently offer 10% savings. Additionally, regional variations at chains like Goodwill and discretionary discounts at places like Krispy Kreme make it worthwhile to check local store policies.
Success claiming these discounts requires proper documentation and timing. A government-issued photo ID proves age eligibility, while joining store loyalty programs unlocks extra benefits. Many retailers restrict senior savings to specific days, making it essential to plan shopping trips accordingly.
Finally, remember that unofficial senior courtesies exist beyond advertised programs. Polite requests at checkout might reveal unadvertised savings, especially at smaller retailers and restaurants. Armed with this knowledge of hidden discounts, seniors can stretch their retirement dollars further through strategic shopping at these major chains.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best day to shop at Walgreens for senior discounts? The best day for seniors to shop at Walgreens is the first Tuesday of each month, when they offer a 20% discount to customers aged 55 and older who are enrolled in the myWalgreens rewards program.
Q2. How can seniors save money on Amazon Prime? Seniors receiving government assistance like Medicaid or SSI can save on Amazon Prime through the Prime Access program, which offers membership for $6.99 per month instead of the standard $14.99 rate.
Q3. Do all Goodwill stores offer senior discounts? While many Goodwill stores offer senior discounts, the availability and amount vary by location. Typically, discounts range from 10% to 30% off purchases for shoppers aged 55 or 60+, usually on a specific day of the week.
Q4. Is there a senior discount at Krispy Kreme? Krispy Kreme doesn’t have an official senior discount policy, but some locations may offer a 10% discount to customers over 50. It’s best to ask politely at the register, as availability varies by store.
Q5. How much can seniors save on Empire State Building admission? Seniors aged 62 and older can save $2-$3 off standard admission prices at the Empire State Building. The exact discount may vary, so it’s advisable to check current pricing when planning your visit.