Much like for college students, many unique savings opportunities are available for seniors. These chances to save money and get support resources generally start between the age of 55 and 65. Let’s take a look at places to start saving today.
Food Savings Opportunities For Seniors
- Many fast food and sit-down restaurants offer discounts or freebies to senior citizens. The type and amount of the saving may vary especially for eateries that operate on a franchise system. The best thing to do is to ask at your local location to find out if perks are available.
- Grocery stores often offer senior day or saving hours. Again, these vary by location so definitely ask around.
- Members of AARP are eligible for a selection and national and local dining discounts.
- Daily or weekly luncheon programs at senior centers, faith groups or YMCAs. Local Area Agencies on Aging can point you in the right direction.
- Meals On Wheels is a program for adults 60+ with mobility challenges that make it hard to shop for food, prepare meals or socialize with others. Age requirements and eligibility may vary by area and provider.
- SNAP provides food benefits to low-income families to supplement their grocery budget. Contact your local SNAP office to learn more.
- Senior Farmers‘ Market Nutrition Program
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSMP)-An agency of the United States Agricultural Department works with state and local agencies to distribute select foods to qualified individuals 60+.
Healthcare And Medication Savings Options
In addition to the main Medicare and Medicaid program available to thus 65+ (with some exceptions for younger with disabilities) other opportunities for savings and support exist.
- Specific Veteran’s health benefits for those individuals 65+ who meet income and disability criteria may qualify for VA healthcare and prescription coverage, often with co-payments waived or reduced.
- U.S. wide discount programs such as GoodRX, SingleCare, and RXSaver offer discounts on prescriptions at pharmacies. They may, at times, be cheaper than using insurance to pay for prescriptions. Look at them case by case.
- Some major chain pharmacy retail stores offer senior days (vary by location) that provide a chance to save on over the counter medications and related health items.
- Community Health Centers provide care to patients regardless of their ability to pay.
- Local Lion’s Clubs may be able to connect you with resources for free eyeglasses or hearing aids for low-income seniors.
Transportation and Travel Savings Opportunities
- Amtrak travelers 65 years of age and over are eligible to receive a 10% discount on most rail fares on most Amtrak trains in the United States.
- The National Park Services in the U.S. offers a senior pass for ages 62+ that offers coverage entrance and standard amenity (day-use) recreation fees and provide discounts on some expanded amenity recreation fees at sites managed by the federal government.
- Many city transit systems provide reduced fares for seniors. Check with your local transit authority.
- Numerous car rental companies offer discounts for seniors. Compare these discounts with any others that may be available.
- An AARP Membership gives you access to a number of travel savings opportunities for seniors. These range from discounted rates on hotels to savings on vacation packages.
- Reduced fee and free museum entries may be available where you live or are traveling to. Contact the individual museum to find out.
Financial Services Discounts For Seniors
- Local Area Agencies on Aging and National Foundation for Credit Counseling can provide or direct you to one-on-one free financial advice. Some local Area Agencies on Aging offices provide tax preparation help.
- And speaking of tax help, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides tax prep assistance to those who qualify, free of charge, with a special focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income.
- A number of banks offer no fee waivers on accounts and other perks for seniors. Shop around to find the best deal for your particular needs.
- Numerous states in the U.S. offer property tax relief for seniors. This may come in the form of homestead exemptions, credits, or deferral of taxes owed. Check with your local or state tax authority.
Other Savings Opportunities For Seniors
- Most major U.S. cellphone companies offer age 55+ plans.
- Programs like Xfinity Internet Essentials, AT&T Access, Spectrum Internet Assist, and Optimum Advantage provide affordable internet options for seniors, often in conjunction with federal assistance programs.
- Local libraries are a great place to find a variety of no cost services such as computer classes, and free book/audio book checkout. You can also use computers with internet access and join reading clubs that meet at libraries. Explore your local offerings.
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