Taking Advantage of Discounts for Seniors

One way to stretch your fixed income as you move into retirement is to take advantage of discounts for seniors. Many companies from entertainment to travel to financial services offer senior citizen discounts, which can help extend your dollars further.

AARP Membership

Annual membership dues are just $16. Benefits include numerous senior discounts for hotels, auto rentals, shopping, travel planning and more.

Travel

Among the travel industry, discounts for seniors are very common. Many airlines , car rental companies, hotels, resorts and campgrounds offer seniors discounts. Some senior travel discounts are available on the Web but if they are not, call and speak to someone at the company. Keep in mind, though, some Web discounted travel opportunities often beat standard senior discounts. Compare prices among providers before making a final decision.

Also seniors can obtain the “America the Beautiful Senior Pass” from the National Park Service for just $10, providing unlimited admission to all federal parks and recreation sites, as well as significant discounts on amenities within the facilities, such as camping, boat launch fees, and more.

Restaurants

Many restaurants offer seniors discounts or early bird specials. It’s a good idea to ask about discount programs when you visit a new restaurant.

Entertainment

Most cities have a selection of museums, theater programs and music concerts available in addition movie theaters. Whatever your choice, there’s a good chance that there is a senior discount. The age requirement, especially for museums, may vary – most common is 60. In all cases, the discounts can range form a few dollars to about half the admission price. Some venues even have free admission for seniors on certain days. In addition, many theme parks offer a senior citizen discount.

Financial Services

Banks may waive or reduce fees for senior citizens and provide free checks. Other senior discount offers or services may include the opportunity to earn interest without a minimum balance, free cashiers check and money order processing and special customer rewards programs

Utilities

Some energy companies offer a senior discount. You’ll need to check with your local provider to find out what, if any, it provides. Many local and state government agencies also have programs for older adults needing assistance to pay home energy costs. Such programs may have different requirements for qualification -- some require that you be of a certain age or income level, while others may require both.

There also are some wireless phone plans for seniors who would like a cell phone in case of emergencies or while traveling but want to keep down costs. Generally the plans will have limited usage minutes.

Retail

Some retail establishments offer senior citizen discounts. Sometimes these are in-store discounts for certain days of the month or possibly online. You’ll want to check fliers or contact the store to see if it offers discounts to seniors or compare prices online.