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Senior Discounts Start Earlier Than You Think — Here's What I Learned at the Checkout Counter

Saving money is a passion of mine, and one of the best surprises I've stumbled onto is this: some senior discounts start at age 55 — not 62 or 65.

I found that out the hard way. I was checking out at a Goodwill thrift store when the cashier asked if I qualified for the senior discount. I was 49 at the time, so my first reaction was to be offended! However, I asked what age the discount started — and he said 55.

Suddenly I didn't feel so bad. I was closer than I thought.

Bottom line: Don't assume senior discounts are only for people in their 60s or 70s. Ask at every store you frequent — you might be closer to qualifying than you think.

Here are some places that offer discounts starting at age 55:

  • Goodwill — senior discounts of 10-25% available at participating locations, usually on a specific day of the week. Check your local store for details. 
  • Salvation Army — also offers senior pricing at many stores of 10-25% available at participating locations, usually on a specific day of the week. Check your local store for details.
  • T-Mobile - offers a senior discount plan: https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/unlimited-55-senior-discount-plans 
  • Denny's - most locations have a discounted menu for ages 55 and up. AARP members get a 15% discount up to $10 off. 
  • Michael's - offers a 10% discount off your entire purchase. 
  • IHOP - has a discounted menu which offers smaller portions. 
  • Walgreens - offers a monthly 20% discount on Senior Day, usually the first Tuesday of the month. 
  • Dairy Queen - varies by location, but usually 10% off or a free small drink. 
  • Chik-Fil-A - varies by location, but some offer 10% off or a free small drink. 
  • Fred Meyer - offers 10% off select items on the first Tuesday of every month.
  • Sam's Club - starts at age 50! A 60% discount on a club membership or $50 off a Sam's Club Plus membership.  
  • Best Western Hotels - discounted room rates, free breakfast, free wi-fi.                                                                                                                                                                                       
This is just a start, I hope to add more as I find them.                                                                          
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