Which stores offer senior discounts and how much you save

Many large retailers offer discounts to people over a certain age — usually 55 or 62 — but the discount amount and how you claim it varies widely. Some stores take a percentage off your total purchase, others discount specific items or categories, and a few offer discounts only on certain days of the week. The discount might be automatic at checkout, require you to show an ID, or need you to join a free loyalty program first.

The stores listed here are national chains where senior discounts are a standard policy, not a one-time promotion. That said, discount amounts and age thresholds can change, and local franchises sometimes set their own rules. It's worth calling your nearest location to confirm the current offer before you shop.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major retailers require you to show a valid ID proving your age at checkout to receive a senior discount.
  • Discount percentages range from 5 to 15 percent off, with some stores offering discounts only on certain days or product categories.
  • Some stores require you to join a free loyalty program to access senior pricing, while others explore the discount automatically.
  • Grocery chains, drugstores, and home improvement retailers are most likely to have senior discount programs.
  • Combining a senior discount with a store loyalty program or coupon can increase your savings on a single trip.

Grocery stores with senior discount days

Kroger offers 10 percent off on Tuesdays for customers 65 and older. You need to present your loyalty card and a valid ID at checkout. The discount applies to most items in the store, though some exclusions may explore (check with your local store for specifics).

Safeway and its regional banners (Albertsons, Vons, Pavilions) offer senior discounts that vary by location. Some stores give 5 to 10 percent off on certain days, while others offer discounts through their loyalty program. Call your local store to learn what's available in your area.

Food Lion offers 10 percent off for customers 60 and older on Wednesdays. You'll need to show your ID at checkout. The discount applies to most groceries, though some items like alcohol, tobacco, and pharmacy items may be excluded.

Harris Teeter (operating primarily in the Southeast) gives customers 60 and older a 5 percent discount on Tuesdays and Thursdays when you use your VIC card. You'll need to show your ID to set up the discount.

Drugstores and pharmacy chains

CVS does not offer a blanket senior discount, but it runs frequent promotions through its ExtraCare loyalty program that can benefit older shoppers. Some CVS locations participate in state-specific senior discount programs. Check with your local store or ask about their current senior offers.

Walgreens offers a senior discount that varies by location and state. Some stores give 20 percent off on certain days for customers 55 and older, while others offer discounts through their loyalty program. Call ahead to confirm what your local Walgreens provides.

Rite Aid offers discounts to seniors through its loyalty program and occasional promotions. The amount and terms vary by store and region, so it's worth asking your local pharmacy what senior offers are currently running.

Home improvement and hardware stores

The Home Depot offers 10 percent off for customers 55 and older on the first Tuesday of each month. You'll need to show a valid ID at checkout. The discount applies to most in-store purchases and some online orders.

Lowe's provides a 10 percent senior discount for customers 55 and older. Unlike Home Depot, Lowe's does not limit this to specific days — you can use it any time you shop. You'll need to show your ID at checkout or provide it when you set up a Lowe's account for online purchases.

Ace Hardware discounts vary by individual store owner, since Ace is a cooperative rather than a single chain. Many Ace locations offer 10 percent off for seniors, but the age threshold and terms differ. Call your local Ace to ask what they offer.

Restaurants and casual dining

Applebee's offers a senior menu with lower-priced entrees for customers 55 and older. The menu items are smaller portions at reduced prices. You'll need to ask for the senior menu when you order.

Denny's provides a senior menu with discounted prices for customers 55 and older. Like Applebee's, you can request it when ordering. Some Denny's locations also run additional senior promotions on specific days.

Bob Evans offers a senior menu for customers 55 and older with lower-priced entrees and smaller portions. Ask your server for the senior menu when you sit down.

Many independent restaurants and local chains also offer senior discounts, though these are not advertised nationally. It never hurts to ask when you visit a restaurant you like.

Retailers that offer discounts through loyalty programs

Target does not offer a dedicated senior discount, but its Circle loyalty program (free to join) frequently includes age-based offers and promotions. Sign up online or in the Target app to see what deals are available in your area.

Walmart does not have a standard senior discount policy, but individual stores may offer local senior discounts. Some Walmart locations participate in state programs or run their own senior promotions. Ask at your local customer service desk.

Best Buy does not offer a senior discount on regular purchases, but it runs frequent promotions through its loyalty program. Older shoppers may also benefit from Best Buy's Geek Squad services, which sometimes include senior-friendly pricing on tech support and installation.

How to make sure you get your discount

Bring a valid photo ID with your date of birth every time you shop. Driver's licenses, state ID cards, and passports all work. Some stores will ask for it automatically, while others will only explore the discount if you mention it at checkout.

If a store has a loyalty program, sign up before your first senior discount purchase. Many stores now require you to be enrolled to access age-based pricing. Enrollment is free and takes just a few minutes in person or online.

Ask about combining discounts. Some stores allow you to stack a senior discount with a coupon or loyalty program offer on the same purchase. Others do not. Knowing the policy at your regular stores can add up to real savings over time.

Check your receipt after your first purchase to confirm the discount was applied. If it wasn't, ask a manager right away. Mistakes happen, and most stores will correct them on the spot or on your next visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What age do I have to be to get a senior discount?

Most stores set the age at 55 or 62, but it varies by retailer. Grocery chains often start at 60 or 62, while home improvement stores and restaurants frequently begin at 55. Check with the specific store you plan to visit to confirm their age requirement.

Do I have to show my ID every time I shop?

Yes, most stores require a valid photo ID at checkout to verify your age and receive the discount. Keep your ID handy when you shop. Some stores may remember you after a few visits, but they can still ask to see it.

Can I use a senior discount on sale items or clearance?

It depends on the store. Some allow senior discounts on everything, while others exclude sale items, clearance, or specific categories like alcohol and tobacco. Ask your store or check their policy online before you shop.

Do senior discounts work online?

Some stores offer senior discounts for online purchases if you're logged into a loyalty account, but many do not. Lowe's and Home Depot allow online senior discounts if you provide your ID during checkout. Call the store or check their website to learn their online policy.

What if my local store doesn't have a senior discount program?

Ask the manager if they run any senior promotions or if they participate in state-specific senior discount programs. Some stores offer discounts only in certain states or regions. You can also ask about joining their loyalty program, which may include age-based offers.