For Mark Roberts’ Use: You may already be aware that many businesses offer discounts to senior citizens. These discounts are often well-known and advertised, so you can’t really miss them. But you may not know about many of these hidden discounts at common places of business. They aren’t advertised, and in many cases you have to ask for them. Seniors in the know can enjoy significant savings by utilizing these secrets.
Clothing. If you enjoy shopping at discount clothing retailers, try visiting Ross on a Tuesday or Kohl’s on a Wednesday. Those are the days you can enjoy a 55-and-older discount of 10 percent (at Ross) or 15 percent (at Kohl’s).
Haircuts. Many national chains such as Great Clips and Supercuts offer senior discounts on haircuts. Your favorite local barber shop may also offer a similar discount, but you often have to ask for it.
Recreation. Seniors over age 65 get 5 dollars off of their monthly membership at the YMCA, nationwide. Those who are enrolled in Medicare or a retiree health plan qualify for a free SilverSneakers membership, which gets you access to 13,000 participating fitness clubs across the country. Seniors age 62 and older can purchase a lifetime Senior Pass for 10 dollars that grants them free admission to over 2,000 national parks. The Senior Pass also gets you a discount on certain amenities like camping at various national park sites.
Utilities. Many utility companies offer discounts for senior citizens. It’s worth a shot to call your electric, water, and gas companies to see if these special rates are available in your area.
Auto service. If you’re in need of an oil change or other routine auto maintenance, head to Jiffy Lube or Midas and ask for their senior discount. Your local, privately-owned garage may also offer a competing discount.
Groceries. Some grocery stores, such as Kroger and Harris Teeter, offer 5 percent off grocery bills for seniors age 60 and over. Contact your favorite grocery store and ask if they offer a similar discount.
Entertainment. AMC movie theaters offer a ticket discount of up to 60 percent on Tuesdays, and 30 percent on every other day of the week.
Travel. If a cruise sounds like your ideal vacation, contact Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity cruise lines and ask about their 55-and-up discount. Amtrack and Greyhound offer 15 percent off transportation to those age 62 and older, and you can get discount plane tickets through Southwest Airlines if you’re age 65 or older.
