One way to save money is to take advantage of sales and discounts! |
Money is a major issue for the vast majority of retirees who are living on a fixed income. As inflation eats away at their disposable income, more and more of us are looking for ways to save money. Unfortunately, many of us don't even think to ask for some of the discounts that are available to us once we reach our 60s and, in some cases, even sooner.
When I received my new AARP card, they mentioned some of the discounts that are available simply by showing my card. In addition, I thought about some of the other discounts I know about, and did a little research to find those that are new to me. There's no way that any list here can cover all the possible discounts available. Some discounts that are currently available could be discontinued or changed. In addition, some local businesses in your area may have savings programs that I don't know about. To be on the safe side, always be sure to ask if there is a discount for people over 55. Even if they tell you that you will have to wait until you are 60 or 62, at least you'll know. If they act surprised that you're even asking, take it as a complement. It means that they don't think you look old enough for a senior discount!
Here are a few of the discounts that I have found. Check with businesses in your area and compile a list of discounts at businesses you use frequently. Keep the list tucked in your wallet, and you are less likely to forget about a discount when you are eating out or shopping.
SAMPLE RESTAURANTS
Denny's Restaurant - 20% off evenings w/AARP card (55+)
Applebee's - 15% off w/Golden Apple Card (60+)
Ben & Jerry's - 10% off (60+)
Burger King - 10% off (60+)
CiCi's Pizza - 10% off (60+)
Fuddrucker's - 10% off senior platters (55+)
IHOP - 10% off (55+)
SAMPLE RETAILERS
Banana Republic - 10% off (50+)
Big Lots - 10% off
Goodwill - 10% one day a week (day varies)
Kmart - 20% off (50+)
Salvation Army Thrift - up to 50% off (55+)
Rite Aid drug store - (20% off on the first Wednesday of the month)
SAMPLE TRAVEL SERVICES
Amtrack - 15% off (62+)
Avis - up to 25% for AARP members
Best Western - 10% off (55+)
Comfort Inn - 20% - 30% off (60+)
SAMPLE ENTERTAINMENT
AMC Theaters - up to 30% off (55+)
U.S. National Parks - $10 lifetime pass (62+)
There are many other restaurants, hotels, car rental companies and theaters that offer discounts. Don't forget to ask at the local businesses that you patronize. You will be glad you did! In addition, if you see a discount mentioned here that has been discontinued, please mention it in the comments section. I will delete it from the article. Feel free to also add any of your favorite discounts as an aid to others.
If you are interested in learning more about planning a successful retirement, use the tabs or pull down menu at the top of the page to find links to hundreds of additional articles about where to retire, financial planning, medical issues, and family relationships.
You are reading from the blog: http://www.baby-boomer-retirement.com
photo courtesy of public-domain-photo.com