The rising costs of living has affected just about everyone lately. Even consumers in higher income brackets are looking for budget friendly options when grocery shopping. If things are this precarious, how are seniors and retirees living on a fixed income coping in these tough times? Let’s look at some benefits offered by retailers for the month of February that can help ease the strain on your pension.
Retiree perks
Maintaining your entire life on a fixed income can be quite the challenge. As such many, if not all, retailers to provide perks and discounts that are exclusive to seniors. Knowing when and where to shop can save you a pretty penny since many retailers offer specialized discounts to the vulnerable population, in addition to free rewards programs and special savings days.
Below are some offers and discounts from retailers you should be sure to take advantage of.
Amazon
If you are a recipient of Medicaid or any other qualifying government assistance, you may be eligible for a discounted Amazon Prime membership. Eligible recipients can get Prime for just $3.50 per month for the first three months, and $6.99 thereafter.
Costco
Your Costco membership is not just for access to shop at the warehouse. Costco offers its members significant discounts on prescription drugs, ranging from 2% to 40%, as well as possible deals on certain types of insurance.
Even your everyday items can be purchased for a steal if you opt for the in-house Kirkland brand items. For example, a 149-fluid ounce container of Tide Free and Gentle laundry detergent is $22.99 at Target — i.e., $0.15 per fluid ounce. However, Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean and Free Clear detergent is $19.99 for a 194-fluid ounce container at Costco, which breaks down to just $0.10 per fluid ounce.
CVS
The free ExtraCare program offers a variety of deals and discounts specifically for shoppers who are 60 and older. You will also get birthday rewards, 2% back in ExtraBucks Rewards on purchases and $4 off your first purchase after enrolling. Additionally, most Medicare plans come with no-cost vaccines.
Fred Meyer
Be sure to shop here on the first Tuesday of every month as seniors aged 55 and up can take an additional 10% off select items.
Kohl’s
Receive a 15% discount on qualifying in-store purchases every Wednesday if you are aged 60 and up.
Michael’s
Register for Michaels Rewards and receive a senior discount of 10% off your entire purchase — including sale items — online and in-store every day.
Ross Dress For Less
It seems Tuesday is the day to shop because Customers 55 years old and up are eligible for a 10% discount every Tuesday.
Target
AARP members can enjoy exclusive benefits from Target Optical such as an extra 10% off contact lenses, 50% off additional pairs of prescription eyewear or sunglass purchases and an extra $10 off eyewear.
You can also save 5% on purchases daily if you open a Target Circle card. Choose from a credit card, debit card or reloadable account to receive this benefit and a variety of others.
Walgreens
Be sure to benefit from exclusive senior savings if you are aged 55 and up and in possession of a free myWalgreens account. Savings include a Seniors Day discount once a month on the first Tuesday of the month.
Walmart
You can get $20 off a Walmart+ annual membership if you are an AARP member. There is a wide offering of benefits with this which includes free delivery from your Walmart store, free shipping with no order minimum, fuel discounts, a complimentary Paramount-plus subscription, free returns from home, and 25% off every day at Burger King, amongst others.
If you are not an AARP member, fear not because you can still reap some benefits from the store. If you receive Medicaid or other qualifying forms of government assistance, you can get a Walmart+ membership for $6.47 per month or $49 per year.
The information contained in this article is accurate and current only as of the date of publication. Specifications, prices, offers and dates may have changed over time. We recommend that you confirm the latest information before making any purchase decision or taking any other action.