Senior News Line: Senior discounts are even more important now

The price increases we might see because of the expected tariffs make this a good time to get used to hunting for senior discounts on all the goods and services we need and want.

As usual, the definition of “senior” varies from store to store and restaurant to restaurant. One might stick to the age 65, when we used to start collecting Social Security, and others might look at age 50, when AARP starts identifying us as potential subscribers — or anywhere in between.

Despite the occasional confusion about age, there are discounts to be had.

Shop your local stores first. They’re more likely to offer senior discounts because they want your business, and your repeat business.

Check Goodwill and The Salvation Army stores for discount days. Ask your local grocery stores about senior discount days. You might need a loyalty card, but even those can often get you rewards cash.

Don’t forget pharmacies, eyeglass stores, gyms, clothing stores, travel agencies, movie theaters, insurance agents, auto repair locations — anywhere you spend money.

They’re not likely to offer you any discount unless you ask for it. But they do want your business, and it’s to their benefit to give you a discount.

Scroll through the discount area of the AARP website and see if a membership makes sense for you. I get $20 off an annual Walmart+ plan, which pays for my AARP membership.

Search for discounts online by looking for “senior discounts 2025” and your area. Then call in advance to verify that a certain discount is available.

Don’t be shy about asking. In fact, before you go to any restaurant or store, make it a rule to call and inquire, and to verify the age they consider senior.

After all, it’s your money, and every dollar discounted is a dollar you get to keep.