Discounts for 50+: The Gen X Guide to Getting the Deal (Yes, We Qualify Now)

Somewhere along the way, we went from flashing a fake ID to get in, to flashing a real one to get 10% off. And honestly? I'll take the 10%.

A lot of us don't think of ourselves as "seniors" (I sure don't), but plenty of discounts kick in at 50 or 55. Most places won't tell you about them, either. You have to ask. So I put together this list of discounts worth knowing, with the age each one starts at, so you can see what you already qualify for.

Before you start: 4 quick rules

• Always ask. Most discounts aren't applied automatically. A simple "Do you have a senior discount?" at the register does the trick.

• Bring ID. Some places will ask for proof of age. Take it as a compliment.

• It varies by location. Many restaurants are franchises, so one location may honor a discount and the one across town may not. Call ahead if it matters.

• Check AARP. You can join at 50, and a bunch of the best deals below require a membership. It usually pays for itself quickly.

🍔 Restaurants & Coffee

• Krispy Kreme: 10% off, starting at 50+ (participating locations)

• Steak 'n Shake: 10% off, starting at 50+ (participating locations)

• Denny's: 55+ senior menu, plus 15% off for AARP members (up to $10)

• IHOP: no straight discount, but a lower-priced 55 & Up menu

• Jack in the Box: up to 20% off at 55+ (varies by location)

• Chili's: often 10% off at 55+ or 60+, depending on location

• Dunkin': about 10% off at 55+ at participating locations

• Arby's: about 10% off or a free drink at 55+ at some locations

• McDonald's: no official discount, but many locations offer cheaper coffee at 55 or 60+

• Outback, Carrabba's & Bonefish Grill: 10% off for AARP members

• Papa John's: 20% off online orders for AARP members

🛒 Groceries & Shopping

• Ross Dress for Less: 10% off every Tuesday at 55+

• Kohl's: 15% off every Wednesday in store at 60+

• Michaels: 10% off at 55+ with a free Michaels Rewards account

• Walgreens: up to 20% off eligible items on monthly Senior Day at 55+ (or AARP members) with a free myWalgreens account

• Fred Meyer & Fry's (Kroger family): 10% off select items one day a month at 55+ (first Tuesday at Fred Meyer, first Wednesday at Fry's)

• Albertsons: 10% off one day a month at 55+ (check your store for the day)

• Harris Teeter: 5% off every Thursday at 60+ with your VIC card

• Goodwill & Salvation Army thrift stores: 10% to 50% off one day a week at 55+ or 60+, depending on the store

✈️ Travel & Fun

• National Parks Senior Pass: at 62+, a $20 annual pass or $80 lifetime pass gets you into 2,000+ federal recreation sites. This is the best deal on the whole list.

• AMC & Regal movie theaters: discounted senior tickets at 60+

• Cinemark: senior pricing on Senior Day (day and age vary by theater)

• Best Western: up to 15% off room rates at 55+

• Choice Hotels: up to 10% off at 60+ with advance booking

• Amtrak: about 10% off most fares at 65+ (senior fares can be limited around the holidays)

• AARP travel perks: members (50+) get discounts on many hotels and rental cars, so compare the AARP rate before you book

📱 Phone Plans & Services

• Consumer Cellular: Unlimited 50+ plan at about $35/month with AutoPay

• T-Mobile 55+: plans start around $45/month for one line. Only the account holder has to be 55+.

• AT&T 55+: about $60/month with AutoPay

• Verizon 55+: only offered in Florida and a few select areas

• Valvoline: 15% off drive-thru oil changes for AARP members

Phone prices change often and taxes and fees are extra, so check the carrier's site before you switch.

The bottom line

We spent our childhoods figuring things out on our own. Saving money is no different. Ask every time, keep your ID handy, and let those little 10%s add up. If you're watching your spending this season, my Holiday Budget Spreadsheet does the math for you, so you always know what's left.

Did I miss your favorite discount? Tell me in the comments and I'll add it to the list. 💛

Discounts, ages and prices were checked in November 2026 and can change or vary by location. Always confirm with the business before you buy.