When you are planning for retirement, carefully pinching pennies can help you achieve your goals faster. It can also help your money go further once you retire and are living on a fixed income.

Senior assistance comes in many forms. From discounts at local restaurants to lower rates for hotel rooms, there are multiple programs you can take advantage of every day.

10 Senior Citizen Benefits and Discounts to Explore

1.  Hotels: Major hotel chains often offer discounts ranging from 5 to 15% of the room’s total bill. Marriott, Hyatt, Best Western, and Crowne Plaza are just a few. Before you book a room, check if any hotels in your destination city provide discounts. If a hotel you are interested in doesn’t list a senior discount on their website, call the hotel directly and ask for the manager. They may be able to offer one.

2.  Grocery stores: Many grocery stores host senior discount days. Some have it once a week, others just once a month. Kroger, Harris Teeter, and Publix are a few national chains that offer older adults regular discounts. Review 2019 Senior Discounts For Grocery Stores for a more comprehensive list.

3.  Restaurants: Most older adults are familiar with senior discounts at restaurants. Some restaurants offer early bird discounts between specific hours before their busiest times. Other restaurants offer a percentage off meals. Seniors typically qualify if they are at least 55 or 60 years of age.

4.  Rental cars: Many car rental agencies offer senior discounts. It’s a savvy move since older adults typically have the freedom and finances to travel. Most of these discounts are open to adults age 50 and older.

5.  Movie theaters: Another industry that offers discounts to attract older adults is movie theaters. These discounts vary by location. Some have discount days or showing times, while others give a percentage off ticket price.

6. National parks: A great, lesser-known discount can be found at our country’s national parks. Seniors can purchase a lifetime pass for only $80! An annual pass is just $20. These discounts are for adults age 62 and older.

7.  Pharmacies: Don’t overlook your local pharmacy when it comes to saving money. While senior discount days typically don’t include prescription drugs, they may include over-the-counter medications. For example, adults aged 65 and older can save 20% on in-store purchases at Rite Aid on the first Wednesday of the month. Walgreens offers a similar discount program on the first Tuesday of the month.

8.  Thrift stores: As if thrift store prices weren’t incentive enough, many also offer special discounts to older adults. Goodwill and Salvation Army thrift shops are two.

9.  Cell phone providers: We all know cell phone service can be expensive. Fortunately, many providers offer older adults a price break. Verizon Wireless and AT&T are two of the leaders.

10.  Train travel: With train travel experiencing a renaissance, it’s good to know that Amtrak offers older adults a discount, too. Senior travelers typically receive a 10% discount on fares.

Want to learn more? Budgeting Tips for Seniors: How to Make Retirement Savings Last will help give you ideas for making your retirement money go further.

Downsize to a More Carefree Lifestyle

Another idea to make your retirement money go further is to downsize. You can leave all of the expenses associated with home ownership behind. An independent living community might be the ideal solution. Start exploring your options by calling 800-304-8061 to speak with an experienced senior care advisor for free!