Reaching Senior Citizen age comes with a number of perks and privileges. In fact, there are many discounts available to Senior Citizens on everything from life insurance to movie tickets. Here is a list of fifteen items you can receive discounts on, all you have to do is ASK!
1. Car Insurance
Less than 5% of drivers over the age of 55 pay car insurance premiums under $50 per month. A lot of car insurance companies offer significant discounts to seniors. The amount you pay for car insurance will depend largely on your age and other factors, such as your driving record, but there are many discounts on car insurance for seniors. You can even save upwards of $500 per month by taking advantage of the various offers available.
2. Mortgage Payments
The Home Affordable Refinance Plan (HARP) was created under the Obama administration, and is designed to help average Americans lower their monthly mortgage payments by over $4,000 annually. By benefiting from this government program, senior citizens can save thousands of dollars each year. The program is set to end in 2018, and is not likely to be extended. The time to take advantage is now.
3. Debt Relief
If you find yourself owing a lot of money in credit card debt, there are options available to help lessen the burden. Those who owe more than $20,000 in debt can take advantage of debt relief programs that are specifically designed for seniors. These programs work to rectify your debt, without mandatory loans, and make financial freedom possible in just 24 months.
If you experience harassment from debt collectors, a possible solution is to invoke the protections of the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Debt Counsel for Seniors and the Disabled (DSCD), a law firm based in Chicago, used this method to act as a middle man between debt collectors and the debtor. Once the debt collector is contacted by the DSCD on behalf of the debtor, they are no longer able to attempt to reach the debtor, including phone calls, emails, and direct mail.
Keep in mind that even by invoking protections under the FDCPA, you can still be sued by debt collectors. Invoking the protections act discourages debt collectors, and collectors cannot garnish social security or government pensions in the same way they can garnish a paycheck.
Even some charities award grants to senior citizens to help them will their bills. The nonprofit Modest Needs, raises money through online donations and has been known to award up to $1,000 in grants to aid seniors in times of crisis.
4. Life Insurance
Life Insurance is one of the best ways to ensure your loved one’s are protected in the event of tragedy. Sites like National Family are great resources for quick and easy quotes for life insurance. This site compiles information about different insurance plan options, and allows you to conveniently compare plans and choose the package that works best for you and your family. All it takes is a few short moments to answer some entry-level questions, and you’ll have access to comparisons of great plans from this secure and free site.
5. Home Warranties
When it comes time for repairs, many senior citizens do not have extra funds to put towards fixing problems within their homes. While homeowner’s insurance can cover you for unexpected flooding or fire, these types of plans do not take care of appliance malfunctions or broken fixtures. Enrolling in a Home Warranty Program can save you a lot of money over time. Things like broken air conditioners, water heaters, and electrical systems are all covered by Home Warranties. Spend some time looking around at different options before selecting the program that is right for you. Once you do so, you gain peace of mind knowing your home is covered, and you’re protected from unexpected expenses.
6. Hearing aids
There are many organizations out there that provide hearing care for senior citizens. The Hearing Loss Association of America has chapters all over the country, and is a resource for information about getting financial assistance to purchase hearing aids. Though they do not provide hearing aids themselves, they work with their clients to connect them with the information they need about receiving monetary aid, including their Medicaid options.
AUDIENT is an organization that leverages their network of hearing-care to provide aid to low-income individuals, including the elderly. Those in need can call their free hotline, 1-866-956-5400.
7. Auto Repair
Any car owner can tell you that auto care can be extremely costly. But, many auto service and maintenance companies, including Jiffy Lube, Valvoline Auto Service, and Midas Auto Service offer senior citizens a 10% discount on services (though this discount does not include the cost of car parts).
There are also tire suppliers like, STS Tire and Auto Center, that offer discounts to seniors for their tire replacements. These discounts can provide huge savings while keeping you and your vehicle safe and secure.
8. Prescriptions
The more you age, the higher it costs for proper healthcare. Prescription medications can be extremely pricey and add up quickly. Since healthcare is a vital part of your wellbeing, choosing the right insurance policy can do wonders to your overall care bills. Your Medicare insurance plan may entitle you to additional benefits you might not be aware of. Check with your local representative to see if you qualify for coverage for hearing, dental, and even vision, in addition to your current plan.
9. Dining Out
Senior citizens on a limited budget can have just as much fun dining out around town. Restaurants like IHOP, Golden Corral, Krispy Kreme, Perkins, Subway, Old Spaghetti Factory, Sizzlers, Papa Johns, Old Country Buffet, Friendly’s, KFC, Burger King, Taco Bell, and Long John Silvers all offer discounts typically to those over the age of 55 (and on specific days of the week). Be sure to check with your local establishment to find out which locations offer discounts before you make the trip to your favorite spot.
10. Health Insurance
Reaching retirement age is an accomplishment, and it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your lifelong labor. While many senior citizens have retirement funds set aside to cover expenses, these funds are often not substantial enough to cover unforeseen accidents or new illnesses.
Subsidized health insurance plans are readily available to low-income individuals and families, including senior citizens. Through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) you can actually be penalized if you do not have the proper health insurance. Instead of risking a hefty fine, programs like HealthInsurance.net are great tools to research health insurance plans and costs to find out the best option for you and your family. Protect your retirement fund by getting affordable health insurance, and you can get back to enjoying your well-deserved time off.
11. Movies
Going to the movies is a timeless activity, but with rising costs of movie tickets, a night at the cinema can turn into a big expense. Theaters like AMC offer individuals over the age of 60 a substantial 30% discount, and Regal Cinemas up the anti by offering a generous 35% off movie tickets. If you’re over the age of 65, you can get a discount between 10%-25% off your ticket price at CineMagic. Showcase Cinemas hold “Senior Wednesdays” weekly and offer discounted tickets at each of their theaters, including discount options for popcorn and drinks.
12. Personal Loans
Obtaining a personal loan can become more challenging as you get older. Banks are not as willing to award loans to retired individuals as they are to persons who are currently employed and earning money. But there are services that can help. These types of loans offer personal funding without having to reach into your equity.
13. Home Security Systems
Choosing to install a security system will decrease your chances of being targeted for a burglary and even lower your homeowner’s insurance policy by up to 20%! Lots of home security companies are offering great deals on system installations. Even the highest rated companies are extending discounts. ADT is offering a $99 installation, which includes over $850 in free equipment. As an added bonus, they are including a $100 Visa gift card. These types of programs are especially important for senior citizens who can use their security systems to call for aid in dire situations.
14. Flights
Airlines offer discounts for senior citizens too. Companies like Southwest Airlines will provide cheaper senior rates with proof of age at time of purchase. If you are 65 or older, United Airlines offers reduced rates for seniors who are traveling to certain locations; all you have to do is select the “seniors” category when you are booking your reservation. Give a quick call to American Airlines, who offers senior rates that are booked over the phone.
It’s always a good idea to do a price comparison on flights to make sure you are getting the best deal. Those dollars saved on tickets allow you more flexibility and fun while you travel.
15. Cruises
Cruise lines, like Carnival Cruises and Royal Caribbean, offer select deals to citizens over the age of 55. Many destinations qualify for discounts, and what better way to enjoy retirement than to enjoy an all inclusive sea adventure? Many cruises offer entertainment like spa packages, live music, fine dining, and sight seeing while visiting various locations around the world.
Life doesn’t end at retirement. Take advantage of the many discounts available for important expenses, and lessen the expense of living without a professional income. There are many options available to seniors to partake in new and exciting experiences at a reduced cost, all you have to do is ASK!