Seniors’ Discounts

Gail Packwood

One of the benefits of getting older is that many retailers, events and organizations offer discounts for seniors.  Each venue defines “senior” as a different age, so be sure to confirm that you qualify – for some places it is as young as 50!  I don’t think anyone minds being given a good deal, so don’t be shy to ask for your discount if you qualify.

Here are just a few examples of major retailers across Canada that offer seniors’ discounts:

• Shoppers Drug Mart holds a Seniors’ Day on the last Thursday of the month.  20% off for those 55+. Information will be posted in the store and some conditions apply.
• The Bay’s Seniors’ Day is the first Tuesday of the month with a 15% for those 60+.  Ask in store for details.
• Rexall Drugs – last Tuesday of the month for those 65+ (restrictions apply)
• The Bulk Barn has a weekly Seniors’ Day every Wednesday with a 10% discount offered.
• Sears’ Seniors Day is the second Tuesday of the month offering a 10% discount.
• Both Rona and Home Hardware offer seniors’ discounts though they may vary store to store.  Check with the location nearest you.

And these retailers offer discounts to seniors every day of the week:

• Wendy’s
• Macdonald’s (discount on coffee)
• Major movie chains all have a senior’s rate for their films.

Please note, these details are subject to change.  While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, please check with each retailer directly to confirm the terms and conditions of the discount.  Remember, you may need to ask for the discount.  Don’t assume that the cashier will give it to you automatically – it may be store policy to only give the discount to those who have specifically requested it.

Many non-chain restaurants also offer seniors’ discounts or specials.  Some might be time of day specific and on limited menu items, but it’s worth checking with your favourite local eatery.

Both Via Rail and Greyhound have discounted travel rates for seniors across Canada.  Either the bus or train is a great way to visit friends, loved ones, or just have a vacation - for less.

In Canada, auto insurers must offer a premium discount to those over 65, or younger if you are receiving the Canada or Quebec pension plan.  For details on this, http://www.insurance-canada.ca/consinfoauto/l12.php or speak with your insurance provider directly.

Whether in your hometown or when visiting a new one, many major tourist attractions, museums and art galleries will have seniors’ admission prices as well.  Usually these are not day specific, but best to check ahead to be sure you don’t miss out.

If you are a member of CARP (Canadian Association for Retired Persons) or other seniors’ organization, you may be eligible for even further discounts on anything from restaurants to hotel stays.  See the CARP website for details on how their members qualify for savings www.carp.ca.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of the possible savings available.  If there isn’t a discount clearly posted, ask!  Remember that you may be asked to show ID to benefit from the savings– but that just means you look youthful!  Some of the restrictions on the discounts, especially with the major retailers who only offer it once a month, may make it awkward to get the benefit of the savings.  However, with a little planning, you could end up saving a significant amount on your household spending and entertainment budget.