Common sense would dictate that if a discount is available, it should automatically apply. However, a surprising number of senior discounts don’t appear on signs or show up on bills. Instead, you need to apply or verify eligibility.
One of the most surprising financial mistakes millions of older adults make during their golden years is leaving money on the table, especially when it comes to utilities, taxes, and federal programs.
Here are 11 overlooked savings opportunities seniors should consider.
National Parks Lifetime Senior Pass
The National Park Service offers one of the best travel deals. For a one-time $80 fee (the equivalent of a regular annual pass), seniors aged 62 and over can acquire a lifetime pass, giving them access to more than 2,000 federal sites, including iconic destinations like the Yellowstone National Park.
Not sure you’ll be able to use the lifetime pass throughout your retirement? Try the $20 Senior Annual Pass, which gives you the same benefits, except it’s only valid for a year.
To use this discount, you can buy the pass in person, order it online and receive a physical copy by mail, or get a digital pass to use on your phone.
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Lifeline phone and internet discount
Phone and internet costs likely take a big bite out of your monthly spending. If you make 135% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines, participate in SNAP, Medicaid, or another government program, or are a survivor of crimes such as domestic violence, you can access the federal Lifeline program.
Don’t assume you will see this discount on your bill unless you verify eligibility and sign up. Once you do, you’ll get up to $9.25 in monthly discounts on phone, internet, or bundled services.
Utility company senior discounts
Utility expenses are another source of concern for many seniors on fixed incomes. Many utility companies offer programs such as budget billing plans, discounted rates, and energy assistance programs for qualified customers. These savings are typically income- or hardship-based, but most require you to call and apply.
You may also connect with programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is federally funded but administered at the state level. If you qualify, you can get assistance with heating bills, prevent shutoffs, reconnect services, and even make your home more energy-efficient.
Amazon Prime membership
Love to shop online? Some seniors qualify for discounted Amazon Prime memberships, which offer access to free shipping and other perks. If you can verify that you receive government benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, or SSL, you’ll pay $6.99 per month for Prime instead of $14.99.
To use this half-price membership, you must verify your income and enroll by entering a payment method to use after your free trial ends.
Free tax preparation through AARP Tax-Aide
There’s nothing worse than paying for tax help when free assistance is available. With the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, you can work with an IRS-certified volunteer who provides free tax preparation and filing.
The program focuses on adults over 50 with low to moderate income, and is available in over 3,600 locations around the U.S. To find one, use the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Locator, available on the AARP website. Appointments fill quickly, and the service is often hosted at libraries and community centers, rather than widely advertised. You don’t have to hold an AARP membership to use this free service, either.
IRS free tax help programs
Many people understandably don’t expect freebies from the Internal Revenue Service, but it also offers free filing assistance programs. They include the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counselling for the Elderly (TCE).
To qualify, you must make $69,000 or less annually or have disabilities. Use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887 to make an appointment with an IRS-certified volunteer for free tax help. Additionally, the TCE specializes in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues specific to seniors 60 and older.
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Property tax freezes or senior exemptions
Property taxes can eat up a lot of your income, so it’s good to know that many local governments allow older homeowners to freeze tax rates, reduce their assessed value, and claim exemptions.
Since every location has different requirements for age, income, and residency, and you need to apply to your local tax office to receive the benefit, it’s easy to miss this discount.
Senior cell phone plans
If you’ve been with the same carrier since before you retired, you may not realize that some offer discounted plans for people over 55.
For example, T-Mobile lets you save $10 on their plans when you sign up. To find out if your carrier also offers discounts, you have to ask rather than expect a discounted bill.
Prescription drug assistance programs
You may assume Medicare guarantees the lowest possible price on your prescriptions, but that’s not always the case. Some seniors can further lower medication costs through drug manufacturers and state health care agencies.
These programs may reduce prescription costs, provide direct assistance, and even offer free medication. Still, they’re not automatic. You need to contact your doctor or visit the Medicare website to find out if your prescription drug is covered.
Grocery store senior discount days
Believe it or not, but some grocery stores still run weekly senior discount days, often saving you 5% to 10% off purchases.
In many cases, you’ll need to use your reward card and request the discount at checkout, rather than expect it to apply automatically.
Medicare cost-saving programs
Medicare eligibility rules can be confusing, and many seniors assume they earn too much to qualify for lower premiums. Not always true. They can use Medicare Savings Programs that can help cover Medicare premiums and, in some cases, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
To find out if you’re eligible, apply through your state, even if you think you don’t qualify.
Bottom line
Many senior discounts require asking, applying, or verifying eligibility. In fact, the best approach is often to simply call and ask whether there are any senior programs or discounts, or whether you may qualify for any income-based programs.
Those quick questions can unlock savings on everything from utilities and internet service to travel, taxes, and everyday expenses, opening the door to a stress-free retirement.
Based in New York, Stephen Freeman is a Senior Editor at Trending Insurance News. Previously he has worked for Forbes and The Huffington Post. Steven is a graduate of Risk Management at the University of New York.