Canada's aging population has an increasing number of seniors looking for ways to stretch their dollars further. With fixed incomes and retirement savings, budgeting can become a significant concern.
Recognizing this, various businesses across Canada offer senior discounts and senior appreciation day as a means to help older adults save money on everyday purchases and services. These discounts can range from savings on retail purchases to reduced fares on public transportation.
** We will try our best to keep this article up to date. However, discounts can change without notice among many of these companies, so we make no guarantees they are available when you are reading this article**
Companies that offer senior discounts in Canada
- Salvation Army Thrift Stores
- Goodwill locations (like Goodwill Alberta and Goodwill Amity)
- Value Village
- Banana Republic
- Hudson Bay
- M&M Food Market
- Bulk Barn
- Home Hardware
- RONA
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Rexall Pharmacy
- Pharmasave
- Pet Valu
- Michael's
- Canadiana Flowers
- Boston Pizza
- Taco Bell
- Burger King
- A&W
- IHOP
- Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC)
- M&M Meats
- Best Western
- Travelodge
- Wyndham Hotels
- Choice Hotels
- Hilton Hotels
- Fairmont Hotels
- Hertz
- Parks Canada
- Giant Tiger
- Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)
- National Bank of Canada
- ATB Financial
- Canadian Western Bank
- Costco Canada (Note: No specific senior discount, but offers general value)
Lets go in-depth on the discounts seniors can get in Canada
In Canada, seniors have access to various discounts across retail stores and pharmacies, enhancing their ability to save on purchases.
While not all discounts are completely free, many retail locations offer significant concessions for seniors.
Retail and thrift stores
- Salvation Army Thrift Stores and Goodwill locations, such as Goodwill Alberta and Goodwill Amity, periodically offer discounts to seniors.
- Value Village: Seniors may receive promotional discounts.
- Banana Republic: Offers periodic senior promotions.
- Hudson Bay: Every Tuesday, seniors can save 15%.
- M&M Food Market: Seniors can grab discounts at M&M's every Tuesday
- Bulk Barn: Seniors receive 15% off their purchases on Wednesdays.
- Home Hardware and RONA: Possible senior discounts on select days.
Pharmacies
- Shoppers Drug Mart: Seniors can benefit from the "Seniors' Day" discount, which includes 20% off regular-priced merchandise.
- Rexall Pharmacy and Pharmasave: They may have specific days where they offer discounts to seniors.
Pet supplies
- Pet Valu: May offer senior discount days for pet-related purchases.
Crafts and flowers
- Michael's: Offers a discount on select days for seniors.
- Canadian Flowers: Seniors might find discounts on flower arrangements.
General retail discounts
- The HBC Rewards Program can also be a source of savings, with members potentially earning points leading to discounts on future purchases.
- Grocery stores across Canada may have senior discount days where seniors can save on their grocery bills.
Retail and shopping discounts
Senior citizens in Canada can enjoy a variety of discounts across numerous retail outlets and shopping venues. These discounts can help them manage their finances better by saving on everyday purchases.
General retail discounts
Canadian seniors can benefit from discounts at various retail stores. A highlighted example includes Value Village, which offers special discounts to shoppers 55 years and older. Additionally, Banana Republic provides a discount for seniors at select locations.
At Michael's, seniors who are 55 years old and above get a 10% discount on their purchases. Membership programs like the HBC Rewards Program often have promotions and discounts which can be used at their associated stores.
Pharmacy discounts
Pharmacies across Canada offer senior discounts on medications and more. Shoppers Drug Mart has a Senior Discount Day, typically held on the last Thursday of each month, offering 20% off for seniors 65 and older with an Optimum card.
Rexall Pharmacy also provides a 20% discount to seniors every Tuesday. Pharmasave may offer varying discounts to seniors at different locations.
Grocery store discounts
When it comes to groceries, seniors can save at several stores. Bulk Barn offers a 10% senior discount every Wednesday, while certain Grocery Stores like Goodwill Alberta and other Goodwill locations periodically provide special offers for seniors.
Additionally, Salvation Army Thrift Stores have certain discount days where seniors can save on their purchases.
Travel and transportation benefits
Senior citizens in Canada are entitled to various travel discounts to aid their travel needs, from public transit in urban areas to long-distance travel via rail across the country. Notably, different providers offer discounts, including public transit systems in major cities and national rail services.
Public transit
Public transit authorities provide seniors with reduced fares, such as Calgary Transit, GO Transit, Winnipeg Transit, Ottawa Transit, St. John's Metrobus, and the Toronto Transit Commission.
For instance, Calgary Transit offers fare options for seniors at discounted rates. Similarly, the Toronto Transit Commission has special rates for seniors, ensuring more affordable urban travel.
Rail and long-distance travel
VIA Rail, Canada's coast-to-coast rail service, extends a discount for seniors 60 years and over, which can be accessed by selecting "Senior(60+)" as the traveller type during booking.
British Columbia's transportation system, inclusive of BC Ferries, offers fare reductions, ensuring that long-distance travel within the province is more affordable for senior passengers.
Car rentals
Car rental companies such as Avis and Budget Car Rental provide senior customers with preferential rates. These discounts may vary by location and often require a minimum age of 50 or 60.
To access these benefits, seniors typically need to provide valid identification and meet the rental terms and conditions laid out by the respective car rental company.
A note about airlines
I'm seeing a lot of articles out there stating that a company like Air Canada offers discounted rates on passenger fares for seniors. After doing some research, at the time of the update, I cannot find anything that suggests Air Canada, Westjet, or any other airline here offers discounted fares for senior customers.
So, if you're looking to book a flight and are depending on that discount, please do your research first to see if they are currently offering one.
Hospitality and leisure discounts
Senior citizens in Canada can take advantage of a variety of discounts that make dining out, staying at hotels, and enjoying entertainment both more affordable and enjoyable. These reduced prices can significantly benefit those on a fixed income, allowing them to appreciate their leisure time without as much financial stress.
Restaurant offers
Many restaurants across Canada offer special perks for seniors. Boston Pizza, for example, provides a discount on their menu for patrons over the age of 65. Taco Bell also caters to older adults by offering a free drink with any purchase at participating locations for seniors.
Fast food restaurants such as Burger King and A&W often include value-priced items or special deals aimed at making eating out less expensive for seniors.
- IHOP: Discounted senior menu items for those 55 and older.
Hotel deals
When looking to travel or enjoy a staycation, seniors can find hotel discounts. CheapOair offers senior discounts that apply to various hotels, making it easier on the pocketbook to explore new locales or visit family and friends.
- Discounted hotel stays: Seniors can find special room rates and offers at participating hotels. At the time of writing, we've found that Best Western, Travelodge, Wyndham Hotels, Choice Hotels, Hilton Hotels, and Fairmont Hotels have great discounts for seniors.
Entertainment and attractions
The leisure industry recognizes the value of the senior segment by offering discounted rates for entertainment and attractions. Giant Tiger, a discount store, often provides seniors with specials on products that could enhance their leisure activities, such as games, puzzles, and outdoor gear for family outings.
- Cultural attractions: Reduced admission fees for seniors at museums, theatres, and parks.
- Recreational discounts: Special rates on leisure activities such as movies and golf.
By taking advantage of these discounts, seniors in Canada can make the most of their hospitality and leisure experiences while managing expenses effectively.
Financial services for the aging population
Canada's financial sector acknowledges the unique needs of its senior citizens with customized banking benefits and insurance deals, helping this demographic manage their finances more effectively in retirement.
Banking benefits
Several Canadian banks offer tailored benefits to seniors. For instance, the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) provides a program called 'CIBC Smart for Seniors,' which offers a $6.95 monthly fee discount for customers 65 and older.
Similarly, Scotiabank features senior-friendly account options, while TD and BMO offer banking discounts and low-cost to no-cost account options for those qualifying as low-income or above a certain age threshold.
Notable Banking Discounts:
- CIBC: $6.95 monthly fee discount.
- National Bank of Canada: No monthly fee on The Minimalist Chequing Account for seniors 65+.
- ATB Financial: This Alberta bank offers a no-fee account with free cheques to seniors 59 and older.
- Canadian Western Bank: May offer competitive rates on specific senior accounts.
Insurance deals
Insurance companies in Canada also provide specific deals for the elderly, so make sure to ask. These can include discounted travel, home, and auto insurance rates, recognizing that seniors often have different patterns of use and risk profiles than younger clients.
For example, some insurers may offer lower premiums for seniors with a long history of safe driving or who live in retirement communities with added security features.
Key Insurance Considerations for Seniors:
- Discounted rates: On travel, home, and auto insurance.
- Customized coverage: Acknowledging lower risk profiles and different usage patterns.
Membership and organization discounts
In Canada, seniors can enjoy a variety of discounts through membership in specific organizations. One prominent association catering to the older demographic is the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP).
A CARP membership provides access to a wide range of discounts and benefits tailored for individuals aged 50 and over.
Discount Benefits of CARP:
Here is a breakdown of some key discounts and benefits available through CARP membership:
- Rental Cars: Members receive up to 25% off car rentals from partnered providers.
- Hotels: Discounts on accommodations at partner hotels are available.
- Retail: Special rates and offers at various retail shops.
A specific benefit of being a CARP member includes savings on mobile phone plans through Zoomer Wireless, which tailors its service options for seniors.
Membership Fees:
- Annual fee: $19.95
By joining CARP, seniors enhance their ability to save on everyday expenses and larger purchases alike. It's important to note that details and availability of discounts may vary, and checking directly with service providers is recommended to confirm current offers.
In summary, memberships like CARP not only offer tangible savings but also represent a collective voice for senior advocacy, contributing to an improved quality of life for older Canadians.
Special offers for low-income seniors
Canada offers a variety of special offers and discounts for low-income seniors, aiding them in managing expenses on a lower budget. These discounts encompass a range of services and products, which can be very beneficial for individuals over a certain age threshold.
Transportation: Many transit systems across Canada offer reduced fares for seniors. They may qualify for additional discounts if they are classified as low-income.
Housing: Subsidized housing is available for low-income individuals, including seniors, which can dramatically decrease living expenses. The eligibility for such programs often includes income assessment.
Health Services: Prescription drugs, medical services, and assistive devices may come at a lower cost or even no cost through provincial health benefit programs designed for low-income individuals.
Cell Phone Plans: Some telecommunications companies provide special rates for seniors. The offers depend on the terms provided by each service provider and can significantly reduce monthly expenses.
Discounts and Vouchers: Organizations such as the Salvation Army often extend support to low-income seniors through discounts, vouchers, or direct assistance for purchasing essentials, including food and clothing.
The Government of Canada also facilitates low-income seniors with affordable Internet services under initiatives like the Connecting Families program, ensuring they remain connected without the stress of high expenses.
Over the years, such initiatives and offers have proven vital in supporting the economic and social well-being of senior citizens in Canada. These programs are essential as they not only contribute to cost savings but also ensure inclusivity and access to necessary services.
Does Costco Canada have a seniors discount?
Costco Canada is a popular destination for shoppers of all ages, offering a wide variety of products in bulk quantities. When it comes to senior citizen discounts, many retailers offer special price reductions for the elder demographic.
However, Costco Canada does not currently offer a specific seniors discount on either memberships or in-store purchases. At Costco, membership prices are standardized, with the starting price for annual membership being $60.
Despite the lack of a designated seniors discount, Costco provides value in different ways that may appeal to senior shoppers. Benefits like affordable pricing on bulk items, savings on medication at the Costco Pharmacy, and low-cost optical and hearing aid services can indirectly support seniors, especially those with low income.
Senior shoppers looking for discounts at other retailers might consider opportunities through programs and partnerships with organizations such as The Salvation Army, which offers various forms of assistance to seniors.
For those eager to save, it's important to inquire about discounts at each store they visit, as many discounts are not widely advertised. While Costco may not have a specific program for seniors, the overall savings on bulk purchases and services may still make it an advantageous option for senior shoppers in Canada.
Companies likely will not advertise their senior discounts
It is very hard to find these discounts, as some companies may offer them but may not be upfront about their availability. This will require you to either ask or research beforehand to make sure the place you are visiting has a discount available.
The lowdown on senior discounts here in Canada
In Canada, the age at which one is considered a senior and eligible for senior discounts can vary. Senior discounts are commonly offered to those 65 years of age or older. However, some businesses may lower the minimum age requirement to 60 or even 55.
Eligibility for senior discounts requires proof of age, typically provided by government-issued identification. These discounts allow seniors to save money on a range of goods and services, stretching from transportation and retail to entertainment and dining.
The prevalence of senior discounts in Canada indicates a recognition of the contributions that seniors make to society, as well as an effort to support their financial well-being.
It's important for seniors in Canada to inquire with service providers about discounts they may be entitled to, as these can vary both in availability and age requirements.
Canadian businesses that offer senior discounts often include:
- Retail stores: Savings on specific days or with loyalty programs.
- Pharmacies: Discounts on medication or store merchandise.
- Public transportation: Reduced fares for seniors.
- Museums and galleries: Discounted or free entry.
Pro Tip: Always carry an ID that verifies your age, as this is often a requirement to obtain the discount.
