Discounts by group: who can ask for what
Many discounts aren't advertised. Here are the groups that most often qualify, where they tend to apply, and what to bring. Programs change often and vary by company and location, so always check the current terms before you count on a discount.
| Group | Where to look | What to have ready |
|---|---|---|
| Students | Software and streaming plans, public transit passes, museums and theaters, some retailers and restaurants | Student ID or a school (.edu) email address |
| Seniors | Restaurants, pharmacies and grocery "senior days", public transit, movie theaters, a lifetime national parks Senior Pass (age 62+, US citizens or permanent residents) | ID showing your age; age cut-offs vary from 50 to 65 |
| Military and veterans | Retailers and restaurants, especially around Veterans Day; free national parks passes for current service members and veterans; insurance and phone plans | Military ID, VA card, or a veteran ID on your driver's license in many states |
| Teachers, nurses and first responders | Classroom supplies, software, phone plans, some clothing and travel companies; the federal educator expense deduction for eligible teachers | Work ID, a pay stub or a verification service the company uses |
| Households receiving SNAP or other assistance | Museums for All (reduced admission at participating museums with an EBT card), reduced-fare transit in many cities, the federal Lifeline phone and internet discount, some memberships and streaming plans | Your EBT card or a benefits letter |
| Members of clubs and associations | Auto clubs, alumni associations, unions, warehouse clubs and professional groups often include travel, insurance and shopping discounts | Your membership card or number |
| Employees | Employee discount platforms, phone plan discounts, gym and wellness reimbursements | Your work email or benefits portal login |
General information. We don't have partnerships with any company listed or described here. For national parks passes see nps.gov; for Lifeline see lifelinesupport.org; for Museums for All see museums4all.org.
How to ask, word for word
- Before you pay: "Do you offer any discounts, for example for students, seniors, military or teachers?"
- Online: look for a "discounts" or "verify" link near the checkout, or search the company name plus "discount program".
- On the phone with a provider: "Are there any discounts I qualify for that aren't on my account?"
Never share your Social Security number or bank logins to get a retail discount. Legitimate programs verify with an ID, a school or work email, or a known verification service.