While some major chains have stepped away from senior discount programs, plenty of grocery stores still offer meaningful savings for older shoppers. The key is knowing which stores offer discounts, when they’re available, and how to take advantage of them.

Most stores that offer senior discounts choose one specific day of the week or month to offer a percentage off for shoppers over a certain age. These special days are scattered throughout the week, giving you options no matter when you prefer to shop.

The Best Weekly Senior Discount Days

Harris Teeter: Club 60 Program

Harris Teeter makes saving simple with their Club 60 program. If you’re 60 or older, you can get a 5% discount every Thursday when you show your VIC (Very Important Customer) card at checkout. The discount applies after other coupons and promotions, though it excludes fuel, pharmacy products, tickets, and gift cards.

Weis Markets: Tuesday Savings

At Weis Markets, seniors 60 and older can save 10% on participating Weis-branded products every Tuesday. You’ll need a free Weis Rewards Card and valid ID. Simply visit the customer service desk on Tuesday to have your card activated for the discount.

Family Fare: No-Fuss Wednesdays

Family Fare offers one of the most convenient programs with Senior Wednesdays every week. The 5% discount requires no ID verification, and you can stack it with weekly sales and promotions for extra savings.

Monthly Senior Discount Days

Some chains offer bigger discounts but limit them to once per month. Mark your calendar for these special days:

First Tuesday of the Month

• Fred Meyer: 10% off for customers 55+ on select items including Fred Meyer, Kroger, and Simple Truth brands
• Tops Friendly Markets: 6% off on “Young at Heart Day” for shoppers 60+ (includes prescription purchases)

First Wednesday of the Month

• Bashas’: 10% off for customers 55+ in Arizona locations
• Fry’s Food Stores: 10% off groceries and other items for shoppers 55+
• Safeway: 10% off for customers 62+ (available in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Montana, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming)
• Albertsons: 10% off for customers 55+ (varies by region – some locations offer it on first Thursday instead)

Regional and Independent Store Options

Several smaller chains and regional grocers offer competitive senior discounts:

Grocery Outlet: Some of the 400+ independently owned locations offer a 10% senior discount every Tuesday. Since each store is independently owned, call ahead to verify your local store’s policy.

Gristedes Supermarket: New York shoppers can enjoy a 10% discount every Tuesday with very few exclusions beyond alcohol and tobacco.

ShopRite: Discounts vary by location (5%-10% off) and typically occur on Tuesdays or Wednesdays for customers 55+.

Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace: Customers 65+ in New York and New Jersey locations get 5% off on Wednesdays.

What About the Big Chains?

Some major grocery retailers have moved away from senior discounts:

• Walmart: No senior discount, but focuses on everyday low prices for all customers
• Kroger: Occasionally offers one-day senior discount events (5%-10% off for ages 55+), but these are sporadic and vary by division
• Target: No senior discount program, but offers savings through the Target Circle rewards program
• Costco: No senior discounts, though bulk pricing can benefit budget-conscious shoppers

Getting the Most from Your Senior Discounts

Always Call Ahead

Since some grocery chains are independently owned or policies vary by location, call your local store to confirm their current senior discount policy. Ask about the discount day, required age, and any restrictions.

Bring Your ID

Most stores require proof of age, so keep your driver’s license or ID card handy when shopping on discount days.

Stack Your Savings

Some stores allow you to combine senior discounts with manufacturer coupons, store coupons, and loyalty program benefits. At Harris Teeter, the senior discount applies after other promotions are deducted.

Sign Up for Store Loyalty Programs

Most senior discounts require a store loyalty card, which are typically free to obtain. Programs like Safeway for U, Harris Teeter VIC, and Tops BonusPlus also provide additional digital coupons and personalized deals.

Beyond Traditional Discounts

Even if your favorite grocery store doesn’t offer a senior discount, you can still save money:

• Look for early-bird shopping hours specifically for seniors
• Take advantage of double coupon days
• Shop seasonal sales and clearance sections
• Consider store brands, which typically cost 20-30% less than name brands

The landscape of grocery shopping continues to evolve, but savvy senior shoppers can still find meaningful ways to stretch their dollars. Whether it’s a weekly 5% discount at Harris Teeter or a monthly 10% savings at Bashas’, these programs can add up to real savings throughout the year.

Key Takeaways

• Harris Teeter offers the most consistent weekly senior discount (5% every Thursday for ages 60+)
• The first Wednesday of the month is prime time for senior discounts at multiple chains
• Fred Meyer and Tops offer some of the best monthly deals on the first Tuesday
• Always call ahead to verify your local store’s policy, as some chains vary by location
• Combine senior discounts with coupons and loyalty programs for maximum savings
• Don’t forget your ID – most stores require proof of age for discounts