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Credit Cards for Senior Citizens

6 Min Read | Last updated: August 28, 2023

This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.

Get the most out of your retirement with a credit card that meets your needs. Explore cash back and travel rewards options that make spending more rewarding.

At-A-Glance

• For senior citizens, rewards credit cards may help with a variety of goals and everyday activities, from international travel to grocery shopping.
• If travel is a retirement goal, travel rewards credit cards provide points toward flights and hotels, along with perks that can make travel more relaxing.
• Cash back cards can help a fixed income stretch further by providing money back on everyday spending.

In your golden years, you generally have more time to do whatever you want – whether that means international or domestic travel, eating out with friends, or simply taking it easy. On the other hand, many senior citizens have more-or-less fixed incomes, so you may also be looking for ways to help your dollars stretch further toward those goals.

Used responsibly, credit cards can be handy tools to help senior citizens achieve the above. A wide variety of credit cards offer different benefits for senior citizens, so it’s important to consider your goals, spending patterns, and financial resources when choosing credit cards to meet your needs. Two main categories of credit cards can assist:

Rewards credit cards: With rewards credit cards , you earn rewards points as you spend with the card. Some credit cards even offer welcome offers, allowing you to accrue points more quickly. You can redeem your points in a number of different ways, depending on the card issuer. Typical redemption options include travel, dining, entertainment, and more.

Cash back credit cards: Cash back cards work similarly to rewards cards, but instead of rewards points you get cash back, usually as a statement credit. Depending on your credit card issuer, you may receive the same percentage of cash back on all your purchases, or there may be different tiers associated with specific shopping categories.

Credit Cards Offer Additional Protections

It can be helpful to know that some credit card providers include certain protections that may help when unpredictable circumstances arise. It’s important to read your card’s terms and conditions so that you can be clear on what, exactly, is included along with potential exclusions. Benefits will vary from card to card but may include:

• Worldwide assistance: A hotline that provides travel-related information as well as help if you encounter problems far from home, including medical emergency referrals and support if you lose your passport.
• Protection for purchases: Some cards provide extended warranties and/or protection against damage or theft for a limited period, including refunds under some conditions.
• Car rental insurance benefit: You may be covered for vehicle damage or theft under certain conditions when you pay for a car rental using the credit card and decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver.

Travel Credit Cards

For many senior citizens, retirement presents terrific opportunities for travel. There’s more time to plan and enjoy extended trips without the constraints of a 9-to-5 working schedule. If travel appeals to you, a travel credit card may offer useful perks. With a travel rewards credit card, you generally earn points for all spending but get the highest ratio of points per dollar for travel-related purchases, like flights and hotel stays. 1 You can then redeem those points toward future travel expenses including flights and hotels. Broadly speaking, there are several kinds of travel rewards credit cards

• Airline credit cards: are co-branded by a credit card company and an airline, and generally offer the highest level of rewards when you travel with that airline, or in some cases with partner airlines.
• Hotel credit cards: are provided by a credit card company in partnership with a hotel chain, and you’ll generally get the most benefits when you use them for stays at properties owned by that chain.
• General purpose travel credit cards: give you the flexibility to earn and redeem points with multiple airline and hotel companies.

Within each of these card types, there are different “tiers” of credit cards. Top-level premium cards offer the highest rewards, including the most points per dollar in targeted spending categories. But they may have higher annual fees as well.

If, as a senior citizen, you have the flexibility to travel off-peak, you may benefit from a change in the way certain airlines and hotels are pricing their reward travel. Instead of requiring a fixed number of points for a flight or hotel stay, some companies are using “dynamic pricing.” That means the number of points needed varies depending on the price that you’d pay in dollars, which in turn depends on how much demand there is for that particular seat. If you’re able to travel when demand is low, you may need fewer points for your flight or hotel stay.

Credit Card Benefits That Can Reduce Travel Stress

Some travel credit cards also include benefits that can help make travel less stressful. Depending on the card, those benefits may include:

• Airport lounge access: For 20-somethings, hunting for a seat in a crowded airport may be part of the fun of travel, but some seniors may prefer a more relaxing experience. Some travel credit cards provide complimentary or discounted access to a worldwide network of airport lounges , which can provide a welcome respite from airport hubbub – often with food, drink, and Wi-Fi on tap.
• Faster security screening: Some credit cards provide credits toward programs that help get you through airport screening and customs faster, so you spend less time standing in line.
• No foreign transaction fees: Some credit card providers eliminate foreign transaction fees, so you don’t need to worry about the extra cost that might otherwise be added to each purchase in a foreign currency.
• Hotel elite status and upgrades: Certain credit cards may include elite status when you enroll in hotel loyalty programs, with potential benefits such as room upgrades.
• Trip cancellation and baggage insurance: If you pay for your trip with your credit card, you may be reimbursed up to preset limits if your trip is cancelled or delayed or if your baggage is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Earning Cash Back With Credit Cards

Cash back credit cards may be useful for those whose priorities include making their money go further for everyday purchases, since they tend to reward spending in categories such as supermarkets and restaurants. As you spend with a cash back credit card , you get a percentage of the cash back, usually as a statement credit. Some credit cards also offer cash back welcome offers if you meet certain spending requirements within the first few months of getting the card.

With cash back cards, you’ll generally get at least 1% cash back on all purchases, with higher percentages for specific spending categories such as supermarkets, restaurants, and U.S. gas stations, however, this varies from card to card. 2

Credit Cards With No Annual Fee or 0% Introductory Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

If you’re focused on minimizing fees and interest, you may consider a 0% introductory APR credit card or a no annual fee credit card. Some credit card companies charge an annual fee for the privilege of using their card, so a card with no annual fee could be a good option for seniors who are looking to save money. Some cards offer both 0% introductory APR as well as no annual fee, the best of both worlds. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the product’s terms and conditions when comparing available credit card options.

FAQs on What Are the Best Credit Cards for Senior Citizens?

What are the best credit cards for seniors?

The best credit card for seniors depends on an individual’s lifestyle, credit status, and financial needs. Avid travelers may want to consider a travel rewards card. A cash back rewards card may be a good choice for individuals who would like to save on everyday expenses.

What factors should senior citizens consider when choosing a credit card?

Among the most important factors to consider are the rewards and benefits of the credit card, the interest rates, the annual fee, and the customer service experience. Additionally, it’s a good idea to look for credit cards that offer fraud protection as well.

Is it hard to get a credit card when you’re retired?

You can still apply for credit cards after you’ve retired, even if you no longer have traditional employment. Social Security benefits, withdrawals from a retirement account, part-time work, and more all count as income. Credit card companies will also assess your credit history, your ability to pay, and other factors when considering your application.

The Takeaway

Senior citizens may find rewards and cash back credit cards to be useful tools for helping to achieve a range of retirement goals, from travel to simply making the most of a fixed income. A wide variety of credit cards offer different benefits, so think carefully about your goals and spending habits when choosing cards to meet your needs.

Show Article Sources

1 “ How Do Travel Credit Cards Work? ,” Bankrate

2 “ How Does Cash Back Work? ,” Bankrate

Mike Faden  has covered business and technology issues for more than 30 years as a writer, consultant, and analyst for media brands, market-research firms, startups, and established corporations.   All Credit Intel content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express.

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2024 Best Travel Discounts For Seniors

© The Senior List, 2024.  If you plan on recommending or sharing any of our discount lists, please do so with appropriate attribution to The Senior List® and a link back to our website.

*Please note: Some of the discounts you'll see below are offered by franchise owners in local markets.  This means that senior discounts may vary by location.

Our List of Best Travel Discounts for Seniors is full of verified senior discounts.  Senior Discounts that have a verified flag next to them have vetted by us or our community members.

Remember that discount policies can change throughout the year.  Our best advice for discount shoppers is to ask ahead of time so there are no surprises.

Best Travel Discounts For Seniors

Senior Discounts On Airline Tickets

American Airlines: Various discounts for 65 and up (call directly about possible senior discounts, only available for certain markets and flights). Southwest Airlines : Various discounts for ages 65 and up (call to apply senior discount). verified British Airlines: AARP members can save up to $200 on flights . Click here to book travel. verified United Airlines : Various discounts for ages 65 and up (call to apply senior discount). verified U.S. Airways:  Has merged with American Airlines (see above). verified

Save hundreds of dollars on travel with a $12 per year AARP membership.

Senior Discounts on Car Rentals

Alamo Car Rental: Up to 25% off for AARP members verified Avis Senior Discounts:  AARP members save $10-$25 off Avis Car Rental  verified Budget Rent-A-Car Senior Discount : Everyday savings of 10-25% on all vehicles (domestic and international). Use Budget Customer Discount (BCD) # Y508537 to get the lowest rate(s) for AARP members (50+) verified Dollar Rent-A-Car: 10% off (50+) Hertz Senior Discount : Hertz offers exclusive rental car deals for renters 50+. Use discount code CDP# 2007815. verified Payless Senior Discount : AARP members enjoy discounts at Payless Car Rental, including everyday savings of 5% on leisure daily, weekly, weekend, and monthly rates. Use Payless Promo Code KW47RY verified

RELATED READ: SAVE MONEY ON FOOD WHILE TRAVELING

Senior Discounts on Hotels

Best Western Senior Discount : 10% or more for AARP or senior guests (55+) verified Cambria Suites  Senior Discount: (Choice Hotels) “Senior Rate”:  If you are 60+ or an AARP member, you'll save up to 10% with advance reservations. Just select “Senior/AARP” from the special rate dropdown or request the Senior Rate* when you call 800-4CHOICE (800-424-6423). (60+) verified Candlewood Suites :  Discounts vary (62+) verified Clarion Hotels – (Choice Hotels) “Senior Rate”:  If you are 60+ or an AARP member, you'll save up to 10% with advance reservations. Just select “Senior/AARP” from the special rate dropdown or request the Senior Rate* when you call 800-4CHOICE (800-424-6423). (60+) verified Comfort Inn  Senior Discount : (Choice Hotels) “Senior Rate”:  If you are 60+ or an AARP member, you'll save up to 10% with advance reservations. Just select “Senior/AARP” from the special rate dropdown or request the Senior Rate* when you call 800-4CHOICE (800-424-6423). (60+) verified Comfort Suites – (Choice Hotels) “Senior Rate”:  If you are 60+ or an AARP member, you'll save up to 10% with advance reservations. Just select “Senior/AARP” from the special rate dropdown or request the Senior Rate* when you call 800-4CHOICE (800-424-6423). (60+) verified

Related : Worried about falls or medical emergencies while traveling? Get help wherever you may roam. Check out the best cellular medical alert systems here .

Crown Plaza :  Discounts vary (62+) verified Days Inn :  Discounts vary (60+) You can also call 1-800-225-3297 and request the “senior rate”  verified Hampton Inn & Suites – AARP members save 10% verified Holiday Inn  Senior Discounts :  Discounts vary (62+) or with valid membership ID of a retired persons organization. verified Howard Johnson Hotel  Discounts :  Discounts off best available rate (60+) You can also call 1-800-225-3297 and request the “senior rate”.   verified Hyatt Senior Discounts :  Up to 50% off (62+) verified Knights Inn :  Up to 10% off (60+) verified La Quinta  Inn Senior Discount :  Discounts vary (65+) verified Marriott Senior Discount :  15% off (62+) verified Motel 6 :  10% off (60+), AMAC members 10% off by using code CP545906 verified Sleep Inn – (Choice Hotels) “Senior Rate” :  If you are 60+ or an AARP member, you'll save up to 10% with advance reservations. Just select “Senior/AARP” from the special rate dropdown or request the Senior Rate* when you call 800-4CHOICE (800-424-6423). (60+) verified Super 8 :  Seniors save 10% off (up to 20% with AARP card) verified Travelodge Senior Discount :  Discounts vary (60+) verified Wyndham Hotels :  Up to 20% with AARP card, AMAC members 20% off verified

Cruise Discounts For Seniors

The cruise lines are always offering discounted fares for one reason or another.  Make sure you call your favorite cruise line to make sure you're getting the best deal for the month in which you're cruising.  In most cases, the big cruise lines like Carnival Cruises , Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean will offer discounts to those travelers that are 55 and older , especially if they have an AARP membership . (Be sure to ask).

Other Travel Discounts for Seniors

National Parks Senior Lifetime Pass : A $10.00 **Lifetime Pass provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by five Federal agencies (62+). **Note – This price increases to $80 on Aug. 28, 2017   verified Greyhound : 5% discount (62+) verified Amtrak Senior Discounts : Amtrak travelers (62+) years of age and over are eligible to receive a 15% discount on the lowest available rail fare on most Amtrak trains. On cross-border services operated jointly by Amtrak and VIA Rail Canada, a 10% Senior discount is applicable to travelers (60+). verified

Other Senior Discounts:

2024 BIG LIST List of Restaurant Discounts For Seniors

2024 List of Senior Discounts for Retail and Apparel

2024 List of Senior Discounts on Prescription Medications 

Chris Clark

For over a decade, Chris has been writing about senior discounts and deals. He finds the hunt for discounts rewarding because it allows him to take care of older adults by offering them senior-specific pricing. As the son of two social workers, Chris has spent his whole life advocating for the betterment of others. When he isn’t researching senior discounts, Chris enjoys fishing, spending time with his sons, and rooting for his favorite team, the Portland Trail Blazers. Learn more about Chris here

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Travel Discounts for Seniors

Take advantage of the perks offered to people 50 and older as you make plans for retirement travel.

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Senior travel discounts are a great way to explore the world without stretching your budget thin.

Key Takeaways

• Many travel discounts for seniors require proof of age, such as an ID or membership card. Read the fine print and ask for details to see if you are eligible.
• Seniors can find discounts for many travel-related expenses, including hotels, flights, train travel, car rentals, cruises and admissions to various attractions.
• Membership organizations like AARP and AAA provide additional discounts and benefits for seniors. AARP members can receive discounts on flights, cruises, car rentals and more, while AAA offers roadside assistance and discounts at various locations, including hotels and restaurants.

Whether you’re planning a long vacation or just a weekend getaway, there are many travel deals exclusively available to older adults . Some senior travel discounts can be found online, while others may require that you join an organization or call to book. Be ready to read the fine print and ask for details to make sure you are eligible for discounts. You will often be required to show proof of age, such as an ID or membership card.

Common senior travel discounts include:

• Hotel discounts for seniors
• Flight discounts for seniors
• Train discounts for seniors
• Car rental discounts for seniors
• Cruise discounts for seniors
• Admission discounts for seniors
• AAA and AARP senior discounts

Hotel Discounts for Seniors

Many chains and small independent hotels will offer discounts to older guests. Check before booking online or call the hotel directly and ask. Here are a few hotel senior discounts to help you get started:

• Aqua-Aston Hospitality : Travelers age 50 or older save up to 15% off the best available rate.
• Best Western : Guests who are 55 and older receive discounted room rates and free breakfast at participating locations.
• Cambria Suites : AARP members enjoy up to 10% off their stay.
• Choice Hotel : AARP cardholders and those 60 and older receive up to a 10% discount.
• IHG : Guests who are 62 and older are eligible for discounts at participating locations.
• Marriott : Guests age 62 and older receive senior discount rates.
• Red Roof : Seniors 59 and older enjoy a 10% discount, based on availability.
• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts : Guests who are at least 60 years old qualify for the senior rate at participating locations.

Flight Discounts for Seniors

In addition to the airline miles you earn through credit card spending , you can also save on flights by taking advantage of senior airfare deals. As airline discount policies change frequently, call to inquire about senior fares even if not advertised online. Here are a few airline senior discounts to consider:

• British Airways : AARP members can receive between $65 and $200 off round-trip flights.
• Delta Air Lines : Provides a senior discount in certain markets. Call to ask about availability.
• JetBlue : Discounts of 5% for retired military and veterans are available for those enrolled in Veterans Advantage.
• ParkRideFly : AARP members receive 12% off when booking airport parking.
• United Airlines : Passengers who are 65 and older are eligible for discounted fares to select destinations .

Train Discounts for Seniors

If you want to see the U.S. or Europe by rail, there are special offers available for seniors. Check online or call rail companies for details and to book. You could save between 10% and 30% on your next trip. Try these senior discounts on train travel:

• Amtrak : Travelers who are 65 and older enjoy 10% off most rail fares.
• Eurail Passes : Passengers who are 60 and older may purchase a Senior Pass to take 10% off for European train travel.
• Grand Canyon Railway : Those who are 62 and older receive a 15% discount on train tickets.
• Senior Rail Card : Ticket purchasers who are 60 or older save one-third off UK rail travel.
• Vacations by Rail : AARP members receive a 5% discount and are eligible for other benefits.

Car Rental Discounts for Seniors

Many car rental locations offer discounts for senior drivers. Here are a few car rental promotions to help lower your travel costs:

• Avis : AARP Members can save up to 35% off Avis base rates.
• Auto Europe : Those who book online are eligible for a 5% senior discount.
• Budget : AARP members receive up to 35% off at participating locations, plus other benefits.
• Sixt : Seniors 50 and older receive a 5% discount.
• Thrifty : Those age 50 and older save 5% on time and mileage charges.
• Hertz : Travelers 50 and up save of up to 20% off base rates at participating locations.
• Zipcar : AARP members save $20 on annual membership fees and earn a $40 driving credit.

Cruise Discounts for Seniors

Some cruise lines will offer deals to those who call and ask. Other discounts and special promotions may be available when you book directly through the cruise line's site:

• Carnival : Although exact prices depend on your sailing dates and chosen destination, Carnival offers lower rates to seniors age 55 and older.
• Collette Cruise Tours : AARP members can save up to $100 per person on select trips.
• Grand European Travel : AARP members can save up to $100 per person on certain guided tours.
• Royal Caribbean : Discounted rates are available on select cruises for guests who are 55 and older.

Admission Discounts for Seniors

When booking tickets for a concert, museum, national parks or even film screenings, you may be eligible for discounted senior deals. Many venues will offer a discount if you meet their age requirements and can show proof of age:

• AMC Theatres : AMC provides a discount to ticket purchasers who are 60 and older at participating locations.
• America the Beautiful Senior Pass : Senior travelers can purchase a $20 annual senior pass or $80 lifetime pass for use at national parks and federal recreational lands.
• Art Institute of Chicago : Seniors age 65 and older receive an $8 discount.
• Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City : Seniors receive $8 off ticket prices.
• Regal Theatres : Regal provides discounts to moviegoers who are 60 or older for certain performances.
• The National Baseball Hall of Fame : Seniors who are 65 and older receive a $6 discount on admission.
• Ticketmaster : AARP members receive discounts on selected events.

AAA Senior Discounts Versus AARP Discounts

The American Automobile Association, commonly called AAA , charges an annual membership fee. In exchange, members receive roadside assistance and additional benefits. The classic membership costs $64.99 a year and provides standard towing, identity theft monitoring, emergency fuel delivery and discounts at over 100,000 locations, including hotels and restaurants. Beyond travel deals, members can expect to receive additional discounts at participating retailers and restaurants including LensCrafters, 1-800-Flowers, Hard Rock Café and Landry’s.

An AARP membership costs $12 with automatic renewal. For subsequent years, you’ll pay $16 annually. Members receive benefits related to products and services including insurance, health care, entertainment, travel, restaurants, groceries, and technology and wireless services. Retirees can connect with AARP communities in person and online. There are additional opportunities through AARP including help with job searches and volunteer positions.

When choosing between AAA and AARP, consider your location and lifestyle . There could be certain benefits with one organization that align with your preferences and budget. After joining one, remember to ask when booking if there are discounts available for your membership.

Where $100K Will Buy a Home Overseas

Maryalene LaPonsie May 22, 2024

Tags: retirement , money , Travel , senior citizens , baby boomers , aging , AARP , AAA

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Translate the SEPTA Site

Septa senior fare program.

Appointments are strongly encouraged to obtain and renew SEPTA Senior Fare cards. Appointments may be made by phone or online .

New walk-in schedule times (Monday – Friday): 8 am, 9 am, 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm.

For Senior Citizens Ages 65 and Older

Seniors travel free on all SEPTA transit routes (bus, trolley, trackless trolley, and Market-Frankford Line [L], Broad Street Line [B], and Norristown High Speed Line [M]). They also ride for free on Regional Rail as long as their departure and arrival stations are located in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

For travel to or from stations in New Jersey or Delaware, the cost is 50% of the weekday fare with a valid Senior Fare Card.

About the Senior Photo ID Card

Free senior travel is funded by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Seniors living outside Pennsylvania must obtain a Senior Fare card upon arrival to be eligible for free or reduced fare travel. The SEPTA Key Senior card is valid for four years. There is an expiration date printed on the front of your card upon issuance.

Extended Expiration Dates

During the COVID-19 pandemic, SEPTA extended the printed expiration date on its Senior Fare cards. Cards with printed expiration dates of 2020, 2021, or 2022 will expire the month that is shown on the card, but not until 2023. A card that shows an expiration date of December 2020 will not expire until December 2023.

Applications and Renewals

Appointments are strongly encouraged to obtain and renew SEPTA Senior Fare cards: 215-580-7145 (Press 6). Appointments may be made by phone or online.

Walk-in customers are not guaranteed same-day service.

SEPTA offers two options for Seniors to obtain or renew Senior Fare cards:

•  Legislative District Offices  – Seniors can apply for a new card or renew an existing SEPTA Key Senior Fare card at participating State Senate and State House district offices.  Legislative staff will process your renewal or new application – taking a picture, if necessary – and SEPTA will mail a new card directly to you in 3 – 4 weeks.
• Phone:  215-580-7145 (Press 6)
• Online:   https://go.oncehub.com/septacct

What to Bring:

• Those applying for the first time must be at least 65 and bring proof of age such as driver’s license, non-driver’s ID card, or birth certificate.
• Seniors renewing their SEPTA Key Senior Fare card should bring their current SEPTA Key Senior Fare card and proof of age such as driver’s license, non-driver’s ID card, or birth certificate.

Using the Senior Fare Card

To use the card on SEPTA, tap at the farebox or turnstile for free travel on buses, trolleys or to enter station areas, just as you would with a regular SEPTA Key card.

Tap on and off for travel on Regional Rail Trains. Train conductors may ask you to tap your card on their reader for validation.

Replacing Lost or Stolen Cards

Call the Key Customer Call Center at 855- 567-3782 immediately to report a lost or stolen card. The representative you speak to will provide information on how to replace the card.

The cost to replace your first card is $5. Any additional card after the first replacement is $25.

Our Customer Service Center answers common questions about fares, passes, rider discounts, routes, services, advisories, and more.

Senior Fare Program Application

Seniors Ride Free Program Application, English (PDF)

Thank you for visiting our newly redesigned beta website. SEPTA is excited for the future launch of this project and improving your transit experience. We invite you to click around, plan a trip, and provide some feedback using this link. Survey participation helps us identify and fix areas of concern prior to the launch of the official website.

Please note, this site is still in the beta phase; continue to refer to SEPTA.org for the most up to date information, accurate schedules and active alerts & advisories.