Forgotten Dollars Part 1

Hi there, Welcome back to “Your Canadian Senior Moment”!

Starting today and for the next few Fridays we are featuring a new series called Forgotten Dollars.

We often hear about discounts for seniors, but they’re not always for stores we have here at home. We’ve done the research for you, and we’re starting a brand new series to help you find all the benefits, credits, and discounts you may be missing out on. This week, we’re focusing on your spending power—discounts you can get right now at Canadian retailers, pharmacies, and restaurants.

Retailers and Pharmacies

Many of Canada’s most trusted pharmacies and retail stores offer specific discounts for seniors on certain days. It’s a great way to save on everything from prescriptions to groceries.

Shoppers Drug Mart: Get a 20% discount on regular-priced items every Thursday, often called “Shoppers Seniors Day.” To get the discount, you need to be a PC Optimum cardholder and be over a certain age (usually 55 or 65, depending on the location).
Rexall: Their “Advantage 55+” program offers a 20% discount on regular-priced items on a specific day, usually a Tuesday. You need a BeWell card to receive this benefit.
Sobeys: While there is no company-wide policy, many individual Sobeys stores offer a senior’s discount on a specific day of the month. Ask at your local store to find out what they offer.
Bulk Barn: On Wednesdays, seniors over the age of 65 can get a 15% discount on their purchases.
Hudson’s Bay: The Bay offers a “Timeless Style Tuesday” discount of 15% off regular, sale, and clearance items for customers aged 55 and over.

Travel, Entertainment, and Services

Your age can also be your ticket to savings on travel, entertainment, and even your daily routines.

VIA Rail: For those over 60, VIA Rail offers a 10% discount on all fares. You can also save even more by booking on one of their “Discount Tuesdays.”
Public Transit: Many cities across Canada offer reduced fares or even free ridership for seniors over 65 on specific days.
Cineplex: Movie theatres offer discounted admission and concession prices for seniors.
Banking: Many of Canada’s major banks, including RBC, CIBC, Scotiabank, and National Bank, offer special accounts for seniors with reduced or no monthly fees.
Car Insurance: Some insurance companies, like Grey Power Insurance, offer discounts for drivers over 50. It’s always a good idea to check with your provider.

Your Turn to Claim!

These discounts aren’t always openly advertised, so you have to be your own advocate. Don’t be shy! When you check out, simply ask, “Do you have a senior discount?” The worst they can say is no.

This is just the first instalment of our new series. Next week, we’ll dive into a very important topic: navigating your finances and finding government benefits and tax credits that you may be missing out on.

(Please remember: All discounts are subject to change and may vary by location and age. It is always a good idea to confirm details before you shop. We are not financial or medical professionals, and the information above is for educational purposes only.)

Warmly,
Bill and Marilyn
Founders of Canadian Senior Moment