Many programs offer discounts for older adults. The age you need to be varies - some start at 50, others at 60, 62, or 65. To get discounts, you usually just need to show your driver's license or other ID with your birthdate.
Seniors
This guide explains age thresholds for senior discounts, how to verify eligibility, and senior-specific benefit programs available in the Bay Area.
Last Updated: January 2026
Quick Age Check
Different programs have different age requirements:
50+AARP membership, some gyms, early retirement communities
55+Some retail discounts, senior living communities, some transit programs
60+Older Americans Act services, some museum discounts, Meals on Wheels
62+Social Security early retirement, HUD senior housing, National Park Senior Pass
65+Medicare eligibility, most retail senior discounts, property tax exemptions
70+Some enhanced discounts, required minimum distributions from retirement accounts
Tip: Always ask about senior discounts—eligibility ages vary widely and aren't always posted.
How to Verify Your Age
Government-Issued ID
Most programs accept standard identification:
- California Driver's License or ID Card
- U.S. Passport
- Military ID
Medicare Card
Your Medicare card confirms you're 65+ (or have qualifying disability). Many programs accept this as proof of senior status.
AARP Card
While AARP membership starts at 50, an AARP card is widely recognized for senior discounts, though merchants may still require government ID.
Senior Benefits Programs
Social Security
**Full Retirement Age (FRA):**
- Born 1943-1954: Age 66
- Born 1955-1959: Age 66 + 2 months per year
- Born 1960+: Age 67
**Early Retirement:** Available at 62 with permanently reduced benefits (up to 30% reduction).
**Delayed Retirement:** Benefits increase 8% per year if you delay past FRA until age 70.
**Apply:** [ssa.gov](https://www.ssa.gov) or call 1-800-772-1213
Medicare
Federal health insurance for those 65+ or with qualifying disabilities.
**Parts:**
- **Part A:** Hospital insurance (usually premium-free)
- **Part B:** Medical insurance ($185/month in 2026, income-based)
- **Part C:** Medicare Advantage (private plans)
- **Part D:** Prescription drug coverage
**Enrollment:** Initial enrollment period is 7 months around your 65th birthday.
**California Medicare Resources:**
- **HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program):** Free Medicare counseling
- Phone: 1-800-434-0222
- [cahealthadvocates.org](https://cahealthadvocates.org)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Cash assistance for seniors 65+ (or blind/disabled) with limited income and resources.
**2026 Federal Rates:**
- Individual: $967/month
- Couple: $1,450/month
**California Supplement:** Additional state payment increases total benefits.
**Apply:** [ssa.gov/ssi](https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/) or visit your local Social Security office.
Medi-Cal for Seniors
California's Medicaid program provides health coverage and can supplement Medicare.
**Eligibility:**
- Age 65+ with income at or below 138% FPL
- May qualify at higher income with spend-down
- Asset limits have been eliminated for most applicants
**What It Covers:**
- Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays
- Long-term care services
- In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
**Apply:** [BenefitsCal.com](https://benefitscal.com) or your county social services office.
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
Helps seniors remain at home by providing assistance with daily activities.
**Services Include:**
- Housecleaning and meal preparation
- Laundry and shopping
- Personal care (bathing, grooming, dressing)
- Accompaniment to medical appointments
- Protective supervision for cognitive impairments
**Eligibility:** Must be on Medi-Cal and assessed as needing assistance.
**Apply:** Contact your county's IHSS office through your social services agency.
- **BART:** 62.5% discount for seniors 65+, Clipper Senior card required
- **Muni (SFMTA):** Free for seniors 65+ with Clipper card
- **AC Transit:** Senior fare for 62+
- **Caltrain:** 50% off for seniors 65+
- **VTA:** Senior fare for 65+
- **Golden Gate Transit:** Senior discount for 65+
National & State Parks
**America the Beautiful Senior Pass**
- Age: 62+
- Cost: $20 annual or $80 lifetime
- Covers: Entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites
- [nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm](https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm)
**California State Parks**
- Limited Income Senior Pass: Free day use for low-income seniors 62+
- [parks.ca.gov](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1049)
Retail & Dining
Many retailers offer senior discounts, though policies vary by location:
- Grocery stores (specific days, usually 55-60+)
- Restaurants (10-20% off, varies widely)
- Movie theaters (matinee and senior pricing)
- Pharmacies (discount days)
**Tip:** Ask at checkout—many discounts aren't advertised.
Utilities
- **CARE Program:** 20%+ discount on PG&E for low-income households
- **FERA Program:** 18% discount for households slightly above CARE limits
- **Lifeline:** Discounted phone service
- **Internet Essentials:** Low-cost internet (Comcast)
- **Access from AT&T:** Low-cost internet
See the [Utility Programs Guide](/eligibility/utility-programs.html) for details.
Property Tax Relief
Homeowner's Exemption
All California homeowners may claim a $7,000 reduction in assessed value (saving approximately $70/year).
Senior Property Tax Postponement
Seniors 62+ with household income under $55,000 (2026) may defer property taxes until the home is sold.
**Apply:** [sco.ca.gov/ardtax_prop_tax_postponement.html](https://www.sco.ca.gov/ardtax_prop_tax_postponement.html)
Proposition 60/90/110
Seniors 55+ may transfer their current property tax base to a replacement home within the same or participating county.
**Apply:** Through your county assessor's office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I’m 62. Do I qualify for senior discounts?
A: It depends on the specific program. Some start at 55, most at 62-65. Always ask, as many businesses don’t advertise age thresholds.
Q: Can I get Medicare before 65?
A: Yes, if you have a qualifying disability and have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for 24 months, or if you have End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS.
Q: What’s the difference between Medicare and Medi-Cal?
A: Medicare is federal health insurance primarily for those 65+. Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program for low-income residents of any age. You can have both (“dual eligible”), which helps cover costs Medicare doesn’t.
Q: How do I find affordable senior housing?
A: Contact your local Area Agency on Aging, search HUD’s affordable housing database, or check with your county housing authority. Many affordable housing complexes have waitlists, so apply early.