Discounts

We all enjoy keeping money in our own pocket.  Recently, I learned more about asking for discounts while renewing our cell phone contract.  Our company gives a discount if the main account holder is a current and former military member.  Then we learned that my husband's employer is on the list of employers who also receive a discount.  His employer's discount is at a higher percentage than the military discount, so we applied for that discount and received it.

When shopping, ask what discounts may apply.  For most, you will need proof in the form of a membership or ID card; your driver's license; or for others, there may be paperwork to complete.

Discounts come in many forms, including military, employer, based upon your age (including AARP membership), and fraternal or other groups.

To prove a military discount, either a military ID or a DD214 form will be required. 
A list of discounts is available at:
http://frugalliving.about.com/od/bargainshopping/a/Military-Discount-Directory.htm  In Lancaster County, PA the Recorder of Deeds Office offers a discount card called Thank a Vet, with more than 100 local businesses offering a discount.  Check out their web site for additional information on how to obtain a card at http://www.lancasterdeeds.com/vet_discount_program/. 

From my background in education, I know that some businesses give a discount to teachers.  Many times it is for benefit of their career.  If you belong to a union or a professional organization for your career, check their web site or ask your group's president about their knowledge of discounts.  Your work ID may be an acceptable proof to receive a discount.

Someone considered a senior, which can be range in age may receive a discount due to their age at a wide variety of businesses.  Although the age can vary from 50 to 55, to 60 to 62 to 65.  Proof is easily given with your drivers license.  Anyone over the age of 50 can join AARP for a small annual fee.  Discounts for age people age 50 and older can be found at: 
www.seniordiscounts.com and http://frugalliving.about.com/od/frugalseniors/a/Senior_Discount.htm

If a discount is given to a fraternal or other group, a current membership card would be proof of membership.  Check with the group, as they may be able to direct you to locations that will accept your membership card.

Spend time searching a company's web site or call their toll-free phone number to research discount programs.  Just searching the word "discount" may not locate the information.  Try discount program, discount eligibility, or other similar terms when searching.  You may also want to call their toll free number to ask if a discount is offered or where to locate it on their web site.

Vacation locations may offer discounts to draw tourists to their stores and restaurants.  When planning a vacation, check with the tourism web sites.  You may need to pick up a discount card at their welcome center location.

Some general rules of thumb regarding discounts:

• Most discounts aren't publicized - you need to ask.
• A valid ID is usually required.  Most discounts only apply if you have a card that proves you are a member, including a Military ID or AARP card.
• A discount may vary by location.  Some franchises leave discounts at the discretion of the owner or manager.
• A discount may not be the best bargain.  You may be able to find better deals by shopping around (airlines, hotels, and travel are good examples of times when shopping around may lead to bigger savings).  It's worth spending the research time if it is a major purchase.
• When booking a hotel or rental car, the discount may need to be applied in advance.  Remember to ask or if booking online to look for a field to enter information.
• Discounts are a blessing, not a right.  Discounts are offered out of kindness and respect.  Thank the sales person who gave you the discount.  Let them know you appreciate it.

Remember, if you do not ask, you will not receive.  Although many places do not offer discounts, many do and do not advertise it.  You will never know if you do not ask.