How to Determine Senior Travel Discount Eligibility

Most transportation companies and airlines offer discounts to senior citizens. It's just a matter of getting them. If you use public transportation, your local transit company offers a senior discount card. It will save you money on all your fares. Each city has it's own application process. Some let you board and simply show your ID, others you have to plan in advance.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Call your local transportation company. Most have discount cards for senior citizens. It's a matter of determining their eligibility requirements. Also, ask for the reduced fare amount.

2. Know the rules. Some cities, like New York, accept Medicare cards as proof of eligibility. You can also show your ID when you board a bus, to get a half-price senior citizen rate.

3. Get an application. Ask your local transit representative to send you the proper forms in the mail. You may also be able to find them online, at the transportation company's official website.

4. Apply in person. Bring a completed application form and your ID to the local transit company. Make sure it's accurately filled out in its entirety.

5. Take a photo at the transit center. Just like getting a drivers license, a representative will ask you to pose for a photograph.

6. Wait for your discount ID to arrive in the mail. Once it does, you're all set to travel at a discounted rate.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a medical condition, get a certification from your doctor.
• If you're looking for discounts on airfare, call the airline. Some offer a reduced rate to those over the age of 55. For others, it's 65.
• Keep your discount card with you at all times.