aarp https://www.wisebread.com/taxonomy/term/17923/all en-US Free "Digital Retirement Coach" Aims to Take Angst Out of Retirement Planning https://www.wisebread.com/free-digital-retirement-coach-aims-to-take-angst-out-of-retirement-planning <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/free-digital-retirement-coach-aims-to-take-angst-out-of-retirement-planning" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/couple_happy_laptop_623865198.jpg" alt="Couple working on retirement planning" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>If you're like me, you dread thinking about retirement planning. But a new website from two nonprofit organizations, AARP and the Ad Council, incorporates a &quot;digital retirement coach&quot; that helps you get started with minimal pain.</p> <p>That's saying a lot. According to a survey commissioned by AARP and Ad Council, 45 percent of moderate-income Americans between 40 and 59 years old said they would prefer a visit to the dentist to a meeting with a financial adviser. The same survey found that 49 percent of people in that age group were not confident about retirement planning.</p> <p>To be sure, there are plenty of obstacles to retirement saving, including tight budgets and lack of financial confidence. Yet most of the 40- to 59-year-olds surveyed have already met significant financial challenges in their lives, including buying a car or a house, or paying off a student loan or mortgage. More than half have used money-saving strategies like coupon-clipping and comparison shopping.</p> <p>With that data in mind, AARP and the Ad Council created <a href="https://aceyourretirement.org/" target="_blank">AceYourRetirement.org</a>, a free website that takes a lot of complexity and stress out of retirement saving. That's also where you'll meet a chatbot named Avo, the site's digital retirement coach. But why a chatbot?</p> <p>&quot;People already feel overwhelmed or stressed when they think about their retirement savings,&quot; says Mary Liz Burns, the Strategy Director of Financial Resilience at AARP, &quot;and we wanted to create an empowering experience to help people get on track &mdash; they <em>can</em> do this! AceYourRetirement.org and our friendly digital coach, Avo are fun and accessible for everyone, and there is no judgement. As you use the site, you feel like you are simply texting with a friend.&quot;</p> <p>Here's what I found when I visited.</p> <h2>It doesn't look like other retirement planning websites</h2> <p>Here's a screenshot of my visit.</p> <p><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5171/Avo_001.png" alt="" width="605" height="337" /></p> <p>It looks more like the interface on a smartphone chat or texting app than an accounting tool. There are no form fields to fill with personally identifiable information, or spreadsheets to download and save. There are no ads pitching retirement saving products (it was created by nonprofits, after all).</p> <p>After you click through a few introductory screens, a smiling chatbot named Avo blinks at you and begins to ask questions. Avo is a &quot;digital retirement coach&quot; that makes the whole process feel friendly and supportive. You answer its questions by typing a few words in the chat window or by selecting &quot;yes&quot; or &quot;no&quot; with a slider button.</p> <h2>It doesn't ask you for a bunch of financial details</h2> <p>Avo asks your age, when you plan to retire, whether you plan to work part-time once you do, and if you have kids. Only one question is tough &mdash; the percentage of income you're already setting aside for retirement, so you may want to get a handle on that before you start.</p> <p>After half a dozen or so similar questions, it returns with some advice. The questionnaire was much shorter than I expected it to be.</p> <h2>It gives you three action items when you're finished</h2> <p><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5171/Avo_002.png" alt="" width="605" height="339" /></p> <p>Mine were:</p> <ul> <li>Get paid to wait.</li> <li>Picture yourself post-retirement.</li> <li>What's your number?</li> </ul> <p>With the action items, the website drops the chatbot and gets down to brass tacks.</p> <p>&quot;Get paid to wait&quot; advised me to delay taking Social Security to maximize my monthly payment. It also pointed me to additional tools where I can learn my full retirement age (according to the Social Security Administration), and how much I can expect to receive once I do take Social Security.</p> <p>Reading this is a little more involved than answering a chatbot's questions, but honestly, it still takes only 20 minutes max. The other two action items were more detailed and required more time &mdash; and financial details &mdash; before I could check them off my to-do list.</p> <h2>It's a cute face on top of a lot of retirement planning depth</h2> <p>Digging in on the other two action items meant reviewing my current savings and expenses to estimate my post-retirement needs and calculating how much I need to save to get there. These are the familiar calculations one finds at retirement planning websites across the internet.</p> <p>Presented here as a series of step-by-step tasks, the road ahead seems a little less daunting. That's not to say the required amount that I need to save isn't daunting &mdash; it is! &mdash; but with the website's help, at least I have a number to aim for.</p> <h2>The website sets me on the right path, but I have to follow through</h2> <p>With the savings goal in hand, I have an idea of the scope of the challenge ahead, but I still have a lot of work to do. I need to increase my savings to reach that number, and there is more to that than answering questions in chat and filling in calculator fields. I need to choose the right savings vehicles, prioritize some spending, and eliminate credit card debt once and for all.</p> <p>The resources included in the action items offer additional detail on how to accomplish some of these important tasks. It's still a lot of work, but at least with the provided guidance I'm more confident now that I know where to start.</p> <h2>Will Avo be a financial adviser in the future?</h2> <p>There is a lot of chatter in personal finance circles about using behavioral &quot;nudges&quot; to help people become better at money management, including retirement planning. Popular personal finance apps like Mint and Personal Capital make the task easier by eliminating a lot of the tedium through automation, and they make it more fun with user-friendly interfaces.</p> <p>Elsewhere, financial experts often encourage us to automate saving through direct deposit from our paychecks, and there's been a shift toward making 401(k) deductions &quot;opt-out&quot; rather than &quot;opt-in.&quot; When the deductions are done by default, we're much more likely to take advantage of them.</p> <p>Right now, Avo does a great job helping reluctant savers get over early resistance to retirement planning. Maybe one day, Avo will work in tandem with a financial robo-adviser tied to our investment accounts to give us with more in-depth financial planning.</p> <p>For now, give Avo a try and see if you don't feel more confident about retirement planning, too.</p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this article? Pin it!</h2> <div align="center"><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="above" data-pin-tall="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffree-digital-retirement-coach-aims-to-take-angst-out-of-retirement-planning&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffiles%2Ffruganomics%2Fu5180%2FFree%2520_Digital%2520Retirement%2520Coach_%2520Aims%2520to%2520Take%2520Angst%2520Out%2520of%2520Retirement%2520Planning.jpg&amp;description=Free%20%22Digital%20Retirement%20Coach%22%20Aims%20to%20Take%20Angst%20Out%20of%20Retirement%20Planning"></a></p> <script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></div> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/Free%20_Digital%20Retirement%20Coach_%20Aims%20to%20Take%20Angst%20Out%20of%20Retirement%20Planning.jpg" alt="Free &quot;Digital Retirement Coach&quot; Aims to Take Angst Out of Retirement Planning" width="250" height="374" /></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/943">Lars Peterson</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/free-digital-retirement-coach-aims-to-take-angst-out-of-retirement-planning">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-2"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/8-money-moves-to-make-the-moment-you-get-a-promotion">8 Money Moves to Make the Moment You Get a Promotion</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/this-is-why-you-cant-postpone-planning-for-your-retirement-and-how-to-start">This Is Why You Can&#039;t Postpone Planning for Your Retirement (And How to Start)</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/7-retirement-planning-steps-late-starters-must-make">7 Retirement Planning Steps Late Starters Must Make</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/9-essential-personal-finance-skills-to-teach-your-kid-before-they-move-out">9 Essential Personal Finance Skills to Teach Your Kid Before They Move Out</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-dumb-401k-mistakes-smart-people-make">5 Dumb 401(k) Mistakes Smart People Make</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Career and Income Retirement aarp ad council bots fintech investing retirement retirement calculator retirement planning saving Wed, 21 Mar 2018 14:01:05 +0000 Lars Peterson 2121988 at https://www.wisebread.com 7 Surprising Ways Retirement Has Gotten Easier https://www.wisebread.com/7-surprising-ways-retirement-has-gotten-easier <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/7-surprising-ways-retirement-has-gotten-easier" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/for_the_love_of_dance.jpg" alt="For the love of dance" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>If you read the financial headlines, you'll get the sense that retirement may be a disaster for many Americans. With a decline in employer-provided pensions and uncertainty over the future of government benefits, many older Americans are rightfully concerned about whether they will be able to retire comfortably.</p> <p>But there is considerable evidence that the experience of retiring is actually much better than in the past. Medical advancements are helping people live longer, and technology is helping to keep seniors connected to the world. And there are more resources for retirees than ever before. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/how-to-overcome-these-4-common-retirement-fears?ref=seealso" target="_blank">How to Overcome These 4 Common Retirement Fears</a>)</p> <p>Let's examine these ways in which retirement has improved.</p> <h2>1. It's lasting longer</h2> <p>There was a time not too long ago when people would work into their 60s and pass away within a decade or so. But these days, it's not uncommon for people to retire at age 60 and live another 30 years or more. Statistics from the Social Security Administration show that the average 65-year-old man will live another 19 years in retirement, up from 15 years two decades ago. That's a lot of time to travel, connect with the grandkids, and pursue all of the hobbies and interests you've been neglecting. While this longer retirement places pressure on people to save more, it's obviously a boon to seniors who have worked hard and deserve a lengthy retirement. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/5-ways-american-retirement-is-changing?ref=seealso" target="_blank">5 Ways American Retirement Is Changing</a>)</p> <h2>2. Your living options are better</h2> <p>As the population has gotten older, there has been a recognition that older citizens need different kinds of living arrangements that offer them support while still preserving independence. There is now a whole growing industry surrounding assisted living and elder care that involves more than just nursing homes. Older people have the option of living at home with some help, or moving into special communities that allow them to live freely while having access to care as they need it. In many cases, older people can move into a community while they are still healthy and active, and remain there as they begin to need more care. While some of these arrangements can be expensive, they have allowed many seniors to maintain an active lifestyle and remain connected socially well into their retirement years. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/a-granny-pod-may-be-the-smartest-way-to-care-for-an-elderly-parent?ref=seealso" target="_blank">A Granny Pod May Be the Smartest Way to Care for an Elderly Parent</a>)</p> <h2>3. The internet has kept us connected</h2> <p>Seniors can FaceTime with their grandkids. They can watch YouTube videos to get gardening or cooking tips. They can use the internet for genealogy research, and share photos of their travels. There are even dating apps for older singles. While technology is moving fast and not always user-friendly for seniors, our new connected way of life has benefited older Americans by expanding their options for activities and keeping them less isolated. The Pew Research Center this year reported that 58 percent of seniors feel that technology has had a positive benefit on society, and nearly half say broadband internet access is an important thing to have.</p> <h2>4. Travel is easier</h2> <p>While it's true that airport security has made air travel more hectic in recent years, there are other aspects of travel that have gotten easier for seniors. The internet has made booking flights and hotels effortless, and competition among online travel sites has made it easier to find great prices. The explosion of the cruise industry has been great for seniors, and touring companies have become smarter about accommodating the various needs of older travelers. The World Economic Forum also noted that transportation infrastructure improvements worldwide has made traveling easier for seniors over the years. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/6-ways-travel-in-retirement-keeps-you-young?ref=seealso" target="_blank">6 Ways Travel in Retirement Keeps You Young</a>)</p> <h2>5. Health care is better</h2> <p>Yes, there are still problems with our health care system. But there's no mistaking that we've made great progress over the years in identifying and treating many ailments and diseases. We've also made it easier for seniors to access and afford care. Consider that before 1965, older Americans did not have access to Medicare to help pay for care and treatments, and it was not until 2006 when a prescription drug benefit became available. All of this has not only helped many people live longer, but maintain a more active and healthy lifestyle deep into retirement. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/follow-these-5-steps-to-full-health-care-coverage-in-retirement?ref=seealso" target="_blank">Follow These 5 Steps to Full Health Care Coverage in Retirement</a>)</p> <h2>6. It's no longer all or nothing</h2> <p>It used to be that retirement was a 100 percent proposition. It was either work full-time, or not at all. Now, seniors can ease their way into retirement, or even stay merely semiretired, thanks to the growth of freelance work and the &quot;gig&quot; economy. The internet has opened up more opportunities for freelance writing and consulting. Uber, the popular ride sharing company, estimates that 25 percent of its drivers are over age 50. And retailers including Amazon are increasingly seeking seasonal help that might offer opportunities for older people. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/6-great-retirement-jobs?ref=seealso" target="_blank">6 Great Retirement Jobs</a>)</p> <h2>7. People are looking out for you</h2> <p>In the last half century or so, there's been growth in the number of organizations advocating for older citizens. There's the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), which has become one of the most powerful advocacy groups in the country. There's the Village to Village Network, which encourages the formation of thriving communities for seniors. Meanwhile, local governments have formed agencies specifically dedicated to the lives of senior citizens in their communities. While there is always debate about whether we can do more for older citizens, there's no doubt that resources have become more plentiful and available over the years.</p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this article? Pin it!</h2> <div align="center"><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="above" data-pin-tall="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2F7-surprising-ways-retirement-has-gotten-easier&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffiles%2Ffruganomics%2Fu5180%2F7%2520Surprising%2520Ways%2520Retirement%2520Has%2520Gotten%2520Easier.jpg&amp;description=7%20Surprising%20Ways%20Retirement%20Has%20Gotten%20Easier"></a></p> <script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></div> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/7%20Surprising%20Ways%20Retirement%20Has%20Gotten%20Easier.jpg" alt="7 Surprising Ways Retirement Has Gotten Easier" width="250" height="374" /></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/5119">Tim Lemke</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/7-surprising-ways-retirement-has-gotten-easier">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-1"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-retirement-struggles-nobody-talks-about-and-how-to-beat-them">5 Retirement Struggles Nobody Talks About — And How to Beat Them</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-ways-longevity-is-changing-retirement-planning-and-what-to-do-about-it">5 Ways Longevity Is Changing Retirement Planning (And What to Do About It)</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/13-financial-steps-to-take-before-retiring-abroad">13 Financial Steps to Take Before Retiring Abroad</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-actions-women-can-take-right-now-to-get-their-retirement-on-track">5 Actions Women Can Take Right Now to Get Their Retirement On Track</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-things-your-financial-planner-isnt-telling-you-about-retirement">5 Things Your Financial Planner Isn&#039;t Telling You About Retirement</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Retirement aarp elderly health care improvements life span lifestyle long term care longevity seniors technology travel Fri, 26 Jan 2018 10:00:10 +0000 Tim Lemke 2091492 at https://www.wisebread.com The Easy Way to Do Your Taxes (Without Paying Someone Else) https://www.wisebread.com/the-easy-way-to-do-your-taxes-without-paying-someone-else <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/the-easy-way-to-do-your-taxes-without-paying-someone-else" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/iStock-539979144.jpg" alt="Woman finding an easy way to do her taxes" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Like clockwork, Tax Day comes every year. In 2017, it falls on Tuesday, April 18 (Wednesday, April 19 for residents of Maine and Massachusetts). If just the mention of taxes makes you nervous, or even stressed, you're not alone. Since 2007, the <a href="http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/index.aspx?tab=2" target="_blank">American Psychological Association</a> (APA) has been tracking the <a href="http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/index.aspx?tab=2" target="_blank">top causes of stress</a> for Americans and has found that money, including tax preparation, is consistently at the very top of the APA's list.</p> <p>While it may feel tempting to relieve this stress by paying somebody else to file your return, or buying expensive tax prep software, there is a long list of options to have your taxes prepared for free. Let's review what organizations offer free tax preparation services and what you can do to make the whole task&hellip; less taxing.</p> <h2>1. Free File Software From the IRS</h2> <p>Individuals who earned less than $64,000 in 2016 &mdash; 70% of Americans, according to the IRS &mdash; can file their federal taxes for free with <a href="https://www.irs.gov/uac/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free" target="_blank">Free File Software</a> from the IRS, a partnership of the IRS with eight software providers, including TaxSlayer, H&amp;R Block, and ezTaxReturn.com.</p> <p>In addition to free federal tax filing, most Free File Software partners offer free state tax filing for residents of states with income tax requirements. Some providers may charge a fee for filing state tax returns.</p> <h2>2. IRS Tax Volunteers</h2> <p>Looking to help the community by preparing taxes free of charge, many Americans receive training by the IRS and then volunteer at approved locations in their communities. IRS-certified tax volunteers participate in two main programs.</p> <h3>Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)</h3> <p>Individuals who make $54,000 or less, have disabilities, or have limited English proficiency have access to free basic income tax return preparation with IRS-certified volunteers through VITA. Qualifying taxpayers have their returns filed electronically.</p> <h3>Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)</h3> <p>IRS-certified volunteers for the TCE program focus on taxpayers who are 60 years of age and older, and specialize in questions about pensions and retirement unique to seniors.</p> <p>Located at neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations throughout the country, VITA and TCE sites can be found online through the <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/" target="_blank">VITA/TCE Locator Tool</a> or by calling 1-800-906-9887. Since many TCE sites are operated by the AARP's Foundation Tax Aide program between January and April, you can also use the <a href="https://secure.aarp.org/applications/VMISLocator/searchTaxAideLocations.action" target="_blank">AARP Site Locator Tool </a>or call 1-888-227-7669.</p> <h2>3. Free Tax Services at Universities and Colleges</h2> <p>Around the country, many student-run service organizations offer free tax assistance for low- to moderate-income individuals. Generally, these organizations offer free e-file for federal and state tax returns under the supervision of the IRS and CPA certified accounting faculty. Here are some examples:</p> <ul> <li>VITA site from the Accounting Department at <a href="http://accounting.dixie.edu/vita-free-tax-prep/" target="_blank">Dixie State University</a> in Utah;</li> <li>VITA site from <a href="https://www.york.cuny.edu/news/volunteer-income-tax-assistance-vita-program" target="_blank">York College</a> in New York;</li> <li>VITA site from <a href="https://www.stmarytx.edu/outreach/vita/" target="_blank">St. Mary's University</a> in Texas;</li> <li>VITA site from the <a href="http://www.uwest.edu/vita/" target="_blank">University of the West</a> in California;</li> <li>VITA site from the <a href="https://lsbe.d.umn.edu/about/academic-departments/accounting/vita" target="_blank">University of Minnesota Duluth</a>; and</li> <li>VITA site from the <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/jsp/direction.jsp?id=11406&amp;lng=-82.360613&amp;lat=29.650415" target="_blank">Levin College of Law at the University of Florida</a>.</li> </ul> <p>The majority of student-run organizations offering free tax assistance are also IRS-certified VITA sites. Keep in mind that free tax preparation programs at universities and colleges can only provide tax preparation to individuals making $54,000 or less. Student volunteers will most likely turn away small business owners and self-employed individuals because volunteers are limited to returns with certain types of income, including Wages and Salaries (Form W-2), Interest Income (Form 1099-INT), Dividends Received (Form 1099-DIV), Unemployment Compensation (Form 1099-G), IRA Distributions (Form 1099-R), Pension Income (Form 1099-R, Form RRB-1099), and Social Security Benefits (Form SSA-1099).</p> <p>Student-run tax prep organizations can generally help nonresidents on a student visa (F, J, M, or Q), or a teacher or trainee visa (J or Q), but may turn away those with dual citizenship because these types of individuals require much more complex tax prep.</p> <h2>4. Free Offers From Tax Preparation Companies</h2> <p>Commercial tax preparers and software providers also offer free software access to taxpayers filing certain types of returns. Here are two samples from well-known companies:</p> <ul> <li>H&amp;R Block: <a href="https://www.hrblock.com/online-tax-filing/free-online-tax-filing/" target="_blank">Free tax prep</a> for forms 1040EZ, 1040, 1040 with Schedule A, and some <a href="https://www.hrblock.com/pdf/HRB-Online-State-Forms.pdf" target="_blank">state tax forms</a>.</li> <li>TurboTax Federal Free Edition: <a href="https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/online/free-edition.jsp" target="_blank">Free prep</a> of forms 1040EZ and 1040A and some state tax forms.</li> </ul> <p>Since no humans are involved when using free tax prep software, you're responsible for figuring out the answer to your questions and responding to audits from the IRS. Also, getting help from a company rep over the phone or via online chat may cost you additional fees.</p> <p>There are many offers available from online and brick-and-mortar providers. Since most of these free tax prep offers involve e-filing, it's a best practice to verify that they're authorized e-file providers by the IRS. Screen offers near you using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/uac/authorized-irs-e-file-providers-for-individuals" target="_blank">IRS e-file Provider Locator</a>.</p> <h2>5. Free Tax Help From State Governments and Non-Profits</h2> <p>In an effort to help individuals and families with low-to-moderate income levels, many state governments provide free income tax preparation and electronic preparation through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Here are some examples:</p> <ul> <li>The Illinois Department of Human Services offers <a href="http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=64531" target="_blank">free tax help</a> to individuals and families making up to $30,000 and $55,000 respectively per year.</li> <li>The Honolulu Community Action Program is offering <a href="http://www.hcapweb.org/income-tax-services/" target="_blank">free tax preparation to Hawaii residents</a> with $55,000 and under in annual income and with a relatively simple return.</li> </ul> <p>Contact your state government for a list of public and private organizations offering free tax preparation services.</p> <h2>Getting Ready for Free Tax Preparation</h2> <p>As you can imagine, any organization offering free tax preparation gets an avalanche of requests from taxpayers. Let's review some strategies to minimize the chances of being turned away or having to spend more time than necessary.</p> <h3>1. Know the Limitations of the Volunteers or Software</h3> <p>Free help is generally limited to more basic returns. For instance, if you're a small-business owner with questions on your Schedule C about how to take a tax deduction for your commercial refrigerator purchase, you're better off hiring a certified tax professional who can handle such complex tax scenarios. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/4-times-you-should-splurge-and-hire-a-pro?ref=seealso" target="_blank">4 Times You Should Splurge and Hire a Pro</a>)</p> <p>Verify that you're eligible for free tax prep under the guidelines of the organization that you're trying to visit. If you have a tax form that you've never seen before, check with the organization whether or not the volunteers can handle it. Many of the organizations on this list post on their websites the forms that they can process.</p> <h3>2. Schedule an Appointment (If Applicable)</h3> <p>Many organizations offering in-person tax consultation and preparation require you to book an appointment in advance. Whenever this is possible, book one so you can have a guaranteed time slot.</p> <h3>3. Show Up Early and Don't Procrastinate</h3> <p>If you can't make an appointment, do your best to show up early. If an organization has a schedule of 2 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., you'll probably have a better chance of being helped by showing up at 3 p.m. than at 7:20 p.m. Since most of the tax prep options on this list are only open between January and April, try to visit way before Tax Day when volunteers are less likely to be busy.</p> <h3>4. Prepare for Appointment</h3> <p>Make sure you have all the documents you'll need listed below before you attend your appointment. If you do not have all necessary documents, you may be asked to make another appointment, if available.</p> <p>Bring:</p> <ul> <li>At least one form of government-issued ID;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Your Social Security card to verify your Social Security Number, as well as the Social Security cards for any children you're claiming as dependents;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>All W-2 forms;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>All eligible 1099 forms, such as 1099-MISC, 1099-INT, SSA-1099, and 1099-DIV;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Affordable Care Act Documents, such as 1095-A, 1095-B, and 1095-C;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Form 1098, if you own real estate;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Form 1098-T, Tuition Statement, if you're a college student;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>A copy of your last year's return (not always mandatory, but it helps volunteers a lot);<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Documentation proving marriage status when filing jointly (check for more potential requirements because a spouse may or not need to be present, depending on your unique tax situation);<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>A voided check showing the routing and account numbers for the account that you want to use for direct deposit of your refund, if applicable;<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Receipts and supporting documents of any deductions that you plan to take; and<br /> &nbsp;</li> <li>Any additional forms that apply to your tax situation.</li> </ul> <p>This is a general list, but you may need additional documents or forms. Contact the tax preparation organization in advance or read the fine print of the software that you're planning to use to cross your T's and dot your I's. Best of luck in this tax season, you got this!</p> <h2 style="text-align: center;">Like this article? Pin it!&nbsp;</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="//www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Fthe-easy-way-to-do-your-taxes-without-paying-someone-else&amp;media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wisebread.com%2Ffiles%2Ffruganomics%2Fu5180%2FThe%20Easy%20Way%20to%20Do%20Your%20Taxes%20(Without%20Paying%20Someone%20Else).jpg&amp;description=The%20Easy%20Way%20to%20Do%20Your%20Taxes%20(Without%20Paying%20Someone%20Else)" data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-config="above" data-pin-color="red" data-pin-height="28"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_red_28.png" alt="" /></a> </p> <!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script type="text/javascript" async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/u5180/The%20Easy%20Way%20to%20Do%20Your%20Taxes%20%28Without%20Paying%20Someone%20Else%29.jpg" alt="The Easy Way to Do Your Taxes (Without Paying Someone Else)" width="250" height="374" /></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/5142">Damian Davila</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/the-easy-way-to-do-your-taxes-without-paying-someone-else">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-1"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/what-to-do-if-you-have-a-tax-lien-on-your-house">What to Do If You Have a Tax Lien On Your House</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/what-can-you-do-if-you-cannot-afford-to-pay-your-taxes">What can you do if you cannot afford to pay your taxes</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/top-10-tax-urban-legends-myths-and-rumors">Top 10 Tax Urban Legends, Myths and Rumors.</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/4-things-you-need-to-know-about-gift-tax">4 Things You Need to Know About Gift Tax</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/are-you-withholding-the-right-amount-of-taxes-from-your-paycheck">Are You Withholding the Right Amount of Taxes from Your Paycheck?</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Taxes aarp federal returns free government H&R Block IRS software state returns tax preparation tce turbo tax vita volunteers Wed, 22 Feb 2017 10:00:20 +0000 Damian Davila 1896808 at https://www.wisebread.com How to Enjoy Retirement If You Haven't Saved Enough https://www.wisebread.com/how-to-enjoy-retirement-if-you-havent-saved-enough <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/how-to-enjoy-retirement-if-you-havent-saved-enough" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/retired_couple_vacation_000038250840.jpg" alt="Retired couple taking cheap vacation" title="" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="140" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Are you ready to retire, but haven't managed to save enough yet?</p> <p>In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau of Labor Statistics says that although the average retirement age is 62, many seniors are retiring at age 65 or older, and a large percentage &mdash; roughly 80% &mdash; still will not have saved enough by then. Of them, about a third will depend entirely on Social Security benefits. If you're within five years of calling it quits but haven't saved enough to retire, here are a few steps that may bring retirement closer within reach.</p> <h2>1. Wait Until You're 65</h2> <p>Wait until you're age 65 or older before you start collecting Social Security benefits, as the longer you wait, the larger your benefit. Use Bankrate's Social Security <a href="http://www.bankrate.com/calculators/retirement/social-security-benefits-calculator.aspx">benefit calculator</a> to estimate your future payments.</p> <h2>2. Don't Wait to Downsize</h2> <p>Consider selling your home and investing the profits. Downsize to a lower-cost senior living community or condominium in an area where your property taxes will be affordable. You can also inquire about school parcel tax exemptions that allow seniors to apply for tax exemption from taxes imposed by local school districts.</p> <h2>3. Move to a No Tax State</h2> <p>Move to a state with no income tax on pension, Social Security, or dividend income. Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wyoming are among the states that do not tax that income.</p> <h2>4. Accept Government-Sponsored Medical Insurance</h2> <p>Medicare provides adequate health insurance coverage for doctor's visits, emergency care, assisted living, etc., but does not cover prescription drugs, dental, or vision care. For this, you will need add-on coverage like those offered by Medicare Advantage and Supplemental Insurance (Medigap). Consult with your insurance provider prior to retirement to ensure you can afford proper health insurance coverage. If you can't, inquire about government subsidies or senior plans offered by the likes of <a href="http://www.aarp.org/">AARP</a>.</p> <h2>5. Max-Out Retirement Accounts</h2> <p>By now you should be fully funding all of your retirement accounts and making any catch-up contributions. The 2015 catch-up contributions for IRAs total an additional $1,000 ($6,500) and $6,000 ($24,000) for your 401(k). As they are the most tax advantageous, make sure you are fully funding these accounts over the next few years preceding your retirement.</p> <h2>6. Diversify Using Bonds and ETFs</h2> <p>As you are nearing retirement age, you will want to gradually rebalance your portfolio so that it has less of volatile investments like stocks, and more of safer investments such as bonds and exchange-traded funds, or ETFs.</p> <h2>7. Join AARP</h2> <p>The benefits of joining AARP are endless. For those unfamiliar, AARP is the popular senior citizens advocacy group. The annual membership fee is only $16 and is discounted even further when years are bought in bulk. Members receive invaluable discounts on dining, travel, roadside assistance, auto insurance, health benefits, and more. This is a program that's definitely well worth signing up for.</p> <p><em>Are you prepared for retirement? What are you doing to get ready?</em></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/5158">Qiana Chavaia</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/how-to-enjoy-retirement-if-you-havent-saved-enough">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-2"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/7-easiest-ways-to-catch-up-on-retirement-savings-later-in-life">7 Easiest Ways to Catch Up on Retirement Savings Later in Life</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/7-roadblocks-to-retirement-and-how-to-clear-them">7 Roadblocks to Retirement (And How to Clear Them)</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/8-signs-its-time-to-retire">8 Signs It&#039;s Time to Retire</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-4 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/5-retirement-struggles-nobody-talks-about-and-how-to-beat-them">5 Retirement Struggles Nobody Talks About — And How to Beat Them</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-5 views-row-odd views-row-last"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/8-things-millennials-can-do-right-now-for-an-early-retirement">8 Things Millennials Can Do Right Now for an Early Retirement</a></span> </div> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div><br/></br> Retirement 401(k) aarp investments IRAs saving money social security Fri, 01 May 2015 15:00:25 +0000 Qiana Chavaia 1400950 at https://www.wisebread.com Big List of Senior Discounts https://www.wisebread.com/big-list-of-senior-discounts <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-blog-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/big-list-of-senior-discounts" class="imagecache imagecache-250w imagecache-linked imagecache-250w_linked"><img src="https://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/250w/blog-images/senior-restaurant-4004321-small.jpg" alt="seniors" title="seniors" class="imagecache imagecache-250w" width="250" height="167" /></a> </div> </div> </div> <p>Senior citizens have it made. Not only do they have retirement and senior centers (two things I can't wait to enjoy when I get older&nbsp;&mdash; hello, bingo!), but they also get to take advantage of a long list of discounts on entertainment, travel, dining, shopping, and more. What are those savings exactly? Find out right here in this big list of senior discounts. (See also: <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/amazing-aaa-discounts" target="_blank">Amazing AAA Discounts</a>)</p> <h2>Dining and Groceries</h2> <p>I knew that just about every restaurant offered senior discounts, but what a nice surprise to find that many grocery chains do, too.</p> <p><strong>Applebee's</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/restaurants/26-applebees-senior-discounts" target="_blank">save 15% at Applebee's</a>.</p> <p><strong>Arby's</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/restaurants/29-arbys-senior-discounts" target="_blank">receive 10% off and discounted drinks</a> at participating locations.</p> <p><strong>Ben &amp; Jerry's</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/restaurants/30-ben-a-jerrys-senior-discounts" target="_blank">receive 10% off in-store</a>.</p> <p><strong>Boston Market</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 65 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/restaurants/39-boston-market-senior-discounts" target="_blank">receive 10% off</a>.</p> <p><strong>Burger King</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/restaurants/40-burger-king-senior-discount" target="_blank">receive 10% off at participating locations</a>.</p> <p><strong>C-Town Supermarkets</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/grocery-store-discounts-08-04-11.aspx" target="_blank">save 5% on their grocery bill</a> on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and participating locations.</p> <p><strong>Chick-fil-A</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/restaurants/42-chick-fil-a-senior-discount" target="_blank">receive 10% off and free small beverages</a> at participating locations.</p> <p><strong>Chili's</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.mainstreet.com/slideshow/lifestyle/food-drink/20-restaurant-deals-seniors" target="_blank">save 10% at participating locations</a>.</p> <p><strong>Denny's</strong></p> <p>Participating Denny's offer a <a href="http://www.dennys.com/#/specials" target="_blank">discounted menu for seniors age 55 and older</a>, plus AARP members can take advantage of everyday discounts on regular menu items for seniors and their guests.</p> <p><strong>Dunkin' Donuts</strong></p> <p>AARP members can receive a <a href="http://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/slideshows/10-great-senior-discounts/5" target="_blank">free donut with the purchase of a large coffee</a>.</p> <p><strong>Friendly's</strong></p> <p>Participating Friendly's restaurants offer <a href="http://www.mainstreet.com/slideshow/lifestyle/food-drink/20-restaurant-deals-seniors" target="_blank">senior-friendly pricing to those age 60 and older</a>.</p> <p><strong>Fuddruckers</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.mainstreet.com/slideshow/lifestyle/food-drink/20-restaurant-deals-seniors" target="_blank">save 10% at participating locations</a>.</p> <p><strong>Golden Corral</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.mainstreet.com/slideshow/lifestyle/food-drink/20-restaurant-deals-seniors" target="_blank">receive 10% off at participating Golden Corral restaurants</a>.</p> <p><strong>Gristedes</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/grocery-store-discounts-08-04-11.aspx" target="_blank">save 10% on their grocery bill every Tuesday</a> at participating locations.</p> <p><strong>Harris Teeter</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.harristeeter.com/promotions/senior_discount.aspx" target="_blank">save 5% off the grocery bill every Thursday</a> with the store's VIC card.</p> <p><strong>IHOP</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.mainstreet.com/slideshow/lifestyle/food-drink/20-restaurant-deals-seniors" target="_blank">receive 10% off at participating IHOP locations</a>.</p> <p><strong>Kroger</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/grocery-store-discounts-08-04-11.aspx" target="_blank">receive 10% off their grocery bill</a> on the first Wednesday of every month at participating locations.</p> <p><strong>Publix</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/grocery-store-discounts-08-04-11.aspx">receive 5% off their grocery bill on Wednesdays</a> at participating locations.</p> <p><strong>Super Fresh</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/grocery-store-discounts-08-04-11.aspx" target="_blank">save 5% on purchases over $30 on Tuesdays</a> with Club Card.</p> <h2>Shopping</h2> <p>You're only as old as the style you wear.</p> <p><strong>Banana Republic</strong></p> <p>Shoppers age 50 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/shopping/61-banana-republic-senior-discounts" target="_blank">receive 10% off at Banana Republic</a>.</p> <p><strong>Clarks</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/shopping/63-clarks-shoes-senior-discount" target="_blank">save 10% at Clarks shoes</a>.</p> <p><strong>Dressbarn</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/shopping/64-dress-barn-senior-discount" target="_blank">save 10% at Dressbarn</a>.</p> <p><strong>Kmart</strong></p> <p>Gold K members age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/shopping/87-kmart-senior-discounts" target="_blank">save 20% on prescriptions</a>.</p> <p><strong>Kohl's</strong></p> <p>Seniors citizens can <a href="http://www.kohlscorporation.com/customer_service/shopping/sales&amp;pricing.html" target="_blank">save 15% every Wednesday</a> at Kohl's with a valid ID.</p> <p><strong>Ross</strong></p> <p>Shoppers age 55 and older can <a href="http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/On-Retirement/2012/09/17/dont-miss-out-on-senior-perks" target="_blank">save 10% on Tuesdays</a>.</p> <h2>Lodging and Travel</h2> <p>You'll find plenty of discounts on cars, boats, and trains, and on lodging when you get where you're going.</p> <p><strong>Alamo</strong></p> <p>AARP members can receive <a href="https://www.alamo.com/en_US/car-rental/partners/partner-details/affinity/7014706-aarp.html?customerNumber=7014706&amp;action=hotDealsTemplate.do&amp;source=topBar_generic.gif&amp;header=1&amp;msg=AL_AARP_offer&amp;msg=AL_AARP_offer" target="_blank">discounts on vehicle rentals from Alamo</a> with a valid AARP membership number.</p> <p><strong>Amtrak</strong></p> <p>Amtrak travelers age 62 and older <a href="http://www.amtrak.com/seniors-discount" target="_blank">can save 15% on train tickets within the U.S.</a> and 10% on tickets to Canada. Some restrictions apply.</p> <p><strong>Best Western</strong></p> <p>AARP Members age 55 and older are entitled to at least <a href="http://www.bestwestern.com/deals-offers/special-rates/senior-hotel-discounts.asp" target="_blank">10% off hotel rooms at Best Western hotels</a>.</p> <p><strong>Choice Hotels</strong></p> <p>AARP Members age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.choicehotels.com/en/deals/senior-rates?sid=tSoy._Oaj0g06L.1" target="_blank">save up to 10% with advance reservations</a>.</p> <p><strong>DoubleTree Hotels</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 65 and older can take advantage of <a href="http://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/offers/100027687.htm" target="_blank">Senior Discount Rates at participating DoubleTree by Hilton Hotels</a>.</p> <p><strong>Greyhound</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.greyhound.com/en/DealsAndDiscounts/SeniorDiscount.aspx" target="_blank">save 5% on unrestricted passenger fares</a>. Some restrictions apply.</p> <p><strong>Hampton Inn</strong></p> <p>AARP members can <a href="http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/offers/100027691.htm?WT.mc_id=1HX2RE3AARP4HXaarp5PromoPage" target="_blank">save up to 10% off the Best Available Rate</a> by entering your AARP member number when booking online.</p> <p><strong>Holiday Inn Express</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older are <a href="http://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/global/offers/senior_discount?cm_sp=IMMerch-_-EX2_US_en-_-HotelDiscounts_SeniorDiscount.html" target="_blank">eligible for a senior discount</a> at participating Holiday Inn Express hotels.</p> <p><strong>Hyatt Hotels</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.hyatt.com/hyatt/specials/offers/offer-details_hotels_20.jsp?offerId=25&amp;category=&amp;_requestid=656107" target="_blank">save up to 50% on prevailing rates</a> at participating Hyatt properties.</p> <p><strong>La Quinta</strong></p> <p>AARP members can <a href="http://www.lq.com/lq/coolsavings/specialrate/index.jsp" target="_blank">save up to 10% at La Quinta hotels</a>.</p> <p><strong>Marriott Hotels</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 or older can <a href="http://www.marriott.com/specials/senior/default.mi" target="_blank">save 15% or more on room rates</a> at Marriott hotels worldwide.</p> <p><strong>Motel 6</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.motel6.com/promotions/seniors.aspx" target="_blank">save 10% off standard rates</a> at Motel 6.</p> <p><strong>National Parks</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.us-parks.com/golden-age-passport.html">receive free admission to America's national parks</a> with the purchase of a $10 Senior Pass from USGS.</p> <p><strong>Norwegian Cruise Line</strong></p> <p>AARP members can <a href="http://www.ncl.com/nclweb/cruiser/cmsPages.html?pageId=AARPPromo&amp;cid=PA_AAR_N-A_PAR_AAR_N-A_NA_AARPPRO_TBDCRZ100701_AARP7">save 5% on cruises that are booked at least nine months in advance</a>.</p> <p><strong>Radisson</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.radisson.com/senior" target="_blank">save 10% on standard rates</a>.</p> <h2>Entertainment</h2> <p>Many theaters offer discounted movies and so does a landmark water park.</p> <p><strong>AMC Theaters</strong></p> <p>Kick back and enjoy a flick on Tuesdays with <a href="http://www.amctheatres.com/offers" target="_blank">discounts for seniors age 60 and older</a> at participating AMC Theaters.</p> <p><strong>Bow Tie Cinemas</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 25% off regular-priced adult tickets</a>.</p> <p><strong>Carmike Cinemas</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 65 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 35% off regular-priced adult tickets</a>.</p> <p><strong>Celebration Cinemas</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 20% off regular-priced adult tickets</a>.</p> <p><strong>Cinemark/Century Theaters</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 35% on regular-priced adult tickets</a>, plus an additional 10% on all showing on Mondays.</p> <p><strong>Clearview Cinemas</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 25% at participating locations</a>.</p> <p><strong>Landmark Theaters</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 62 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 30% off regular-priced adult tickets</a>.</p> <p><strong>Muvico Theaters</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 55 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 30% off regular-priced adult tickets</a>.</p> <p><strong>Regal Theaters</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://www.seniordiscounts.com/articles/2011/movie-theater-discounts-09-23-11.aspx" target="_blank">save up to 30% off regular-priced adult tickets</a>.</p> <p><strong>SeaWorld</strong></p> <p>Visitors age 50 and older can <a href="http://www.free4seniors.com/senior-discounts/entertainment/94-seaworld-orlando-senior-discount" target="_blank">receive $3 off a one-day ticket</a> at SeaWorld in Orlando.</p> <h2>Miscellaneous</h2> <p>These last few discounts are for everyday things that didn't go anywhere else in this list.</p> <p><strong>Supercuts</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 60 and older can <a href="http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/On-Retirement/2012/09/17/dont-miss-out-on-senior-perks" target="_blank">save $2 on services at Supercuts</a>.</p> <p><strong>Teleflora</strong></p> <p>AARP members <a href="http://www.teleflora.com/aarp" target="_blank">save 20% at Teleflora</a>.</p> <p><strong>Verizon</strong></p> <p>Seniors age 65 and older can purchase <a href="http://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/slideshows/10-great-senior-discounts/4" target="_blank">200-anytime-minute plans for $29.99</a>.</p> <p><em>Do you know of other senior discounts not listed here? Let me know in the comments below.</em></p> <br /><div id="custom_wisebread_footer"><div id="rss_tagline">This article is from <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/user/931">Mikey Rox</a> of <a href="https://www.wisebread.com/big-list-of-senior-discounts">Wise Bread</a>, an award-winning personal finance and <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/credit-cards">credit card comparison</a> website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:</div><div class="view view-similarterms view-id-similarterms view-display-id-block_2 view-dom-id-5"> <div class="view-content"> <div class="item-list"> <ul> <li class="views-row views-row-1 views-row-odd views-row-first"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/90-off-is-not-a-deal-if-you-don-t-need-it">90% off is not a deal if you don’t need it.</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-2 views-row-even"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/the-stuff-i-try-never-to-buy-new">The stuff I try never to buy new</a></span> </div> </li> <li class="views-row views-row-3 views-row-odd"> <div class="views-field-title"> <span class="field-content"><a href="https://www.wisebread.com/debit-or-credit-which-one-should-you-choose-at-the-checkout">Debit Or Credit? 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