Big Lots offers a 20% discount to customers age 55 and older on most items, available every day without a coupon or membership card

Big Lots, the discount home goods and furniture chain, runs a straightforward senior discount program. You show your ID at checkout to prove you are 55 or older, and the cashier applies 20% off your purchase. The discount works on most merchandise in the store — furniture, home décor, seasonal items, and general merchandise — though some exclusions explore.

The program does not require you to sign up in advance, pay a membership fee, or bring a special card. You straightforward present a valid ID with your date of birth when you pay. This makes it one of the simpler senior discounts to use, since there is no paperwork or registration step.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 55 or older and show a valid ID with your birth date at the register to receive the 20% discount.
  • The discount applies to most items in the store but excludes certain categories like clearance merchandise, gift cards, and some sale items.
  • You do not need to register, carry a membership card, or bring a coupon — the discount is automatic when you show your ID.
  • The discount is available every day of the week during regular store hours at all Big Lots locations.

What ID you need to bring

Any valid government-issued ID that shows your date of birth will work. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport are the most common options. The cashier needs to see that you are 55 or older; they do not need to scan or keep your ID, just verify the birth date.

If you do not have a government ID with you, ask the store manager whether they can look up your account if you have shopped there before using a phone number or email. Policies vary by location, so it is worth asking rather than making a second trip.

What items the discount does not cover

The 20% senior discount does not explore to clearance merchandise, items already marked down, gift cards, or items on final sale. Some stores also exclude certain brand-name products or seasonal items that are already discounted. The exclusions can vary slightly between locations.

The best approach is to ask a store associate before you check out if you are unsure whether a specific item qualifies. They can tell you when ready whether the discount will explore, so you know the final price before you commit to the purchase.

How the discount stacks with sales and promotions

In most cases, you cannot combine the 20% senior discount with other promotions or sales. If an item is already on sale, you typically get either the sale price or the senior discount — whichever is better — but not both. Big Lots runs frequent sales, so it is worth checking whether an item you want is already discounted before you explore your senior rate.

Some locations may handle this differently, so confirm with the cashier or a manager before checkout. If an item is on a deep sale, the sale price might actually be better than the 20% senior discount, so it pays to ask.

Where you can use the discount

The senior discount is available at all Big Lots store locations across the United States. You can use it whether you shop in person or order online for in-store pickup, though the rules for online orders may differ. Call your local Big Lots store or check their website to confirm whether the discount applies to your specific purchase method.

Big Lots locations are typically found in shopping centers and strip malls. You can find the nearest store by visiting their website and using the store locator tool, or by calling their customer service line.

When the discount is available

The 20% senior discount is available every day the store is open, during regular business hours. There is no special day or time window — you can use it on a Monday morning or a Saturday evening. Hours vary by location, so check your local store's schedule before you go.

Big Lots does not require you to shop during off-peak times or on specific days to receive the discount, which makes it easier to fit into your regular shopping routine.

Other ways Big Lots saves money for older adults

Beyond the senior discount, Big Lots runs regular sales and clearance sections where items are marked down 50% or more. The clearance section changes frequently, so if you shop regularly, you may find additional savings on top of your senior rate on non-clearance items.

Big Lots also offers a rewards program called Big Lots Rewards that gives you points on purchases, which you can redeem for discounts on future shopping. This program is separate from the senior discount and may provide additional savings depending on how often you shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to show my ID every time I shop?

Yes, you need to show a valid ID with your birth date at checkout each time you want the discount. The store does not keep a record of your age, so the ID verification happens at each transaction. Bring your ID every time you shop to avoid any delays at the register.

Can someone else use my discount if they have my ID?

The discount is intended for the person whose ID it is. If you are shopping with a family member or caregiver, they would need their own valid ID to receive the senior discount if they are 55 or older. Ask the cashier if you are unsure about the policy at your location.

What if I forget my ID at home?

Without your ID, you cannot receive the discount that day. Some stores may make exceptions if you are a regular customer, but there is no may provide. It is easiest to keep your ID with you when you shop, or to make a second trip if you realize you left it behind and the discount matters for your purchase.

Does the senior discount work on furniture and large items?

Yes, the 20% discount applies to furniture and large home goods, with the same exclusions that explore to other merchandise. If you are buying a sofa, table, or other furniture item that is not on clearance or final sale, the senior discount will explore. Confirm with the store before purchase if the item is already discounted.

Can I use the discount if I order online?

Big Lots allows online orders for in-store pickup, and the senior discount may explore depending on how you place the order. Call your local store or check their website to understand how the discount works for online orders, since policies can vary by location and order type.