The Sunday Unlock: week of July 26, 2026

IHOP keeps a 55+ menu. the classics at smaller portions and lower prices, usually $9-$12. Servers rarely offer it; ask.

At McDonald's, ask for the "senior coffee". a real menu button, often any size for 50 cents to a dollar.

At 62, the America the Beautiful Senior Pass is $80, once, for life. entry to national parks and 2,000+ federal sites. ($20 gets an annual version.)

A veteran? That same lifetime pass is free. Skip the $80.

Hertz 50 Plus: any driver 50+ gets up to 20% off. no membership needed, just confirm your age.

Avis: AARP members get up to 35% off base rates when you prepay. Pick the age or AARP rate at booking; it beats the default price.

Most chains lock their "senior rate" to 65+. The AARP rate. open at 50. often beats it: up to 10% off at Hilton, plus discounts at Best Western, Wyndham, and more.

When you book, choose "AARP" in the rate dropdown. It's usually the lowest on the page.

In the years you turn 60, 61, 62, or 63, your 401(k) catch-up jumps to $11,250 in 2026. vs. $8,000 at 50-59. That's up to $35,750 you can shelter in one year.

Peak earning years? Max it. The window closes at 64.

For 2025 through 2028, every taxpayer 65+ gets an extra $6,000 deduction. $12,000 for a couple both 65+. on top of the regular and existing senior standard deductions.

Make sure your tax software or preparer applies it. It's easy to miss.

If your income is modest, a Medicare Savings Program pays your entire Part B premium. $202.90/month, about $2,435 a year. QMB also covers many deductibles and copays.

Search "[your state] Medicare Savings Program" and apply. Most eligible people never do.