The question of how to get Walmart+ for free is a popular one for savvy shoppers, and while a permanent, no-cost option is not available, there are several methods to enjoy the benefits at no charge for a limited time or through specific rewards. The most common route is the 30-day free trial, but other opportunities exist through financial partnerships and seasonal offers. This guide will walk you through each method so you can choose the best path to get your free Walmart+ access.
The Official 30-Day Free Trial
The most straightforward way to get a taste of Walmart+ for free is by signing up for the official 30-day free trial. This is available to new members who have not previously used the service. The trial gives you access to the full suite of Walmart+ perks, allowing you to test the service before committing to a paid subscription.
How to Sign Up for the Free Trial
- Visit the official Walmart+ website or use the Walmart app.
- Look for the 'Start your free 30-day trial' button.
- Follow the prompts to create an account or sign in to an existing Walmart account.
- Enter your payment information. You will not be charged immediately, but this is required for the subscription to automatically convert to a paid plan after 30 days.
- Confirm your trial and begin enjoying the benefits.
Included Benefits During Your Trial
During the free trial, you can enjoy perks that include:
- Free Shipping: No order minimum on items shipped by Walmart.
- Free Grocery Delivery: Same-day delivery on orders of $35 or more.
- Fuel Savings: Discounts on gas at participating Walmart, Exxon, and Mobil stations.
- Streaming Perks: Free access to the ad-supported Paramount+ Essentials plan.
- Mobile Scan & Go: Use the app to scan items and pay as you shop in-store.
- Returns from Home: Return items without leaving your house.
To avoid being charged, it is crucial to set a reminder and cancel your membership before the 30-day trial expires. You can manage your subscription settings on the Walmart website or app.
Leverage Credit Card Perks for Rebates
Certain high-end credit cards offer statement credits that effectively cover the cost of a Walmart+ membership, making it free. The most prominent example is The Platinum Card® from American Express.
How to Get Walmart+ with a Credit Card
- If you have an eligible credit card, such as the Amex Platinum, enroll in the benefit via your card's online account portal.
- Use your enrolled card to pay for your Walmart+ monthly membership.
- American Express will then provide a statement credit of up to $12.95 per month to cover the cost, plus applicable taxes.
- This benefit applies to one monthly membership and can be used continuously as long as you maintain the card and enrollment.
Special and Promotional Offers
Walmart occasionally runs special promotions that offer extended free trials or other bonuses. Keeping an eye on these limited-time deals can be another way to get free or deeply discounted access.
Types of Promotions to Watch For
- Walmart+ Week: During these special sales events, Walmart may offer enhanced perks, extended free trials, or exclusive member-only deals.
- Loyalty Promotions: Sometimes, Walmart may target former members with promotional offers to lure them back. Users on Reddit have reported receiving 50% off membership after canceling and letting the renewal date pass.
Discounted Rates for Specific Groups
While not completely free, some demographics can receive significantly reduced rates, which is the closest they will get to a free membership.
- Walmart+ Assist: Individuals on eligible government assistance programs can get a Walmart+ subscription for half the standard price. This offers substantial savings for qualifying members.
- AARP Members: AARP members can also receive a discounted annual rate on a Walmart+ membership.
Comparing Free and Discounted Access Options
| Method | Duration | Requirements | How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-Day Free Trial | 30 days | New member, payment info | Sign up on Walmart+ website or app. |
| Credit Card Rebate | Ongoing (with card) | Eligible credit card (e.g., Amex Platinum), enrollment | Enroll card, use for monthly payments. |
| Special Promotions | Varies | No specific requirement, limited time | Check Walmart announcements for events like 'Walmart+ Week'. |
| Walmart+ Assist | Ongoing (with eligibility) | Proof of government assistance | Apply on the Walmart+ website. |
| AARP Discount | Ongoing (with membership) | Valid AARP membership | Redeem offer via the AARP website. |
How to Ensure You Don't Pay
If your goal is to use a trial and not pay, a bit of diligence is required. Here is a list of best practices:
- Set a Calendar Reminder: Create an alert on your phone or calendar for a few days before your 30-day trial expires.
- Turn Off Auto-Renew: Immediately after signing up for the trial, go into your account settings and disable auto-renewal. This will prevent any charges from being made after the free period ends.
- Monitor Your Credit Card Statements: After the trial period ends, double-check your bank or credit card statement to ensure no charges were processed.
Conclusion: Evaluating Your Options
There are several legitimate ways to get Walmart+ for free for a limited time or at a significantly reduced price. The 30-day free trial is the most accessible option for new users, offering a risk-free way to test all the benefits. For those with certain credit cards, the membership can be a continuous free perk. Finally, being aware of seasonal promotions and qualifying for discounted rates through programs like Walmart+ Assist or AARP can provide ongoing savings. To truly ensure you don't pay anything, always remember to cancel your trial before it renews.
For more details on Walmart's seasonal events and promotions, you can refer to reputable finance publications like Kiplinger, which frequently cover these offers.
