Understanding the Standard Cost
Before diving into the discount strategies, it’s important to understand the typical pricing for a Walmart Plus membership. The standard cost is $98 for a yearly subscription or $12.95 if you pay month-to-month. For many shoppers, the benefits—such as free shipping, fuel savings, and streaming access—are worth the annual fee. However, savvy consumers know there are ways to get the same benefits for less.
The Official Discount: Walmart Plus Assist
The most consistent and official way to get a Walmart Plus membership for $49 is through the Walmart Plus Assist program. This program is specifically designed for individuals on eligible government assistance programs, such as Medicaid. By verifying their eligibility, members can sign up for a full annual membership at half the regular price. The benefits remain identical to the standard membership, making it an excellent option for qualifying shoppers to maximize their savings. This is a reliable path to the $49 price point, provided you meet the specific criteria set by Walmart.
Limited-Time Promotional Offers
For those who don't qualify for Walmart Plus Assist, the best way to get a discounted rate is to watch for limited-time promotions. Walmart has offered significant discounts in the past, particularly for new members:
- 50% Off Annual Membership: In both July and December 2024, new members could sign up for an annual subscription for just $49. These offers were timed around major shopping events, such as Walmart Deals Week.
- Walmart Cash Offer: Earlier in 2024, new annual subscribers received $50 in Walmart Cash after signing up, which could be applied to a future purchase of $35 or more. This effectively brought the first-year cost down to $48. While this isn't a direct discount at signup, it provides a substantial rebate.
Since these deals are temporary and not guaranteed, timing is crucial. If you are not in a hurry, it might be worth waiting for a holiday or special event sale to see if a similar promotion becomes available. Many online publications and deal websites track these sales and can provide notifications when they go live. A good resource for checking promotions is the official Walmart Plus landing page at https://www.walmart.com/plus.
Leveraging Credit Card Perks
Another strategy involves using credit card benefits. For example, holders of The Platinum Card® from American Express can receive a monthly statement credit that covers the cost of a Walmart Plus monthly membership. This effectively makes the membership free for cardholders. While this is not a direct $49 annual plan, it represents an even greater value proposition over the course of a year, provided you hold the eligible card.
The AARP Discount: A Viable Alternative
While it doesn't reach the $49 mark, AARP members can access a discounted annual rate of $58. This is still a significant saving of $40 off the standard price. The AARP offer is ongoing and provides a consistent discount for its members, making it a reliable option for those who are eligible. It's a great alternative if you don't qualify for Assist or miss a limited-time sale.
Comparing Walmart Plus Membership Options
| Membership Type | Annual Cost | Eligibility | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $98 | General Public | Base subscription; no discount. |
| Walmart Plus Assist | $49 | Eligible Government Assistance Recipients | Half-price for qualifying members. |
| Limited-Time Promo | $49 (for first year) | New Members (during promo) | Wait for sales events like July/December. |
| AARP Discount | $58 | AARP Members | Reliable, consistent discount. |
| Amex Platinum Card | $0 (via credit) | Amex Platinum Cardholders | Potentially free membership with eligible card. |
Additional Considerations for Maximizing Savings
Before committing to a discounted membership, weigh the benefits against the cost to ensure it's the right choice for you. The benefits include:
- Free shipping with no order minimum from Walmart.com.
- Free same-day grocery delivery from your local store.
- Discounts on fuel at Walmart, Murphy, and Exxon/Mobil gas stations.
- A complimentary Paramount+ or Peacock Premium streaming subscription.
- Early access to special promotions and sales.
- Mobile Scan & Go in stores to avoid checkout lines.
- Free tire repair and road hazard warranty at Walmart Auto Care Centers.
Conclusion
Getting a Walmart Plus membership for $49 is possible, but it typically requires meeting specific eligibility criteria or acting during a limited-time promotional period. The most reliable way for those who qualify is through the Walmart Plus Assist program. Other opportunities include leveraging credit card perks or waiting for special offers that may arise during major sales events. For a slightly higher but still heavily discounted rate, AARP members have a consistent option. By understanding the available avenues, you can secure the benefits of Walmart Plus for a fraction of the standard price, ultimately enhancing your shopping experience and your savings.
How to Choose Your Discount Path
- Check for Government Assistance Eligibility: If you are on a program like Medicaid, verify your status for Walmart Plus Assist for the most reliable $49 option.
- Monitor for Promotions: If you are a new customer, keep an eye out for special seasonal or holiday sales where Walmart has historically offered 50% off for the first year.
- Evaluate Credit Card Benefits: Review your current credit cards to see if any offer credits for subscription services like Walmart Plus. The Amex Platinum card is a known option.
- Consider an AARP Membership: If other options are not viable, an AARP membership offers a consistent $58 annual rate, which is still a great deal.
- Start with the Free Trial: Regardless of your chosen path, start with the free 30-day trial to experience the benefits before paying for a full year.
By strategically choosing the right method for your situation, you can get a Walmart Plus membership at a steep discount.
