7 Walmart Buys That Help Seniors Stretch Social Security Further
For seniors on a fixed Social Security income who don’t want to shop around all the time for the best deals, finding an affordable store like Walmart can be a huge help.
“Fixed Social Security income means the maximum impact to savings comes from purchases that occur on a fixed and frequent basis,” said Cody Schuiteboer, president and CEO of Best Interest Financial. “Grocery shopping with Walmart’s Great Value is typically 20% to 30% cheaper than brand grocery name equivalents.”
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Here’s a look at seven Walmart buys to help seniors stretch their Social Security dollars further without sacrificing quality.
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1. Great Value Mixed Vegetables
Price: $0.98
The Great Value mixed vegetables are popular with pretty much any age. For under a $1 a bag, they can be affordable ways to enjoy veggies without a lot of hassle.
You can grab a 12-ounce steamable bag for convenience during a busy day. If you enjoy these, check out other Great Value vegetable options.
2. Campbell’s Chunky Chicken Noodle Soup
Price: $2.48
Melanie Musson, a finance expert with Quote.com, puts Campbell’s chunky chicken noodle soup on the list of smart buys for seniors at Walmart. It’s around $2.50 and can be enough for a full meal or even two if you’re a light eater. You’ll probably pay more for this same product if you shop at competitors.
3. Scott Toilet Paper
Price: $8.47
Walmart offers a big selection of toilet paper. In fact, it can be tough to decide what’s the best value and best fit for your needs.
Musson suggested the 12-pack of mega roles of Scott ComfortPlus.
“When you don’t want the thin, rough, cheapest toilet paper option, this pack of toilet paper allows you to get soft toilet paper for an affordable price at around $8.50 for a 12-pack,” Musson said.
4. Great Value Everyday Strong Paper Towels
Price: $8.12
The financial pros who talked to MoneyLion also suggested seniors look at the Great Value Everyday Strong paper towels. You can buy six triple rolls for $8.12
They come in split sheets so you can pick a size for what you need in the moment. Similar products at competitors will likely cost you at least $1 more per pack.
5. Great Value Gallon Storage Bags
Price: $2.48
Here’s another item from Walmart that’s popular with budget-savvy shoppers. You can get a 40-count package of Great Value gallon storage bags for $2.48.
The snap’n click double zipper closure helps keep your items safe. Plus, the self-standing shape is another added convenience.
6. Equate Medicines and Vitamins
Price: varies based on products
Joel Goldstein, president of Mr. Checkout Distributors, said store-brand, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and vitamins from Walmart are affordable alternatives to pricier options that line the shelves.
“Equate acetaminophen, ibuprofen, antacids, allergy tablets and the like are made to the same active-ingredient standard as the branded version, and this is usually the single largest percentage saving in the basket for an older shopper who buys OTC regularly,” he said.
7. Equate Nutritional Shakes
Price: $24 to $28
You don’t need to overpay to enjoy a nutritional shake to start the day. You can buy a 24-count box of Equate Original Meal Replacement Nutritional Shakes for $24 to $28.
They come in flavors such as vanilla and strawberry and can save you a few dollars compared to name brands. Here’s an insider tip: You may need to look around for the box of shakes as they can be difficult to find in the store.
Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.
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