What is Ohio's Golden Buckeye Program?

The Golden Buckeye Program helps older Ohio residents save money by connecting them with businesses that offer discounts, waived fees, free products, and more. Ohio residents are automatically enrolled when they turn 60 and will get their Golden Buckeye card in the mail.

If you’re new to Ohio, you can sign up for the program online by filling out a card request form online. Many businesses that take part display the Golden Buckeye logo in their window or near the register. If you don’t see a logo, it’s always a good idea to ask. Even if they aren’t part of the program, they might have other discounts for older adults.

How can the Golden Buckeye Program help me? 

The Golden Buckeye Program helps you save money with special perks like discounts, free items, and no-cost services at businesses across Ohio. It’s a simple way to enjoy more while spending less.

The program also helps you stay connected to your community by introducing you to local businesses you might not have known about. By supporting these businesses, you contribute to the local economy while enjoying the unique products and services they offer.

Am I eligible for the Golden Buckeye Program?

The Golden Buckeye Program is available to all Ohio residents who are 60 years or older. It’s also open to residents aged 18 to 59 who have a disability.

The program is designed to make it easy for older adults and individuals with disabilities to enjoy the benefits, such as savings and discounts, while staying connected to their community. Whether you’ve lived in Ohio for years or are new to the state, you can take part in this program.

How do I enroll in the Golden Buckeye Program?

If you are an Ohio resident age 60 or older, you are automatically enrolled in the Golden Buckeye Program and should receive your Golden Buckeye card in the mail. If you haven’t received your card or are not yet enrolled, you can:

• Request a card one by filling out a form on the program website if you recently turned 60 and haven’t received your card.
• If you’ve just moved to Ohio and are over 60, you can apply for a Golden Buckeye card at a participating sign-up site, like most public libraries or senior centers. Be sure to bring your state ID to prove Ohio residency.
• If you’re under 60 and have a disability, you’ll need to apply in person at a sign-up site. Bring your Ohio Driver’s License or State ID card, along with one of these documents to show eligibility:
  • A Medicare card (not Medicaid) in your name
  • SSI or SSDI acceptance paperwork
  • A document confirming permanent and total disability from a state department, Ohio public employee retirement system (STRS, PERS, etc.), or a federal retirement system.

Who should I contact if I need help?

If you need help enrolling in the Golden Buckeye Program, haven’t received your card after enrolling, or have any questions or concerns, you can contact the Ohio Department of Aging directly at 1-800-422-1976. They have a team ready to assist you and answer any questions you may have.

I enrolled in the Golden Buckeye Program—now what?

Once you’re enrolled in the Golden Buckeye Program and have received your card, you can start enjoying the discounts, perks, and other benefits right away. Simply present your card at participating businesses to take advantage of the savings.

The Ohio Department of Aging provides a list of businesses that accept the Golden Buckeye card, but it doesn’t include every business. So, be sure to look for the logo at Ohio businesses or ask if they participate in the program. If not, you can also ask if they offer any other discounts for older or disabled adults.

Frequently asked questions about the Golden Buckeye Program

• Can I use my Golden Buckeye card for people with me?
  No, the card can only be used by the person it’s issued to and can’t be shared with others.
• I lost my card—what should I do?
  If you lose your Golden Buckeye card, you can request a new one by filling out a request form on the program's website or by contacting the Ohio Department of Aging at 1-800-422-1976.
• Can I use my Golden Buckeye card at businesses outside of Ohio?
  No, the Golden Buckeye card only works at businesses in Ohio.
• How do I know if a business participates in the Golden Buckeye Program?
  To find out if a business participates in the Golden Buckeye Program, you can visit the list of participating businesses compiled by the Ohio Department of Aging. However, this list doesn’t include every business, so it’s important to look for the Golden Buckeye logo when visiting the business, usually on the window or at the cash register, or ask the business directly.