60+ Best Employee Discounts and Staff Perks in 2024

Companies offer employee discounts as part of compensation packages. As they’re not tied to an employee’s pay, such discounts are considered benefits and provided in addition to regular wages or salaries.

This article covers staff discounts available at many employers throughout the United States but primarily focuses on 20+ brands, including Apple, Target, Amazon, Nike, and Nordstrom.

Most Popular Employee Discounts in 2024

1. Starbucks Staff Discounts

Starbucks offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and part-time employees (whom the company calls “partners” as part of their shared success culture). Besides base pay and bonuses, staff also get retirement savings, stock options, and discount benefits such as:

• Free pound of coffee or box of tea each week (partner “markout”).
• A 30% discount for beverages, food, and merchandise.
• Discounts at local and national retailers. 
• Discounts for select providers of services such as auto, home, and pet insurance.
• Employees may consume beverages made in-store for free while working. They also get seven free weekly food items (from the pastry or ready-to-eat sections).
• “Partner Shopping Days” a few times a year, during which employees can get higher discounts for their Starbucks purchases.
• Transit passes through pretax payroll deductions for commuting employees.
• Discounted company stock plus participation in equity program (Bean Stock).
• 100% tuition coverage for a Bachelor’s Degree through ASU online degree programs.

2. Apple Employee Discounts

Apple provides various discounts and benefits to its employees. Contractors of participating partner companies can also access the Apple Employee Purchase Programme (EPP). Here’s a general breakdown:

• Yearly personal discount for up to three Apple devices (Macs, iPads, or Watches). 
• Yearly personal discount for up to ten iPods. 
• Employees and contractors can also “sponsor” a purchase, which means buying for friends or family.

The discount mentioned above is roughly 25%, subject to change depending on Apple’s policy. In the past, Apple also offered an employee discount program consisting of:

• A free Apple Music subscription.
• Discounts or free access to Apple software products.
• An up to $300 yearly reimbursement for well-being activities, like gym or health club memberships.
• A subsidy for commuting to work via public transit or driving a fuel-efficient car.
• During product launches, Apple sometimes gives free items to its employees.

3. Target Staff Discounts

Target offers several benefits and discounts to its team members. Here’s how Target discounts for staff typically work:

• 10% discount at all Target stores for employees and their spouse or domestic partner.
• Extra 20% off for fresh and frozen fruits & vegetables and tobacco cessation products.
• Access to the 5% discount offered through REDcard savings.
• Discounts for clothing, restaurants, flowers, child care, vacations, fitness centers, computers, cell phone plans, and more are available via the “My Discounts” website for Target team members.
• Target employees get group insurance rates from various leading companies. Includes an up to 15% discount.
• Up to 100% discount for unexpected veterinary costs.
• Free on-demand fitness and well-being platform (Grokker) plus discounts for nationwide fitness centers. 
• Discounts for commuting costs through “Wageworks Commuter Benefit” (bus, subway, light rail, rail, and more).
• Childcare and eldercare discounts.

4. Costco Employee Discounts

Costco is known for taking good care of its employees. Other staff benefits exist despite Costco employees not having a storewide discount on products. For example, in the past, Costco has offered:

• A free turkey for Thanksgiving
• Discounts on vehicle purchases via the Costco Auto Program.
• Discounts for fitness centers and gyms.
• Tuition reimbursement for approved educational programs.
• An Employee Stock Purchase Plan at a discounted rate.
• Free store membership for employees and their family & friends. Members also get access to Costco membership discounts.
• Employees get the Executive Membership, which is worth $120 per year. The Costco Executive Membership gives access to discounts and perks through the Costco Travel program. It also provides 2% cashback on Costco purchases.

5. Verizon Employee Discounts

Verizon corporate employees have deals on specific wireless phone plans. Participating Verizon partners can also offer staff discounts for Fios, LTE, and 5G home internet. Eligible team members get benefits such as:

• Discounts on the “Unlimited Ultimate” plan for wireless, namely for unlimited 5G internet speeds.
• Maximum amount of mobile hotspot data.
• Discount for eligible accessories (cases, holsters, chargers, headsets, screen protectors).
• Sometimes, employees can also get discounts for smartphones or tables through percentage-off deals.
• Employees who live in an area serviced by Verizon Fios might be eligible for a discount on home internet, TV, and phone services.
• In the past, Verizon had an employee discount program that allowed staff to get the latest devices at an advantageous price or even for free.

6. McDonald’s Staff Discounts

McDonald’s provides staff with various discounts and benefits. However, these can differ by country, whether the location is company-owned or franchised, and by other factors. Here is a general outline of common McDonald’s discounts for staff members:

• 30% off of orders at participating restaurants throughout the US. 
• McDonald’s in the United States has a program called McPerks. This gives employees discounts and cashback on everyday items from hundreds of retailers.
• Some McDonald’s employees might receive a discount card that provides discounts at specific stores or for certain services.

7. Best Buy Employee Discounts

Best Buy employees can benefit from a range of discounts. Here’s a rundown of the general idea:

• The Best Buy employee discount gives staff members a different price for products. Instead of paying the retail amount, team members pay “cost + 5%.” An employee could purchase an item that costs the company $10 to purchase for $10.5 instead of its retail price (which could be $20). 
• Not all Best Buy products get staff discounts. For example, Apple products are notoriously excluded.
• The highest discount available for employees is 50% off the retail price, with no transaction limit. Employees can make as many purchases as they want.
• Brands that sell via Best Buy have the final say in limiting staff’s product discounts.
• Best Buy stores give employees products for free from time to time. This includes merchandise that isn’t selling or promotional items.
• Accommodation programs sometimes allow employees to buy items at costs lower than the standard discount for a limited time.
• Best Buy employees may be eligible for discounts for specific mobile phone carriers.

8. Amazon Employee Discounts

Amazon provides a range of benefits and discounts to its employees. While the specifics can change and may vary by location and role, here are some potential types of discounts:

• Access to an exclusive discount portal, Amazon Extras. The portal has around 3,000 deals, including phone plans, travel, entertainment, and car insurance discounts.
• Homeownership discounts for mortgage interest rates, fees, and closing costs.
• Discount code for items shipped and sold by Amazon. This annual discount can be used multiple times, up to an aggregate total. The total might change year-to-year.
• All Amazon employees and their family members can use Hinge Health’s pain prevention program for free.
• Corporate and full-time employees might get a free or discounted Amazon Prime membership.
• Eligible Amazon employees might get access to discounted rates for company stocks.
• Amazon also partners with several external companies to offer employee discount programs on various goods, services, and experiences.

9. Home Depot Employee Discounts

Home Depot prides itself on offering its teams discounts for “just about everything.” This includes discounts for products, phone plans, or even roadside assistance. Here are a few examples of discounts offered by Home Depot to its employees:

• Gym membership and similar discounts.
• Discounts for home electronics from Home Depot – computers, smart home systems, TVs, cameras, etc.
• Cheaper meal kits and groceries, as well as offers for food delivery.
• Tutoring services discounts for subjects like math, reading, science, and more.
• Reimbursement for child adoption expenses (up to $5,000) plus integration in support groups.
• College and university tuition reimbursement and scholarship opportunities at partner institutions.

10. Barnes & Noble Staff Discounts 

The Barnes & Noble discounts for employees have changed slightly over the last few years. However, the following is a general idea of what you could expect:

• 40% – 50% discount for in-store products and 30% off for online shopping.
• However, books might be only 30% off in general, with one barista employee claiming on Glassdoor in December 2023 that they only received 20% off for books and drinks.
• 30% off for games and toys.
• 20% off for music.
• The company might offer an increased employee discount rate during the holidays or other promotional periods.

11. Walmart Employee Discounts

As a Walmart Associate, you can get discounts for thousands of brands through the Walmart Associate Discount Center. For example:

• Deals for entertainment, travel, fitness, and many more categories.
• Discounts for cell phone plans.
• Discounted vacations.
• Up to 50% off for zoo and aquarium tickets. 
• Up to 40% off movie tickets.
• Through the Employee Auto Buying Service, staff save an average of $3,383 on new cars.
• The average US household saves over $4,900 yearly via the Walmart Associate Discount Center.
• Walmart associates get discounts and special rates from Walmart’s partner companies via the Discount Center, which acts as a marketplace. Walmart specifically negotiates some deals.
• Employees can use their special discount on behalf of friends and family.
• Exclusive offers on car rentals, cruises, theme park tickets, and hotels.
• After a 90-day trial period, Walmart employees get a discount card that offers 10% off on general merchandise and fresh produce. It also works at Sam’s Club!
• Full-time hourly associates and part-time associates who work during Thanksgiving might be eligible for a one-time 10% discount for a single grocery shopping trip.

12. AT&T Employee Discounts

AT&T offers generous employment discounts as part of its benefits package. Here are some of them:

• 50% off a majority of voice, text, and data plans.
• Discounted broadband internet.
• Local discounts for various products, services, and events, depending on the country.
• Discounted home, auto, and even pet insurance!
• Tuition assistance.
• Child adoption reimbursement.
• AT&T offers discounts for the employees of other companies too. You could save $10/mo on the best AT&T unlimited plan via an eligible discount through your employer.

13. Marriott Employee Discounts

Marriott International offers its employees a range of benefits, including the Marriott Explore Rate. This discounted rate is available to Marriott employees when booking at Marriot properties worldwide. 

• The Marriott Explore Rate offers up to 80% off for employees and their immediate family members, with applicable terms and restrictions. 
• Employees’ extended family and close friends can also receive up to 50% off.
• Marriott staff with tenure over 25 years get a 100% discount!
• 20% discount for food and beverages at the hotel’s restaurant.
• 20% off for spa and wellness treatments.
• Discounts for partner car rental and airline companies.
• 30% off retail purchases at Marriott outlets.

14. Zappos Employee Discounts

Zappos offers many benefits and discounts to its employees, reflecting its commitment to employee satisfaction and well-being. Here are a few examples:

• Employees get a 40% discount for applicable online orders and a free next-day delivery.
• Some physical outlet locations also offer a 40% discount to employees.
• 20% discount for the family and friends of employees.
• Zappos is a subsidiary of Amazon, so employees get 10% off items sold and shipped by Amazon.
• Employees might have access to Amazon Extras, an exclusive discount portal with around 3,000 deals for various services (phone plans, travel, car insurance, etc).
• Free or discounted Amazon Prime membership.
• Advantageous Amazon stock buying options.

15. Tesla Employee Discounts

Tesla offers its employees a range of benefits and discounts aligned with its mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. Here are some of the key types of discounts and benefits that Tesla employees might enjoy:

• Discounts on Tesla apparel/merch.
• Free full self-driving ($12K value) subscription for 2 vehicles.
• Discounts on vehicles.
• Potential discounted rates for vehicle servicing and maintenance.
• Potential discounts for using the Tesla Supercharge networks and installing home charging stations.
• Employees might get to test drive the latest Tesla models for free before being publicly available.
• Company partnerships give Telsa employees access to discount programs for various goods, services, retail products, and experiences.

16. Samsung Employee Discounts

Samsung has an array of benefits and discounts for its employees. This reflects the company’s commitment to fostering a supportive and innovative work environment. Here are some of the potential types of discounts and benefits that Samsung employees might enjoy:

• Up to $300 Samsung Credit when ordering a new 2024 monitor.
• An exclusive extra 10 – 20% off for applicable purchases.
• A chance to win $5,000 Samsung Credit with applicable purchases.
• Exclusive discounts on new devices (like the Galaxy Book4 Edge) and instant trade-in credit via the Samsung Offers Program membership.
• Extra savings on deals for mobile devices, wearables, home entertainment, and home appliances.
• Potential tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.

17. Nike Employee Discounts

Nike offers its employees many benefits and discounts to create an inspiring and rewarding work environment. Here are some of the potential types of discounts that Nike employees might enjoy:

• Discounted athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment (from Nike, Converse, Jordan, and affiliates).
• Discounts are available online, at company stores, and at retail stores.
• Exclusive sample sales for up to 50% off.
• Employees may receive early access to new product releases and special editions.
• Staff can access Nike Employee Stores to purchase products at discounted rates.
• Possible tuition reimbursement programs and professional development opportunities.

18. Sephora Employee Discounts

Sephora has an extensive range of beauty and cosmetic products. The company offers a variety of perks that make it an attractive employer in the beauty industry. Here are some of the key discounts and benefits that Sephora employees typically enjoy:

• Generous merchandise discounts at Sephora stores and for online orders (40% for Sephora collections and 30% for other brand items).
• Many products, such as makeup, skincare, fragrances, and beauty tools, are discounted.
• Employees may have early access to new product launches and special edition items.
• Employees might receive free products to try out.
• The “Sephora Scholarship” program helps BIPOC students seeking a licensed career in beauty via training and education. It’s an annual 6-month program that covers tuition for cosmetology and esthetician skills.

19. T-Mobile Employee Discounts

T-Mobile is a leading telecommunications provider in the U.S. known for its competitive pricing and expansive network coverage. T-Mobile has various benefits and discounts for its employees. Here are some of the key ones:

• 75% off all phone plans.
• Deep discount for the T-Mobile Magenta Max rate plan.
• 25% off store items such as accessories.
• Employees get a stock grant every February (in Restricted Stock Units). Staff can also purchase T-Mobile stuck at a 15% discount through payroll deduction.
• Free money for childcare if your annual base pay is under $99,000.
• Tuition assistance for classes directly related to your position or another role at T-Mobile.
• The Passport app offers special savings on retail items, travel, dining, entertainment, and more.

20. Nordstrom Employee Discounts

Nordstrom is a premier fashion retailer known for its exceptional customer service and high-quality products (clothing, footwear, accessories, beauty, home goods, etc). The company is dedicated to creating a supportive and rewarding work environment. Here are some of the standout perks and benefits that Nordstrom employees typically enjoy:

• 33% discount for all employees and their dependents at Nordstrom.
• 20% discount at Nordstrom Rack stores and restaurants.
• Seasonal discounts of 40% for Nordstrom-made merchandise.
• Pet insurance, travel, and fitness discounts through the Working Advantage Discount Network.
• Employees can contribute up to 15% of their pay to purchase stock at a 10% discount.
• Employees get $500 on refinancing student debt and a $200 bonus for personal loans.

21. Delta Airlines Discounts

Delta Airlines has staff perks such as:

• Employees can save up to $300 per booking at more than 300 Delta destinations worldwide.
• Bonus miles on top of flight miles.
• Delta Vacations and Delta Cargo discounts.
• Unlimited standby travel privileges for all flights.
• 500+ discounts that include cart rentals, hotel accommodations, home and pet insurance, legal services, and childcare.
• No annual fee on Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express card.

22. Google Discounts

Google has staff perks such as:

• Free tech gear such as phones, laptops, headphones, and more.
• Subsidized meals and snacks at on-site cafeterias.
• Student loan reimbursement.
• Shuttles take employees to and from major offices.
• Free electric car charging.
• 1 free conference attendance per year, with paid travel expenses.
• Free internal classes (both self-taught and with instructors).

23. CVS Discounts

CVS has staff perks such as:

• 30% off CVS brand products.
• 20% off all other items in-store.
• Discounts on health services (like MinuteClinic) and prescriptions.
• Free preventive care.

24. Planet Fitness Discounts

Planet Fitness has staff perks such as:

• 50% off all beverages at the gym.
• Potential discount or even free snacks.
• Free Black Card Membership (use of any club, bring a guest, 20% off all other in-store purchases).

25. Disney Discounts

Disney has staff perks such as:

• 20% dining discount at Walt Disney World Resort for employees and retirees.
• 100% paid tuition at Disney Aspire network schools.
• Free on-site fitness classes and health & wellness programs.
• Free admission to parks, plus guest passes.
• Discounts at select merchandise, recreation, hotels, and dining locations.

Extra Employee Discounts by Category

Employee perks programs vary widely by industry when discounts are involved. Below are some of the most common types of staff discounts in various sectors.

Grocery Stores

Grocery store employees may receive a fixed percentage discount on their purchases, which can significantly lower household food costs.

Popular Grocery Stores with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

26. Kroger: popular for its personalized discounts and strong loyalty program.
27. Aldi: shoppers appreciate its focus on private-label products and efficient operations that keep prices low.
28. Safeway: its strong loyalty program and ample discount opportunities provide multiple avenues of financial savings for deal-hunters.
29. Trader Joe’s: high-quality products, affordable prices, and seasonal items keep customers returning.
30. Whole Foods:20% off on all store items, plus exclusive discounts at Whole Foods Market’s top brand partners.

Restaurants and Food Service

Restaurant & food service workers may receive free or discounted meals during their shifts. Some restaurants may also offer discounts for off-duty dining.

Popular Restaurants & Food Services with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

31. Subway: focusing on customizable and healthy meal options at reasonable prices, Subway is popular for its flexibility and frequent promotions.
32. Taco Bell: the creative and budget-friendly menu of Taco Bell, combined with its app-based discounts, makes it popular with bargain-hunters.
33. Domino’s: the fast food’s consistent deals and rewards program make it a popular choice for pizza lovers looking to save on their orders.
34. Chipotle: prides itself on high-quality ingredients and customizable bowls and burritos. Chipotle’s occasional promotions and rewards program attracts budget-minded customers.
35. HelloFresh: well-regarded for its variety of meals, fresh ingredients, and easy-to-follow recipes. The significant introductory discounts make it affordable for new customers.
36. Blue Apron: known for great ingredients and diverse recipe options, Blue Apron’s frequent discounts make it an appealing choice for those looking to save on meal prepping.

Retail

Retail employees often receive discounts on store merchandise. The discount level can vary, but it’s usually significant enough to encourage employee purchases. Stores may also offer “employee-only” sales or give employees priority access to new merchandise.

Popular Retail Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

37. Target: its diverse product offering, promotions, loyalty program, and the REDcard help consumers shop smart and save money.
38. Kohl’s: the retailer stands out for its combination of storewide discounts, cashback incentives, and versatile coupon code policies, which help shoppers save on clothing and home goods.
39. TJ Maxx: the treasure-hunt type shopping experience characteristic of TJ Maxx makes it popular with people looking for high-quality items at significantly lower prices than the competition’s.

Travel and Hospitality

Airlines, hotels, and travel companies often provide employees with free or heavily discounted travel benefits. This can include flights, accommodation, and even travel packages.

Popular Travel & Hospitality Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

40. Expedia: its comprehensive booking platform and frequent promotions make it easy for travelers to find and book great deals.
41. Priceline: unique discount features and extensive offerings make it a popular choice for travelers seeking deep discounts on travel elements.
42. Southwest Airlines: a combination of low fares, no change fees, and generous baggage policies make Southwest Airlines a go-to for budget-conscious travelers.
43. Booking.com: with a wide inventory and user-friendly interface, the platform makes it easy for travelers to find great deals on accommodations worldwide.
44. Hilton Hotels: Hilton’s advantageous loyalty program and consistent quality make it a favorite among travelers seeking reliable accommodations with value-added benefits.

IT and Tech

The perks and benefits IT and tech companies offer can be diverse and extend beyond traditional employee discounts.

Popular IT & Tech Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

45. Microsoft: with various discounts on hardware and software and a very wide range of products, Microsoft is a top choice for those seeking reliable tech solutions at affordable costs.
46. Dell: customizable products and various discount programs make Dell popular for both personal and business needs.
47. B&H Photo Video: an extensive range of inventory combined with competitive pricing makes the company a favorite among tech enthusiasts, photographers, and videographers.
48. Newegg: focusing on electronics and computer hardware, Newegg offers many promotions and member benefits for tech enthusiasts and DIY builders.

Health and Wellness

Businesses in the health sector can offer employee discount programs like reduced-cost medications, medical procedures, or low-cost wellness programs. 

Popular Health and Wellness Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

49. GNC: its many supplements and wellness products, combined with frequent promotions and a loyalty program, make GNC a top choice for consumers looking to save on health costs.
50. Vitamin Shoppe: the store has vitamins, supplements, and wellness products frequently discounted, as well as a rewards program. This affordability makes it a popular brand.
51. Walgreens: combining pharmacy services with health products, Walgreens is top-of-mind for many budget-oriented shoppers. Its promotions make it a convenient and cost-effective choice.
52. Rite Aid: focusing on health products and pharmacy services, its robust rewards program and regular promotions help consumers save on their purchases.

Automotive Industry

Auto manufacturers and dealerships often offer employee discounts on new vehicles or exclusive lease programs.

Popular Automotive Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

53. AutoZone: with many auto parts and accessories on offer, its promotions and rewards program make it a top choice for DIY car enthusiasts and vehicle owners looking for a bargain.
54. Advance Auto Parts: a favorite for both DIY mechanics and professional technicians looking for quality parts at discounted prices.
55. Pep Boys: combines auto repair services, parts, and frequent promotions into a convenient and cost-effective option for full-range automotive care.
56. O’Reilly Auto Parts: known for its extensive inventory and competitive prices, O’Reilly’s discounts and reward program help budget-oriented customers to keep more money in their wallets.
57. Firestone Complete Auto Care: with a storied reputation for quality service and frequent promotions, Firestone is a trusted choice for vehicle maintenance and repair at discounted rates.

Telecommunications

Telecom companies often offer employee discounts or even free internet, phone, or cable TV services.

Popular Telecommunications Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

58. Sprint: the company’s affordable plans and frequent promotions make it a top choice for those looking to save on mobile services and devices.
59. Comcast Xfinity: discounts are available for internet, TV, and phone services through bundle deals and more. These savings options make Comcast popular for households looking for discounted rates on telecom packages.

Fitness

Employees of fitness centers or sports companies may have free or discounted access to gyms, fitness classes, and fitness equipment.

Popular Fitness Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

60. 24 Hour Fitness: an extensive range of facilities and classes, combined with great promotions and special rates, make it a go-to choice for fitness-oriented people who want flexible pricing options.
61. Gold’s Gym: the gym has a strong reputation and comprehensive fitness facilities. With the added frequent promotions, it is top-of-mind for serious fitness enthusiasts looking for quality at a discount.
62. LA Fitness: the gym offers membership discounts, including promotional rates, free trials, and discounts for students, military personnel, and corporate partners. This all boils down to a fitness experience at a lower cost.
63. Orangetheory Fitness: known for its unique, high-intensity workout programs, the gym’s promotional rates and discounts make it attractive to people looking to try a new and effective fitness regime.

Entertainment

Entertainment is a broad industry that can cover a lot of specific companies. For example, movie theatres, amusement parks, video game companies, TV show producers, etc. Employee discounts can vary drastically depending on the exact nature of the brand.

Popular Entertainment Brands with Discounts

The following brands have discounted prices for employees, as well as deals and bargains for regular customers.

64. AMC Theatres: frequent ticket discounts and a strong loyalty program mean the company provides great value for movie enthusiasts, making it a great choice for affordable entertainment.
65. Regal Cinemas: combining loyalty rewards and frequent discounts, Regal is a favorite for budget-conscious moviegoers looking to enjoy the latest films.
66. Netflix: arguably the most popular streaming service, Netflix has a vast library of movies, TV shows, and original content at an affordable monthly rate.
67. Disney+: with a collection of content comprising Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic creations, the platform’s competitive pricing and frequent promotions make it a popular streaming service for families and fans of all ages. Discounts are also available via bundle deals with Hulu and ESPN+. Browse Disney+ coupons.
68. Hulu: a special student rate, free trials for new subscribers, and seasonal promotional rates make it a favorite lower-cost streaming platform for TV shows and movies.

Advantages of Employee Discounts

Both employees and employers benefit from staff receiving discounts for products or services. Here are 7 advantages:

1. Financial savings: discounts can significantly lower the cost of purchasing company products or using services, incentivizing sales among staff.
2. Better work efficiency: by using company products or services, employees can better understand their features and benefits, which can help improve their work.
3. Higher compensation package value: discounts add value to the total compensation package, making it more attractive.
4. Encourage employee loyalty: staff discounts create a sense of loyalty, as employees feel appreciated and valued.
5. Attract new employees: offering these discounts makes new job offers more attractive and helps with retention.
6. Increased sales: a lower cost can motivate employees to buy a brand’s products, increasing overall sales. Employees could also become brand advocates who promote the products or services to others.
7. Build employee engagement: using their company’s products or services can help employees feel more connected and engaged with their company.

Best Employee Discounts FAQs

What Is an Employee Discount?

An employee discount is a unique perk employers offer to make the overall compensation package more attractive. Discounts let team members purchase the company’s products or services at a lower price, with the discounts varying from company to company. The discounts might be tied to select items or applicable to all products.

Who Is Eligible for Staff Discounts?

They are primarily designed for companies with full-time and part-time employees. However, the eligibility can also extend to:

• Temporary or seasonal employees for the duration of employment.
• Retirees, as part of retirement plan benefits.
• Contractors and consultants, through special company policies or specific contractual agreements.
• Interns and trainees, especially for paid internships.
• Family and friends of employees.

What Products or Services Are Included in Staff Discounts?

These discounts can cover various products or services, depending on the nature of the business. The most common categories include:

• Grocery discounts.
• Restaurants and food service discounts.
• Retail discounts.
• Travel and hospitality discounts.
• IT and tech discounts.
• Health and wellness discounts.
• Automotive discounts.
• Telecommunications discounts.
• Fitness discounts.
• Entertainment discounts.

How Much Can I Save with Discounts for Employees?

The savings from staff discounts can vary greatly depending on the company, the type of discount, the employee’s position, and how often the discount is used. Generally, product and service discounts go from 10% to 50%, while discounts at partner companies range from 5% to 20%.

Employers could also offer their team members 100% free products, services, memberships, and more.

Are Employee Discounts Taxable? 

In some jurisdictions, team member discounts may be considered a taxable benefit. According to the IRS, a discount exceeding certain limits could be taxable income. Employees may need to report the value of the discounts they receive as income on their tax returns.

• Goods: if the discount on merchandise or goods exceeds the employer’s gross profit percentage, the excess is generally taxable. Example: an employee receives a 40% discount. The employer’s gross profit margin on that item is 30%. The 10% difference is taxable income.
• Services: if the discount is more than 20% of the price at which the service is being offered to customers, that excess is taxable income.

For further information, consult page 11 of publication 15-B from the Internal Revenue Service.

Can I Use My Employee Discount for Family and Friends?

This will largely depend on your employer’s specific policies. Some employers may allow you to use your discount for immediate family members and even friends. Others might restrict the use of the discount solely to you, the employee. 

Some companies may offer separate “friends and family” discount events at certain times throughout the year.

Can You Use Employee Discounts Online? 

Many companies allow their employees to apply their discounts to online purchases. However, this completely depends on your employer’s specific policies. If you have this perk, your employee ID or other verification may be required for discounted online purchases.

Can a Company Change or Remove Employment Discounts?

In short, yes.

Staff discounts are considered a privilege, not a right. They are part of the fringe benefits that a company can offer its employees, which means they can adjust, change, or eliminate them at their discretion.

However, how and when these changes can be made may depend on certain factors, such as:

• Whether the discount is part of the employment contract. If it is, both parties must agree to modify and sign the contract again.
• Some states and countries can have laws affecting changes in employee benefits.
• The company’s policy can dictate how changes to benefits can be made.

What Happens to My Employee Discount If I Leave the Company?

Leaving the company, whether due to resignation, termination, or retirement, usually means your discount is no longer applicable. Sometimes, a company may extend benefits for a short grace period after leaving, but this is rare and entirely at the company’s discretion.

While rarer, some companies let their retirees keep staff discounts if they retire after several years of service.

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