The INAPAM (Instituto Nacional para las Personas Adultas Mayores) discount card is a popular program for senior citizens in Mexico. Let’s explore what it is, its benefits, and the enrollment process.
What is INAPAM?
INAPAM is an institution that offers a discount card to individuals aged 60 years or older. This card provides access to significant discounts on various goods and services, including food, medicines, transportation, clothing, and leisure activities.
How Does It Work?
1. Eligibility: Anyone aged 60 or older can apply for the INAPAM card.
2. Discounts: Once enrolled, you receive a plastic card that you can present at thousands of stores, businesses, and government service agencies across Mexico. Discounts typically range from 10% to 50% on goods and services.
3. Wide Range of Discounts:
– Healthcare Services and Medications: Most pharmacies offer discounts on medications. Dentists, doctors, and other medical specialists may also provide discounts.
– Public Transportation: Bus companies, airlines, and some local taxi firms offer reduced fares.
– Food and Groceries: Local food stores and convenience stores provide discounts on grocery shopping.
– Leisure and Travel Services: Hotels and travel agencies offer discounts to senior citizens with the INAPAM card.
– Eating Out: Cafés, diners, and national diner chains extend discounts to cardholders.
– Cultural Centers: Museums, archaeology parks, art galleries, and bookstores offer reduced admission fees.
– Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Various businesses (e.g., legal firms, craft stores, car repair centers) provide discounts.
– Property Taxes and Water Bills: Some municipalities offer discounts on annual property taxes (Predial) and water bills.
Remember to inquire at sales counters or checkouts about available discounts, even if they are not explicitly advertised.
Proving Legal Residency and Age
The INAPAM card serves as proof of legal residency and age qualification. It’s a valuable resource for seniors seeking cost savings and enhanced quality of life.
How to Apply for the INAPAM Discount Card
The INAPAM card is available to all seniors aged 60 years or older who are either Mexican citizens or legal foreign residents of Mexico. Applying for the card is simple and free. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Local Application: You must apply in the area where you live. All offices require proof of address, so you can only apply in the locality corresponding to your address.
2. Requirements:
– Official Identification: Present an official ID that proves your age, such as a passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate.
– Residency Permit: If you’re a foreign resident, provide your Residente Temporal or Residente Permanente permit (or the former FM3/FM2 if applicable).
– Proof of Address: Bring a recent utility bill (telephone or electricity) showing your current address (dated within the last 2-3 months).
– Photographs: Carry two recent front-facing photographs (infantil size) printed on professional photographic paper. No glasses or hats allowed.
3. Application Process:
– Visit your local government office handling INAPAM applications (check locally for details).
– Submit the required documents along with photocopies.
– Once your application is processed, you’ll receive the INAPAM card, which grants you access to discounts.
4. Language: Forms must be completed in Spanish, and interviews at local INAPAM offices are conducted in Spanish only.
5. Assistance:
– Helpline: For questions, call the toll-free helpline at 800 007 3705 (available from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. weekdays; Spanish only).
– Website: Visit the INAPAM website for additional information (use Google page translation if needed).
Remember, the INAPAM card can enhance your quality of life by providing valuable discounts!
Source: Mexperience
