The pharmacy refused my senior citizen discount — what are my rights?
Last updated: 2026-07-11 · Educational content; not legal advice.
Short answer
Refusing a senior citizen's discount is a crime. Under RA 9994 (the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, §4), a senior citizen is entitled to a 20% discount AND exemption from VAT on the purchase of medicines (branded or generic), vaccines and essential medical supplies, the professional fees of attending physicians, and medical and dental services, diagnostic and laboratory fees in private hospitals, clinics and outpatient facilities. You claim it by presenting the OSCA-issued Senior Citizen ID (honored nationwide), or the senior's passport. RA 9994 §10 punishes a business that refuses the discount with 2 to 6 years imprisonment and a fine of ₱50,000 to ₱100,000 for a first offense.
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Frequently asked
Can they refuse the discount because there is already a promo price?
No. RA 9994's rules apply a 'no double discount' policy — the senior gets the establishment's offered discount OR the 20% senior discount, whichever is higher and more favorable to the senior. The store cannot force you to take the lower promo price instead of the 20%, and the VAT exemption still applies on top.
Does the discount really include the VAT exemption?
Yes. RA 9994 §4 grants a 20% discount AND exemption from the value-added tax on covered items. The 20% is computed on the price and the item is then billed VAT-free — that double benefit is written into the law, not optional store courtesy.
What do I do when a pharmacy refuses?
Note the store name, branch, staff member, date and time, keep the receipt showing the discount was not applied, and file a complaint. Discount-refusal is penalized by 2 to 6 years imprisonment and a ₱50,000–₱100,000 fine on a first offense (₱100,000–₱200,000 for a subsequent offense) under RA 9994 §10. You can complain to the DTI, your city/municipal OSCA, or the LGU; LabanPH can build the complaint letter citing the exact section and penalty.
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