Who doesn’t love getting something free in the mailbox? While most companies have moved toward digital promotions, there are still plenty of organizations that send free catalogs, magazines, educational materials, health resources, and other goodies through traditional mail.
For seniors, these freebies can be especially useful. Whether you’re retired, living on a fixed income, or simply enjoy saving money, there are opportunities to receive helpful items without spending a dime.
Some companies offer free product samples, while government agencies and nonprofit organizations provide complimentary publications, large-print materials, and helpful resources for older adults.
And the best part? Many of these freebies can be requested online or by phone and delivered right to your doorstep.
Here are 20 free things seniors can get by mail, including where to request them and what you need to know before signing up.
Note: Not every offer is exclusively for seniors, and availability can change. Some organizations provide free printed materials only while supplies last, while others may offer digital versions instead. Always verify that shipping is free before submitting a request.
1. Free AARP Publications
AARP offers a variety of resources covering retirement, health, money management, caregiving, and healthy aging.
AARP members receive publications such as AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin as part of their membership.
You can also find free educational materials and guides on topics like avoiding scams and preparing for retirement.
While the regular print magazines are a membership benefit rather than a no-cost subscription, selected educational publications may be available free to the public.
Best for: Retirement advice, money-saving tips, and healthy aging.
Where to look: AARP
2. Free Social Security Publications
The Social Security Administration offers free publications explaining Social Security retirement benefits, Medicare enrollment, survivor benefits, and other important topics.
These resources can help seniors understand when to claim benefits, how payments are calculated, and what changes may affect their monthly income.
Many publications are available online, and you can contact Social Security to ask whether printed copies can be mailed.
Best for: Retirement planning and understanding Social Security benefits.
Request information: Social Security Publications
3. Free Medicare Handbook
If you’re enrolled in Medicare or approaching eligibility, the official Medicare & You handbook is a valuable resource.
Published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, this guide explains Medicare coverage, enrollment periods, prescription drug plans, and important program updates.
People enrolled in Medicare generally receive the handbook each year, with options for electronic delivery and accessible formats.
You can also contact Medicare to request assistance obtaining a printed copy.
Best for: Medicare coverage information and annual program updates.
Request information: Medicare.gov
4. Free National Institute on Aging Publications
The National Institute on Aging provides free educational materials about aging, health, exercise, memory, caregiving, and other topics relevant to older adults.
Some publications are available in print, while others are offered digitally.
Topics include healthy eating, fall prevention, sleep, brain health, and managing common age-related concerns.
Best for: Healthy aging, caregiving, and senior wellness information.
Request publications: National Institute on Aging Publications
5. Free National Park Brochures and Travel Guides
Love traveling or dreaming about your next adventure?
The National Park Service offers free brochures, park maps, and visitor information for many national parks and historic sites.
Some parks may mail printed brochures upon request, although availability varies by location.
These guides can be useful for planning road trips, learning about historic landmarks, or simply enjoying beautiful destinations from home.
Best for: Travel planning, national parks, and sightseeing.
Where to look: National Park Service
6. Free Consumer Protection and Scam Prevention Booklets
Scammers frequently target older adults with fake prize notifications, fraudulent investment opportunities, Medicare scams, and identity theft schemes.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides free educational publications explaining how to recognize and avoid common scams.
You can find materials about identity theft, unwanted phone calls, online fraud, and financial scams.
The FTC’s bulk-order program offers printed publications with free shipping, although some titles have minimum quantities and are intended for community distribution.
Best for: Scam prevention, identity theft protection, and financial safety.
Request free publications: FTC Free Publications
7. Free Gardening and Seed Catalogs
Gardening is a popular hobby for retirees, and free seed catalogs are a wonderful way to discover new plants without purchasing anything.
Companies such as Johnny’s Selected Seeds and Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds offer gardening catalogs featuring vegetables, flowers, herbs, and other plants.
Some free gardening catalogs also include planting tips, growing instructions, and gardening inspiration.
Although the catalogs are free, seeds and gardening supplies must be purchased separately.
Best for: Gardening enthusiasts and retirees who enjoy growing their own food.
Where to look: Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds and Johnny’s Selected Seeds
8. Free Religious Books and Devotionals
Many religious organizations offer free books, devotionals, Bible study guides, and inspirational publications by mail.
Some organizations distribute monthly or quarterly devotionals, while others provide free introductory books or educational materials.
For example, Our Daily Bread Ministries offers devotional resources, with certain publications available through complimentary subscriptions or requests.
Best for: Spiritual reading, daily devotionals, and inspirational materials.
Where to look: Our Daily Bread Ministries
9. Free Large-Print Books Through the National Library Service
The program offers braille books, audiobooks, and specialized reading equipment.
Eligible participants can receive certain materials through the mail without paying postage.
Although this isn’t a general free large-print book program, it’s an excellent resource for seniors with qualifying vision, physical, or reading disabilities.
Best for: Eligible seniors with vision loss or print disabilities.
Apply for free service: National Library Service
10. Free State Travel Guides
You don’t have to leave home to explore new destinations!
Many state tourism departments offer complimentary travel guides that can be mailed to your home.
These colorful publications feature scenic drives, historical attractions, museums, restaurants, festivals, and vacation ideas.
For seniors who enjoy road trips or planning affordable vacations, free state travel guides can be especially useful.
Some states also provide separate maps and brochures highlighting specific regions.
Best for: Road trips, retirement travel, and vacation planning.
Where to look: Visit your state’s official tourism website and search for “free travel guide.”
11. Free Senior Health and Nutrition Publications
Eating well becomes increasingly important as we age, and government health organizations provide free educational resources about nutrition and healthy living.
The National Institute on Aging offers publications covering healthy eating, exercise, sleep, and other aging-related topics.
Its publication ordering service has offered free printed materials in English and Spanish.
These resources can be helpful for seniors who prefer reading printed information rather than browsing online.
Best for: Healthy eating, wellness, and nutrition education.
Request free materials: NIA Publication Ordering
12. Free Clothing Catalogs
Popular options include Woman Within, KingSize, and other retailers specializing in extended sizes and everyday fashion.
These free fashion catalogs can be particularly convenient for shoppers who prefer looking through printed pages instead of shopping online.
You may also discover seasonal sales and special offers.
Best for: Clothing, shoes, and fashion inspiration.
Request catalogs: Woman Within Catalog and KingSize Catalog
13. Free Home Decor Catalogs
Home decor catalogs are another fun freebie to receive in the mail.
Companies such as Grandin Road, Frontgate, and BrylaneHome offer catalogs featuring furniture, bedding, decorative accents, and seasonal merchandise.
Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, these catalogs are great for decorating inspiration.
You can also cut out pictures to create mood boards or plan future home improvement projects.
Best for: Home decorating, furniture inspiration, and seasonal decor.
Request catalogs: Grandin Road and Frontgate
14. Free Hearing Health Information
Organizations focused on hearing health provide educational resources about hearing loss, hearing aids, communication strategies, and available support services.
For example, the Hearing Loss Association of America offers information about hearing accessibility and support.
Some organizations may provide printed brochures upon request, although mailed materials are not guaranteed.
These resources can help seniors prepare questions for hearing healthcare professionals.
Best for: Hearing health education and accessibility resources.
Where to look: Hearing Loss Association of America
15. Free Diabetes Education Materials
Seniors managing diabetes or helping a family member with the condition may benefit from free educational materials.
The American Diabetes Association and other health organizations provide information about blood sugar management, nutrition, physical activity, and diabetes care.
Some materials are available as downloadable publications, while printed copies may be available through local chapters, healthcare providers, or special programs.
Best for: Diabetes education and healthy living information.
Where to look: American Diabetes Association
16. Free USPS Shipping Boxes and Envelopes
If you enjoy mailing gifts to grandchildren, sending care packages, or selling items online, the United States Postal Service offers free shipping supplies.
You can request Priority Mail boxes, padded envelopes, mailing labels, and other eligible packaging supplies.
The supplies are delivered to your home for free when you choose standard shipping. However, they must be used with the appropriate USPS mail service, which requires postage when you send a package.
Best for: Mailing gifts, care packages, and online resale shipments.
Request free supplies: USPS Free Shipping Supplies
17. Free Recipe Catalogs and Gourmet Food Guides
If you love cooking, baking, or discovering new foods, gourmet food catalogs can be a fun addition to your mailbox.
Companies such as Harry & David and The Swiss Colony feature specialty foods, chocolates, cheeses, baked goods, and gift assortments.
While these catalogs primarily advertise products for sale, they can provide inspiration for homemade gifts, holiday entertaining, and new recipes.
Best for: Food lovers, holiday entertaining, and gift inspiration.
Request catalogs: Harry & David Catalog and The Swiss Colony
18. Free Funeral and End-of-Life Planning Guides
Although it’s not the most exciting topic, planning ahead can help families avoid unnecessary expenses and difficult decisions.
The Federal Trade Commission provides information about funeral planning, consumer rights, and understanding funeral costs.
Its educational resources explain how to compare funeral providers, request price information, and avoid paying for services you don’t want.
Some printed materials can be ordered through the FTC’s free publication program, subject to quantity requirements.
Best for: Estate planning preparation, funeral cost comparisons, and protecting family finances.
Request information: FTC Consumer Advice or FTC Printed Publications
19. Free Retirement and Financial Planning Worksheets
Retirement planning doesn’t end when you stop working.
Many seniors continue managing budgets, retirement savings, investments, Social Security benefits, and healthcare expenses.
Government agencies and nonprofit organizations offer free worksheets and guides to help older adults organize their finances.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides educational tools covering budgeting, debt, financial decision-making, and protecting money from scams.
Many resources are downloadable, and selected printed publications may be available by mail through the agency’s ordering programs.
Best for: Retirement budgeting, money management, and financial organization.
Where to look: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
20. Free Emergency Preparedness Publications
Emergency preparedness is especially important for older adults who may have medication, mobility, or transportation needs.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Ready.gov provide free resources about preparing for emergencies such as severe storms, power outages, floods, and other disasters.
These publications can help seniors create emergency contact lists, organize important documents, and prepare emergency supply kits.
Some materials are available in print through FEMA’s publication distribution channels, while others can be downloaded.
Best for: Emergency planning, severe weather preparedness, and household safety.
Where to look: Ready.gov Resources for Older Adults
How to Request Free Stuff for Seniors by Mail
Getting free items delivered to your mailbox is usually easy, although the process varies by organization.
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Choose the freebies you want. Browse the list above and select the catalogs, publications, or supplies that interest you.
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Visit the official website. Use the links provided to find the request form or contact information.
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Check eligibility requirements. Some offers are available to everyone, while others require a qualifying age, disability, or membership.
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Enter your mailing information. Most organizations need your name and mailing address.
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Verify that everything is free. Make sure there are no shipping charges, subscription fees, or purchase requirements.
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Watch your mailbox. Some items arrive within days, while catalogs and publications may take several weeks.
For seniors who don’t use the internet regularly, many organizations also accept requests by telephone.
How to Avoid Freebie Scams Targeting Seniors
Unfortunately, not every offer advertised as free is legitimate.
Some scammers use fake giveaways to collect personal information or trick people into paying unnecessary fees.
Before requesting freebies, remember these important safety tips:
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Never provide your Social Security number to receive an ordinary free catalog or sample.
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Avoid offers requiring expensive shipping or processing fees.
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Don’t share bank account or credit card information unless you understand exactly why it’s needed.
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Request government publications through official government websites.
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Be cautious of advertisements promising expensive electronics, large cash prizes, or guaranteed benefits for free.
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Watch for recurring subscriptions hidden in the terms of a free trial.
A legitimate freebie should clearly explain what you’re receiving and whether there are any costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Free Stuff for Seniors
What free stuff can seniors get in the mail?
Seniors can request free catalogs, government publications, travel guides, educational booklets, gardening catalogs, and eligible shipping supplies. Some organizations also provide free reading materials to individuals who meet specific eligibility requirements.
Can seniors get free samples without making a purchase?
Yes. Some companies offer free product samples without requiring a purchase. However, sample availability changes frequently, and certain offers require shipping fees or other conditions.
Does AARP send free stuff to seniors?
AARP offers educational resources and member benefits. Its regular print magazines are included with paid membership, but selected informational materials may be available free to the public.
Can seniors get free large-print books by mail?
Eligible individuals with qualifying print disabilities can receive free accessible reading materials through the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled. Local libraries may also offer large-print books through home-delivery programs.
Can seniors get free medical supplies by mail?
Some insurance plans and assistance programs cover eligible medical supplies, but coverage depends on the person’s circumstances. Be cautious of unsolicited offers for free medical equipment, particularly those requesting Medicare numbers.
Are these freebies available to people under age 65?
Many are! Free catalogs, travel guides, gardening publications, and government educational materials are often available to adults of all ages. Other programs have specific eligibility requirements.
More Free Stuff You Can Get by Mail
If you enjoy receiving free things in your mailbox, don’t stop with this list!
SavingK has plenty of other resources to help you discover freebies, samples, catalogs, and money-saving opportunities.
- 10 Best Weird Free Catalogs by Mail
- Companies That Send Free Samples When You Ask
- More Freebies and Money-Saving Ideas
- Free Calendars by Mail
Final Thoughts
Getting free stuff in the mail isn’t just for kids or coupon enthusiasts. Seniors can enjoy a wide variety of complimentary catalogs, educational publications, travel guides, and useful household supplies.
Whether you’re interested in gardening, retirement planning, reading, home decorating, or protecting yourself from scams, there are free resources worth exploring.
Start by requesting a few items that interest you, and you may be surprised by how many useful things still arrive through traditional mail.
Just remember to check the requirements for each offer, avoid suspicious giveaways, and never pay unnecessary fees for something advertised as free.
