Are you thinking about getting a flu shot? You may be able to help your wallet in the process by taking advantage of flu shot deals that allow you to save money on groceries and other items.
This article will tell you how much it costs to get a flu shot at major pharmacies as well as how you can save money on other items when you get your immunization.
Where Can I Get a Free Flu Shot?
Walgreens, Albertsons and some other retail pharmacies offer free flu shots if you have health insurance. Check with your insurance provider for coverage details.
Additionally, many pharmacies have combined ways to save with flu shots. For example, Safeway and Albertsons, which are both part of Albertsons Companies, offer 10% off on grocery purchases up to $200 with any immunization.
For specifics in your area, contact your local Safeway or Albertsons.
When Are Flu Shots Available for 2022?
Flu shots are typically available from September to May, although the timing can vary depending on the specific region of the United States.
When I inquired about flu shot availability in Atlanta, Georgia, in mid-August, many pharmacies told me that they had yet to receive the new batches and told me to check back on September 1. When I called the pharmacies again in the second week of September, flu shots were in full supply.
Now let’s look at what these major chains say you’ll pay for a flu shot at their pharmacies.
Albertsons
As I mentioned above, if you have health insurance, getting a flu shot at Albertsons will likely be free.
The grocer also offers 10% off a grocery purchase up to $200 with any immunization. For this deal, restrictions apply; call your local Albertsons pharmacy for details.
An Albertsons pharmacy associate told me that, without insurance, you’ll pay around $25 for a flu shot.
Schedule a flu shot at Albertsons.
Costco
Flu vaccines may be free with your health insurance, according to a Costco pharmacist. Because Costco is a wholesale club, members qualify for a discount on flu immunizations.
How Much Do Costco Members Pay for a Flu Shot?
Costco members pay $19.99 for a flu shot while non-members pay $24.99, the pharmacist confirms.
Schedule a flu shot at Costco.
CVS says that you can get $5 off a $20 store coupon upon immunization.
How Much Does a Flu Shot Cost at CVS?
Your flu shot may be free with medical insurance or Medicare Part B. Without insurance, the flu shot costs $49.99, according to the store’s website.
Schedule your flu shot at CVS.
Giant Food
Giant Food also offers flu shots that are free with most insurance plans. Without insurance, the price is between $45 and $50, a pharmacist told me.
Schedule your flu shot at Giant Food pharmacy.
Kroger
Until November 5, Kroger is offering customers who present a Shoppers Card $5 off on a grocery purchase after they get the flu shot. With most insurance coverage, your flu shot will be free, but without insurance, the price runs anywhere between $40 and $60, according to a Kroger pharmacist.
Schedule your flu shot at Kroger Pharmacy.
Publix
Flu shots at Publix should be free with most insurance. A pharmacist confirms that without insurance, the cost will be between $50 and $60.
Publix used to offer $10 to people who got the flu shot there, but a pharmacist confirms to Team Clark that that is no longer the case.
Schedule a flu shot at Publix.
Safeway
Like Albertsons, Safeway offers 10% off a grocery purchase up to $200 with immunizations.
For most insurance plans, the flu shot should be free. Without insurance, it will run you $35, a pharmacist confirms.
Schedule a flu shot at Safeway.
Walgreens
Walgreens advertises free flu shots with most insurance. Without it, the cost of a flu shot is about $42, according to a Walgreens pharmacist.
Schedule a flu shot at Walgreens.
Final Thoughts
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) recommends that you get a flu shot every year. The availability of flu shots may vary depending on the pharmacy, so it’s a good idea to call ahead or go online to make an appointment.
To save more money, don’t forget to visit GoodRx.com or download the app to find coupons you may be able to apply toward the cost of your flu shot.
Read our guide on how to save money with GoodRx.