Money Moral Dilemma: Is it wrong to use student discounts when I'm a high earner?

MSE_Kelvin

This week's MoneySaver who wants advice asks…

I'm in my mid-30s and have an income that puts me in the top 5%. I've got a National Union of Students card through an institution I'm part of. My partner says it's unfair, as student discounts are aimed at low earners. Yet a cynic might argue that companies only offer these discounts to build loyalty among those who’ll one day be well-paid graduates. I’ve not lied to get the card, and I avoid using it at independent shops. Is it wrong to use it elsewhere?

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Jemma01

They don't give the discount because they think you come from poor background, otherwise it would be based on an assessment of entitlement.

I use all sorts of discounts regardless of my income if it's available to me

elsien

If you’re eligible for the student card, then you are eligible for the associated discounts.

There are some students who have got an higher income than I have - including my retired mother who got the student card when she was doing a masters, to keep her brain occupied.

Ed264

Have to say I agree with the previous responses. But you're sure to get different opinions. Good luck!

colliwag85

Yes you should take advantage of the discounts. Things like totum aren’t as good as they used to be but are still pretty good. Just wish I had access to student beans.

horsewithnoname

Nice of you to not use it at independents; I’m sure a lot of the larger places won’t suffer if you use it there.
As far as I’m aware student discounts are for students, so you qualify, so crack on.

PennysIntoPounds

Hmm, 'an institution I'm part of' sounds like you're trying to justify not being a student and using a student savings card. I think, as ever, we'd need more details to give a reasoned response.

Technically you're not doing anything wrong but morally you are if you're not a student.

Agree that it's the right thing to do to not use it in independent places. If you don't need the money maybe you could put the savings you make in a banking pot and donate it to/spend it on those independent shops and pubs in Jan/Feb when times are harder for those running small businesses, or donate it to an animal charity when the Christmas pet novelty wears off in Spring

bikaga

^this - the "through an organisation I'm a part of" thing is bothering me. I don't mind students (even if they're rich) using a student card, but using one when you're not a student seems weird.

msduncan1

I think the original poster -already knows the moral answer to the question😚 Of course its unfair, it’s greedy, and student discounts are only for students . As a parent to a home educated Teen (exams have to be paid for privately, -costly!) My Teen has no eligibility to have these discounts, 6 years and still educating. Someone whom is a top-tier earner bragging and supposedly posing this -, I think is just poor judgement and greed.

Bonnypitlad

‘Good on yer’

If you’re fortunate enough to receive a discount card use it

How can I apply for one?

msduncan1

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82077009#Comment_82077009

Yes, smacks of someone using unethically.