Recently, while buying a ticket at the Point Defiance Ferry Terminal, the elderly person in front of me showed their ID and their fare was cut in half. I felt happy just watching.

However, there are surprisingly many people who are unaware of these discounts and end up paying full price. When I talk to people in the Korean community, I often hear, "Was there such a thing?"

First, there's something important to clarify. While many say that turning 60 is the cutoff, the actual starting age varies by program, with some starting at 61, 62, 65, or even 70.

So today, I've organized the benefits available in Washington State, particularly in Tacoma and Pierce County, by age.

The first benefit to consider is property tax relief. In Washington State, seniors can qualify for property tax reduction if they are 61 or older as of December 31 of the year prior to applying.

The conditions are that you must have lived in your own home for at least six months of the year, and your household income must be below the county's threshold. The income brackets are divided into three tiers, with lower incomes receiving greater reductions.

Income eligibility is based on the county's median household income, so it varies by location, and the state Department of Revenue announces updates every few years. It's best to contact the Pierce County Assessor-Treasurer's office (253-798-2169) directly for the quickest information.

Next is the benefit that opens up at age 62. If you enjoy traveling, this is something you need to know.

The federal government's America the Beautiful Senior Pass is available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 and older. The annual pass costs $20, while the lifetime pass is $80.

If you buy it on-site, it costs $80, but applying online or by mail incurs a processing fee of $10. Purchasing directly at places like the entrance to Mount Rainier is a way to save a bit.

This pass grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, and offers a 50% discount on some facility fees like camping. Honestly, I was a bit surprised when I first heard that it's only $80 for a lifetime pass.

Washington State Parks also offers two passes for residents aged 62 and older.

One is the Senior Citizen Limited Income Pass. If you are 62 or older, have an annual income of $40,000 or less, and have lived in Washington for at least three consecutive months, you can apply for it for free.

This pass allows free parking at state parks, eliminating the need for a Discover Pass, and camping or moorage fees are also halved. It needs to be renewed every five years, but the renewal is free.

However, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks to receive it by mail after applying, so if you have travel plans, you should apply in advance.

The other pass is the Senior Off-Season Pass. Residents aged 62 and older can purchase it for $100 without income restrictions, while low-income pass holders can get it for $50.

From October 1 to March 31, you can camp for free for one night at a site every day, and in April, it's free from Sunday to Thursday. Utility sites like electric hookups cost $12 per night.

The application period is from September 1 to April 15, so now is the perfect time to apply. If you enjoy fall camping, you'll easily get your money's worth.

At age 65, transportation costs significantly decrease. Pierce Transit offers a reduced fare of $1 for those 65 and older who show a Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP). The regular fare is $2, so it's exactly half price.

The RRFP card is free when you first apply, but if you lose it and need a replacement, it costs $3. You can apply online by uploading proof of age, by mail, or in person at the bus shop near Tacoma Dome Station.

This card also allows you to receive discounted fares on other regional transit agencies like Sound Transit, which is a great advantage.

As I mentioned earlier, Washington State Ferries also offers half-price fares for passengers aged 65 and older. You just need to show a photo ID or the RRFP.

For reference, the route from Point Defiance to Vashon Island only charges a fare when entering the island. You don't need to buy a ticket for the return trip.

At age 70, fishing licenses change as well. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has a separate senior license fee for residents aged 70 and older. If you enjoy salmon fishing in Puget Sound, it's worth checking out.

Local facilities also offer discounts. The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium has separate senior pricing and seasonal discounts, so I recommend checking their website before visiting.

To summarize, at 61 you get property tax relief, at 62 you have access to national and state parks, at 65 you benefit from bus and ferry discounts, and at 70 you have changes to fishing licenses.

If I had to recommend an order to my friends, I would say to get the RRFP as soon as you turn 65, and if you're over 62, don't delay in getting the lifetime national park pass. Once you buy it, it's done.

Discounts ultimately go to those who know about them. If any of the benefits I've outlined apply to you, I hope you'll get your application this week.