When considering a career move, prospective employees often look closely at a company’s full benefits package, and for a major retailer, merchandise discounts are a frequent point of inquiry. The answer is yes, Amazon does extend a discount benefit to its employees, but the structure involves specific rules and limitations that define its actual value and scope.
The Standard Employee Merchandise Discount
The standard discount for employees is set at 10% off the purchase price of eligible merchandise. To utilize this benefit, employees receive a unique code, often called the Employee Discount Code (EDC), which they apply during the checkout process on Amazon.com. This code functions like a coupon, reducing the subtotal of qualifying items by the set percentage.
This discount is subject to a strict annual cap that significantly limits the total savings an employee can realize. The maximum amount an employee can save in a calendar year is $100. This $100 cap means the discount only applies to the first $1,000 worth of eligible purchases made each year, after which the discount resets at the start of the next calendar year.
Eligibility Requirements for Receiving the Discount
The merchandise discount is not immediately available to every new hire, as a specific waiting period must be satisfied. Employees must generally complete 30 days of continuous employment before they become eligible to receive and use the discount code.
The benefit is extended broadly across employment classifications, including both full-time and part-time staff. Employees scheduled to work at least 20 hours per week are typically eligible to receive the discount. This ensures associates in fulfillment centers, corporate offices, and other divisions can participate, provided they meet the hourly minimum.
Seasonal or temporary workers often face different criteria or may be excluded entirely. Eligibility status can vary based on the specific type of contract and local policies. The benefit is primarily designed for regular employees with a sustained commitment to the company.
Specific Limitations and Exclusions
The most significant restriction is that the employee discount applies only to items that are both sold and fulfilled directly by Amazon. This rule excludes a substantial portion of the catalog, as many products are sold by third-party merchants. Employees must verify that “Amazon.com” is listed as the seller and shipper to ensure the discount is applied at checkout.
The discount does not apply to purchases of digital content, including e-books, music downloads, or streaming subscriptions. Furthermore, the purchase of gift cards is explicitly excluded from the program. Certain high-value or limited-edition electronics, such as Kindle devices or other first-party products, are also typically ineligible for the 10% reduction.
Discounts at Whole Foods Market
The discount structure at Whole Foods Market (WFM), an Amazon subsidiary, operates separately from the Amazon.com merchandise discount. WFM team members receive a standard 20% discount on purchases made at their store locations. This percentage applies to a wide variety of WFM products, including groceries and prepared foods.
WFM also offers the Team Member Healthy Discount Incentive Program, which allows employees to increase their savings. Employees can boost their discount from 20% to 30% by meeting specific health and wellness metrics, which historically included passing a health assessment. This separate discount structure for WFM store and facility workers is currently maintained, even as Amazon works to align benefits for corporate grocery staff.
Additional Employee Perks and Benefits
Beyond the merchandise discounts, Amazon provides a comprehensive suite of benefits addressing health, financial security, and career development. Health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, is available to eligible employees, often starting on the first day of employment. The company also offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan, which includes a company match on employee contributions.
Financial planning is supported through a matching contribution of 50 cents for every dollar an employee contributes, up to a certain percentage of their pay. The Career Choice program pre-pays 95% of tuition for courses leading to industry-recognized certificates or associate degrees in high-demand fields. The company also offers paid time off and paid parental leave, providing up to 20 weeks of leave for birthing parents and six weeks for supporting parents.