AARP membership costs $16 a year, and most people over 50 can join

AARP is a nonprofit membership organization for people 50 and older. The annual membership fee is $16, though AARP frequently runs promotions offering the first year for $8 or even free. You do not have to be retired to join — you only need to be 50 or older and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

The membership itself does not provide health insurance, prescription drug coverage, or direct cash benefits. Instead, AARP offers discounts on products and services, access to educational resources about Medicare and Social Security, and advocacy on policy issues affecting older adults. Some benefits are available to members only; others are available to anyone who visits AARP's website.

If you are looking for health insurance or prescription drug help, you will need to explore Medicare, Medicaid, or other programs separately. AARP can help you understand those programs, but membership does not enroll you in them.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership costs $16 per year and is open to anyone 50 or older who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • Membership includes discounts on car insurance, travel, dining, and retail, plus access to AARP's Medicare and Social Security guides.
  • AARP does not provide health insurance or prescription drug coverage — you must enroll in Medicare or other programs separately.
  • Many of AARP's educational resources and tools are free to use without membership, though some discounts require a membership card.

What discounts and services come with membership

AARP negotiates discounts with hundreds of companies across insurance, travel, retail, and services. The most commonly used are auto and home insurance discounts through AARP-partnered insurers, hotel and car rental discounts, and pharmacy discounts at chains like CVS and Walgreens. You typically show your membership card or enter your membership number online to receive the discount.

AARP also offers access to its Tax-Aide program, which provides free tax preparation help to people with low to moderate income. Members can attend AARP-sponsored workshops on topics like Medicare, Social Security, caregiving, and financial planning. These workshops are often held in person at libraries and community centers, though some are now online.

The value of membership depends entirely on which discounts you actually use. If you never buy car insurance, travel, or dine at participating restaurants, you may not recoup the $16 fee. If you use several discounts regularly, the membership can pay for itself in a single transaction.

How to join AARP

You can join online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail. Online is fastest — the process takes about 10 minutes. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, address, and email. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or bank account.

When you join, you will receive a membership card in the mail within 1 to 2 weeks. You can start using some online benefits and discounts when ready, even before your card arrives. Some retailers and service providers will accept your membership number in place of the physical card.

AARP frequently offers promotional rates for new members. Check the homepage or call the membership line to ask about current offers before you pay full price. First-year rates as low as $8 or free are common, though the renewal rate is typically the full $16.

AARP resources that do not require membership

AARP's website offers free guides, calculators, and articles about Medicare, Social Security, caregiving, and retirement planning. You do not need to be a member to read these resources or use the tools. The Medicare Plan Finder, Social Security calculator, and caregiver support resources are all freely available.

AARP also publishes a free magazine called AARP Magazine, which is sent to members automatically. However, many of the articles and information from the magazine are also posted on the website for anyone to read.

If you are trying to understand a specific program or topic, you can often find AARP's educational material without paying for membership. Membership is most valuable if you plan to use the discounts or attend in-person workshops regularly.

Renewing your membership and canceling

AARP membership renews automatically each year on your membership anniversary. You will receive a renewal notice by mail and email before the renewal date. The renewal cost is typically $16, though promotional rates may explore depending on AARP's current offers.

You can cancel your membership at any time by calling 1-888-687-2277 or by logging into your account on aarp.org. If you cancel within 30 days of joining, AARP will refund your membership fee. After 30 days, the fee is not refunded, but you can stop the automatic renewal to avoid being charged again next year.

If you are charged for a renewal you did not authorize, contact AARP's member services line. They can reverse the charge if you call within a reasonable timeframe.

AARP membership versus other senior organizations

AARP is the largest membership organization for people 50 and older in the United States, with over 37 million members. Other organizations like the National Council on Aging, Senior Corps, and local Area Agencies on Aging offer different services — some free, some membership-based. The choice depends on what you need.

If you are primarily interested in discounts and educational resources about Medicare and Social Security, AARP is a straightforward option. If you are looking for free local services like meal programs, transportation, or in-home support, your local Area Agency on Aging may be a better starting point. Many people benefit from using both.

Your local 211 service can tell you what senior programs and organizations operate in your area and what each one offers. Call 211 or visit 211.org to search by zip code.

Understanding AARP's advocacy and policy work

AARP uses membership dues and other funding to advocate on policy issues affecting older adults, including Medicare, Social Security, prescription drug pricing, and age discrimination. When you join AARP, your membership fee supports this advocacy work, though you are not required to support any particular policy position.

AARP publishes its policy positions and legislative priorities on its website. If you disagree with AARP's stance on a particular issue, you can still use your membership benefits and ignore the advocacy work. Membership does not mean you endorse every position the organization takes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. You only need to be 50 or older. Many AARP members are still working. Retirement status does not affect membership or the discounts you receive.

Can I use AARP discounts before my membership card arrives?

Yes, for many discounts. You can use your membership number online or over the phone when ready after joining. Some retailers may ask to see the physical card, so having the number ready helps. Your card typically arrives within 1 to 2 weeks.

Does AARP membership include prescription drug coverage?

No. AARP does not provide health insurance or prescription drug plans. However, AARP offers information about Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and can help you understand your options. You must enroll in a plan through Medicare directly.

What happens if I do not use my membership?

You will still be charged the annual renewal fee unless you cancel before the renewal date. If you joined for a specific discount or resource and no longer need it, canceling prevents future charges. There is no penalty for canceling.

Is AARP a government program?

No. AARP is a private nonprofit organization. It is not run by or affiliated with Medicare, Social Security, or any government agency, though it works with government agencies on policy issues and provides information about government programs.