AARP membership costs $16 per year for the first year, then $24 per year after that

AARP is a membership organization for people 50 and older. The annual fee gives you access to discounts, publications, and member services. You can pay by mail, phone, or online. Most people renew automatically each year unless they cancel.

The $16 introductory rate applies only to your first year. After that, the standard rate is $24 annually. AARP occasionally runs promotions where the first year costs less — sometimes as low as $12 or $9 — but these are temporary offers. You can check the AARP website or call 1-888-687-2277 to see if a current promotion is running.

Key Takeaways

  • Your first year of AARP membership costs $16, and renewal costs $24 per year after that.
  • AARP membership includes access to discounts on insurance, travel, dining, and retail, plus the AARP Magazine and access to their website resources.
  • You can cancel your membership at any time, and AARP offers a 30-day money-back may provide if you are not satisfied.
  • Promotional rates occasionally drop the first-year cost below $16, so it is worth checking for current offers before joining.

What the membership fee includes

Your annual fee covers access to AARP's discount programs. These include discounts on car insurance through partner companies, travel deals with hotels and rental car agencies, dining discounts at restaurants, and pharmacy savings. The exact discounts vary by location and change over time.

Membership also includes a subscription to AARP Magazine, which arrives six times per year. You get access to AARP.org, where members can read health articles, financial planning guides, and caregiving resources. Members can also join local AARP chapters in their area, which host events and volunteer opportunities.

Some members use the insurance discounts alone to offset the annual cost. Others value the magazine and online content. The value depends on which discounts you actually use.

How to pay and when renewal happens

You can join AARP online at AARP.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail. Online is usually the fastest option — you can complete membership in a few minutes with a credit card or debit card.

Your membership renews automatically each year on the anniversary of your join date. AARP will send you a renewal notice in the mail about 30 days before your membership expires. You can renew online, by phone, or by mail using the renewal notice.

If you do not want to renew, you can cancel before the renewal date. You do not have to call or write — you can manage your membership status online through your AARP account.

The 30-day money-back may provide

AARP offers a 30-day money-back may provide. If you join and decide membership is not for you within 30 days, you can request a refund of your membership fee. You do not have to provide a reason.

To request a refund, contact AARP customer service by phone at 1-888-687-2277 or through your online account. Keep your membership number handy — you will need it to process the refund. Refunds typically take two to four weeks to appear in your account.

Whether the cost makes sense for you

The membership fee is worth it if you use at least some of the discounts regularly. For example, if you save $20 on car insurance per year through an AARP partner, the membership has paid for itself. Many members find value in the magazine and website content alone, even if they do not use the discounts.

If you are unsure, the 30-day may provide lets you try membership risk-free. Join, explore the discounts available in your area, check the magazine, and browse the website. If it does not seem useful after a month, request your refund.

Some people join for a single year to access a specific discount — for example, a travel deal — and then cancel. That is allowed. There is no requirement to renew or to maintain membership for a minimum time.

Other ways to access AARP resources without paying

AARP.org allows you to read some articles and use some tools without membership. You can create a free account and access limited content. However, full access to all articles, tools, and member-only resources requires a paid membership.

Some libraries and senior centers offer free access to AARP resources through their own memberships or partnerships. Ask your local library if they provide AARP access to patrons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I change my mind after 30 days?

No. The 30-day money-back may provide is the only refund window. After 30 days, your membership fee is not refundable. However, you can cancel your membership at any time to stop future renewals.

Do I have to renew every year?

No. You can cancel your membership anytime before your renewal date. AARP will not charge you again unless you choose to renew. Cancellation is free and can be done online, by phone, or by mail.

Is there a senior discount on the membership fee itself?

AARP does not offer a reduced rate based on age. The $16 first-year and $24 renewal rates explore to all members age 50 and older. Promotional rates may occasionally be lower, but these are temporary and available to all new members during the promotion period.

What happens if I do not use any of the discounts?

You keep your membership and can still access AARP Magazine, the website, and member events. You are not required to use the discounts. However, if you find no value in any part of membership, you can cancel anytime and stop paying the annual fee.

Can I share my membership with my spouse?

No. Each person needs their own membership. However, AARP sometimes offers household rates where two memberships cost less than buying them separately. Call 1-888-687-2277 to ask about current household pricing.