What AARP phone plans are and who offers them
AARP does not run its own phone network. Instead, AARP partners with wireless carriers — currently Verizon and UnitedHealthcare — to offer discounted plans to AARP members. You get a discount on the carrier's standard rates, but you are still buying service from Verizon or UnitedHealthcare, not from AARP itself.
The discounts range from 5 percent to 25 percent off standard monthly plans, depending on which carrier you choose and what type of plan you pick. Both carriers offer plans for individual lines and family groups. The actual network coverage, customer service, and billing all come from the carrier you select.
To use an AARP phone plan, you must be an AARP member. Membership costs $16 per year for people 50 and older. If you are already an AARP member, you can explore these plans without paying anything extra.
Key Takeaways
- AARP phone plans are discounted wireless plans offered through Verizon or UnitedHealthcare, not a separate network run by AARP.
- You must be an AARP member to get the discount, and membership costs $16 per year for people 50 and older.
- Discounts typically range from 5 to 25 percent off the carrier's standard rates, depending on the plan type and carrier.
- Both carriers offer plans with unlimited talk and text, and you can bring your own phone or buy one through them.
- You can switch carriers or cancel at any time without penalty, since these are standard wireless contracts with the carrier, not AARP.
Verizon's AARP discount plans
Verizon offers several plan tiers to AARP members. The discount applies to both prepaid and postpaid plans. On postpaid plans, AARP members typically receive 10 to 15 percent off the monthly rate. Prepaid plans often have a smaller discount, around 5 to 10 percent.
Verizon's standard postpaid plans include unlimited talk and text with varying amounts of data — usually starting at 4 gigabytes per month and going up to unlimited. The data allowance determines the base price, and the AARP discount reduces that price. If you use very little data, Verizon also offers plans with smaller data buckets at lower starting prices.
To see current Verizon AARP plan pricing and data amounts, visit the Verizon website or call 1-800-922-0204. Verizon can also tell you whether your current phone is compatible with their network, or help you choose a new one if needed.
UnitedHealthcare's AARP wireless plans
UnitedHealthcare offers AARP members discounts on wireless plans that run on the T-Mobile network. The discount structure is similar to Verizon's — typically 10 to 20 percent off standard rates depending on the plan. UnitedHealthcare plans include unlimited talk and text with tiered data options.
One difference between UnitedHealthcare and Verizon is that UnitedHealthcare plans may include additional perks like international calling to certain countries or roadside information features. Check the current plan details on the UnitedHealthcare website to see what is included with each tier.
To explore UnitedHealthcare AARP plans, visit their website or call 1-855-695-2671. They can confirm your AARP membership status and walk you through the available options.
How to compare these plans and choose one
The best plan for you depends on three things: how much data you use each month, which network has the strongest coverage where you live, and whether you want to keep your current phone or buy a new one.
Start by checking coverage maps. Both Verizon and T-Mobile (which powers UnitedHealthcare) publish coverage maps on their websites. Enter your home address and workplace to see which network is stronger in the places you spend the most time. If coverage is similar, the choice comes down to price and data needs.
Next, estimate your monthly data use. If you mostly use Wi-Fi at home and work, you may only need 4 to 8 gigabytes per month. If you stream video or music while away from Wi-Fi regularly, you may need 15 to 20 gigabytes or unlimited data. Both carriers let you check your past usage if you have been with another provider — ask them to show you your usage history before you commit.
Finally, check whether your current phone works with the carrier you are considering. Both Verizon and UnitedHealthcare have phone compatibility checkers on their websites. If your phone is not compatible, both carriers sell phones at various price points, and you can sometimes find discounts or payment plans.
What happens after you sign up
Once you choose a carrier and plan, you will need to provide your AARP membership number to confirm your discount. The carrier will set up your service, either by transferring your existing phone number (called porting) or assigning you a new number. Porting usually takes a few hours to a day.
Your first bill will arrive within a few days of set up. It will show the monthly plan charge with the AARP discount already applied, plus any taxes and fees. Taxes and fees vary by state and location, so your total bill may be slightly higher than the advertised plan price.
You can manage your account online or through the carrier's mobile app. Both Verizon and UnitedHealthcare let you view your bill, check your data usage, pay online, and contact customer service through their apps or websites.
Switching carriers or canceling service
If you sign up for an AARP phone plan and later decide it is not right for you, you can switch to a different carrier or cancel without an early termination fee. AARP phone plans are standard wireless contracts — they do not lock you in longer than any other wireless plan.
To switch carriers, contact your new carrier and ask them to port your phone number. The process usually takes a few hours to a day. You can keep your current phone if it is compatible with the new network, or buy a new one from the new carrier.
To cancel, contact the carrier directly. They will tell you when your final bill is due and confirm that your service will end on a specific date. If you have a balance on your account, you will receive a final bill.
Other ways to save on wireless service as an AARP member
Beyond the phone plans themselves, AARP sometimes offers additional discounts or promotions through its partners. These may include discounts on phone purchases, free months of service, or credits toward accessories. Check the AARP website or ask the carrier directly about current promotions when you sign up.
AARP also publishes articles and guides about wireless plans, data security, and phone safety. These resources are free to all AARP members and can help you understand how to protect your phone and use your plan wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to buy a new phone to get an AARP plan?
No. If your current phone is compatible with the carrier's network, you can bring it with you. Both Verizon and UnitedHealthcare have compatibility checkers on their websites. If your phone is not compatible, you can buy one from the carrier, but it is not required to start service.
Can I keep my current phone number if I switch to an AARP plan?
Yes. When you sign up, ask the carrier to port your existing number. This process usually takes a few hours to a day. You will keep the same number throughout the porting process.
What is the difference between prepaid and postpaid AARP plans?
Prepaid plans require you to pay upfront for a set amount of service, usually monthly. Postpaid plans bill you after you use the service. Postpaid plans typically offer larger data allowances and bigger discounts for AARP members, while prepaid plans offer more flexibility if you use very little data.
Do AARP phone plans include international calling?
It depends on the carrier and plan. Some UnitedHealthcare plans include international calling to certain countries. Verizon offers international options as add-ons. Ask the carrier about international features when you are comparing plans.
What if I have problems with my service or billing?
Contact the carrier directly — Verizon at 1-800-922-0204 or UnitedHealthcare at 1-855-695-2671. AARP does not handle customer service for these plans. The carrier will troubleshoot technical issues and resolve billing questions.