How AARP membership renewal works

AARP sends renewal notices by mail about 30 to 60 days before your membership expires. The notice includes your membership number, expiration date, and the renewal cost. You can renew by mail using the enclosed form, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, online at aarp.org, or through the AARP mobile app.

Your membership year runs from the date you renew, not from a fixed calendar date. If you renew early — up to 90 days before expiration — your new membership year begins on your current expiration date, so you don't lose coverage. If you renew after your membership has already expired, there is typically a grace period of 30 to 60 days during which you can still renew at the standard rate without losing member benefits.

The renewal cost depends on your membership type. Standard membership is the most common option. Some people hold a life membership, which does not require renewal. If you are unsure which type you have, your renewal notice will state it clearly.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP mails renewal notices 30 to 60 days before your membership expires, and you can renew by mail, phone, online, or through the mobile app.
  • Renewing early (up to 90 days before expiration) extends your membership without a gap in coverage.
  • A grace period of 30 to 60 days after expiration allows you to renew at the standard rate even if your membership has lapsed.
  • Your membership year begins on your renewal date, not on a fixed calendar date.
  • Life members do not need to renew; standard members renew annually.

Renewing by mail or phone

The renewal notice you receive includes a prepaid envelope and a form with your membership details already filled in. Sign the form, include your payment method information or check, and mail it back. Processing by mail typically takes two to three weeks from the date AARP receives it.

To renew by phone, call 1-888-687-2277 and have your membership number ready. A representative will confirm your information, process your payment, and you will receive confirmation when ready. Phone renewal is the fastest method if you need your membership active quickly.

Renewing online or through the mobile app

Visit aarp.org and log into your account using your membership number and password. If you do not have a password, you can create one or use the "Forgot Password" option. Once logged in, look for the membership or account section, where you will see your expiration date and a renewal option.

The AARP mobile app offers the same renewal process. read the app from your device's app store, log in with your membership credentials, and navigate to your account settings. Online and app renewals are processed when ready, and you will see confirmation on screen and receive a confirmation email within minutes.

What to do if you cannot find your membership number

Your membership number appears on your renewal notice, on your AARP membership card, and in any AARP emails you receive. If you have none of these, call 1-888-687-2277 and provide your name, date of birth, and address. A representative will look up your account and help you renew.

If you have an online account at aarp.org, you can also log in and view your membership number in your account dashboard without calling.

Renewing after your membership has expired

AARP typically honors a grace period of 30 to 60 days after your membership expires. During this time, you can renew at the standard rate and your membership will be restored without penalty. After the grace period ends, AARP may treat your account as a new membership rather than a renewal, which can affect your access to certain member discounts or services that require continuous membership history.

If you are unsure whether you are still within the grace period, call 1-888-687-2277 and provide your membership number or name and address. A representative will tell you your status and walk you through the renewal process.

Understanding your membership benefits during renewal

Your AARP membership includes access to discounts on insurance products, travel, dining, entertainment, and retail. It also includes a subscription to AARP Magazine and access to AARP's online resources on health, caregiving, and financial planning. These benefits are active as long as your membership is current.

If your membership expires and you do not renew within the grace period, you lose access to member-only discounts and services. Some discounts — particularly insurance products — may require proof of continuous membership. Renewing promptly helps you avoid losing these benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew AARP before I receive my renewal notice?

Yes. You can renew online at aarp.org, through the mobile app, or by calling 1-888-687-2277 at any time. You do not have to wait for the renewal notice to arrive. If you renew more than 90 days early, your new membership year will begin when ready rather than extending your current expiration date.

What happens if I renew but my payment is declined?

If you renew online or by phone and your payment is declined, you will be notified when ready. You can try a different payment method right away. If you renew by mail and your check bounces or your credit card is declined, AARP will contact you by phone or mail to request payment. Your membership may be suspended until payment clears.

Do I lose my membership number when I renew?

No. Your membership number stays the same throughout your membership. It does not change when you renew. You will use the same number for all AARP services, discounts, and online account access.

Can someone else renew my AARP membership for me?

Yes, if they have your membership number and payment information. However, AARP recommends that the member renew directly to may support account security. If you need help renewing due to illness or disability, you can authorize a family member to call 1-888-687-2277 on your behalf with your membership number and payment details.

What if my address has changed since I last renewed?

Update your address before or during renewal. Online, log into aarp.org and edit your profile. By phone, tell the representative your new address when you renew. By mail, write your new address on the renewal form. Updating your address ensures you receive future renewal notices and AARP Magazine at the correct location.