You can join AARP online, by phone, or by mail, and membership starts when ready once you pay the fee

AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older. You do not need to be retired, and there is no income requirement. The standard membership fee is $16 per year, though AARP periodically offers discounted rates for new members — sometimes as low as $8 for the first year. Once you submit your information and payment, your membership becomes active right away, and you can start using your membership number to access discounts and resources.

The fastest route is the AARP website at aarp.org. You can complete the entire process in about five minutes. If you prefer to speak with someone or do not have internet access, you can call AARP's membership line at 1-888-687-2277 (available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time). You can also mail in a paper form, though this takes longer.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 50 or older to join AARP, and membership costs $16 per year, though introductory rates are sometimes available.
  • Online enrollment at aarp.org is the fastest method and takes about five minutes from start to finish.
  • You will receive a membership card by mail within 7 to 10 business days, but your membership is active when ready after you pay.
  • AARP offers a 30-day money-back may provide if you change your mind about membership.
  • You can manage your account online anytime, including updating your address, payment method, or communication preferences.

Joining online through the AARP website

Go to aarp.org and look for the "Join" button, usually near the top of the page. Click it and you will be taken to a form that asks for your name, date of birth, email address, and mailing address. You will also choose a username and password for your online account. AARP uses this login to let you access member benefits, read articles, and manage your preferences.

After you fill in your personal information, the form will ask how you want to pay. AARP accepts credit cards, debit cards, and bank account transfers. Once you submit your payment, you will see a confirmation screen with your membership number. Write this number down or take a screenshot — you may need it right away if you want to use a discount at a store or restaurant. Your physical membership card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days, but you do not have to wait for it to start using your membership.

Joining by phone

Call 1-888-687-2277 to speak with a membership representative. They will ask you the same questions as the online form: your name, date of birth, address, and email. They will also take your payment information over the phone. The call usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. At the end, the representative will give you your membership number verbally, and you can write it down or ask them to email it to you.

Phone enrollment is useful if you have questions about what membership includes, want to know about current promotional rates, or straightforward prefer not to use the website. Representatives can also help if you are unsure whether you meet the age requirement or have other concerns before you join.

Joining by mail

You can request a paper membership form by calling 1-888-687-2277 or visiting aarp.org and looking for a "Mail" or "Paper Form" option. Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, address, and email. Include a check or money order for the membership fee, made payable to AARP. Mail the completed form and payment to the address printed on the form.

Mail enrollment takes longer — typically 3 to 4 weeks from the time AARP receives your form until your membership is active and your card arrives. This method works well if you do not have internet access or prefer not to provide payment information online.

What happens after you join

Once your membership is active, you can log into your AARP account at aarp.org using the username and password you created. Your account dashboard shows your membership number, expiration date, and any current discounts or offers. You can also update your address, email, phone number, or payment method anytime without calling anyone.

AARP will begin sending you emails about member benefits, articles, and events — but you control how often you hear from them. In your account settings, you can choose which types of emails you want to receive and how frequently. You can also opt out of all marketing emails if you prefer, though AARP will still send important account notices.

Your membership renews automatically each year on the anniversary of your join date, unless you cancel. AARP will send you a reminder email before the renewal charge appears on your card, so you have a chance to cancel if you want to.

Understanding the 30-day money-back may provide

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

To request a refund, call 1-888-687-2277 or log into your account and look for a "Cancel Membership" or "Request Refund" option. AARP will process the refund to your original payment method within 7 to 10 business days. This may provide gives you a risk-free way to explore what membership offers before committing long-term.

Membership discounts and what to expect

AARP membership includes access to discounts on hotels, rental cars, restaurants, and retail stores. You also get access to AARP Magazine, which arrives in your mailbox, and AARP.org, which has articles on health, money, caregiving, and other topics relevant to people 50 and older. Some members use the discounts enough to cover the annual fee within a few uses; others join mainly for the magazine and website content.

Discounts vary by location and business. When you shop or travel, ask if the business honors AARP discounts, or check your AARP account for a current list of participating retailers in your area. You will usually need to show your membership card or provide your membership number at checkout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, regardless of employment status. You do not have to be retired, and there is no income requirement.

Can I cancel my membership anytime?

Yes. You can cancel anytime by calling 1-888-687-2277 or logging into your account online. If you cancel within 30 days of joining, you will receive a full refund. After 30 days, your membership will straightforward end on your next renewal date, and you will not be charged again.

What if I lose my membership card?

You can request a replacement card by logging into your AARP account or calling 1-888-687-2277. AARP will mail a new card to you at no charge. In the meantime, you can use your membership number (available in your online account) to access discounts.

Can I give my membership card to a family member?

No. AARP membership is individual and non-transferable. Each person who wants to be an AARP member must join separately and pay their own membership fee. However, AARP sometimes offers household discounts if multiple people in the same home join.

How do I update my address or email after I join?

Log into your AARP account at aarp.org and go to your profile or account settings. You can update your mailing address, email, phone number, and other information directly. Changes usually take effect within a few business days. You can also call 1-888-687-2277 to update your information by phone.