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

AARP charges a single annual membership fee with no additional tiers or hidden costs. You pay once a year, and your membership runs for 12 months from the date you join. The first-year rate of $16 is a promotional price; renewal costs $24 each year going forward. Some people join through group offers or employer programs, which may have different pricing — check with your employer's benefits office if AARP is listed there.

You do not need to buy anything else to hold an AARP card. The membership itself gives you access to discounts, publications, and member services. Some benefits — like travel bookings or insurance products — involve separate purchases, but joining AARP does not require you to buy them.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership costs $16 for your first year and $24 each year after that, with no additional fees to hold the card.
  • The membership includes access to discounts at retailers and restaurants, AARP Magazine, and member-only resources on the AARP website.
  • Some employers and group organizations offer AARP membership at a reduced rate or as part of a benefits package.
  • You can cancel your membership at any time and request a refund if you cancel within 30 days of joining.

What the annual membership includes

Your AARP membership gives you a card you can use at thousands of retailers, restaurants, hotels, and car rental companies to receive discounts. The discounts vary by business — some offer 5 to 10 percent off, others offer specific deals like free appetizers or room upgrades. You show your card or give your membership number at checkout.

You also receive AARP Magazine six times a year, which covers health, money, travel, and lifestyle topics for people over 50. The magazine arrives in your mailbox at no extra cost. Members can read articles and access additional content on the AARP website without paying more.

The membership includes access to AARP's online tools and resources: a Medicare plan finder, Social Security calculators, tax preparation guides, and articles about caregiving, retirement planning, and health. You can also join AARP's local chapters in your community, which host events and volunteer opportunities.

How to join and payment options

You can join AARP online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail. Online is the fastest route — you enter your name, address, and date of birth, choose your membership term, and pay by credit card or debit card. You receive your membership number when ready and can start using discounts the same day.

By phone, a representative walks you through the same information and can answer questions about specific discounts or benefits before you join. By mail, you fill out a form and mail it with a check or money order to the address AARP provides. Mail processing takes two to three weeks.

AARP accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover online and by phone. If you pay by mail, you can send a check or money order. You can also set up automatic renewal so your membership renews each year without you having to remember to pay.

Discounts available with your membership

Common AARP discounts include 10 percent off at Walgreens and CVS pharmacies, discounts on eyeglasses at LensCrafters and Pearle Vision, and reduced rates at major hotel chains like Choice Hotels and Wyndham. Restaurant discounts vary by location but often include chains like Denny's, Applebee's, and Olive Garden. Car rental companies like Hertz and Avis offer AARP member rates.

Discounts also extend to services: AARP members can get reduced rates on auto and home insurance through partner companies, discounts on travel packages, and special pricing on tax preparation software. The specific discounts change, so it is worth checking the AARP website or calling 1-888-687-2277 to ask about discounts at places you shop regularly before you join.

Not every location of a chain honors AARP discounts, and some discounts cannot be combined with other offers. Always ask or check the AARP website to confirm a discount is available at the specific business you plan to visit.

Group and employer membership options

Some employers offer AARP membership as part of their benefits package, sometimes at a reduced rate or fully paid by the employer. If your workplace offers it, you can join through your benefits portal or by contacting your HR or benefits office. Group memberships often cost less than the standard individual rate.

Unions, professional associations, and alumni organizations sometimes negotiate group AARP rates for their members. If you belong to any of these groups, ask whether AARP is available through them. You still get the same membership card and benefits; the only difference is the price you pay.

Cancellation and refunds

You can cancel your AARP membership at any time. If you cancel within 30 days of joining, AARP will refund your membership fee. After 30 days, you do not receive a refund, but your membership straightforward ends on the date it expires — you are not charged again unless you renew.

To cancel, call 1-888-687-2277 or visit aarp.org and manage your account online. Have your membership number ready. The representative or online system will confirm your cancellation and, if you are within 30 days, process your refund. Refunds typically appear in your account within 7 to 10 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be 50 years old to join AARP?

Yes, you must be at least 50 years old to hold an AARP membership. When you join, you provide your date of birth, and AARP verifies it meets the age requirement. If you are under 50, you cannot join.

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

No, AARP does not refund membership fees after 30 days. However, your membership straightforward expires at the end of the year — you are not charged again unless you choose to renew. You can cancel anytime to stop future charges.

Are there any hidden fees or charges with AARP membership?

No. The $16 or $24 annual fee is the only cost to hold the membership card. Discounts and magazine access are included. If you purchase insurance, travel packages, or other products through AARP, those have separate costs, but buying them is optional.

Can I share my AARP card with my spouse?

No, each person needs their own membership. Your spouse can join separately for the same $16 first-year rate. Some couples choose to join together to get two cards and access discounts at twice as many places.

What happens if I lose my AARP card?

Call 1-888-687-2277 and AARP will mail you a replacement card at no charge. You can also use your membership number instead of the physical card at many retailers and online. The replacement card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.