AARP membership costs $16 per year for the first year, then $12 per year to renew

The standard membership fee is $16 for your first year. After that, renewal costs $12 per year. You can pay by mail, phone, or online. AARP also offers a three-year membership for $38, which works out to about $12.67 per year if you want to lock in a longer commitment.

Some people pay nothing to join. If you are a current or former federal employee, you may be covered under a group membership through your employer or union. Military veterans and their spouses sometimes have access to group rates as well. Check with your employer's benefits office or your military service organization to see if you already have coverage.

The membership includes access to AARP's website, magazine, and member discounts. It does not include health insurance, prescription drug coverage, or Medicare supplemental plans — those are separate products you would purchase if you want them.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard AARP membership costs $16 for the first year and $12 per year to renew, with a three-year option available for $38.
  • Some people do not pay anything because they are covered through a group membership via their employer, union, or military service.
  • The membership fee covers access to the AARP website, magazine, and member discounts on products and services.
  • AARP also sells separate insurance products and Medicare plans, which have their own costs and are not included in the membership fee.

What the membership fee covers

Your membership fee gives you access to AARP's website, where you can read articles about health, money, work, and caregiving. You also receive AARP Magazine six times a year in the mail. The site includes tools like a Medicare plan finder and a Social Security calculator.

Members get discounts at certain hotels, car rental companies, and restaurants. The discounts vary by location and change over time, so check the AARP website to see what is available in your area. Some members also get discounts on prescription medications through a pharmacy program, though this is separate from any Medicare prescription drug plan you might have.

You can join AARP local chapters in your community, which host events and volunteer opportunities. These are free to attend once you are a member. AARP also offers free tax preparation help through its Tax-Aide program at certain locations during tax season.

Insurance and Medicare products sold separately

AARP does not include health insurance or Medicare coverage in the membership fee. Instead, AARP partners with insurance companies to sell these products under the AARP name. You buy them separately and pay the insurance company directly, not AARP.

These products include Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare supplemental insurance (Medigap), long-term care insurance, and life insurance. Each has its own monthly or annual premium. The cost depends on your age, health, location, and the specific plan you choose. You can shop for these on the AARP website or by phone, but you are purchasing insurance, not paying a membership fee.

Some people join AARP specifically to shop for these insurance products. Others join for the magazine and discounts and never buy insurance. Both are common paths.

How to join and pay

You can join online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail. Online is usually the fastest — you enter your information, choose your membership length, and pay by credit card or debit card. Your membership becomes active right away.

By phone, a representative will walk you through the process and answer questions. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes. By mail, you fill out a form, include a check, and send it in. Mail processing typically takes two to three weeks.

You must be 50 or older to join. You will need your date of birth and a valid mailing address. If you are renewing, you can do it online, by phone, or by mail as well. AARP sends renewal notices before your membership expires, usually about a month in advance.

Group memberships through employers and organizations

If your employer, union, or professional association has a group membership agreement with AARP, you may be covered at no cost or at a reduced rate. Federal employees, for example, often have access to group coverage. Some unions negotiate group rates for their members.

To learn about you are covered, contact your employer's human resources or benefits office. They can tell you whether AARP is included in your benefits package and how to set up your membership. If it is included, you will not pay the standard $16 or $12 fee.

Military veterans and their spouses should check with their service organization — groups like the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and military-specific unions sometimes offer group AARP memberships as a member benefit.

Discounts and savings that offset the cost

Many members find that a single discount pays for the membership fee within the first year. For example, if you book a hotel stay through AARP's partner discounts and save $20, you have already covered the $16 first-year cost. The prescription drug discounts and restaurant deals add up over time as well.

The value depends on how much you use the benefits. If you never travel, eat out, or fill prescriptions, the discounts may not matter to you. If you do these things regularly, the membership often pays for itself. The magazine and website content are available to all members regardless of whether you use the discounts.

AARP occasionally runs promotional offers, such as joining for $8 for the first year instead of $16. These promotions are usually advertised on the AARP website or in direct mail. If you see a promotional rate, that is a real offer — you pay the lower amount for the first year and the standard renewal rate after that.

Canceling your membership

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, the fee is not refunded, but you can stop your membership from renewing.

To cancel, call 1-888-687-2277 or go online to your account on aarp.org and manage your membership settings. By phone, a representative will ask why you are canceling but will not pressure you to stay. The process takes a few minutes.

If you cancel, you lose access to the website and member discounts when ready. Your magazine subscription will end with the current issue or the next one, depending on when you cancel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to buy insurance to join AARP?

No. The $16 membership fee is separate from any insurance products. You can join AARP, use the website and discounts, and never buy insurance. Insurance is optional and sold by partner companies, not by AARP itself.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?

Yes, if you cancel within 30 days of joining. AARP will refund your membership fee. After 30 days, the fee is not refunded, but you can cancel your membership to stop future renewals.

What if my employer already covers me through a group plan?

Contact your employer's benefits office to confirm you are covered. If you are, you do not pay the standard membership fee. Your employer handles the cost. You can still use all the same AARP benefits as an individual member.

Are there any hidden fees after I join?

No. The membership fee is $16 for the first year and $12 to renew. Any other products — insurance, travel packages, or special services — are sold separately and clearly priced before you buy them.

Can I join if I am under 50?

No. AARP membership requires you to be 50 or older. Some AARP programs and discounts may be available to younger family members of members, but they cannot hold their own membership.