How to join AARP

You can join AARP online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail. The online route is fastest — it takes about five minutes. You'll need to provide your name, date of birth, email address, and mailing address. AARP membership costs $16 per year for the first year, then $24 per year after that. You do not need to be retired to join; you only need to be 50 or older.

When you join online, you'll create a username and password to access your account when ready. You can start using your membership number right away to get discounts at pharmacies, hotels, and restaurants. If you join by phone, a representative will walk you through the same questions and can answer questions about specific benefits before you commit. If you prefer to join by mail, you can request an process form by calling the number above.

Your membership is active for one year from the date you join. AARP will send you renewal notices by mail and email before your membership expires, usually starting about 60 days before the end date.

Key Takeaways

  • You can join AARP online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by requesting a mail form, and membership costs $16 for the first year.
  • Membership requires you to be 50 or older and provide your name, date of birth, email, and mailing address.
  • Your membership number is available when ready after you join online, and you can use it for discounts at pharmacies, hotels, restaurants, and other retailers.
  • AARP membership lasts one year and you will receive renewal notices by mail and email before your membership expires.
  • You do not need to be retired to join AARP, and membership does not affect your Social Security, Medicare, or other government benefits.

What you get with AARP membership

AARP membership includes access to discounts on prescription medications through their pharmacy partners, including CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart. You also receive discounts on hotel stays, car rentals, and travel packages through AARP's travel partners. Restaurant discounts vary by location and partner, but many national chains offer 10 to 15 percent off with your AARP card.

Members also receive AARP Magazine six times per year, which covers health, money, and lifestyle topics for people over 50. You can access AARP's website for articles, tools, and calculators on topics like Social Security, Medicare, retirement planning, and caregiving. Some of these tools, like the Social Security calculator, do not require membership, but members get access to additional content and member-only webinars.

AARP also offers discounts on insurance products, including auto, home, and life insurance through partner companies. These are not AARP insurance products — AARP partners with insurers and receives a commission if you purchase through them. You can compare rates from multiple insurers without joining AARP.

Membership options and costs

AARP offers a standard membership at $16 for the first year and $24 per year after that. There is no separate "premium" or "gold" tier — all members receive the same discounts and access to content. AARP occasionally runs promotions where the first-year cost is lower, usually around $12, but the renewal cost remains $24.

If you are on a very limited income, you may be able to join for free or at a reduced rate through AARP's low-income program. Contact AARP directly at 1-888-687-2277 to ask about this option and what documentation you'll need to provide.

Your membership covers only you — spouses or adult children cannot use your membership number for discounts. However, they can join AARP separately if they are 50 or older and pay their own membership fee.

How to use your membership number

Your AARP membership number appears on your membership card, which AARP mails to you within two to three weeks of joining. You can also view your membership number in your online account at aarp.org by logging in with your username and password. Some retailers and pharmacies allow you to provide your membership number verbally or by text message rather than showing the physical card.

When you use your membership for a discount, tell the cashier or representative that you have an AARP membership before they ring up your purchase. Not all locations honor AARP discounts — call ahead if you are unsure whether a specific store or restaurant participates. You can search for participating retailers on AARP's website by entering your zip code.

Your membership number is personal to you and should not be shared with others. If your card is lost or stolen, contact AARP to request a replacement, which they will mail to you at no additional cost.

Renewing your membership

AARP sends renewal notices starting about 60 days before your membership expires. You can renew online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mailing in the renewal form that comes with your notice. Online renewal is the fastest option and takes about two minutes.

If you renew online or by phone, your membership continues without interruption. If you renew by mail, allow at least two weeks for processing. Your membership will not expire on the exact date shown on your card if you renew before that date — your new membership year begins on the date AARP processes your renewal payment.

If your membership lapses because you did not renew by the expiration date, you can rejoin at any time by paying the current membership fee. There is no penalty for letting your membership lapse, and you do not lose any benefits or discounts during the gap.

Canceling your membership

You can cancel your AARP membership at any time by calling 1-888-687-2277 or by logging into your account at aarp.org and updating your membership status. AARP does not offer refunds for the membership fee you have already paid, even if you cancel partway through your membership year.

If you cancel your membership, you will no longer be able to use your membership number for discounts. AARP will stop sending you the magazine and emails, though you can still access some free content on their website without logging in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be retired to join AARP?

No. You only need to be 50 or older. Your employment status does not matter. Many people join AARP while still working because the pharmacy and travel discounts are available to all members regardless of whether they have retired.

Will joining AARP affect my Social Security or Medicare benefits?

No. AARP membership is separate from government benefits. Joining AARP does not change your Social Security payments, Medicare coverage, or any other federal or state benefits you receive. AARP is a membership organization, not a government program.

Can I use someone else's AARP membership number for discounts?

No. Your membership number is personal to you. Using someone else's number or allowing someone else to use yours violates AARP's membership terms. If you want discounts, the other person should join AARP separately if they are 50 or older.

What happens if I lose my AARP membership card?

Contact AARP at 1-888-687-2277 or log into your account at aarp.org to request a replacement card. AARP will mail a new card to you at no cost. In the meantime, you can provide your membership number verbally or show it on your phone if you have it saved in your account.

Can I join AARP if I live outside the United States?

AARP membership is available to U.S. residents only. If you live abroad but are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, contact AARP at 1-888-687-2277 to discuss your options, as some benefits may still be available depending on your situation.