AARP membership is not free, but the annual cost is low and covers access to discounts, magazines, and member services

AARP charges $16 per year for a standard membership. That gets you a membership card, access to their website and mobile app, AARP Magazine delivered to your home, and may be able to access for discounts at retailers, restaurants, hotels, and car rental companies. Some people find the discounts pay for the membership within a few uses; others join mainly for the magazine or to support AARP's advocacy work.

You do not have to pay to read AARP's articles online or to use their free tools — the cost is only if you want the official membership card and the full range of member benefits. Many of AARP's most useful resources, like their Social Security calculator, Medicare guides, and caregiving articles, are available to anyone without joining.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership costs $16 per year and includes a membership card, magazine, and access to member discounts.
  • You can read AARP articles and use their free tools online without paying or becoming a member.
  • Membership discounts vary by retailer and location, so check what is available near you before joining.
  • AARP also offers supplemental insurance products and financial services that cost extra and are separate from membership.

What the $16 membership includes

Your annual membership covers the AARP Magazine (delivered 10 times a year), access to the AARP website and mobile app, a membership card, and the right to join AARP chapters and local groups in your area. You also get a member discount code that works at some online retailers.

The discounts themselves vary widely. Common ones include 10 percent off at some hotel chains, discounts on car rentals through Hertz or Budget, and special pricing on movie tickets at certain theaters. Some grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants offer AARP discounts, but which ones depends on your location. You can search for discounts near you on the AARP website before you join, so you know whether the membership will save you money in practice.

What costs extra beyond membership

AARP also sells insurance products and financial services that are not included in your $16 membership. These include supplemental health insurance, life insurance, auto and home insurance, and investment advisory services. These products have their own costs and are optional — you can be an AARP member without buying any of them.

AARP receives commissions when you buy these products through them, which is how they fund much of their work. If you are interested in any of these services, read the terms carefully and compare prices with other providers, because AARP's rates are not always the lowest available.

How to join and payment options

You can join AARP online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail. You must be 50 or older. When you join online, you can pay by credit card or debit card. By phone or mail, you can also pay by check.

AARP offers a few payment options: you can pay $16 for one year, $27 for three years, or $43 for five years. The multi-year options cost less per year but require paying upfront. If you are unsure whether you will use the membership, start with one year.

Free AARP resources you can use without joining

AARP publishes articles, guides, and tools on topics like Medicare, Social Security, caregiving, retirement planning, and health. Most of this content is free to read on their website without a membership. Their Social Security calculator, Medicare plan finder, and caregiving resource library are all available to anyone.

You can also sign up for AARP's free email newsletters on specific topics — Medicare, Social Security, caregiving, or financial planning — without becoming a member. These newsletters arrive weekly or monthly depending on which ones you choose.

Whether membership makes financial sense for you

The membership pays for itself if you use just a few discounts per year. For example, a single hotel stay with a 10 percent AARP discount, or a few restaurant visits, could easily save you $16. But if you do not travel, eat out, or shop at places that offer AARP discounts, the membership may not save you money.

Some people join mainly for the magazine or to support AARP's work on issues like Social Security and Medicare policy. Others join because they belong to an AARP chapter or group in their area. The decision depends on what matters to you and what discounts are actually available where you live.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I try AARP membership for free before paying?

No, AARP does not offer a free trial. However, you can search their discount directory on aarp.org to see what discounts are available in your area before you decide to join. If you join and change your mind within 30 days, you can request a refund.

Do I have to buy insurance or other products if I am an AARP member?

No. Membership and insurance products are completely separate. You can be a member and never buy any insurance or financial services through AARP. The membership itself includes only the magazine, discounts, and access to their website.

Is AARP membership worth it if I only want to read their articles?

You do not need to pay for membership to read AARP articles online. Their website is free to use. You would only join if you want the magazine, the membership card, or the discounts.

What happens if I do not use my membership?

Your membership stays active for the year you paid for, even if you do not use any discounts or read the magazine. If you do not want to renew, you can let it expire or call 1-888-687-2277 to cancel before your renewal date.