AARP runs membership programs, advocacy, and research—not government benefits

AARP is a nonprofit organization that serves people 50 and older through three main channels: membership programs (discounts, insurance products, and educational content), advocacy (lobbying for laws that affect older adults), and research (studies on aging and health). AARP does not run Medicare, Social Security, or any government program. It does not determine who gets benefits or process applications for federal information. Many people confuse AARP with a government agency because it is well-known and deals with topics that overlap with Medicare and retirement, but it is a private membership organization.

The organization has about 38 million members and operates in all 50 states through national programs and local chapters. AARP's annual budget comes from membership dues, insurance product commissions, and grants. The organization is tax-exempt as a nonprofit, which means it reinvests revenue into programs rather than paying shareholders.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership includes discounts on hotels, rental cars, insurance products, and some retail stores, plus access to their magazine and website content.
  • AARP advocates for laws affecting older adults—such as changes to Medicare, Social Security, and prescription drug pricing—but does not run these programs.
  • AARP publishes research on aging, health, and caregiving, and offers free educational resources on topics like retirement planning and health conditions.
  • AARP does not process government benefit applications, determine may be able to access for Medicare or Social Security, or provide direct financial information.
  • Membership costs $16 per year and includes access to AARP Magazine, the AARP website, and member discounts, though many benefits are available to non-members.

What membership includes

AARP membership costs $16 annually and gives you access to discounts, insurance products, and content. The discounts vary by partner and location—common ones include 10 percent off at some hotel chains (Hilton, Wyndham), discounts on rental cars (Hertz, Avis), and reduced rates on some insurance products (auto, home, life). Not all discounts explore everywhere, and some require you to book through AARP's website or call a specific number to receive the rate.

Members also receive AARP Magazine six times a year and unlimited access to AARP.org, which hosts articles on health, caregiving, money, and work. The website includes tools like a Medicare plan finder (which shows available plans in your area but does not enroll you) and a caregiver resource center. Many of these resources are free to non-members as well, though members get early access to some content and can use certain tools without ads.

AARP also offers insurance products through partner companies—including supplemental health insurance, long-term care insurance, and life insurance. These are sold by insurance companies, not by AARP itself, though AARP negotiates rates for members. You pay the insurance company directly, not AARP. The organization earns a commission when members purchase these products, which helps fund AARP's operations.

How AARP advocates for laws

AARP employs lobbyists and policy staff who work on federal and state legislation affecting people 50 and older. Recent focus areas have included prescription drug pricing, Medicare coverage, Social Security, and long-term care. AARP testifies before Congress, submits written comments on proposed rules, and campaigns for or against specific bills. The organization also runs public awareness campaigns—such as ads about Medicare or caregiver support—to shape public opinion on these issues.

AARP's advocacy positions are determined by its board and staff, not by individual members voting on each issue. Members can contact AARP to share their views, but membership does not give you a vote on the organization's policy priorities. AARP's positions sometimes align with one political party more than another on specific issues, though the organization works with lawmakers across the political spectrum. The organization publishes its policy positions on AARP.org so members can see where it stands on major issues.

Research and educational content AARP publishes

AARP funds and publishes research on aging, health, caregiving, and retirement. Studies cover topics like the cost of caregiving, the impact of Social Security changes, prescription drug affordability, and health outcomes for older adults. This research is often cited by policymakers, news outlets, and other organizations. AARP also publishes surveys asking older adults about their experiences—for example, how many are working past 65, or how many are providing unpaid care to family members.

Much of this research is free to read on AARP.org. The organization also produces educational guides on topics like managing chronic conditions, planning for retirement, and understanding Medicare. These guides are written for a general audience and do not require membership to access. AARP also offers some courses and webinars on health and financial topics, some free and some for a fee. The research team includes economists, social scientists, and health researchers who work on long-term studies tracking how older adults' lives change over time.

What AARP does not do

AARP does not run Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, or any other government program. It does not process applications, determine may be able to access, or issue benefit payments. If you need to enroll in Medicare or explore for Social Security, you contact Medicare.gov or Social Security directly—not AARP. AARP can point you toward these agencies and explain how the programs work, but it cannot process your process or make decisions about your benefits.

AARP also does not provide direct financial information, grants, or loans to members. It does not pay medical bills, cover prescription costs, or give money for housing or utilities. Some AARP members confuse the organization with government information programs or charities that do provide direct aid. If you need financial help with medical care or living expenses, you would contact your local social services office, a nonprofit charity, or a government program—not AARP. AARP's role is to inform and advocate, not to distribute money or benefits.

How to use AARP resources without paying for membership

Many AARP resources are free even if you do not pay for membership. You can read articles on AARP.org, use the Medicare plan finder, and access some educational guides without joining. The main benefits of paid membership are the discounts (which vary in value depending on what you use) and early access to some content. You can create a free account on AARP.org to save articles and customize your experience.

If you are considering membership, think about which discounts you would actually use. If you travel frequently and book hotels or rental cars, the membership might pay for itself in a year. If you rarely use the discounts, the $16 annual cost may not be worth it for you. You can also call AARP at 1-888-687-2277 to ask about specific discounts before you join, or visit AARP.org to see the full list of current offers in your area.

AARP's state and local chapters

AARP has chapters in every state and in many local communities. These chapters run events, workshops, and volunteer programs in your area. Some chapters offer tax preparation help, health screenings, or caregiver support groups. The programs and services vary by chapter, so what is available in your state may differ from what is available in another state. Chapters also connect members with local resources and sometimes partner with community organizations on aging-related issues.

You can find your local chapter on AARP.org by entering your zip code. Membership in the national organization automatically includes membership in your state chapter, though you can also participate in chapter events without national membership. Chapters do not process government benefits or provide direct financial information—they focus on education, community events, and volunteer opportunities. Many chapters have volunteer positions if you want to get involved in your community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AARP a government agency?

No. AARP is a private nonprofit organization. It is not part of the federal government, though it works with Congress and federal agencies on policy issues. AARP does not run Medicare, Social Security, or any benefit program.

Can AARP help me enroll in Medicare?

AARP can explain how Medicare works and point you to Medicare.gov, where you enroll. AARP does not process Medicare applications or make enrollment decisions. Some AARP chapters offer educational events about Medicare, but enrollment happens directly with Medicare.

Does AARP membership include health insurance?

No. AARP does not provide health insurance. It offers discounts on insurance products sold by partner companies, and you buy the insurance directly from those companies. AARP also has information about Medicare and supplemental insurance options, but membership does not include coverage.

What if I disagree with AARP's position on a political issue?

You can contact AARP to share your views, but membership does not give you a vote on the organization's advocacy positions. AARP's policy priorities are set by its board and staff. If you strongly disagree with the organization's direction, you can choose not to renew your membership.

How much do AARP discounts actually save?

Discounts vary by partner and location. Hotel discounts are typically 10 percent, and rental car discounts range from 5 to 25 percent depending on the company and dates. Some discounts require you to book through AARP's website or a specific phone number. Call AARP at 1-888-687-2277 or visit AARP.org to see what discounts explore to places you actually visit.