You can join AARP at 50, and membership costs $16 per year

AARP membership opens at age 50. There is no income limit, no health requirement, and no background check. You pay $16 for your first year, then $16 annually to renew. Some people pay less through group discounts — your employer, union, or alumni association may offer AARP membership at a reduced rate, usually $12 to $14 per year. A few states and organizations bundle it free with other memberships, so it is worth asking if you belong to any group that might include it.

You do not have to be retired to join. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen, though you do need a valid mailing address in the United States. You can join online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail using a form from any AARP publication.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership begins at age 50 with no other requirements beyond a U.S. mailing address.
  • The standard annual cost is $16, though employer or group memberships may cost less.
  • You receive a membership card in the mail within two to three weeks of joining.
  • Membership discounts vary widely by retailer and service — some offer 5 to 10 percent off, others offer nothing, so check the AARP website for current deals in your area.
  • AARP also publishes a magazine and runs a website with articles on health, money, and caregiving, included with membership.

What you get with an AARP membership

Your membership includes a printed card and access to the AARP website and magazine. The website has articles on Medicare, Social Security, retirement planning, caregiving, and health topics. The magazine arrives six times a year. Both are included in your $16 annual fee — there is no separate charge.

AARP negotiates discounts with retailers, restaurants, hotels, and service providers. The discounts are real but vary by location and business. A pharmacy might offer 10 percent off, a hotel chain might offer 10 percent off room rates, a car rental company might offer 5 percent off. Some businesses offer nothing. You show your AARP card at checkout or mention your membership when booking. You can also search the AARP website for current discounts near your zip code.

AARP runs a tax preparation program called Tax-Aide, which offers free tax help to people 60 and older with low to moderate income. Volunteers prepare returns at libraries, senior centers, and community centers. You do not have to be an AARP member to use it, but members often hear about it first.

AARP membership does not cover health insurance or Medicare

AARP does not provide health insurance. It does not enroll you in Medicare or any government program. AARP is a membership organization that publishes information and negotiates discounts. It is separate from Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, though AARP publishes guides about all three.

AARP does sell supplemental insurance products — Medigap policies, long-term care insurance, and life insurance — through partner companies. These are optional. You can be an AARP member without buying any insurance. If you do buy insurance through AARP, you work with the insurance company, not with AARP itself. AARP receives a commission from the sale.

How to join online, by phone, or by mail

The fastest way to join is online at aarp.org. You enter your name, date of birth, mailing address, and email address. You pay $16 by credit card or debit card. Your membership is active when ready, though your physical card arrives in two to three weeks.

You can also call 1-888-687-2277 to join by phone. A representative will walk you through the same information and process your payment over the phone. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern time, and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Eastern time.

To join by mail, fill out a membership form from an AARP magazine or print one from aarp.org. Include a check or money order for $16 and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks after AARP receives it.

Group and employer discounts on AARP membership

If your employer, union, professional association, or alumni group has partnered with AARP, you may pay less than $16 per year. Common group rates are $12 to $14 for the first year. Ask your human resources department, union representative, or group administrator whether AARP membership is available through them.

Some states offer AARP membership as part of a benefits package for state employees or retirees. A few organizations bundle AARP with other memberships at no extra cost. The only way to know is to ask the organization directly or check your membership materials.

Renewing your AARP membership each year

AARP sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your membership expires. You can renew online at aarp.org, by phone at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail. The renewal cost is $16 per year, the same as the initial membership fee. If you joined through a group discount, your renewal rate may differ — check the renewal notice.

If you miss the renewal important date, your membership lapses. You can rejoin at any time by paying the annual fee again. There is no penalty for a lapsed membership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join AARP before I turn 50?

No. AARP membership is limited to people 50 and older. You can sign up on the day you turn 50. If you are younger and interested in AARP content, you can read articles on aarp.org without a membership.

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. You can join AARP at any point after you turn 50, whether you are working full-time, part-time, or retired. There is no employment requirement.

What if I do not want to renew after the first year?

You can let your membership expire. AARP will not charge you again unless you choose to rejoin. You can cancel anytime by calling 1-888-687-2277 or by writing to AARP's member services department.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind after joining?

AARP offers a 30-day money-back may provide. If you join and decide membership is not for you within 30 days, you can request a refund of your $16 membership fee. Contact member services at 1-888-687-2277 or through aarp.org.

Is AARP membership the same as Medicare?

No. AARP is a membership organization. Medicare is a federal health insurance program. You can have both, or either one, or neither. AARP does not enroll you in Medicare or provide health coverage.