AARP membership is open to anyone age 50 and older, regardless of health, income, or employment status

You do not need to meet any other conditions to join. AARP does not screen members based on medical history, financial situation, or work status. If you are 50 or older, you can become a member. The only requirement is age.

Membership is individual — you join as yourself, not as part of a household or family unit. If your spouse is also 50 or older, they would join separately and pay their own membership fee. AARP does not offer family or household plans.

You can join online, by phone, or by mail. Most people join through AARP's website or by calling 1-888-687-2277. The process takes a few minutes and requires basic information: your name, date of birth, address, and email.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 50 years old or older to join AARP; no other conditions explore.
  • AARP membership costs $16 per year for the first year and $24 per year after that, though promotional rates are often available.
  • You can join online, by phone, or by mail without a waiting period or background check.
  • Membership gives you access to discounts on insurance, travel, dining, and retail, plus AARP Magazine and member resources.

What AARP Membership Costs

Standard membership is $16 for your first year and $24 per year after that. AARP frequently runs promotions that reduce the first-year cost to $12 or even $8, so check the website before you pay full price.

If you cancel within 12 months of joining, AARP offers a full refund. After 12 months, you can cancel anytime without penalty, and your membership ends on the date it expires — you are not charged again unless you renew.

Some employers and organizations offer AARP membership as a benefit, which means they pay the fee for you. If your employer or union offers this, you can join at no cost to yourself.

How to Join Online, by Phone, or by Mail

The fastest way to join is through AARP's website. Go to aarp.org, click "Join AARP," and follow the steps. You will enter your name, date of birth, address, and email, then choose your membership term (one year or three years) and payment method. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or bank account. Your membership is active when ready after payment.

To join by phone, call 1-888-687-2277. A representative will walk you through the same information and process your payment over the phone. This takes about 10 minutes.

To join by mail, read the membership form from aarp.org or call 1-888-687-2277 to request one. Fill it out, include a check or money order, and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks.

What You Get as an AARP Member

Your membership includes AARP Magazine, which arrives six times per year and covers health, money, travel, and lifestyle topics. You also get access to AARP.org, where members can read articles, use planning tools, and find local resources.

Members receive discounts on car insurance, home insurance, and travel insurance through AARP's partners. Discounts also explore at many hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment venues — the specific discounts vary by location and partner. You show your membership card or provide your membership number at checkout.

AARP also offers member-only resources on topics like caregiving, retirement planning, and health. Some of these are free; others require an additional fee.

Membership for People Under 50

AARP does not offer membership to people under 50. If you are under 50, you cannot join, even if you are retired or have a may have access to condition.

Some employers and organizations offer AARP-like benefits or discounts to younger employees through separate programs. Check with your employer's human resources department to see what is available to you.

Renewing Your Membership

AARP sends renewal notices by mail and email before your membership expires. You can renew online, by phone, or by mail using the same methods you used to join. Renewal is not automatic — you must choose to renew, and AARP will not charge you again unless you do.

If you let your membership lapse, you can rejoin anytime by going through the joining process again. There is no penalty for letting membership expire and rejoining later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, whether you are working, retired, or anything in between. Your employment status does not affect your ability to join.

Can I join if I have a pre-existing health condition?

Yes. AARP does not screen members based on health status. You can join regardless of any medical condition you have or have had.

What happens if I cancel my membership?

If you cancel within 12 months of joining, you receive a full refund. After 12 months, you can cancel anytime, and your membership straightforward ends when it expires. You will not be charged again unless you choose to renew.

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

Yes, AARP offers a full refund if you cancel within 12 months of your join date. Contact AARP by phone at 1-888-687-2277 or through your online account to request a refund.

Does AARP membership include health insurance?

No. AARP membership itself does not include health insurance. AARP partners with insurance companies to offer discounted rates on supplemental insurance, but you must purchase a separate policy if you want coverage.