AARP membership does not have a free tier, but you can join for $16 per year

AARP does not offer a free membership. The standard membership costs $16 annually, which works out to about $1.33 per month. You can join online at aarp.org by providing your name, date of birth, email address, and mailing address, then paying the annual fee by credit card or debit card.

Some people confuse free AARP membership with free AARP resources. AARP publishes free articles, guides, and tools on their website that anyone can read without joining — you do not need a membership to access their health information, caregiving resources, or financial planning guides. But to receive the membership card, discounts, and the monthly magazine, you do need to pay the annual fee.

If you are looking for senior services that are actually free, your local Area Agency on Aging, senior center, or 211 referral line can point you toward programs in your area that do not charge membership fees.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership costs $16 per year and is the only membership tier available; there is no free option.
  • You can join online at aarp.org by entering your personal information and paying by credit or debit card.
  • AARP publishes free articles and guides on their website that anyone can read without a membership.
  • If cost is a barrier, your local Area Agency on Aging or 211 can connect you with free senior services in your area.

What you get with an AARP membership

An AARP membership includes a membership card, access to member-only discounts at retailers and restaurants, and a subscription to AARP Magazine or AARP Bulletin (you choose which). Members also get access to AARP's online tools, including a retirement calculator, health and wellness articles written by medical professionals, and caregiving resources.

The discounts vary by location and by business. Common discounts include reduced rates at hotels, car rental companies, and movie theaters, though the amount you save depends on which businesses participate in your area. Some members find the magazine and discounts worth the $16 cost; others do not use them enough to justify it.

How to join AARP online

To join AARP online, go to aarp.org and look for the "Join" or "Membership" link on the homepage. You will be asked to provide your name, date of birth, email address, and mailing address. AARP will verify that you are 50 or older — this is the only membership requirement.

After you enter your information, you will be taken to a payment page. You can pay the $16 annual fee with a credit card or debit card. Once payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with your membership number. Your physical membership card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

You can also join by phone by calling AARP at 1-888-687-2277, or by mail by requesting a membership form from that same phone number. The online route is usually fastest.

Why AARP membership costs money

AARP is a nonprofit organization, but it is not a government agency and does not receive tax dollars to fund its operations. The membership fee supports AARP's staff, research, publications, and advocacy work on behalf of older adults. AARP also generates revenue from advertising in its magazines and from partnerships with businesses that offer member discounts.

The $16 annual fee is one of the lowest membership costs among national organizations. Many people compare it to the cost of a single discounted hotel stay or restaurant meal to decide whether it is worth joining.

Free AARP resources you can access without joining

AARP's website offers free articles, guides, and tools that do not require membership. You can read about health topics, caregiving, Social Security, Medicare, retirement planning, and family relationships without paying anything or creating an account. AARP also publishes free guides on topics like "Medicare and You" and "Caregiving Resources" that you can read as PDFs.

AARP's online community forums are also free to join and use. You can post questions and connect with other older adults without a membership. Some AARP local chapters also offer free educational events and workshops in your community — check aarp.org/chapters to find your local chapter and see what they offer.

Alternatives if you want free senior services

If the $16 membership fee is not in your budget, your local Area Agency on Aging offers free information and referrals to senior services. You can find your local agency by calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or by visiting eldercare.acl.gov. Senior centers in your area also offer free classes, health screenings, and social activities.

Calling 211 (in most areas) connects you with a specialist who can tell you about free programs for older adults in your community, including meal programs, transportation, health clinics, and legal aid. These services do not require membership fees or income limits in most cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there ever a discount on AARP membership?

AARP occasionally runs promotions where new members can join for a reduced rate, such as $8 or $12 for the first year. These offers come and go, so check aarp.org or call 1-888-687-2277 to ask if a current promotion is running. After the first year, renewal is the standard $16 annual fee.

Can I get AARP membership through my employer or insurance plan?

Some employers and health insurance plans offer AARP membership as a benefit, either free or at a reduced rate. Check with your employer's human resources department or your health insurance company to see if this is available to you. If it is, they can tell you how to enroll.

What happens if I do not renew my membership?

If you do not renew after a year, your membership straightforward expires. You will no longer have access to member discounts or receive the magazine, but you can still read free articles on AARP's website. You can rejoin at any time by paying the annual fee.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to join AARP?

No. You must be 50 or older and have a valid mailing address in the United States, but you do not need to be a U.S. citizen. Permanent residents and other noncitizens can join AARP.