You can join AARP online, by phone, or by mail, and membership starts when ready after you pay the first-year fee

AARP membership is open to anyone age 50 or older. There is no income requirement, no health screening, and no waiting period — you become a member as soon as your payment clears. The standard first-year cost is $16, and renewal is $16 per year after that. You can join through AARP's website, call their membership line, or send in a paper form by mail.

Most people join online because it takes about five minutes and you get your membership number when ready. You will need a valid email address and a way to pay (credit card, debit card, or bank account). If you prefer to speak with someone or do not have internet access, the phone and mail routes work just as well, though they take longer to process.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 50 years old to join AARP, and membership begins the day your payment is received.
  • The first-year membership fee is $16, and you renew at the same rate each year unless AARP changes the price.
  • Online joining through AARP.org is the fastest method and gives you your membership number within minutes.
  • You can also join by calling 1-888-687-2277 or mailing a paper form if you do not have internet access or prefer to speak with someone.
  • AARP membership includes access to discounts, the AARP Magazine, and member-only resources, though the specific benefits may change.

Joining Online Through AARP.org

Go to AARP.org and look for the "Join" or "Membership" button, usually near the top of the page. You will be asked to create an account with your email address and a password. Then you provide your name, date of birth, address, and phone number. AARP uses your birth date to confirm you meet the age requirement.

Next, you choose your membership type. Standard membership is the most common option. You then enter payment information — credit card, debit card, or bank account details. Once your payment goes through, you receive a membership number on screen and by email. You can start using your membership benefits and access the member portal right away.

The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. Keep your membership number in a safe place; you will need it to log into your account, access discounts, or contact AARP customer service.

Joining by Phone

Call AARP's membership line at 1-888-687-2277. A representative will walk you through the same questions asked on the website: your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. They will confirm your age and explain what membership includes.

When you are ready, you give your payment information over the phone. The representative will read back the details to confirm accuracy before charging your card or account. You receive your membership number during the call and will get a confirmation email afterward.

Phone joining takes 10 to 15 minutes and is helpful if you have questions or do not feel comfortable entering payment information online. AARP's membership line is available seven days a week, though wait times vary by time of day.

Joining by Mail

You can request a paper membership form by calling 1-888-687-2277 or visiting AARP.org and looking for a "Mail-In Form" or "Print process" option. Fill out the form with your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and email. Include your payment — a check or money order made out to AARP — and mail it to the address printed on the form.

Processing by mail takes 4 to 6 weeks from the day AARP receives your form. Your membership number will arrive by mail once your payment clears. This method works well if you do not have internet access or prefer not to give payment information online, but it is the slowest option.

What Happens After You Join

Once you are a member, you can log into your AARP account on the website using your email and password. Your account shows your membership number, renewal date, and the benefits available to you. You can update your address, email, or payment method at any time.

AARP will send you the AARP Magazine (or AARP Bulletin, depending on your location) and a membership card by mail. You may also receive emails about member discounts, events, or resources. You can adjust your communication preferences in your account settings if you want to receive fewer emails.

Your membership renews automatically each year on the anniversary of your join date, unless you cancel. You will receive a renewal notice by email or mail before the charge goes through, giving you time to cancel if you choose.

Membership Costs and Renewal

The standard membership fee is $16 for the first year and $16 for each renewal year. AARP occasionally runs promotional offers — sometimes $8 or $12 for the first year — so check the website or ask when you call to see if a promotion is active.

Your membership renews automatically each year unless you cancel. You will receive a notice before your renewal date. If you want to cancel, you can do so through your online account or by calling 1-888-687-2277. Canceling stops future charges but does not refund the current year's fee.

Some employers and organizations offer AARP membership as a group benefit, sometimes at a discount. If your employer or union offers this, you may be able to join through them instead of paying the standard fee. Ask your HR or benefits department whether AARP is included in your benefits package.

What You Get as a Member

AARP membership includes access to discounts on hotels, car rentals, restaurants, and retail stores. You also get the AARP Magazine or AARP Bulletin, which covers health, money, and lifestyle topics. Members can access the AARP website's resource library, which includes guides on topics like Medicare, Social Security, caregiving, and financial planning.

AARP also offers member-only events, webinars, and local chapter activities in many areas. You can join an AARP chapter in your community to connect with other members and attend local programs. The specific discounts and resources available may change, so check your account or the AARP website to see what is current.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP membership is open to anyone age 50 or older, whether you are working, retired, or self-employed. There is no requirement to be retired or to have a certain income.

Can I join AARP if I am under 50?

Standard AARP membership requires you to be at least 50 years old. If you are younger, you cannot join the main membership program. Check the AARP website to see if there are any other programs or resources available to younger adults.

How long does it take to become a member?

Online joining is when ready — you get your membership number within minutes. Phone joining takes 10 to 15 minutes and you receive your number during the call. Mail-in forms take 4 to 6 weeks to process after AARP receives your form.

Can I cancel my membership and get a refund?

You can cancel your membership at any time through your online account or by calling 1-888-687-2277. Canceling stops future charges, but AARP does not refund the current year's fee. Your membership remains active until your renewal date.

What if I do not use my membership?

You can keep your membership active without using any benefits, or you can cancel if you decide it is not right for you. There is no penalty for canceling, and you can rejoin later if you change your mind. Many members keep their membership for the magazine and resources even if they do not use the discounts.