How to join AARP
You can join AARP online, by phone, or by mail. You must be 50 or older. The standard membership costs $16 per year, though AARP sometimes offers discounted rates for the first year — often around $8. You do not need to work, retire, or meet any other condition beyond your age.
The fastest way is online at aarp.org. You will enter your name, date of birth, address, and email. The site will ask whether you want to pay by credit card or debit card. You can complete the entire process in about five minutes and receive your membership number when ready by email.
If you prefer to join by phone, call AARP at 1-888-687-2277. A representative will walk you through the same questions and process your payment over the phone. If you prefer to mail in an process, you can request a form by calling the same number or visiting aarp.org and asking for a paper process to be sent to you.
Key Takeaways
- You must be 50 or older to join AARP, and membership costs $16 per year with occasional discounts for new members.
- Online membership at aarp.org is the fastest option and takes about five minutes from start to finish.
- You can also join by phone at 1-888-687-2277 or request a paper process by mail if you prefer not to use the internet.
- Your membership number arrives by email when ready after online registration, or by mail if you join by phone or paper form.
- AARP membership includes access to discounts on insurance, travel, dining, and retail, plus AARP Magazine and access to member resources.
What you need to have ready before you join
Gather your date of birth, current address, and email address before you start. You will also need a payment method — a credit card or debit card if you join online or by phone, or a check if you mail in an process.
If you are renewing a membership that has lapsed, have your former membership number handy if you can find it. AARP can look up your account history by name and date of birth, but having the number speeds up the process.
What happens after you join
AARP will send you a membership card by mail within two to three weeks. Your membership number arrives by email right away, so you can start using discounts and accessing member resources online before your card arrives.
You will receive AARP Magazine six times per year. AARP will also send you emails about member benefits, discounts, and news unless you change your communication preferences. You can log into your AARP account online at any time to update your address, email, or contact preferences.
AARP membership discounts and benefits
AARP membership includes discounts on car insurance, home insurance, and travel. Many hotels, restaurants, and retail stores offer AARP discounts — you show your membership card or give your membership number at checkout. The specific discounts vary by location and business.
Members also get access to AARP's online tools and resources, including articles about health, caregiving, money, and work. Some members use AARP's tax preparation service, which offers free tax filing help through a partnership with volunteer tax preparers in your community.
AARP also offers a membership program called AARP Rewards, where you earn points on certain purchases and can redeem them for discounts or donations to AARP causes. You enroll in Rewards separately after you become a member.
The difference between AARP membership and AARP insurance products
AARP membership and AARP insurance are separate. Your membership gives you access to discounts and resources. AARP insurance products — like car insurance, home insurance, or supplemental health insurance — are sold through partner companies and require a separate purchase and payment.
You do not have to buy AARP insurance to be a member, and you do not have to be a member to look at AARP insurance options. However, AARP members often receive discounted rates on these products compared to non-members.
Renewing your AARP membership
AARP will send you a renewal notice by mail about 30 days before your membership expires. You can renew online, by phone, or by mail using the same methods you used to join. Renewal costs the same as the initial membership fee unless AARP is running a promotion.
If you miss the renewal important date, your membership will lapse, but you can rejoin at any time by paying the current membership fee. There is no penalty for letting your membership lapse and restarting it later.
Canceling your AARP membership
You can cancel your membership at any time by calling 1-888-687-2277 or by logging into your account online and changing your membership status. AARP does not offer refunds for the portion of the year you do not use, so if you cancel mid-year, you will not receive a refund for the remaining months.
If you cancel, AARP will remove you from their mailing list and email list. You can rejoin later if you change your mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to retire to join AARP?
No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, regardless of whether you work, are retired, or your employment status. Your age is the only requirement.
Can I join AARP if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. AARP does not require U.S. citizenship to join. You must be 50 or older and have a valid mailing address in the United States.
What if I lose my membership card?
You can request a replacement card by calling 1-888-687-2277 or by logging into your account online. AARP will mail you a new card at no charge. In the meantime, you can use your membership number, which you can find in your account online or by calling the number above.
Can I give my AARP membership to someone else?
No. AARP membership is personal and tied to your name and date of birth. You cannot transfer it to another person. However, other household members who are 50 or older can join with their own separate memberships.
How do I know what discounts are available in my area?
Log into your AARP account online and search the discount directory by category or zip code. You can also call 1-888-687-2277 to ask about specific discounts near you, or visit aarp.org/discounts to browse the full list.