AARP membership costs $16 per year for the first year, then $12 per year after that

AARP charges a single annual membership fee. You pay once a year, and your membership renews automatically unless you cancel. The first year costs $16. From the second year forward, the cost is $12 per year. There are no hidden monthly charges or additional fees to access the main membership benefits.

AARP also offers a discounted rate for people with limited income. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Supplemental Nutrition information Program (SNAP) benefits, you may pay a reduced rate. Contact AARP directly to ask about this option and provide proof of your current benefits.

Some employers, unions, and community organizations offer group AARP memberships at a lower cost. If you belong to a group that has negotiated a rate, you may pay less than the standard price. Check with your employer's benefits office or your union representative to see if this option is available to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard AARP membership is $16 for your first year and $12 per year after that, charged once annually.
  • Members receive discounts on prescriptions, hotels, rental cars, and insurance products, though the value varies by location and plan.
  • AARP Magazine and access to online resources, tools, and health information are included with membership at no extra cost.
  • If you receive SSI or SNAP benefits, you may pay a reduced membership rate — contact AARP to confirm your income qualifies.
  • Group memberships through employers or unions sometimes cost less than individual membership, so check with your organization first.

What discounts come with membership

AARP negotiates discounts with hundreds of retailers, restaurants, hotels, and service providers. The discounts available to you depend on where you live and which companies participate in your area. Common discounts include 10 to 15 percent off hotel stays, car rentals, and dining at certain restaurant chains. You show your AARP card or membership number at checkout to receive the discount.

Pharmacy discounts are one of the most widely used membership benefits. AARP members receive discounts on prescription medications at major pharmacy chains including CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart. The discount applies whether you have insurance or not. You do not need to sign up separately — you straightforward provide your AARP membership number when you fill a prescription. The amount you save varies by medication and pharmacy.

Insurance products are also available through AARP, including supplemental health insurance, long-term care insurance, and auto and home insurance. AARP does not sell these directly; instead, it partners with insurance companies that offer them. You purchase the insurance separately and pay the insurance company, not AARP. The membership gives you access to these plans, which may have rates negotiated for AARP members.

How to see what discounts are available near you

AARP maintains a searchable discount directory on its website. You can enter your zip code and browse discounts by category — restaurants, travel, shopping, health services, and more. The directory shows which businesses in your area offer AARP discounts and what the discount is. This is the fastest way to find out whether the places you already shop or eat offer a member rate.

You can also call AARP's membership line to ask about specific discounts. A representative can tell you whether a particular store, restaurant, or service in your area participates in the program. Keep your membership number handy when you call.

What happens if you cancel

You can cancel your AARP membership at any time. You do not have to wait until your membership year ends. If you cancel, you will not be charged for the next year. AARP does not issue refunds for the portion of the year you have already paid, so if you cancel three months into a twelve-month membership, you lose the remaining nine months of membership and any discounts.

To cancel, call AARP's customer service line or go to the membership section of the AARP website and follow the cancellation steps. You will be asked why you are canceling, but you are not required to provide a reason. After you cancel, you will no longer be able to use your membership number for discounts.

AARP membership versus AARP services you pay for separately

The $16 or $12 annual fee is for membership only. Some AARP services cost extra money on top of membership. For example, AARP offers tax preparation help through a program called AARP Tax-Aide, which is free to members, but other financial services or insurance products require separate payment to the insurance company or service provider.

AARP Magazine and access to the AARP website, including health articles, caregiving resources, and financial planning tools, are included in your membership. You do not pay extra for these. However, if you purchase an AARP-branded insurance policy or sign up for a paid service like identity theft protection, those charges are separate from your membership fee and appear on a different bill.

When your membership renews and how to manage it

AARP membership renews automatically on the anniversary of the date you joined. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 30 days before your membership expires. The notice tells you the renewal date and the amount you will be charged. If your payment method is still valid, AARP will charge your card or bank account on the renewal date without asking you again.

You can update your payment method, address, or email at any time through the AARP website or by calling customer service. If you want to change when your membership renews or pause your membership temporarily, contact AARP directly to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be 50 years old to join AARP?

Yes, you must be at least 50 years old to become an AARP member. AARP does not offer membership to people under 50. If you are not yet 50, you can check back when you reach that age.

Is there a difference between AARP and AARP Foundation?

AARP Foundation is a separate nonprofit organization that provides programs and resources for low-income older adults, including tax help, housing support, and caregiving resources. Some AARP Foundation services are free and do not require AARP membership. You can use AARP Foundation resources independently of whether you are an AARP member.

Can I get a refund if I do not use my membership?

AARP does not issue refunds for unused membership. Once you pay the annual fee, it is not refundable even if you do not use any discounts or benefits during the year. If you decide membership is not for you, you can cancel before the next renewal date to avoid being charged again.

What if I want to give AARP membership as a gift?

Yes, you can purchase an AARP membership as a gift for someone who is 50 or older. Contact AARP directly or visit the website to order a gift membership. The recipient will receive information about their membership and can start using discounts right away.

Does AARP membership cover my spouse?

No, each person needs their own membership. If you and your spouse both want to be AARP members, you each pay the annual fee. Some couples receive a small discount when they join together, so ask AARP about household or couple rates when you join.