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 rate is $16. From the second year onward, the rate drops to $12 annually. There are no hidden fees or additional charges to maintain your membership once you have paid.

You can pay by credit card, debit card, or bank account withdrawal. AARP also offers a three-year membership option upfront, which costs $38 total — a small savings if you know you will stay a member. Some employers and organizations offer group memberships at discounted rates, so it is worth asking your employer's benefits office whether they have a partnership with AARP.

If you cancel within 30 days of joining, AARP will refund your membership fee in full. After 30 days, you can still cancel at any time, but the fee is not refunded — your membership straightforward ends when your current year expires.

Key Takeaways

  • The first year costs $16, and renewal years cost $12 per year after that.
  • You can pay by credit card, debit card, or bank account, and membership renews automatically each year.
  • A three-year upfront payment costs $38 total and saves money over three separate annual payments.
  • You have 30 days to cancel and receive a full refund if you change your mind.
  • Some employers and unions offer group AARP memberships at lower rates — check with your benefits office.

What the membership fee covers

The annual fee gives you access to AARP's magazine, which arrives in print six times a year and covers health, money, and lifestyle topics for people over 50. You also get access to the AARP website, where you can read articles, use planning tools, and find local events and programs in your area.

Membership includes discounts at retailers, restaurants, hotels, and car rental companies. The discounts vary by location and business — some offer 5 to 10 percent off, while others offer specific deals like free breakfast or reduced rates on certain services. You show your AARP card or membership number at checkout to claim the discount.

Members also receive access to AARP's tax preparation service, which helps you file federal and state taxes at no extra cost. The service is available online and by phone. Additionally, membership includes access to AARP's legal services network, which connects you with attorneys for document review, estate planning, and other legal matters at reduced rates.

Discounts and benefits beyond the magazine

AARP negotiates discounts with major pharmacy chains, including CVS and Walgreens, on prescription medications and over-the-counter health products. These discounts are separate from insurance and work alongside Medicare or private coverage. You can use them when ready after joining.

Travel discounts are available through AARP's partnerships with hotels, airlines, and car rental agencies. Hotels like Choice Hotels and Hertz car rentals offer reduced rates when you book through AARP's website or show your membership card. The discounts are typically 5 to 15 percent off standard rates, though they vary by location and season.

AARP also offers access to educational webinars and workshops on topics like Social Security, Medicare, caregiving, and financial planning. Most of these are free to members. Some are recorded and available on-demand, while others are live sessions where you can ask questions.

Who qualifies for AARP membership

You must be 50 years old or older to join AARP. There are no income limits, health requirements, or other restrictions. You do not need to be retired — employed people, self-employed people, and people still working full-time can all join.

You can join online at AARP's website, by phone, or by mail. Online is the fastest option and takes about 10 minutes. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, address, email, and payment information. Your membership becomes active when ready after payment is processed.

If you are not yet 50, you cannot join AARP directly, but some employers offer AARP membership to younger employees as a benefit. Check with your human resources department to see whether your workplace has this option.

How to cancel your membership

You can cancel your AARP membership at any time by calling AARP's customer service line, visiting the website, or writing to the address on your membership card. Cancellation takes effect when ready, though you will keep access to your membership benefits through the end of your paid membership year.

If you cancel within 30 days of joining, you will receive a full refund of your membership fee. After 30 days, cancellations are not refunded — you straightforward will not be charged again when your membership expires. AARP does not require you to give a reason for canceling.

If you have automatic renewal turned on and want to prevent being charged next year, you must cancel before your renewal date. AARP sends a reminder email about 30 days before renewal, which includes a link to manage your membership or cancel if you choose.

Group memberships through employers and organizations

Some employers, unions, and professional organizations have negotiated group rates with AARP. Group memberships typically cost less than individual memberships — sometimes as low as $8 to $10 per year. If your employer offers this benefit, you can join through your benefits portal or by contacting your human resources office.

Retired teachers, government employees, and members of certain unions often have access to group rates. Military veterans may also may have access to for discounted memberships through veteran organizations. Ask your benefits office or union representative whether a group rate is available to you.

Group memberships come with the same benefits as individual memberships — the magazine, website access, discounts, and services. The only difference is the lower annual cost. You can switch from a group membership to an individual one at any time, though you may pay a higher rate if you do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I cancel after 30 days?

No. AARP refunds membership fees only within 30 days of joining. If you cancel after that window, your fee is not refunded, but you will keep your membership benefits through the end of your paid year and will not be charged for renewal.

Does AARP membership include health insurance?

No. AARP membership does not provide health insurance. However, AARP does offer information about Medicare plans and can connect you with insurance agents who sell Medicare Advantage and Medigap policies. These are separate products with their own costs.

What if I turn 50 during the year — can I join mid-year?

Yes. You can join AARP as soon as you turn 50. If you join mid-year, you pay the full annual fee, and your membership runs through the end of that calendar year. Your renewal date will be the same each year after that.

Are there any hidden fees or charges after I join?

No. The annual membership fee is the only charge. Discounts and benefits like the magazine, website, and tax services are included. Some optional services — like certain legal consultations or travel packages — may have additional costs, but these are not required.

Can I pause my membership instead of canceling?

AARP does not offer a pause option. You can either keep your membership active or cancel it. If you cancel and want to rejoin later, you can do so at any time by paying the membership fee again.