You must be 50 or older to join AARP

AARP membership begins at age 50. There is no upper age limit — you can join at 50, 60, 75, or any age after that. Once you turn 50, you become may be able to access to pay the membership fee and start receiving AARP's magazine, website resources, and member discounts.

The 50-year threshold is set by AARP itself, not by law. It reflects the organization's focus on people in their second half of life, when retirement planning, health changes, and long-term care become more when ready concerns. You do not have to be retired to join — your employment status does not matter.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership is open to anyone age 50 and older, regardless of retirement status or income.
  • You pay an annual membership fee to join; the amount varies depending on promotional offers at the time you sign up.
  • Membership includes access to AARP Magazine, the AARP website with articles and tools, and discounts at retailers and service providers.
  • Your spouse or partner does not need to be 50 to benefit from some household discounts, though they cannot hold their own AARP membership until they reach 50.

How membership fees work

AARP charges an annual membership fee. The exact amount changes based on promotional pricing, but typically ranges from around $12 to $16 per year for the first year, with renewal rates higher after that. AARP frequently offers discounted rates during sign-up periods, so the fee you pay depends on when and how you join.

You can join online through AARP's website, by phone, or by mail. Online sign-up is the fastest route. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, address, and payment information. Once your membership is active, you can start using member discounts when ready.

What membership includes

AARP Magazine arrives in your mailbox 10 times per year and covers health, money, travel, and lifestyle topics for people over 50. You also get access to AARP.org, where you can read articles, use planning tools, watch videos, and find information on topics like Social Security, Medicare, caregiving, and retirement.

Membership unlocks discounts and offers at pharmacies, hotels, rental car companies, restaurants, and other businesses. The discounts vary by location and change over time. You show your AARP card or membership number at checkout to receive the discount. Some discounts are available only in-store; others work online.

AARP also offers member-only products, including insurance options (auto, home, health supplemental coverage), financial services, and travel packages. These are sold through partner companies but marketed to AARP members. Membership itself does not include these products — you purchase them separately if you choose.

Membership for spouses and partners

If you are married or in a registered domestic partnership, your spouse or partner can use some household discounts even if they are under 50. However, they cannot hold their own AARP membership card or magazine subscription until they reach 50. Once they turn 50, they can join as a separate member.

Some discounts — such as those at hotels or rental car companies — may explore to both of you when you present your membership. Other discounts are tied to the cardholder only. Check with the business or AARP directly to confirm whether a specific discount covers household members.

Renewing your membership

AARP sends renewal notices before your membership expires, usually several weeks in advance. You can renew online, by phone, or by mail using the notice they send. Renewal is straightforward — you confirm your information and pay the renewal fee.

If your membership lapses, you can rejoin at any time by paying the current membership fee. There is no penalty for letting it expire and restarting. Some people pause membership during years when they do not plan to use discounts, then rejoin later.

Canceling your membership

You can cancel your AARP membership at any time. Contact AARP directly by phone or through your online account. Cancellation is when ready, though you will not receive a refund for the portion of your membership year that remains. If you cancel partway through the year, that fee is gone.

AARP does not require a reason for cancellation and does not try to talk you out of it. straightforward request cancellation and confirm when it takes effect. Your magazine subscription and member discounts will stop on that date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join AARP before I turn 50?

No. AARP requires members to be 50 or older. If you are under 50, you cannot hold a membership, though you may be able to use some household discounts if a family member over 50 is a member.

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, whether you are working full-time, part-time, self-employed, or retired. Your employment status does not affect your may be able to access.

What happens to my membership if I move to another state?

Your AARP membership stays active and follows you. Some discounts may change based on your new location, since partner businesses vary by region, but your membership itself does not expire or need to be updated when you move.

Can I get a refund if I cancel mid-year?

No. AARP does not issue refunds for unused portions of the membership year. If you cancel three months into a 12-month membership, the remaining nine months of fees are not returned.

Is there a family or household membership plan?

No. Each person who wants their own AARP membership must be 50 or older and pay their own membership fee. However, household members under 50 can sometimes use discounts when the member presents their card.