AARP membership starts at age 50

You must be at least 50 years old to join AARP. There is no upper age limit — members range from 50 into their 90s and beyond. Once you turn 50, you can join at any time, and membership continues for as long as you renew it each year.

AARP membership is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. You do not need to be retired to join, and your employment status does not affect whether you can become a member. Many people join AARP while still working, specifically to access discounts and resources available to members in their 50s.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership requires you to be at least 50 years old, with no maximum age limit.
  • You do not have to be retired to join AARP, and working status does not affect membership.
  • Membership is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who meet the age requirement.
  • Annual membership renewal is required to keep your AARP benefits and discounts active.
  • Joining at 50 gives you access to discounts, publications, and resources designed for people in midlife and beyond.

Why people join at 50 rather than waiting

Many people join AARP at 50 because member discounts and programs begin at that age. Retailers, hotels, restaurants, and service providers offer AARP member pricing that can add up over time. Some members use these discounts on travel, dining, and entertainment before they retire.

AARP also publishes AARP Magazine and maintains a website with health information, financial planning resources, and articles written for people in their 50s and older. Members receive access to these materials as soon as they join, regardless of retirement status. Some join specifically for the magazine or to read AARP's coverage of topics like Social Security, Medicare, and caregiving.

What happens to your membership as you age

Your AARP membership does not change or expire based on age. Once you join at 50, you remain a member as long as you pay the annual membership fee each year. There are no age milestones that alter your membership status or benefits.

However, some AARP programs and resources are designed for specific age ranges. For example, AARP offers separate resources for people in their 50s, people nearing retirement, and people already retired. As you age, you may find different sections of the AARP website or different publications more relevant to your situation, but your membership itself stays the same.

Membership for people under 50

AARP does not offer individual membership to people under 50. If you are younger than 50 and interested in AARP resources, some employers and organizations offer group memberships or access to certain AARP programs through workplace benefits.

A few AARP programs are open to younger family members of current members. For example, some AARP-sponsored insurance products or financial services may be available to adult children of members. Contact AARP directly to ask whether a specific program or discount is available to someone under 50 in your household.

How to join and what to expect

You can join AARP online, by phone, or by mail. The membership fee is the same regardless of how you join. You will need to provide your name, address, date of birth, and email address. AARP will verify that you meet the age requirement before processing your membership.

Once your membership is approved, you will receive a membership card by mail within one to two weeks. You can start using your membership number for discounts at participating retailers and online before your card arrives. Your membership is active for one year from the date you join, and AARP will send you a renewal notice before your membership expires.

Membership renewal and keeping your benefits active

AARP membership requires annual renewal. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail several weeks before your membership expires. You can renew online, by phone, or by returning the renewal form by mail. The renewal fee is the same as the initial membership fee.

If you do not renew by the expiration date, your membership ends and you lose access to member discounts and publications. You can rejoin at any time by paying the current membership fee. Some people let their membership lapse and rejoin later without any penalty or waiting period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join AARP if I am 49 years old?

No, AARP requires you to be at least 50 years old. You can join as soon as you turn 50. If you are close to turning 50, you may want to wait until your birthday to join so your membership year aligns with your age milestone.

Do I have to retire to join AARP?

No, retirement is not required. Many AARP members are still working. You can join at 50 whether you are employed, self-employed, or retired. Your employment status does not affect your membership or access to discounts.

What if I am a permanent resident but not a U.S. citizen?

AARP membership is open to permanent residents of the United States. You will need to provide proof of permanent residency when you join. Contact AARP directly to ask what documents they need to verify your status.

Can my adult child join AARP if they are under 50?

Individual membership is not available to people under 50. Some AARP programs and discounts may be available to adult family members through group plans or workplace benefits. Ask AARP whether a specific discount or service is available to younger household members.

What happens to my membership if I move out of the United States?

AARP membership is for U.S. residents. If you move permanently outside the United States, your membership would end. Contact AARP if you are moving abroad to discuss your options and any refunds that may explore.