What to do if you can't log in to your AARP account

If you can't remember your password or your login isn't working, AARP has a straightforward reset process that usually takes a few minutes. You don't need to call anyone first — you can fix most login problems directly on the AARP website by using the "Forgot Password" link on the sign-in page.

The reset process sends a link to the email address connected to your account. You'll click that link, create a new password, and return to log in. If you can't access the email address on file, or if the reset link doesn't arrive, AARP's support team can verify your identity and help you regain access another way.

Key Takeaways

  • Use the "Forgot Password" link on the AARP login page to reset your password yourself without contacting support.
  • The password reset email arrives within a few minutes; check your spam or junk folder if you don't see it in your inbox.
  • If you no longer have access to your registered email address, AARP support can verify your identity using other information and help you update it.
  • AARP does not store passwords in a way that lets them tell you what yours was, so a reset is the only option.
  • If you created your account years ago and haven't used it recently, your account still exists and can be accessed with a password reset.

How to reset your password on your own

Go to the AARP website and look for the sign-in area. Click "Forgot Password" — this link appears on the login page itself, usually near the bottom or beside the password field. You'll be asked to enter the email address associated with your account.

AARP will send a password reset link to that email. Open your email and look for a message from AARP (check your spam folder if it doesn't appear in your inbox within five minutes). Click the link in the email — it will take you to a page where you can create a new password. Make your new password at least 8 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols if possible. After you save the new password, return to the AARP login page and sign in with your new credentials.

What to do if the reset email doesn't arrive

First, check your spam, junk, and promotions folders — password reset emails sometimes land there by mistake. If you've waited ten minutes and still don't see it, try requesting the reset link again. Sometimes a second request goes through when the first one doesn't.

If you're still not receiving the email, the email address on file with AARP may be outdated or incorrect. This happens often when someone changes email providers or hasn't logged in for several years. In this case, contact AARP support directly. You can reach them by phone at 1-888-687-2277 (this number is for general AARP inquiries and can direct you to account support). Have your name, date of birth, and any membership number ready — AARP will use this information to confirm your identity and either resend the reset link to a different email or update your email address in their system.

When you don't remember which email you used

If you created your AARP account years ago and can't remember which email address you registered with, try the email addresses you've used most often. Start with your primary personal email, then try any work emails or older accounts you may have had.

If none of those work, call AARP support at 1-888-687-2277. Tell them you're trying to recover your account but don't remember the email address. They can search their records using your name and date of birth to find the email on file, then send a reset link to that address or help you change it to a current email you can access.

Protecting your account after you regain access

Once you've reset your password and logged back in, take a moment to update your account security. Go to your account settings and review the email address and phone number on file — make sure both are current and that you can access them.

Consider using a password manager (a tool that securely stores your passwords) so you don't have to remember your AARP password or worry about forgetting it again. Many password managers are free or low-cost and work across all your online accounts. If you use the same password for multiple websites, now is a good time to make your AARP password unique — that way, if one account is compromised, your AARP account stays protected.

Troubleshooting other login problems

Sometimes your password is correct but you still can't log in. This can happen if your browser is blocking cookies, if you're using an older browser, or if there's a temporary problem with the AARP website. Try these steps: clear your browser's cache and cookies, try logging in with a different browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge), or try again in a few minutes if the website seems slow.

If you're using a shared computer or a public device, make sure you're not accidentally trying to log in to someone else's account. Also check that you're on the official AARP website (the address should start with www.aarp.org) and not a lookalike site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can AARP tell me what my password is?

No. AARP doesn't store passwords in a way that lets them retrieve them. A password reset is the only way to regain access to your account. This is actually a security feature — it means no one, not even AARP staff, can see your password.

How long does the password reset link stay valid?

The reset link in the email usually stays valid for 24 hours. If you don't use it within that time, you'll need to request a new reset link. This protects your account in case someone else gains access to your email.

What if I'm locked out after too many wrong password attempts?

AARP may temporarily lock your account if multiple incorrect passwords are entered in a short time. Wait 15 to 30 minutes, then try logging in again. If you're still locked out, use the "Forgot Password" link to reset your password, which will unlock your account.

Do I need to be an AARP member to reset my password?

No. You can reset your password whether you're a member or not. AARP accounts are separate from membership status, and anyone can create an account to read articles, access resources, or manage their profile.

What should I do if I think someone else is using my account?

Reset your password when ready using the "Forgot Password" link. After you log back in, go to your account settings and check the email address and phone number on file. If either has been changed without your permission, change them back and contact AARP support at 1-888-687-2277 to report the unauthorized access.