The American Association of Retired Persons, or AARP, is one of the most recognized organizations advocating for the needs and rights of people aged 50 and older. Whether you’ve recently turned 50 or are considering the benefits for a loved one, AARP offers a wealth of resources, discounts, and services designed to enhance your quality of life. But before you take the plunge, it's important to understand exactly what AARP is, how to join, and what you stand to gain.
AARP is much more than just a membership organization; it’s a community that has been championing the needs of older Americans since its founding in 1958. With over 38 million members, AARP is a powerful voice in advocating for the rights and well-being of older adults across the nation. By joining AARP, you’re not just gaining access to discounts and resources—you’re also supporting a movement dedicated to improving the lives of seniors.
Understanding the full scope of what AARP offers can help you make an informed decision about whether membership is right for you. From health and wellness resources to financial planning tools, AARP is designed to provide support in nearly every aspect of life as you age. Whether you’re looking to save money, stay informed, or connect with a community of like-minded individuals, AARP has something to offer.
How to Become a Member of AARP
Joining AARP is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few minutes online. Here’s how you can become a member...
- Visit the AARP Website: Head over to AARP.org and navigate to the membership section.
- Choose Your Membership Plan: AARP offers several membership options, including one-year, three-year, and five-year plans. Select the plan that best fits your needs.
- Provide Your Information: Fill out the form with your name, address, and birthdate to confirm eligibility.
- Make a Payment: Enter your payment information and confirm your membership.
- Receive Your Membership Card: After signing up, you’ll receive a digital membership card immediately, with a physical card arriving by mail shortly after.
The process of joining AARP is designed to be as user-friendly as possible, ensuring that even those who are not tech-savvy can easily complete the steps. If you prefer not to sign up online, you can also join AARP by mail or over the phone. AARP’s customer service is highly rated, and representatives are available to help guide you through the process, answer any questions, and ensure that you select the membership option that best suits your needs.
Once you become a member, you’ll have immediate access to all of AARP’s benefits. The digital membership card allows you to start using discounts and services right away, while the physical card provides a tangible reminder of your membership. Additionally, AARP frequently offers special promotions and discounts for new members, making it an even more attractive proposition to join.
The Benefits of AARP Membership
AARP isn’t just a membership card; it’s a gateway to a vast array of benefits designed to make life easier, more enjoyable, and more affordable. Below are some of the top benefits you can enjoy as a member.
- Discounts on Travel and Dining: Save on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and restaurants across the country.
- Health & Wellness Resources: Access to health insurance plans, vision and dental discounts, and wellness programs.
- Financial Tools & Resources: Get expert advice on retirement planning, Social Security, and managing your finances.
- Advocacy & Community Engagement: AARP works tirelessly to advocate for policies that benefit seniors, from healthcare to social security.
- Entertainment & Lifestyle Perks: Enjoy discounted tickets to movies, theme parks, and special events, as well as subscriptions to AARP’s publications.
These benefits are not just limited to discounts; they encompass a wide range of resources that can help improve your quality of life. For example, AARP’s health and wellness resources are extensive, providing members with access to affordable health insurance options, including Medigap plans, dental insurance, and vision care discounts. Additionally, AARP’s wellness programs offer members the tools they need to stay active and healthy, including fitness guides, nutrition advice, and mental health resources.
Financial planning is another significant area where AARP provides value. Members can access a wealth of information on retirement planning, investment strategies, and Social Security benefits, helping you make informed decisions about your financial future. AARP also offers free tax preparation services through its Tax-Aide program, ensuring that members get the most out of their tax returns. Whether you’re looking to save money, improve your health, or manage your finances, AARP’s benefits are designed to support you every step of the way.
What Does AARP Membership Cost?
AARP membership is incredibly affordable, especially when you consider the wide range of benefits it offers. Here’s a breakdown of the costs...
- One-Year Membership: $12 for the first year when you sign up for automatic renewal.
- Three-Year Membership: $43 for three years, providing a small discount.
- Five-Year Membership: $63 for five years, offering the best value.
- Lifetime Membership: For a one-time fee, you can become a lifetime member, locking in all the benefits without ever having to renew.
These rates are often further discounted through promotions, making AARP an even better deal. For instance, first-time members frequently receive a special rate of $12 for the first year, which is a significant discount off the regular price. AARP also offers promotions during certain times of the year, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for these deals if you’re considering joining.
In addition to the monetary cost, it’s important to consider the value of the membership. The savings you can achieve through AARP’s discounts often far exceed the cost of the membership itself. For example, if you frequently travel, the discounts on hotels and car rentals alone can save you hundreds of dollars each year. Similarly, the health and wellness discounts can help reduce the cost of essential services, making AARP membership a wise investment for anyone over 50.
Who Can Join AARP? Understanding Age & Eligibility Requirements
AARP membership is open to anyone aged 50 and over, but that’s not the only way to become a member; see below.
- Primary Members: If you’re 50 or older, you’re eligible to join as a primary member.
- Secondary Members: If you have a spouse or partner, they can enjoy a free secondary membership, regardless of their age.
- Pre-Retirement Members: Even if you’re under 50, you can still sign up as an associate member and start enjoying many of the benefits.
AARP’s inclusive membership structure ensures that nearly everyone can benefit from the services they offer. For those under 50, the associate membership provides access to most AARP benefits, making it a great option for those who want to start enjoying the perks early. While the full benefits package becomes available at age 50, the associate membership still offers significant value, particularly in areas like financial planning and insurance.
Moreover, the secondary membership is a standout feature, allowing your spouse or partner to enjoy all the same benefits at no extra cost. This is particularly beneficial for couples who travel together or share health and wellness goals. By allowing both members to fully access all the benefits, AARP ensures that the membership is not just an individual investment, but one that can enhance the lives of your loved ones as well.
How to Get a Second AARP Membership for Free
One of the best perks of AARP membership is that it includes a free secondary membership. Here’s how it works...
- Automatic Inclusion: When you sign up, you can add your spouse or partner at no additional cost.
- Separate Membership Cards: Both you and your secondary member will receive your own AARP membership cards.
- Shared Benefits: The secondary member enjoys the same benefits, discounts, and resources as the primary member.
This makes AARP an exceptional value for couples or partners, doubling the benefits without doubling the cost. The free secondary membership means that both you and your partner can take full advantage of all the discounts and resources that AARP offers, from travel savings to health and wellness benefits. This feature is especially valuable for couples who enjoy traveling together, as the combined savings on hotels, car rentals, and dining can add up quickly.
To add a secondary member, you simply need to provide their information when you sign up. If you’re already an AARP member, you can easily add a secondary member through your online account. The process is straightforward, and both members will receive their own cards, ensuring that each person can independently access AARP benefits. Whether you’re planning a vacation, looking for health insurance options, or just want to save on everyday expenses, the free secondary membership is a valuable addition that enhances the overall worth of AARP.
Summary: Is AARP Membership Worth It?
In a word, yes. AARP membership is not only affordable but also packed with value. From discounts that can save you hundreds of dollars annually to resources that can help you navigate retirement, health care, and finances, AARP is designed to enhance your life in countless ways. Plus, with the added perk of a free secondary membership, it’s an offer that’s hard to beat.
Beyond the tangible benefits, AARP membership also connects you with a community of millions of like-minded individuals who are navigating the same stages of life. Whether through AARP’s online forums, local events, or volunteer opportunities, membership provides a sense of belonging and support that can be invaluable as you age.