What You Get With an AARP Membership

AARP membership gives you access to discounts, insurance products, and resources focused on people 50 and older. The core membership costs $16 per year and includes a magazine, a website with health and financial information, and negotiated discounts at retailers and service providers. You do not have to be retired to join — AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, whether you are still working or already collecting Social Security.

The membership itself does not provide health insurance or direct financial benefits. Instead, it connects you to programs and discounts you can use on your own. AARP also sells supplemental insurance products — like Medigap and long-term care coverage — but these are separate purchases with their own costs and terms.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership costs $16 per year and includes access to discounts, a magazine, and an online resource library, but does not provide insurance or direct payments.
  • Discounts vary by retailer and location; you show your AARP card or membership number at checkout, and the discount applies automatically at participating businesses.
  • AARP sells insurance products like Medigap and long-term care policies through partner companies, but these are optional add-ons with separate premiums and underwriting.
  • AARP offers free tax preparation help through a partnership with the IRS, available to people 60 and older with low to moderate income.
  • You can cancel your membership at any time and receive a refund for the unused portion of your membership year.

Discounts at Stores and Restaurants

AARP has negotiated discounts with national chains and local businesses across categories like groceries, pharmacies, hotels, rental cars, and restaurants. The discount amount varies — some offer a flat percentage off, others offer specific deals on certain products. You access these by showing your AARP card or membership number at the point of sale, or by using a code online if you are shopping on a website.

Not every location of a chain honors the discount, and offers change over time. The AARP website and mobile app list current discounts by category and zip code, so you can search before you shop. Some discounts require you to sign up for a store loyalty program first, while others explore automatically. It is worth checking the AARP discount page for your area before assuming a discount is available at a specific store.

Insurance Products AARP Endorses

AARP does not sell insurance directly. Instead, it has partnerships with insurance companies that offer products under the AARP name. These include Medigap (supplemental coverage for Original Medicare), Medicare Advantage plans, prescription drug coverage, long-term care insurance, and life insurance. Each product is underwritten and sold by the partner company, not by AARP itself.

When you buy one of these policies, you are entering a contract with the insurance company, not with AARP. AARP receives a commission from the insurer for each policy sold. This means AARP has a financial incentive to promote these products, so it is worth comparing rates and terms with other insurers before you buy. You can shop for Medigap, Medicare Advantage, and prescription drug coverage directly through Medicare.gov without going through AARP.

Tax Help and Financial Resources

AARP partners with the IRS to offer free tax preparation and filing through the Tax-Aide program. This service is open to people 60 and older with low to moderate income. You can find a Tax-Aide location near you on the AARP website, and appointments are typically available from February through April. A trained volunteer prepares your return and files it electronically at no cost.

AARP also publishes guides and articles on Social Security, Medicare, retirement planning, and managing money in later life. These are available free on the AARP website and do not require a membership. The organization also offers a money management tool and links to financial planning resources, though these are informational only and not personalized information.

Health Information and Wellness Programs

AARP's website includes articles, videos, and tools about common health topics for older adults — including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and cognitive health. The content is written for a general audience and cites medical research, but it is not a substitute for talking to your doctor. AARP also offers a free online health assessment tool that asks about your habits and health history, then suggests resources based on your answers.

Some AARP chapters offer in-person programs like fitness classes, health screenings, and workshops on topics like medication management or caregiver support. These vary by location and are often free or low-cost. You can find local programs through the AARP website by entering your zip code.

Advocacy and Member Services

AARP uses membership dues to fund lobbying and public education campaigns on issues affecting older adults — including Social Security, Medicare, prescription drug costs, and age discrimination. As a member, you receive updates on these campaigns through the magazine and website, and you can choose to contact elected officials through AARP's advocacy tools.

AARP also operates a member services phone line where you can ask questions about your membership, discounts, or how to use AARP resources. This line is free for members and available during business hours. The website also has a searchable FAQ section and live chat support during certain hours.

How to Cancel or Pause Your Membership

You can cancel your AARP membership at any time by calling the member services line, visiting the website, or writing to AARP directly. If you cancel within 30 days of joining, you receive a full refund. If you cancel after 30 days, AARP refunds the unused portion of your membership year on a prorated basis — meaning you pay only for the months you used.

AARP does not offer a pause option, but you can let your membership expire and rejoin later without penalty. If you rejoin within a year, you may be offered a discounted rate. Some people choose to maintain membership for specific benefits like the Tax-Aide program or a particular discount, even if they do not use most of the membership perks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, regardless of employment status. You do not need to be retired, collecting Social Security, or on Medicare to join.

Can I use AARP discounts online?

Some discounts work online if you enter a code at checkout; others explore only in stores. Check the AARP website for each retailer to see whether the discount is available online or in-store only.

Does AARP membership include health insurance?

No. Membership does not provide insurance. AARP sells insurance products through partner companies, but these are separate purchases with their own costs and underwriting. You buy them in addition to membership, not as part of it.

What happens if I do not use my membership?

You can cancel at any time and receive a refund for the unused portion of your membership year. There is no penalty for canceling, and you can rejoin later if you change your mind.

Is the AARP magazine included in the membership cost?

Yes. The magazine is included with your $16 annual membership. It is mailed to your home and also available online. You can choose to receive it in print, digital, or both.