AARP membership gives you discounts on travel, insurance, and everyday purchases, plus access to tax preparation help and a magazine with health information

AARP membership costs $16 per year for a single person or $27 for a couple. In return, you get a card that works at thousands of retailers, discounts on car rentals and hotels, access to AARP's tax preparation service, and a subscription to AARP Magazine and the digital AARP Bulletin. The membership also includes access to AARP's online community forums and educational webinars on topics like health, money, and caregiving. Most members report using the discounts enough to cover the annual fee within a few months.

AARP does not provide health insurance, prescription drug coverage, or Medicare plans itself. Instead, it partners with insurance companies to offer discounted rates on supplemental insurance, long-term care insurance, and life insurance. You purchase these through the partner companies, not through AARP, and you pay the full premium—AARP's role is to negotiate a lower rate for members.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP membership includes discounts at retailers like Best Buy, Walgreens, and Hertz, plus hotel and rental car discounts that often save 10 to 25 percent.
  • The membership provides free tax preparation through AARP's Tax-Aide program, which operates at libraries and community centers nationwide during tax season.
  • AARP negotiates discounted rates on supplemental insurance, long-term care insurance, and life insurance, but you purchase these policies directly from the insurance companies.
  • Members receive AARP Magazine six times per year and the weekly AARP Bulletin, both containing health, financial, and caregiving information.
  • AARP offers free online courses, webinars, and community forums on topics like technology, health, and retirement planning.

Retail and Travel Discounts

AARP has negotiated discounts with more than 100,000 retailers and service providers. Common discounts include 10 percent off at Best Buy, 10 to 15 percent off at Walgreens and CVS, and discounts at restaurants like Denny's, Applebee's, and Outback Steakhouse. The specific discount varies by location and changes periodically, so it is worth checking the AARP website or asking at the register before you shop.

Travel discounts are often the largest savings for active members. AARP negotiates rates with Hertz, Budget, and Avis that typically run 10 to 25 percent below the standard daily rate. Hotel discounts through Choice Hotels, Wyndham, and Best Western often range from 10 to 20 percent. These discounts explore when you book through AARP's travel portal or enter your membership number at checkout. Some members find that the travel discounts alone pay for the annual membership on a single vacation.

Tax Preparation Through AARP Tax-Aide

AARP Tax-Aide is a free tax preparation service run by AARP and the IRS. Trained volunteers prepare federal and state tax returns at no cost for people with low to moderate income, regardless of AARP membership status. However, AARP members receive priority scheduling and can often get an appointment faster than non-members during tax season.

Tax-Aide operates from January through April at libraries, community centers, and senior centers across the country. You bring your documents—W-2s, 1099s, receipts for deductible expenses, and proof of identity—and a volunteer prepares your return on the spot. The service covers straightforward returns, some investment income, and rental property income. It does not cover complex business returns or certain specialized situations. You can find a Tax-Aide location near you through the AARP website.

Insurance Discounts and Coverage Options

AARP partners with insurance companies to offer members discounted rates on several types of insurance. These include supplemental health insurance (also called Medigap), long-term care insurance, life insurance, and auto and home insurance. The discounts vary by state and by the insurance company, but members typically save 10 to 20 percent compared to non-member rates.

It is important to understand that AARP does not sell the insurance itself. You work directly with the insurance company—UnitedHealthcare, Mutual of Omaha, or another carrier—to buy the policy. AARP's role is to have negotiated a member discount with that company. You pay the full premium to the insurance company, not to AARP. The membership discount applies automatically when you mention your AARP membership or provide your member number during the purchase process.

Magazine, Newsletters, and Online Learning

AARP Magazine arrives six times per year and covers health, money, caregiving, and lifestyle topics. Articles are written for a general audience and often include interviews with doctors, financial advisors, and people sharing their own experiences. The magazine also includes recipes, book reviews, and travel features. The digital version is available online the same day the print edition ships.

The AARP Bulletin is a weekly email newsletter that summarizes news, health updates, and money tips. Members can also access AARP's online learning platform, which offers free courses on topics like using technology, managing money in retirement, and caring for aging parents. Webinars are held throughout the month and are free to attend. The AARP Community is an online forum where members can ask questions and share experiences with others in similar situations.

Health Information and Wellness Resources

AARP provides health information through its website, magazine, and webinars, but it does not provide medical care or diagnoses. The health content covers topics like managing chronic conditions, medication side effects, preventive care, and caregiving. Articles are reviewed by medical advisors but are intended for general information only, not as a substitute for talking with your doctor.

Members also receive discounts on hearing aids, eyeglasses, and dental care through AARP's partnerships with providers. These discounts are typically 10 to 20 percent off retail prices. Like insurance discounts, you purchase directly from the provider and mention your AARP membership to receive the discount.

Membership Cost and Renewal

A one-year AARP membership costs $16 for an individual or $27 for a couple. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check. The membership renews automatically each year unless you cancel. You can cancel at any time by calling AARP's customer service line or through your online account.

AARP occasionally offers promotional rates—sometimes $8 for the first year or a three-year membership at a reduced rate. These promotions are advertised on the AARP website and through direct mail. If you join during a promotional period, the renewal rate after the promotion ends is the standard $16 or $27.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be retired to join AARP?

No. AARP membership is open to anyone 50 or older, whether you are still working, retired, or self-employed. Your employment status does not affect your membership or the discounts you receive.

Can I use AARP discounts online?

Yes, many retailers and service providers offer AARP discounts online. You typically enter your membership number at checkout or use a special link from the AARP website. Some discounts are in-store only, so it is worth checking the specific retailer's policy before you shop.

What if I do not use the discounts—is membership still worth it?

That depends on what you value. If you never travel, do not shop at participating retailers, and do not need tax help, the membership may not pay for itself. But if you use even one or two discounts regularly—like a hotel discount on an annual trip or a 10 percent discount at a pharmacy you visit monthly—the membership typically covers its cost.

Does AARP membership include Medicare or health insurance?

No. AARP does not provide Medicare or health insurance. It negotiates discounted rates on supplemental insurance and other types of coverage, which you purchase directly from insurance companies. You enroll in Medicare through Medicare.gov or your local Social Security office.

Can I cancel my membership anytime?

Yes. You can cancel by calling AARP's customer service line or through your online account. If you cancel within 30 days of joining, AARP will refund your membership fee. After 30 days, the fee is non-refundable, but you can still cancel and will not be charged for renewal.