AARP and the Fine Print of Passport Savings
While AARP is well-known for its extensive network of discounts, especially for travelers over 50, the official U.S. passport fee is set by the government and is not subject to age-based or membership-based discounts. This means every adult, regardless of age or affiliation, pays the same application fee. However, savvy seniors can leverage their AARP membership to save on other aspects of the passport process, specifically on expedited services. AARP has a partnership with RushMyPassport, a third-party company that helps travelers get their passports quickly and efficiently.
How AARP's Passport Benefit Works
Through its partnership with RushMyPassport, AARP provides its members and their families with a 15% discount on expedited U.S. passport and travel visa services. This is a crucial distinction: the discount is applied to the service fees charged by RushMyPassport, not the official government fees. For seniors on a tight schedule or those who need help navigating the application process, this can still result in a substantial saving on the total cost.
Benefits of using the AARP partner service include:
- Expedited Processing: Significantly faster turnaround times than standard government processing.
- Expert Assistance: "White-glove concierge support" from RushMyPassport to guide you through the application and renewal process.
- Online Convenience: A simple online platform to complete forms, upload documents, and track your application status from home.
- Video Consultations: Optional consultations for additional support, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience.
To access this benefit, AARP members can visit the dedicated AARP page on RushMyPassport's website and use their membership number to verify their eligibility. The discount is automatically applied to qualifying services, simplifying the process and helping members save money on the administrative side of getting their travel documents.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown
When applying for a passport, the total cost is a combination of several fees. It's important to understand these components to see where AARP's discount applies.
Passport Fee Cost Comparison for AARP Members
| Item | Standard Cost | AARP Member Discounted Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government Application Fee | Varies (e.g., $130 for a new book) | Same | No discount on this fee |
| Expedited Service Fee (RushMyPassport) | Varies by speed | 15% discount on this fee | Only applies to RushMyPassport fees |
| Execution Fee | $35 (paid to acceptance facility) | Same | No discount on this fee |
| Passport Photos | Varies by retailer | Potential savings via other memberships | AAA offers free photos for premier members |
| Shipping Fees | Varies by method | Same | No discount on government shipping fees |
As the table shows, the AARP benefit targets the expedited service charge, a separate fee from the government's application fee. This is especially valuable for last-minute travel or for those who prefer expert help with their paperwork.
Beyond Passports: Other AARP Travel Benefits
While the passport discount is a specific, limited-scope benefit, AARP membership opens the door to a much wider array of travel-related savings. These comprehensive benefits can significantly reduce the overall cost of a trip.
- Hotel Discounts: AARP members can save between 5% and 20% at major hotel chains like Best Western, Hilton, and Wyndham.
- Rental Car Discounts: Partnerships with companies such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz offer members savings of up to 35% on rental rates.
- Flight Discounts: Exclusive deals on flights are available through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, and specific airline partners like British Airways offer discounts of up to $200 on certain flights.
- Cruises and Tours: Members can access savings on cruises with Holland America Line and discounts on tours with partners like Grand European Travel.
- Travel Insurance: Discounts are available on travel insurance policies, providing peace of mind for seniors traveling abroad.
By combining these various discounts, seniors can realize significant savings on their travel budget, from accommodation and transport to planning and documentation. It’s worth exploring the full range of AARP travel benefits on their website to maximize savings.
Are there other ways seniors can save on passport-related expenses?
Yes, there are other avenues for seniors to cut costs related to their passport application. One such option is through AAA membership. Many AAA branches offer passport photo services, with premier members often receiving a free set of photos per year. This can save the cost of a separate visit to a photo studio or pharmacy for the required 2x2 inch images.
Another option is to plan ahead. While expedited services offer convenience, the most budget-friendly method is always the standard application process, which has a lower fee. For seniors who have plenty of time before their trip, opting for the standard processing time is the best way to avoid extra costs entirely.
Conclusion: Strategic Savings for Senior Travelers
While AARP does not offer a direct discount on the government-mandated passport application fee, its partnership with RushMyPassport provides valuable savings on expedited processing services. By understanding which part of the process is being discounted, seniors can make informed decisions and save money. Beyond passport services, AARP provides a broad spectrum of travel benefits, from hotels and flights to rental cars and insurance, that can make international travel more affordable and accessible. For those seeking the biggest savings, combining the AARP partnership for any expedited needs with other member travel benefits and leveraging alternative memberships like AAA for passport photos is the most strategic approach. The key is to plan, research, and apply these benefits strategically to keep more money in your pocket for your next adventure. For more information on passport applications and fees, refer to the official U.S. Department of State website at travel.state.gov.
