Understanding the AARP Rewards Program
The AARP Rewards program is a loyalty system designed to engage users with a variety of activities and offer redemptions for sweepstakes, gift cards, and more. It operates on a simple premise: earn points for engaging with AARP's content and health-focused initiatives, then redeem those points for various rewards. Membership status, however, significantly influences your earning potential and redemption options.
How to earn points
The point-earning process is tied to your daily interactions with AARP's digital content and wellness programs. Participants can accumulate points through activities such as:
- Taking quizzes: Brain-boosting quizzes on topics from entertainment to local benefits award points for completion.
- Tracking fitness: Syncing a fitness tracker or health app with your AARP Rewards account allows you to earn points for hitting daily goals for steps, cycling, and swimming.
- Interacting with apps and websites: Using the AARP Now app or engaging with content on AARP.org can yield points.
- Participating in programs: The "Staying Sharp" program, for example, offers points for completing challenges and watching videos.
- Playing games: AARP offers a variety of games, including crossword puzzles and multiplayer options, where points can be earned.
Rewards for members vs. non-members
One of the key distinctions within the program is the tiered reward system for members and non-members. While anyone can sign up for the free AARP Rewards program, AARP members receive more substantial benefits. Members earn 50% more points on eligible activities and gain access to a larger pool of exclusive, members-only rewards. For example, AARP members can earn up to 7,500 points daily, whereas non-members are capped at 5,000 points. This tiered system incentivizes a paid membership for those who want to maximize their earning potential.
Weighing the rewards: what are the options?
So, what exactly can you get with your hard-earned AARP Rewards points? The redemption catalog is diverse, with options catering to a wide range of interests. The value you get depends on how you choose to redeem your points. Options include:
- Discounted gift cards: Points can be redeemed for gift cards from popular brands, often at a discounted rate. Participating brands include CVS Pharmacy, Home Depot, and Kroger, among others.
- Sweepstakes entries: You can use points to enter drawings for larger prizes, including trips, electronics, and cash.
- Charitable contributions: Points can be donated to various charities supported by AARP.
- Local deals and discounts: AARP offers local coupons for restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment options.
- Travel and experiences: Points can be applied toward discounts on travel, including hotels, cruises, and airlines.
The true value of AARP rewards
Determining if the rewards are worth it requires looking beyond just the points. The real value often comes from the combination of the free rewards program and the exclusive member-only discounts. For many, the savings on insurance, travel, and dining far outweigh the annual membership fee, making the loyalty program a valuable addition rather than a standalone perk.
A comparative look at reward options
| Reward Type | Non-Member Benefits | AARP Member Benefits | Worth It For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points Earning | Earns up to 5,000 points daily through activities | Earns up to 7,500 points daily (+50% bonus) | High-engagement users who do quizzes, track fitness, etc. |
| Gift Cards | Standard point redemption for discounted cards | Access to exclusive gift card offers | Individuals who frequently shop at participating stores |
| Travel Discounts | Access to general travel deals | Deeper discounts on hotels, car rentals (like Budget and Avis), and cruises | Frequent travelers whose travel savings can easily cover the membership cost |
| Everyday Savings | General local deals and coupons | Deeper discounts at restaurants (e.g., Denny's, Outback), cell phone services (e.g., Consumer Cellular), and retail | Individuals who dine out or spend regularly at partner retailers |
| Insurance & Finance | Access to general educational content | Exclusive discounts on auto and home insurance, as well as resources like the Savi student loan tool | Those looking to save on large yearly expenses like insurance |
How to maximize your AARP rewards
To ensure you are getting the most value, a strategic approach is essential. The rewards program is most beneficial to those who are active and deliberate in their engagement. Here are some tips to maximize your return:
- Use the rewards dashboard: Regularly check your dashboard to monitor your points, track your progress, and see when points are set to expire (they have a 12-month rolling expiration).
- Stack your savings: Combine your rewards with other AARP member benefits. For example, use a travel discount for a hotel booking and redeem points for a gift card to a nearby restaurant.
- Engage daily: Incorporate daily point-earning activities into your routine. A few minutes spent on a quiz or checking a dashboard can add up over time.
- Prioritize high-value redemptions: Compare the point cost of different rewards. Discounted gift cards or travel vouchers may offer a better return on your points than sweepstakes entries. Check the official AARP Rewards site for current offers.
- Utilize the app: The AARP Now app makes it easy to earn and redeem points on the go, ensuring you don't miss out on opportunities.
Conclusion: Making your decision
Whether AARP rewards are worth it comes down to your personal habits and spending patterns. For someone who is an active AARP member and frequently engages with the program's various activities, the boosted point earnings and exclusive rewards offer substantial value. However, even non-members can benefit from the free program, using points for smaller gift cards and local deals. To truly make it worthwhile, a potential member should identify at least one or two areas—such as insurance, travel, or cell phone service—where the annual savings from the membership fee will clearly surpass the cost. The rewards program then becomes a valuable bonus on top of a membership that is already saving you money.
