The Surprising Truth About AARP's Mailing Lists
Many people notice an increase in unsolicited mail from AARP around their 50th birthday, leading to the common assumption that this is the required age for membership. However, the truth about the organization's mailing practices is more nuanced. While AARP's mission focuses on the 50-plus demographic, its membership is actually open to anyone aged 18 or older. The influx of mail around a person's 50th birthday is a result of AARP's extensive use of publicly available data to build targeted marketing lists.
This marketing strategy aims to capture the attention of a financially powerful demographic at a key life stage. AARP sends out mass-market mailers based on data from various sources, not just to existing members. This practice is why someone who has never been a member can still receive promotional material. As a person approaches 50, their name may appear on numerous data lists, and AARP leverages this information to initiate contact and promote the benefits of joining. The intensity of the mailings can increase after age 50, but it is a marketing effort, not an automatic part of reaching that milestone age.
How to Stop AARP Mailings
For those who feel overwhelmed by the constant flow of mail from AARP, several effective methods can be used to stop or reduce the volume. Dealing with unsolicited mail requires both direct action and, for maximum effect, a multi-pronged approach.
- Contact AARP Directly: The most direct method is to contact AARP and request to be removed from their mailing list. This can be done through their online opt-out form, by calling their customer service number, or via social media channels.
- Use Third-Party Services: Services like PaperKarma or registering with the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service can help manage and reduce junk mail from various senders, including AARP.
- Write "Return to Sender": For First Class postage mail, you can simply write "Refused" or "Return to Sender" on the envelope and place it back in the mailbox. For bulk rate mail, this is less effective.
- Wait for the Process: It can take up to 12 weeks for the mailings to cease entirely after submitting an opt-out request, as mailings are often scheduled far in advance.
Membership vs. Marketing: A Comparison
| Feature | AARP Membership | AARP Promotional Mailings |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to anyone aged 18 or older. | Individuals around age 50 receive the most, based on public data. |
| Frequency | Varies; includes magazines, bulletins, and specific notices for active members. | Can be frequent and persistent, especially around the 50th birthday. |
| Content | Includes magazines, renewal notices, and information on member benefits. | Generic offers and materials designed to entice non-members to join. |
| Initiation | Requires an individual to sign up and pay the membership fee. | Initiated by AARP based on targeted marketing lists from public records. |
| How to Stop | Can be canceled by contacting AARP directly. | Requires opting out via AARP or third-party services, and may take several weeks. |
The Reasoning Behind AARP's Mailing Strategy
Beyond simply targeting those around 50, AARP's marketing reflects a larger business and advocacy strategy. The organization seeks to engage with individuals at a stage when many are considering retirement planning, healthcare options, and financial stability. By reaching out proactively, AARP positions itself as a valuable resource. For those under 50 who join, the organization is looking to build brand loyalty over decades. For those over 50, they are targeting a demographic with significant purchasing power. The mailings are a low-cost, high-volume method for AARP to expand its member base, which in turn strengthens its advocacy work and increases the reach of its media properties.
The Financial and Informational Benefits of Membership
While the promotional mail can be annoying, many people do find value in an AARP membership, regardless of age. For an affordable annual fee, members gain access to a host of discounts on travel, dining, and mobile services. Members over 50 are eligible for additional benefits, particularly with age-restricted insurance products. For example, exclusive benefits with AARP Auto and Home Insurance from The Hartford are reserved for members who are 50 or older. Younger members can still access the majority of other discounts and resources. Additionally, all members receive informational publications like AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin, which cover topics relevant to all stages of aging.
Why Younger People Join AARP
The perception that AARP is only for retirees is a myth, and many under-50 individuals join to take advantage of the immediate discounts.
- Travel and Lifestyle Discounts: Significant savings on hotels, rental cars, and other lifestyle purchases can easily offset the low annual membership fee.
- Access to Information: Younger members can access articles and resources focused on financial planning, health, and preparing for the future.
- Family Benefits: A membership can be extended to a spouse or household member at no extra cost, allowing more people to utilize the benefits.
Conclusion
AARP starts sending mail around age 50 as part of a widespread marketing campaign targeting this financially significant demographic. These mailings are not a sign of automatic eligibility but rather an invitation to join. The actual minimum age to become a member and access most discounts is 18. The persistent mailings are an attempt to grow the organization's membership, which in turn supports its advocacy and media endeavors. For those who wish to stop the mail, a combination of direct contact with AARP and, for non-First Class mail, using third-party services is the most effective approach, though it may take a few weeks to fully process. The key is to understand that the mail is a marketing tactic, and receiving it does not oblige you to join or engage with the organization.
What is the minimum age to join AARP? Why do I get AARP mail if I'm not that age?
AARP's minimum membership age is 18, so you can join at any age. You receive unsolicited mail from AARP because they purchase publicly available mailing lists to send generic promotional offers to individuals around the age of 50, not based on your specific age or consent.
How can I stop getting mail from AARP?
To stop AARP mailings, you can either contact AARP directly via their opt-out form, phone, or social media, or use a third-party service like PaperKarma. For First Class mail, writing "Return to Sender" is also an option.
Does getting AARP mail mean I am automatically a member?
No, receiving mail from AARP does not mean you are a member. Promotional mail is sent to non-members as part of a marketing campaign to encourage them to join.
How long does it take for AARP mailings to stop after opting out?
After submitting an opt-out request, it can take up to 12 weeks for AARP mailings to stop completely, as mail is often prepared and scheduled in advance.
Is there a difference between AARP mail and AARP Foundation mail?
Yes, there is a difference. While they are related, they operate separately. The AARP Foundation is the charitable affiliate, and you may need to contact them separately to stop their specific mailings.
What are the benefits of joining AARP if you are under 50?
Even if you are under 50, an AARP membership offers a wide range of benefits, including travel discounts on hotels and rental cars, savings at restaurants, and discounts on cell phone service. You also receive a subscription to AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin.
What information does AARP use to send mailings?
AARP uses publicly available data from various sources to compile targeted mailing lists, not specific private information. These lists are used for mass-market promotional mailings aimed at individuals approaching or past the age of 50.
