Can you get a refund when canceling AARP renewal?
Yes, you can receive a refund if you cancel your AARP membership renewal. AARP states that if you decide not to continue your membership for any reason, you are eligible for a pro-rated refund. This applies even if your membership has already renewed automatically. The refund will cover the unused portion of your membership term. To receive the refund, you must officially request the cancellation and confirm the refund process with an AARP representative.
How to cancel your AARP renewal and request a refund
There are several ways to initiate the cancellation process and request a refund from AARP. While you can stop future automatic renewals online, requesting a refund typically requires speaking directly with a representative via phone or chat.
- Cancel online first: If you are trying to prevent a future automatic renewal, you can log into your AARP online account. Navigate to the 'My Account' section, select the 'Account Details' tab, and find the option to 'Cancel Automatic Renewal' under the 'AARP Membership Payment Details'. This will stop future charges but does not automatically process a refund for a recent charge.
- Call AARP for a refund: To get a refund after a renewal has gone through, call AARP's toll-free number at 800-514-4564. When speaking with a representative, state your intention to cancel your membership and specifically mention that you are requesting a pro-rated refund for the recent renewal charge. Be prepared to provide your membership number or personal information for verification.
- Use the online chat: AARP also offers a chat option on its website. You can engage with a representative in real-time to explain your situation and request the refund. This method is often quicker than waiting on hold over the phone. Be sure to save a transcript of your conversation for your records.
- Mail a written request: While less common in the digital age, you can also mail a letter to AARP detailing your request to cancel and receive a refund. This method may take longer to process. Include your full name, mailing address, and membership number in the letter. AARP suggests that for re-issued checks, you must return the original, but for a new request, a detailed letter is sufficient.
Comparison of AARP cancellation and refund methods
| Feature | Online Cancellation (Automatic Renewal) | Phone Cancellation (Refund Request) | Online Chat (Refund Request) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High (24/7 access) | Medium (during business hours) | High (during business hours) |
| Refund Initiation | Stops future payments only | Can request immediate refund | Can request immediate refund |
| Confirmation | Instant online confirmation | Verbal confirmation, followed by email/mail | Chat transcript, followed by email/mail |
| Personal Interaction | None | High | Medium |
| Processing Time | Immediate for future renewals | Varies (up to 12 weeks) | Varies (up to 12 weeks) |
| Documentation | Online record | Phone log | Chat transcript |
What happens after you cancel and request a refund?
Once you have successfully canceled your membership and requested a refund, here's what to expect:
- Confirmation: AARP will send you a confirmation of your cancellation request. This may come via email or mail. Hold on to this for your records.
- Refund processing: Your refund for the remaining balance on your account will be processed. AARP will send the refund via the same payment method used for the original transaction (e.g., check, credit card, or PayPal).
- Timing: It can take some time for the refund to be fully processed and for all related systems to be updated. AARP notes that it may take up to 12 weeks for the cancellation to be fully reflected and for all mailings to stop.
- Benefits cancellation: The organization will also notify its member benefit providers that your account has been canceled. Access to member-only products and services will be terminated. You can still log into your AARP.org online account to manage your profile, but without an active membership, you won't have access to member benefits.
What if there's an issue with your refund?
If your refund does not arrive within a reasonable timeframe (e.g., after 12 weeks), or if there's a problem with the check, you can contact AARP again. For re-issued or replaced checks, you may be required to return the original check. If you have problems with the process or find it difficult to cancel, you can also lodge a complaint with consumer advocacy organizations.
Conclusion
Yes, you can absolutely receive a pro-rated refund if you cancel an AARP membership renewal. The most direct path to getting your money back is to call or chat with an AARP representative and specifically state your request to cancel and receive a refund for the unused portion of your term. While canceling the automatic renewal online will prevent future charges, a refund for a payment that has already processed requires contacting a representative. Always keep a record of your communication and confirmation to ensure the refund is issued in a timely manner. While the process is not instant, following these steps ensures you receive your entitled refund for your cancellation.
Important note on automatic renewal
It's important to understand the distinction between cancelling automatic renewal and cancelling the membership entirely. The former stops future charges, while the latter also triggers the refund for the current term. AARP’s help center provides clear instructions and options for both scenarios, offering flexibility for members who may change their mind.
