Understanding the Free Secondary Membership
As a primary AARP member, you have the advantage of adding a second adult from your household to your membership at no extra cost. This free secondary membership is a significant value-add, as it extends the organization's benefits to a partner, spouse, or even an adult child living with you. The secondary member gains their own card and a separate online account, providing them with independent access to the same programs and services as the primary member.
Who Qualifies for a Free Secondary Membership?
The eligibility criteria for a secondary AARP membership are straightforward, offering flexibility for a variety of household situations. The key requirements are:
- Spouse or Partner: If you are married or have a partner, they are eligible for a free secondary membership.
- Adult in the Household: Any adult who lives at the same address as the primary member can be added. This means an adult roommate or an adult child could potentially be a secondary member.
It is important to note that the secondary member does not need to be 50 or older. AARP membership is open to anyone over 18, and those under 50 can access most benefits, with some age-restricted products like certain insurance plans being an exception.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adding Your Spouse
Adding a spouse or household member to your AARP account is a simple process that can be completed online or over the phone.
How to Add a Secondary Member Online
- Log In: Go to the AARP website and log in to your account with your username and password.
- Navigate to My Account: Click on your account profile, which will lead you to the 'My Account' page.
- Access Account Details: Select the 'Account Details' tab to view your personal information.
- Find Household Members: Scroll down to the 'Personal Information' section and look for the 'Members in this household' or 'Spouse/Partner' area.
- Add the Member: Click the 'Add Member' button, fill in the required information for your spouse or partner, and click 'Save'.
How to Add a Secondary Member by Phone
If you prefer to speak with a representative, you can call AARP's customer service number. They can assist you with adding a secondary member to your account directly.
Benefits for Two: What Both Members Can Get
Once a secondary member is added, both individuals can enjoy the full range of AARP benefits, which include a wide variety of discounts and services. This essentially doubles the value of your annual membership fee.
- Travel Discounts: Save on hotels, rental cars, cruises, and vacation packages from various partners.
- Dining Discounts: Access discounts at thousands of participating restaurants across the country.
- Health and Wellness: Get discounts on prescriptions and health-related products through the AARP® Prescription Discounts program.
- Insurance Products: Access AARP-endorsed auto, home, life, and health insurance plans. Note that some may have age restrictions.
- Financial Services: Use resources for financial planning and take advantage of offers on credit cards and other financial products.
- Publications: Receive subscriptions to AARP The Magazine and AARP The Bulletin, packed with articles on health, finance, and lifestyle.
- AARP Rewards: Both members can participate in the AARP Rewards program, earning points that can be redeemed for various items.
Comparison: Primary vs. Secondary Membership
| Feature | Primary Member | Secondary Member |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Pays the annual membership fee | Free of charge |
| Membership Card | Receives their own card | Receives their own card |
| Online Account | Manages the main account | Can create their own online account |
| Card Number | Unique membership number | Shares the primary member's number on their card |
| Benefits Access | Full access to all benefits | Access to most benefits, some age-restricted items may be limited |
| Account Management | Can add and remove secondary members | Can edit their own information online |
Maximizing Your Membership as a Couple
To get the most out of your AARP membership as a couple, consider the following tips:
- Coordinate Your Benefits: Discuss which discounts you can use most frequently. For example, if one partner handles travel and the other handles dining, make sure both are aware of the relevant savings.
- Explore the Website: Spend time navigating the AARP website, especially the benefits section, to discover new discounts and offers that may apply to your lifestyle. Find the full list of benefits at https://www.aarp.org/.
- Use the AARP Now App: Download the app on your mobile devices to access your digital cards, find local deals, and stay updated on the latest news and features.
- Take Advantage of Rewards: As a couple, you can earn more AARP Rewards points by completing activities and taking advantage of exclusive member offers.
- Stay Informed: Read AARP The Magazine and AARP The Bulletin together to find inspiration for new activities, travel destinations, and financial strategies.
What to Do If You Encounter Issues
If you have trouble adding your spouse or encounter any other membership-related issues, AARP offers several avenues for support:
- Online Help Center: The AARP website has a comprehensive help center with articles covering common questions.
- Phone Support: You can call the AARP Member Contact Center during business hours for assistance.
- Community Forums: The AARP online community provides a platform to ask questions and get answers from other members and representatives.
Conclusion
For couples considering membership, knowing does AARP membership include spouse? provides clarity and emphasizes the dual value of joining. The free secondary membership ensures that you and your partner can both enjoy the extensive discounts, resources, and advocacy efforts that AARP provides. This makes it a cost-effective way for two people to access a wealth of benefits designed to support them as they age. By adding your spouse or partner, you maximize the return on your investment and embark on your aging journey together with more financial security and access to valuable resources.
