Understanding AARP's Automatic Renewal Policy
AARP membership is a popular benefit program, but its renewal process can sometimes be a source of confusion for new and existing members alike. The key takeaway is that AARP offers automatic renewal, but it is not a mandatory feature for all memberships. Your enrollment depends on the plan you initially selected.
Automatic renewal, sometimes called "continuous service," is a convenience feature designed to ensure you don't experience a lapse in your membership benefits. When a member enrolls in auto-renewal, their membership is billed and renewed automatically each year using their saved payment information.
Enrollment During Sign-Up
When you first join AARP, particularly when taking advantage of promotional offers like a reduced first-year rate, the automatic renewal option is often pre-selected. For example, a new one-year membership might cost $15 with automatic renewal, and then renew at the standard annual rate of $20 in subsequent years. Multi-year plans, such as three-year or five-year options, typically do not include automatic renewal by default, though you may have the option to add it.
How to Check Your Renewal Status
For members who aren't sure of their renewal status, it's easy to verify online. Only the primary member on the account can view or change these settings. Here’s how:
- Log in to your account at AARP.org.
- Go to the "My Account" section.
- Click on the "Account Details" tab.
- Scroll down to the "AARP Membership Payment Details" section. This area will show your current renewal status. If you are not currently enrolled in auto-renewal, you will see a link to enroll.
Managing or Canceling Automatic Renewal
Managing your auto-renewal is a straightforward process that can be done online at any time. This gives you complete control over your membership payments.
To cancel automatic renewal online:
- Log in to your AARP.org account.
- Navigate to "My Account" and then the "Account Details" tab.
- Locate the "AARP Membership Payment Details" section.
- Click the "Cancel Automatic Renewal" link. A confirmation window will appear, asking you to confirm your decision.
What if I don't have an online account?
If you don't have an online account, you can create one easily and for free using your membership number. Alternatively, you can call AARP's customer care line to manage your settings with a representative.
Important Reminders and Notifications
Before an automatic renewal charge is made, AARP will send you a reminder notification. This notice, which is sent well in advance, gives you plenty of time to make any changes. If your payment information needs updating or if you decide you no longer want to continue with the automatic payments, this reminder serves as a useful prompt. Receiving fewer mailings is another benefit of enrolling in automatic renewal, as AARP will send fewer postal reminders.
Automatic vs. Manual Renewal
To help you decide which option is best for you, here is a comparison of the two renewal methods.
| Feature | Automatic Renewal | Manual Renewal |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Highly convenient; no action required. | Requires manual action each year. |
| Cost | Often offers a lower first-year rate, but standard rate applies thereafter. | Standard annual rate ($20) applies from the start. |
| Disruption | Seamless continuity of membership benefits. | Risk of benefits interruption if renewal is late. |
| Notifications | Advance email or mail reminder before charging. | Multiple mail and email notices as expiration approaches. |
| Control | Requires online management or cancellation. | You decide each year whether to renew or not. |
| Payment | Automatically charged to saved payment method. | Can be paid online, by phone, or mail. |
Potential Issues and Customer Support
While canceling the automatic renewal feature is simple, some users have reported issues with canceling their entire AARP membership. Canceling the membership itself, rather than just the auto-renewal, may require contacting AARP by phone or mail, not just online. This is an important distinction to keep in mind.
If you encounter any problems with your account, payment details, or renewal status, AARP's customer support is available via several channels. The website's help center and online account management tools are designed to be user-friendly, but phone support is always an option if you prefer to speak to a representative. For more information on your membership and renewal process, you can visit the AARP Help Center.
Conclusion: Stay in Control of Your Membership
Does AARP renew automatically? The answer is yes, if you select that option upon joining, but it is not required. By knowing your renewal status and the steps to manage it, you can ensure your AARP membership continues on your own terms. Regularly checking your account and payment details is a simple way to stay on top of your subscription and avoid any surprises. Whether you prefer the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of auto-renewal or the hands-on control of manual renewal, AARP offers options that cater to your preference.
