Understanding the AARP Membership Card Delivery Process
When you join or renew your AARP membership, the process for receiving your card is designed for both convenience and efficiency. You don't have to wait for weeks to begin enjoying your benefits. By providing instant digital access, AARP ensures you can start saving right away, with a physical card following by mail.
The Digital Card: Your Instant Access to Benefits
In today's digital world, AARP has made it incredibly easy to access your membership details instantly. As soon as you complete your membership signup or renewal online, a digital version of your card is immediately available. This digital card serves the same purpose as the physical one and can be used for online and in-person discounts where proof of membership is required.
To access your digital card, simply follow these steps:
- Log into your AARP account on their website or via the AARP Now app.
- Navigate to the 'My Account' section.
- Locate your digital card under the 'My AARP' tab.
The Physical Card: What to Expect
While the digital option is instant, AARP also sends a physical membership card to your mailing address. This card arrives automatically without any additional steps required from you. The standard delivery timeline for the physical card is within four weeks of your membership starting. It is sent separately from any welcome gifts you may receive, which also have a similar delivery timeframe. If you join online, you should get a digital copy right away and then the physical card will follow.
What if Your Card is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?
Misplacing your card is a common occurrence, but AARP has a straightforward process for getting a replacement. No financial or sensitive personal information is stored on the card, so there's no major security risk if it's lost. You can request a new card at no charge through your online account. The process is simple:
- Log into your AARP online account.
- Go to 'My Account' and select the 'My AARP' tab.
- Choose the option to print a card immediately or have one mailed to you.
Tracking the Status of Your Shipment
If you've been waiting for a while and your card or welcome kit hasn't arrived, you can track its status online. This feature provides peace of mind and keeps you informed about your shipment's progress. To check the status:
- Log into your AARP online account.
- Select 'My Account' from the menu.
- Scroll to the 'My Orders' section to view your shipment details.
How to Add a Household Member and Their Card
Did you know that an AARP membership often includes a free secondary membership for a spouse or household member? When you add a secondary member to your account, AARP automatically sends them their own physical membership card. This allows them to independently access benefits and discounts. You can manage this and other account details easily within your online profile.
Digital vs. Physical Card: A Comparison
| Feature | Digital Card | Physical Card |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Instant upon joining/renewing online | Mailed within 3-4 weeks |
| Convenience | Accessible via AARP Now app, website, or Apple Wallet | Traditional, tangible card for easy access |
| Usage | Accepted for most online and in-person benefits | Widely recognized for in-person discounts |
| Replacement | Instant access if lost or deleted | Mailed replacement can take weeks |
| Tracking | Not applicable; always available digitally | Can be tracked online via 'My Orders' |
Conclusion: The Best of Both Worlds
Ultimately, the answer to "Does AARP send out membership cards?" is a resounding yes, complemented by an efficient digital alternative. The process is designed to accommodate different preferences, whether you prefer the convenience of a digital card on your phone or the reliability of a physical one in your wallet. By providing both options, AARP ensures its members have continuous and easy access to their benefits, from the moment they join onward. Should you encounter any issues, their customer service and online resources are readily available to assist. For more information on accessing benefits, you can visit the AARP official website.
