The Enduring Partnership: AARP and UnitedHealthcare
The partnership between AARP and UnitedHealthcare is a decades-long relationship, regularly under review and updated to ensure its continuation. In August 2024, the organizations announced an updated agreement, extending their collaboration and solidifying UnitedHealthcare's position as the exclusive insurer for AARP-branded Medicare plans. This means that when consumers look for AARP-endorsed Medicare products, they will find them offered and administered by UnitedHealthcare. AARP has stated that any product carrying its brand has been carefully evaluated to meet its quality standards.
The Importance of the AARP Endorsement
The AARP endorsement carries significant weight for many seniors choosing their Medicare plans. For some, the AARP name is a sign of reliability and trust, based on the organization's reputation as an advocate for older Americans. The endorsement means that AARP has vetted the products offered by UnitedHealthcare and is confident that they meet the needs of their members. This can provide a sense of security and ease in a complex insurance market. The partnership extends across multiple Medicare products, not just one type of plan.
UnitedHealthcare and AARP Medicare Products
The partnership between UnitedHealthcare and AARP provides a suite of Medicare products. These are distinct types of coverage, and a full understanding of each is necessary to make an informed choice.
- AARP Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans: These plans, also known as Medigap, are sold by UnitedHealthcare and help cover the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn't, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. To enroll, you must have Original Medicare Parts A and B. An AARP membership is required, which UnitedHealthcare may cover for the first year in some cases.
- AARP Medicare Advantage Plans: These are all-in-one plans offered by UnitedHealthcare, bundling Parts A and B and typically including Part D (prescription drug coverage). Unlike Medigap, which works alongside Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage replaces it. These plans often include extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare, like dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
- AARP Medicare Part D Plans: These are UnitedHealthcare-administered prescription drug plans for those who have Original Medicare and need help covering the cost of their medications. They are offered separately from Medigap plans but can be included within an AARP Medicare Advantage plan.
Comparison of AARP/UnitedHealthcare Plans
| Feature | AARP Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap) | AARP Medicare Advantage Plan | AARP Medicare Part D Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relationship with Original Medicare | Works with Original Medicare | Replaces Original Medicare | Works with Original Medicare (or Advantage plan) |
| Network Limitations | Minimal network restrictions; you can see any doctor accepting Medicare | Typically has a network of doctors and hospitals (HMO or PPO) | Primarily used for prescription drugs; pharmacy network applies |
| Extra Benefits | Generally does not include dental, vision, or hearing | Often includes dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs | Covers prescription drugs only |
| Referrals | Usually not required for specialists | May require referrals for specialists, depending on the plan type (e.g., HMO) | Not applicable |
| Cost | You pay a monthly premium to UnitedHealthcare in addition to your Part B premium | Monthly premiums can be low, or even $0, but you will still pay your Part B premium | You pay a premium for drug coverage, depending on the specific plan |
The Financial Relationship and Considerations
The financial arrangement between AARP and UnitedHealthcare is a key component of their long-standing partnership. UnitedHealthcare pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property, which includes the well-known AARP brand. These fees contribute to AARP's overall revenue and are used for the organization's general purposes. While the partnership has faced scrutiny over the years, the financial relationship is transparently disclosed.
It is important for consumers to understand this relationship when choosing a plan. The AARP endorsement does not mean that a UnitedHealthcare plan is automatically the best choice for every individual. Several factors influence the optimal Medicare plan for an individual, including location, health needs, budget, and access to doctors. For example, while Forbes Advisor noted AARP/UnitedHealthcare as a strong Medigap option in 2025 due to competitive rates and extra benefits like fitness programs, other insurers may also offer excellent plans. Comparing different insurers and plan types is crucial to finding the right coverage at the right price.
Conclusion
Yes, AARP still recommends UnitedHealthcare insurance and has reaffirmed this commitment through an updated agreement announced in 2024. UnitedHealthcare remains the exclusive provider of AARP-branded Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, and Part D plans. The AARP endorsement is a symbol of trust for many seniors, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. While the endorsement indicates AARP's confidence in UnitedHealthcare's products, seniors should still shop around and compare different plans to determine the best fit for their individual health and financial needs. Evaluating plan costs, coverage details, and provider networks is an essential step before making a final decision. For unbiased comparisons and information on all Medicare plans, consumers can consult official resources like Medicare.gov.
AARP's Enduring Endorsement of UnitedHealthcare
Yes, AARP continues to endorse UnitedHealthcare for a wide range of Medicare insurance products, a long-standing partnership that was reaffirmed in 2024 for the foreseeable future.
AARP's exclusive endorsement means that UnitedHealthcare is the sole insurer offering AARP-branded Medicare Supplement (Medigap), Medicare Advantage, and Part D plans.
Consumers should compare options beyond the AARP/UnitedHealthcare plans, considering that other insurers may offer different rates or coverage that better suits individual needs.
The financial relationship between AARP and UnitedHealthcare involves royalty fees paid by the insurer to AARP for the use of its name, which contributes to AARP's general funding.
Enrolling in an AARP-branded plan from UnitedHealthcare often requires an active AARP membership, though UnitedHealthcare may assist with the first year's membership fee in some circumstances.
