Your Step-by-Step Guide to AARP Rewards Redemption
Redeeming your AARP Rewards points is a straightforward process that can be completed entirely online. Whether you are seeking gift cards, local discounts, or chances to win valuable sweepstakes, the steps are the same. This guide walks you through the process, from logging in to finalizing your reward claim.
Step 1: Access the AARP Rewards Website
Start by visiting the official AARP Rewards page. You can either go directly to aarp.org/rewards or find the link from the main AARP homepage. Once there, you will need to log in to your account. If you don't have one, you can sign up for a free rewards account, even without a full AARP membership.
Step 2: Navigate to the 'Redeem' Section After logging in, look for a 'Redeem' option. This can often be found in the navigation menu at the top of the page or in a drop-down menu under your profile information. Clicking this will take you to the rewards catalog, where all available redemption options are listed.
Step 3: Browse the Rewards Catalog Take your time exploring the different categories of rewards. AARP offers a diverse selection, which may include:
- Gift Cards: Digital gift cards for popular retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, and CVS Pharmacy are frequently available.
- Sweepstakes: Use points for a chance to win larger prizes, from travel packages to merchandise.
- Local Deals: Find coupons and discounts for businesses in your area, redeemable by printing or saving to your mobile device.
- Instant Wins: Some gift cards or items are offered as instant win games for a small number of points.
- Member Exclusives: If you are a full AARP member, you will have access to a special stash of rewards with enhanced value.
Step 4: Select Your Reward and Add to Cart When you find a reward you want, click on it to view the details, including the point cost, terms and conditions, and how you will receive it. For digital rewards like gift cards, they are typically delivered to your email inbox. For physical merchandise, be prepared to provide a valid shipping address. Click 'Add to Cart' to proceed.
Step 5: Review and Complete Your Checkout Before finalizing, you can review your cart to ensure everything is correct. From the cart, you can either proceed to checkout or continue browsing for more items. The checkout process is simple, and no payment information is needed if you are redeeming with points alone. Once complete, a confirmation email will be sent to your registered address.
Important Considerations for AARP Rewards
Understanding Point Expiration
Many people are surprised to learn that AARP rewards points do not last forever. Any unused points expire 12 months after they are earned. This happens on a rolling, monthly basis, so it's wise to regularly check your point balance and transaction history to see what points are nearing their expiration date. This detail encourages active participation and ensures you don't lose out on valuable rewards.
Rewards for Members vs. Non-Members
While anyone can join AARP Rewards for free, full AARP members receive enhanced benefits. These include earning points 50% faster on activities and gaining access to a separate category of members-only rewards, which often offer better value. Comparing your options can help you decide if a full membership is worthwhile.
Distinguishing from AARP Credit Card Rewards
It's important not to confuse AARP Rewards points with the cash back rewards from the AARP credit card program. AARP credit cards now offer cash back, which is managed separately through the bank's rewards center, not the aarp.org/rewards platform. Check your credit card statement or the bank's website for information on redeeming those specific rewards.
A Comparison of Reward Types
| Reward Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gift Cards | Guaranteed savings on everyday purchases. | Instant gratification; wide variety of popular brands. | High point cost relative to sweepstakes. |
| Sweepstakes | Those feeling lucky and hoping for a big payoff. | Low point cost for a chance at a large prize. | Low odds of winning; no guaranteed return. |
| Local Deals | Saving money on goods and services nearby. | Practical, tangible savings at nearby businesses. | Availability is limited by location. |
| Merchandise | Physical items like electronics or home goods. | Tangible items shipped to your home. | High point cost; potentially long shipping times. |
| Charitable Donations | Giving back to a cause you care about. | A rewarding way to use points for good. | No direct personal benefit. |
Maximizing Your AARP Rewards Experience
Beyond simple redemption, here are some tips to help you get the most out of the program:
- Stay Active: Regularly complete quizzes, watch videos, and engage with other activities on the AARP site or app to consistently earn points.
- Check for Daily Deals: AARP frequently offers 'Daily Deals' that can provide a higher value for your points on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Connect a Fitness Tracker: Syncing a health app or fitness tracker can earn you daily points for hitting step goals, a great way to stay healthy and earn rewards at the same time.
- Use the AARP Now App: The app provides a convenient way to earn points and redeem rewards on the go. It also often has exclusive activities not available on the website.
Troubleshooting Common Redemption Issues
If you encounter a problem while trying to redeem your points, follow these steps:
- Check your login details: Ensure you are using the correct username and password. Some users have separate AARP membership and AARP Rewards logins.
- Verify point balance: Confirm you have enough points for the desired reward.
- Review reward details: Read the terms and conditions carefully, as some rewards have specific restrictions or limited availability.
- Clear your browser cache: A clean cache can resolve many website display issues.
- Contact AARP Support: If problems persist, the AARP Help Center is the best resource for direct assistance.
Following these steps will ensure a smooth redemption process. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official AARP Rewards page: https://www.aarp.org/rewards/.
Conclusion
Redeeming your AARP Rewards points is a simple and rewarding process once you know the steps. By logging into your account on the AARP Rewards website, navigating to the redemption catalog, and selecting from a variety of options, you can convert your hard-earned points into valuable goods and services. Remember to be mindful of point expiration dates and leverage your AARP membership for exclusive deals to maximize your benefits.
