AARP Membership Costs: An Overview
Starting in 2025, the pricing for AARP memberships saw its first update in over a decade and a half. The new structure offers several options for joining, each with a different annual cost. The most important factor in determining your yearly fee is whether you opt for automatic renewal and the length of your membership term.
Breaking Down the Annual and Multi-Year Pricing
The most common membership option is the standard one-year plan, which is set at $20 annually. However, there are several ways to reduce this cost, especially during your initial sign-up. The first-year rate is just $15 if you choose to enroll in automatic renewal. This represents a 25% savings on your initial membership. After the first year, the rate for automatic renewal reverts to the standard $20.
For those who prefer a longer commitment and even greater savings, AARP offers multi-year plans that lock in a lower average annual rate. By signing up for a three-year term, you pay a single fee of $55, which averages out to just over $18 per year. A five-year term offers the best long-term value at a one-time payment of $79, bringing the average yearly cost down to less than $16. These extended terms provide a straightforward way to budget for your membership and avoid year-to-year rate changes for the duration of your term.
Benefits Beyond the Price Tag
While the cost is a primary consideration, the value of an AARP membership lies in its extensive network of discounts, benefits, and resources. Many members find that the savings they receive on everyday purchases far outweigh the annual fee. Beyond financial benefits, AARP provides valuable advocacy for people 50+ on important issues such as Social Security and Medicare.
- Insurance: Members can access exclusive rates on various insurance products, including auto, home, life, and health plans from providers like The Hartford and UnitedHealthcare.
- Travel and Dining: AARP offers significant discounts on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and restaurants. For example, members can save up to 35% on base rates for car rentals with Avis and Budget and 10% or more at popular restaurant chains like Outback Steakhouse and Denny's.
- Health and Wellness: Beyond insurance, members receive savings on prescriptions, vision plans, and hearing aids. They also gain access to wellness resources, including online fitness classes and recipes.
- Financial Resources: AARP provides tools and resources for financial planning, fraud prevention, and retirement savings.
- Publications and Entertainment: Membership includes subscriptions to AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin. Members also have access to free online games, movie screenings, and an app to manage benefits.
Comparing AARP Membership Options
| Membership Term | Initial Cost | Average Cost Per Year | Automatic Renewal | Additional Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Year | $15 | $15 (first year); $20 (renewal) | Yes | Instant access to benefits, digital card. |
| 3 Years | $55 | ~$18.33 | No | Locks in a low rate for three years. |
| 5 Years | $79 | ~$15.80 | No | Best long-term value, avoids price fluctuations. |
| Standard 1 Year | $20 | $20 | No | For those who prefer to renew manually. |
It is important to note that all individual membership options include a free secondary membership for an adult in your household, regardless of their age. This effectively doubles the value for couples and families.
Is the Cost Worth the Investment?
Deciding if an AARP membership is a good value depends on how you plan to use it. For many, the savings on everyday expenses like travel, dining, or insurance can quickly offset the annual fee. The advocacy work and free resources, such as fraud prevention guides and wellness tips, also provide significant value beyond monetary discounts. For example, a single discount on a car insurance policy or a hotel booking can easily save you more than the yearly membership cost. You can learn more about the organization's mission and benefits by visiting their official site [www.aarp.org].
How to Join AARP
Joining AARP is a straightforward process that can be completed online, by phone, or by mail. The quickest way is to sign up online at the official AARP website. During the sign-up process, you will be prompted to choose your membership term and enter your personal information. If you select the one-year term with automatic renewal, you'll immediately receive the discounted first-year rate.
- Online: Visit aarp.org and follow the prompts to join or renew.
- By Phone: Call the toll-free number at 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277) to join over the phone.
- By Mail: Send a check or money order with your contact information to the address listed on AARP's membership page.
After joining, you will receive a digital membership card instantly, which can be accessed via the AARP Now app. A physical card typically arrives in the mail within a few weeks.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the cost of an AARP membership per year is a minor investment for the extensive network of benefits and discounts it provides. With a standard annual rate of $20 and a special first-year offer of $15 for those on automatic renewal, the potential savings on travel, insurance, and dining can easily exceed the membership fee. Considering the free secondary household membership and the wide range of resources available, AARP can offer substantial value for many individuals and families navigating aging and retirement.
