Navigating AARP's Official Writer's Guidelines
For writers hoping to publish with the prominent organization, the question of legitimacy is important. AARP's article submission process is entirely legitimate, but it is not an open call for unsolicited, completed manuscripts. Instead, they seek pitches, or queries, from experienced freelance writers for their various publications. The crucial step is understanding the specific requirements for each distinct editorial outlet within the AARP ecosystem.
For example, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin have a long-standing practice of accepting story idea queries via email or postal mail. Digital-first outlets like Sisters from AARP and The Ethel also provide specific email addresses and submission rules. Ignoring these guidelines is the most common reason for rejection, not because the process is a scam. The organization and its editors are transparent about their need for specific, well-researched pitches that align with their audience and content pillars.
The Pitching Process for AARP Publications
Pitching to AARP requires precision and a targeted approach. Freelancers should never send a completed article unless specifically requested, typically for a personal essay. The process generally follows these steps:
- Research the Publication: Before writing a single word of your query, read the target publication. Whether it's AARP The Magazine, AARP Bulletin, Sisters, or The Ethel, each has a distinct tone, format, and target audience.
- Craft a One-Page Query: AARP requests that pitch letters be no more than one page long. This should clearly and concisely present your idea, outlining your approach and showcasing your writing style.
- Include Writing Samples: Every pitch should be accompanied by links to recent writing samples or clips. These should demonstrate your ability to write in the relevant style and subject area.
- Format Submissions Correctly: Attachments are generally not accepted; pitches should be in the body of the email. For AARP The Magazine, pitches should be sent to [email protected]. For AARP Bulletin, the email is [email protected]. Sisters pitches go to [email protected].
- Wait for a Response: Due to the high volume of submissions, AARP editors will only contact you if they are interested in pursuing your story. If eight weeks pass without a response, it is safe to assume the pitch was not selected.
Comparison of AARP Article Submission Outlets
| Feature | AARP The Magazine | AARP Bulletin | Sisters from AARP | The Ethel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | AARP members (50+) | AARP members, news-focused | Black women (50+) | Women (50+), digital focus |
| Focus | Lifestyle, features, human interest | Hard news, current events, policy | Relationships, culture, lifestyle | Personal, surprising, honest stories |
| Length | Varies (long-form narrative) | Varies (news-focused) | 700-1,000 words (articles/essays) | 500-750 words (digital pieces) |
| Format | Pitch letter via email or mail | Query letter via email or mail | Email pitch (text in body) | Email pitch (text in body) |
| Attachments | Not accepted | Not accepted | Not accepted | Not accepted |
What AARP Looks for in a Pitch
Editors at AARP seek stories that are fresh, timely, and directly relevant to their readership. According to an interview with an AARP editor, pitches should sound current and engaging. Generalizations should be avoided, and specificity is key. The pitch should also showcase a personable tone that aligns with AARP's overall brand voice. For reported pieces, writers must provide factual source information.
It is also important for potential writers to avoid common mistakes. This includes using stigmatizing language like "the elderly" and failing to search for similar stories AARP may have already published. Editors at AARP often receive a high volume of pitches, so a well-researched, specific, and concise query is critical for standing out.
The Importance of Adhering to Rules
The legitimacy of AARP's submission process is affirmed by its detailed, publicly available writer's guidelines. Scams arise not from the organization itself, but from external bad actors. AARP has a Fraud Watch Network and constantly warns members about phishing and impersonation scams. Legitimate submissions are not tied to requests for credit card information or unexpected payments. Writers should be aware of these potential threats and only follow the official channels.
Conclusion: A Legitimate, Competitive Opportunity
In conclusion, the answer to "Is AARP article submission legit?" is an unequivocal yes. The process is a standard, competitive freelance pitching model used by many major publishers. The legitimacy is not in question, but rather the strict adherence to the stated guidelines is the gatekeeper. Success for freelance writers hinges on thorough research of the target publication, crafting a compelling and correctly formatted pitch, providing strong writing samples, and a high degree of professionalism. Aspiring contributors should utilize the official AARP resources to ensure their pitch is considered by the appropriate editors and avoid any potential scams perpetuated by outside parties.
For more comprehensive pitching advice for freelance writers, resources like Freelance Writing can be valuable for understanding best practices and navigating the competitive landscape.
