The Surprising Truth About AARP’s Age Requirement
For years, a persistent rumor has floated around that AARP is an exclusive club for retirees. However, AARP has publicly addressed this misconception, making it clear that their membership is inclusive of all adults. The organization’s mission is centered on improving the lives of the 50+ population, but its services and advocacy extend to all members, regardless of their current age. Joining at a younger age gives you a head start on financial planning, discounted services, and access to valuable information that can prepare you for the future.
A Closer Look at AARP Membership Eligibility
AARP’s membership policy is straightforward and designed to be accessible to a wide audience. Anyone who is 18 years of age or older is eligible to purchase a membership. This inclusive policy allows younger individuals to take advantage of the numerous benefits and discounts available, many of which are not limited by age. For instance, you don’t need to be 50 to save money on travel, dining, or shopping through AARP’s extensive partner network.
Membership for Under-50s
If you are between 18 and 49, an AARP membership offers a surprising amount of value. You will receive a full membership package, including the bi-monthly AARP The Magazine and access to the AARP Now app, which provides digital access to your benefits. Some of the benefits most appealing to younger members include:
- Travel discounts on car rentals, hotels, and vacation packages.
- Discounts on dining at thousands of restaurants nationwide.
- Deals on mobile phone plans and technology products.
- Special pricing for shopping, gifts, and home services.
- Access to financial planning tools and resources.
- A free secondary membership for an adult in your household, regardless of their age.
Age-Specific Benefits (For Members 50+)
While most benefits are available to all members, certain products are legally or contractually limited to those aged 50 and over. These are typically insurance-related offerings that cater specifically to the needs of an older demographic. Only members who are 50 or older can apply for:
- AARP® Auto and Home Insurance from The Hartford.
- Most AARP Medicare plans from UnitedHealthcare.
- Specific life insurance policies from New York Life.
How Do the Benefits Compare?
To illustrate the difference in benefits, let's look at a quick comparison between a member who is 40 and one who is 60.
| Benefit Area | Member Under 50 | Member 50+ |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Discounts | Full access | Full access |
| Dining & Retail | Full access | Full access |
| Insurance Products | Excluded from age-restricted policies (e.g., Medicare, auto) | Eligible for all age-specific insurance products |
| Publications | Includes AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin | Includes AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin |
| Advocacy & Resources | Full access | Full access |
| Household Member | Free second membership | Free second membership |
Is an AARP Membership Worth It Before Age 50?
Whether joining AARP in your 20s, 30s, or 40s is a smart financial decision depends on your personal circumstances. For a relatively low annual fee, you can unlock discounts on everyday purchases, save on travel, and access a wealth of financial and health information. For example, if you frequently rent cars or stay at hotels that offer AARP discounts, the savings from just one trip could cover the annual membership cost. Furthermore, a free secondary household membership can effectively double your savings opportunities. It is a cost-effective way to get access to a valuable set of resources long before retirement is on the horizon.
How to Join AARP
Joining AARP is a quick and easy process, regardless of your age. You can sign up online, by phone, or by mail. Here is a simple step-by-step guide:
- Visit the AARP website: Navigate to the official membership page. You can find more information about membership on AARP's website.
- Choose your membership term: AARP offers several membership terms, including one-year, three-year, and five-year options, which often come with a discount for signing up for a longer term.
- Provide your information: Fill out the sign-up form with your name, address, and date of birth. Your date of birth is used to determine eligibility for age-restricted benefits, not to exclude you from general membership.
- Add a household member: During the sign-up process, you can add one other adult from your household as a free secondary member. This is a great way to maximize the value of your membership for your family.
- Pay and get instant access: Complete the payment process. Upon joining online, you will receive immediate access to a digital membership card, allowing you to start enjoying benefits right away.
Conclusion
In summary, the notion that you must be 50 to join AARP is a myth. The organization welcomes anyone 18 and older, offering a broad range of discounts, resources, and valuable information that can benefit individuals and families of all ages. While some benefits are tailored to those 50 and over, younger members can still realize significant savings and gain access to tools that can help them plan for a secure and healthy future.
