Understanding the Core Offerings of an AARP Membership
An AARP membership provides access to a wide array of discounts, informational resources, and advocacy efforts. While the organization's mission is focused on those 50 and older, anyone 18 or older can join and access a broad range of benefits. The annual fee is low, making it a potentially valuable investment if you utilize even a few of its offerings.
Financial and Insurance Benefits
One of the most significant perks of an AARP membership is the access to special rates and plans on various financial products and insurance. The savings in this area alone can often justify the annual membership fee, particularly for those with multiple insurance policies.
- Auto and Home Insurance: Members can find competitive rates on auto and homeowners insurance through partners like The Hartford, with potential average savings of hundreds of dollars annually.
- Life Insurance: New York Life offers several AARP-branded life insurance options, including term and permanent policies, with features like guaranteed acceptance for certain plans.
- Health Insurance: For those eligible for Medicare, AARP members can access a variety of Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, and Prescription Drug (Part D) plans through UnitedHealthcare.
- Banking and Investments: Special rates and bonuses are available on financial products such as savings accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) through partnerships with institutions like Marcus by Goldman Sachs.
- Fraud Prevention: AARP provides extensive resources to protect members from financial scams, which are a major concern for many seniors.
Travel and Leisure Discounts
For those who enjoy traveling, dining out, or staying entertained, AARP offers numerous discounts that can add up quickly.
- Hotels and Car Rentals: Members can save on bookings at major hotel chains like Best Western and Wyndham, and receive discounts of up to 35% on car rentals from companies like Avis and Budget.
- Cruises and Packages: The AARP Travel Center, powered by Expedia, offers exclusive deals on cruises and vacation packages, including onboard credits and gift cards.
- Dining: Popular restaurant chains like Denny's, Outback Steakhouse, and Carrabba's Italian Grill offer 10% to 15% off for AARP members.
- Entertainment: Discounts on movie tickets, live shows like Cirque du Soleil, and subscriptions to services like Paramount+ and Ancestry.com are also available.
Health and Wellness Resources
Beyond insurance, AARP provides a wealth of resources to help members maintain a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally.
- Fitness: Free online workout videos, brain-boosting games, and access to a nationwide network of outdoor fitness parks through a partnership with FitLot are available.
- Vision and Hearing: Discounts on eyewear at retailers like LensCrafters and Target Optical, plus access to vision insurance and free online hearing tests, are included.
- Prescription Drugs: A free prescription discount card is provided, offering deeper discounts for members on medications at many pharmacies.
- Informational Guides: Expert tips on healthy living, nutrition, and managing sleep are published in the organization's publications and on its website.
The Advocacy and Community Component
AARP's value isn't limited to tangible discounts. The organization is a prominent non-partisan advocate for the 50+ population, lobbying on critical issues at both the state and federal levels. This work supports the interests of older Americans on topics such as Social Security, Medicare, and age discrimination.
- Political Clout: With a large membership base, AARP has a strong voice in Washington and state capitals, influencing legislation that impacts the financial and health security of seniors.
- Fraud Protection: AARP operates a Fraud Watch Network to help protect members from scams and provides extensive educational materials on how to recognize and avoid them.
- Community Engagement: Through the AARP Virtual Community Center and local chapters, members can participate in free online events, classes, and volunteer opportunities, fostering a sense of community and purpose.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
While the benefits are numerous, an AARP membership isn't for everyone. A few potential downsides are worth considering.
- Unused Benefits: The membership fee, while low, is not worthwhile if you don't use the discounts. The key to maximizing value is to evaluate your personal spending habits before joining.
- Unwanted Mail: Some members have reported receiving a significant amount of mail and emails from the organization and its partners. While opting out is possible, it can take time.
- Perception of Bias: Some critics, and rival organizations like AMAC, suggest AARP has a liberal bias in its advocacy work, though AARP maintains it is non-partisan.
Comparison: Is an AARP Membership Worth It?
Deciding if an AARP membership is a good fit involves a simple cost-benefit analysis. Here is a comparison to help illustrate the value proposition.
| Feature | AARP Membership | No AARP Membership | Winner | Primary Value | Discounts, advocacy, resources | Individual research & alternative programs | Tie | Cost | Low annual fee ($15-$20) | Free (but miss out on savings) | AARP (if benefits are used) | Discounts | Wide range of travel, insurance, dining discounts | Rely on other senior discounts (less comprehensive) | AARP | Advocacy | Strong lobbying for senior-related issues | No organized lobbying | AARP | Resources | Exclusive magazines, online content, events | General public content, other sources | AARP | Insurance | Access to competitive, member-only policies | Standard, individual market rates | AARP | Under 50 Access | Most benefits available | No access to member-only deals | AARP | Spouse Membership | Free secondary membership included | N/A | AARP | Potential Downside | Some unwanted mail/emails | N/A | No AARP Membership | Overall Recommendation | Worth it if you utilize the benefits | Not worth it if you won't use the benefits | Depends on your lifestyle |
