No, Paramount+ is not free with an AARP membership
Contrary to a common misconception, a standard AARP membership does not grant free access to Paramount+. Instead, AARP has partnered with Paramount+ to offer its members an exclusive ongoing discount. As of late 2023, this benefit provides AARP members with 10% off any Paramount+ streaming plan. This discount is available to new and returning subscribers and remains valid for as long as you maintain an active AARP membership.
How to get your AARP discount on Paramount+
Claiming your member discount is a straightforward process, but it must be initiated through the correct pathway. Existing Paramount+ subscribers will need to cancel their current subscription before re-enrolling through the AARP-specific link to apply the discount.
- Visit the dedicated AARP landing page. Navigate to the official Paramount+ page designed specifically for AARP members:
paramountplus.com/aarp. - Verify your AARP membership. Click the 'Sign Up Now' button and follow the prompts to verify your membership credentials using your AARP username and password. This is a one-time verification process that Paramount+ handles without having access to your AARP login information.
- Select your plan. Once verified, you can choose between the Paramount+ Essential and the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan. The 10% discount will be automatically applied to the cost of your chosen plan.
- Create your account and add payment. Provide your information to create your Paramount+ account. You will not be charged until your initial 7-day free trial period has concluded.
Comparing Paramount+ plans with the AARP discount
To help you decide which plan is right for you, here is a comparison of the key features of the Essential and SHOWTIME plans, factoring in the exclusive AARP member discount.
| Feature | Paramount+ Essential with AARP Discount | Paramount+ with SHOWTIME with AARP Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (with 10% off) | ~$5.39/month (vs. $5.99) | ~$10.79/month (vs. $11.99) |
| Annual Cost (with 10% off) | ~$53.99/year (vs. $59.99) | ~$107.99/year (vs. $119.99) |
| Commercials | Limited interruptions | Mostly ad-free (some exceptions) |
| Live TV | CBS News, CBS Sports HQ, select NFL games | Live, local CBS station, plus more live sports |
| Exclusive Originals | Yes (e.g., 1883, 1923, Frasier) | Yes, plus all SHOWTIME Originals |
| Premium Content | No | Award-winning SHOWTIME library (e.g., Billions, Dexter) |
| Offline Downloads | No | Yes |
This table highlights the cost savings for AARP members and details the content and feature differences to help you make an informed choice based on your viewing preferences.
Other AARP entertainment benefits to consider
While the Paramount+ discount is a valuable benefit, AARP membership offers a broader suite of entertainment-related savings. Exploring these other options can help you maximize your membership value, especially if you're not a heavy streaming user.
- Free Online Movie Screenings: The Movies for Grownups program provides AARP members with free, online film screenings and reviews.
- Ticket Discounts: Members can receive discounts on tickets for movies at theaters like AMC and Regal, as well as on various live events.
- AARP Streams App: This free app, which doesn't require an AARP membership to use, offers free movie and theater screenings.
- AARP Rewards: Engaging with quizzes and other activities on the AARP website can earn you points redeemable for gift cards and other rewards.
- Free Digital Content: Access to AARP-exclusive podcasts, videos, and ebooks is available through the member portal.
By taking advantage of these various benefits, AARP members can save on a wide range of entertainment options beyond just streaming. The Paramount+ discount is just one piece of a larger puzzle designed to provide value to the 50-plus demographic.
How to get the most out of your membership
To ensure you are maximizing your AARP membership, it is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest offerings. Benefits can change, and new partnerships are often announced. Regularly checking the AARP member benefits portal will help you discover all the available savings, from travel and dining to technology and entertainment.
For more detailed information on all member benefits and to browse current deals, visit the official AARP website and check their member benefits directory. This directory provides a comprehensive list of all discounts and programs available to you.
In conclusion, while you can't get Paramount+ for free with AARP, the 10% member discount is a significant and long-term saving. By combining this with other member benefits, you can enjoy a wealth of entertainment options at a reduced cost. Always remember to sign up for the Paramount+ offer through the AARP-specific link to ensure your discount is properly applied.
