What is the AARP Now App?
The AARP Now app is the primary mobile application offered by the organization, serving as a hub for daily news, local events, and exclusive discounts. It’s available for download on both iOS and Android devices, putting the power of AARP's resources right at your fingertips. The app is designed to cater to both existing members looking for easy access to their benefits and non-members who are curious about what AARP offers.
Core Features Available to Everyone
One of the most valuable aspects of the AARP Now app is that it's accessible to a wide audience. Even if you don't have an AARP membership, you can enjoy several key features, including:
- Daily News and Updates: Stay informed with curated news stories on topics relevant to individuals aged 50 and over, including health, money, entertainment, and travel.
- Local Events: Explore local events happening in your area, such as workshops, social gatherings, and volunteer opportunities, providing a way to stay connected with your community.
- Nearby Benefits: The app can use your location to show you nearby discounts and benefits available to AARP members. While non-members can see these, they would need to become members to take advantage of the deals.
Exclusive Features for AARP Members
For those with an active AARP membership, the app unlocks a much wider array of benefits, solidifying its value. These members-only features include:
- Digital Membership Card: Access a digital version of your AARP membership card directly from the app, which is especially useful when you're on the go and need to prove your membership for a discount.
- Publications: Read the latest digital editions of AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin from anywhere, eliminating the need to wait for the physical copies.
- AARP Rewards: Participate in the AARP Rewards loyalty program, earning points for various activities, including walking and other fitness goals. Points can then be redeemed for retail, dining, and travel gift cards.
- Members Edition™ Content: Access exclusive articles and content that provide deeper insights into topics important to members.
Comparison of AARP App Access
To make it easier to understand who gets what, here is a comparison of the features available to members and non-members.
| Feature | Available to Non-Members? | Available to Members? |
|---|---|---|
| Download and Use App | Yes | Yes |
| Daily News and Content | Yes | Yes |
| Explore Local Events | Yes | Yes |
| Access Digital Membership Card | No | Yes |
| Read AARP Publications | No | Yes |
| AARP Rewards Program Access | Limited access to earn points; premium rewards are members-only | Full access to earn points and redeem exclusive rewards |
| Exclusive Discounts | No (can see deals but cannot redeem) | Yes |
Potential Costs and Related Apps
While the main AARP Now app is free to download, it's important to be aware of related services and potential costs. First and foremost, the AARP membership itself has a fee, which is required to unlock the full features of the app. If you choose to join or renew your membership through the app, that's where the primary cost comes in.
AARP's Other Mobile Applications
Beyond the AARP Now app, the organization offers several other mobile applications, each with a different purpose. Some of these may have different access models, but they generally follow the same free download principle:
- AARP Publications App: This app is a reader specifically for AARP's magazines and bulletins. It's free to download, but you must be a member to access the full content.
- AARP Staying Sharp App: This app is focused on brain health. Anyone can download and preview the content for free, but a full membership or separate subscription may be required to access all features.
- AARP Roadside Assistance App: This app is designed for members who have signed up for the AARP Roadside Assistance plan through Allstate. It's free to use with the membership, but the roadside service itself has a cost.
- AARP Rx Discounts by OptumRx®: This app is free for both members and non-members to use and provides discounts on prescriptions, making it one of the most widely accessible AARP services.
For more information on the various applications and services, you can visit the official AARP website at https://www.aarp.org/.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to 'Is there a charge for the AARP app?' is no, not for the download itself. The core AARP Now app is free for everyone. However, to get the maximum value, including a digital membership card, exclusive articles, and discounts, you will need to purchase a separate AARP membership. The app serves as a digital gateway to your membership benefits, not as a product with its own download fee.
