Current AARP Free Gift Offer
As of late 2025, AARP offers a free $5 gift card to new members who sign up for a one-year membership at the reduced rate of $15 and enroll in automatic renewal. This promotional offer is a common incentive used to encourage new memberships and provide immediate value beyond the extensive list of discounts and benefits. The free gift will arrive separately from your membership card, typically within a few weeks of joining online. While the $5 gift card is a popular choice, AARP sometimes alternates its signup bonus with other items, such as travel organizer sets or other merchandise.
How to Receive Your Free Gift
To ensure you receive the current free gift for joining AARP, follow these steps during your enrollment process:
- Visit the official AARP website: Go directly to aarp.org/membership to find the most current offers.
- Select a one-year membership: Choose the plan that includes the automatic renewal option, which is often promoted at a lower rate for the first year, such as $15.
- Complete the enrollment: Fill out your information and ensure you agree to the automatic renewal terms. This is a key step to triggering the gift offer.
- Wait for delivery: The membership card is sent separately from the free gift. AARP's help center notes that the gift typically arrives within 3 to 4 weeks.
Beyond the Free Gift: A Look at Broader AARP Benefits
While the signup gift is a nice perk, the real value of an AARP membership lies in the hundreds of discounts and programs available to members year-round. These benefits span a variety of categories designed to save money on everyday expenses.
Travel and Entertainment
- Travel Center: AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia offers savings on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages.
- Discounts on flights: Members can get $65 to $200 off eligible round-trip British Airways flights.
- Free online screenings: Access free virtual movie screenings through the Movies for Grownups program.
- Theme park deals: Find savings on theme park tickets and other local entertainment.
Everyday Savings
- Restaurant discounts: Save at national chains like Denny's and Outback Steakhouse, as well as local restaurants.
- Retail deals: Find savings on groceries, flowers, gifts, and more.
- Pharmacy benefits: The AARP Prescription Discounts program offers deeper savings for members than for non-members, covering FDA-approved medications.
Rewards Program
The AARP Rewards program is a significant benefit, allowing members to earn points for engaging with AARP content, such as playing games, taking quizzes, or watching videos. AARP members earn 50% more points on activities and can redeem them for discounted gift cards, sweepstakes entries, and deals on various brands. Even non-members can join the rewards program for free, but member benefits are enhanced.
Comparison of Membership Offers: With vs. Without Automatic Renewal
| Feature | 1-Year Membership with Auto-Renew | Standard 1-Year Membership |
|---|---|---|
| First-Year Cost | $15 | $20 |
| Free Gift | Typically included (e.g., $5 gift card) | May not be included |
| Automatic Renewal | Yes, automatically renews annually (can be canceled) | No, requires manual renewal |
| Free Second Household Member | Yes | Yes |
| AARP The Magazine | Yes | Yes |
| AARP Rewards Bonus | Earn an additional 3,500 bonus points | Earn 2,000 bonus points |
| Cost Savings | Save $5 on the first year's membership | Higher initial cost |
Frequently Asked Questions About AARP Gifts and Benefits
Do I get a free gift every year when I renew my AARP membership?
No, the specific free gift offer is typically associated with joining or an initial enrollment with a specific promotion, such as enrolling in automatic renewal. While some renewal offers may include a gift, it is not a yearly guarantee.
How long does it take for the AARP free gift to arrive?
After joining or renewing online, the free gift will be shipped separately from your membership card and generally arrives within 3 to 4 weeks. Your digital membership card is available immediately for use.
What if I did not receive my free gift from AARP?
If the delivery time has passed, contact the AARP Help Center for assistance. You can chat with an associate online or call their toll-free number for support.
Is the free gift the only benefit of joining AARP?
No, the free gift is just a small token. The main value of membership comes from hundreds of exclusive discounts, advocacy efforts, and informational resources covering travel, insurance, health, and finances.
Can I get a free gift without enrolling in automatic renewal?
Possibly, but the most prominent and consistent offers are tied to signing up for automatic renewal. Other specific promotional codes or coupon deals may sometimes offer a gift, but they are less common.
Are there other ways to get free items from AARP?
Yes, the AARP Rewards program allows both members and non-members to earn points that can be redeemed for discounted gift cards and other rewards. Members, however, earn points at a higher rate.
Can anyone join AARP to get the free gift?
Yes, anyone aged 18 or older can become an AARP member and is eligible for the free gift offer, although some age-restricted insurance benefits may not be applicable.
Conclusion
Yes, there is frequently a free gift for joining AARP, though the specific item can vary. For example, enrolling in a one-year membership with automatic renewal often includes a free $5 gift card, along with a free second household membership and bonus rewards points. While the free gift is a welcome perk, it is important to remember that it is a small part of the larger value proposition. The true benefit of an AARP membership lies in the extensive range of discounts, resources, and programs that can lead to substantial savings and support across many aspects of life. It’s always best to check the official AARP website for the most up-to-date information on any signup or renewal gifts. https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/all-offers-a-z/
