Extensive Discounts on Travel, Shopping, and More
One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of an AARP membership is access to hundreds of exclusive discounts from a wide variety of brands. Many members find that these savings alone can quickly offset the modest annual membership fee.
Travel Discounts for the Adventurous After 50
AARP partners with numerous travel providers to offer significant savings. These include:
- Hotels and Resorts: Members can get up to 25% off stays at chains like Best Western and Wyndham. Some hotel partners even offer additional perks like late checkout.
- Car Rentals: Take advantage of savings up to 35% on base rates from companies such as Avis and Budget. This can also include free additional drivers.
- Cruises and Vacation Packages: The AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia offers special deals, including up to $200 in onboard credit for select cruises and savings on vacation packages.
- Airlines: Members can get discounts on flights with British Airways.
Everyday Savings on Dining and Shopping
Your AARP card can be used for everyday expenses, helping to stretch your retirement dollars further.
- Restaurants: Many national and local restaurants, including Outback Steakhouse, Denny's, and Carrabba's Italian Grill, offer a percentage off your total bill.
- Groceries: Discounts on an annual Walmart+ membership and special offers from other retailers can lead to substantial savings.
- Retail: Other retail discounts extend to technology, clothing, and gifts, making everyday purchases more affordable.
Insurance and Health & Wellness Benefits
As you pass the 50-year mark, insurance and healthcare needs often become more complex. AARP provides access to a range of endorsed products and resources to help you navigate this stage of life.
Key Insurance Options
AARP offers a variety of insurance products, which are particularly relevant for those approaching or entering retirement.
- Medicare: AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare to offer Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, providing additional coverage options.
- Auto and Home: Savings on auto and home insurance are available through The Hartford, including potential bundling discounts.
- Life Insurance: Different life insurance options are offered through New York Life, including term, permanent, and guaranteed acceptance policies.
- Other Plans: Members can also access dental plans from Delta Dental, vision plans from VSP, and pet insurance from Fetch.
Health and Wellness Resources
Beyond insurance, AARP provides valuable health and wellness resources to help members live their best lives.
- Prescription Discounts: AARP's prescription discounts, provided by Optum Rx, can offer deeper savings on medications.
- Hearing and Vision: Discounts on eyewear at LensCrafters and Target Optical, and reduced rates for hearing aids and exams, are available.
- Fitness: Access to workout videos and wellness programs can help members stay active.
Financial Planning and Career Services
Planning for retirement and staying financially secure are key concerns for those over 50. AARP offers resources and tools to support these efforts.
Planning for Retirement
AARP provides practical tools and information to help members plan for a stable financial future.
- Calculators: Utilize free retirement and Social Security calculators to estimate your needs and determine the optimal time to claim your benefits.
- Resource Centers: The Social Security Resource Center offers comprehensive answers to common questions, simplifying a complex process.
- Estate Planning: Discounts on services from Trust & Will can help with drafting trusts and wills.
Resources for Continued Employment
Whether you're starting a new phase of your career or need to supplement your income, AARP has dedicated resources for older workers.
- Job Board: The AARP Job Board features listings from employers committed to age-diverse hiring.
- Skills Building: Tools like the AARP Skills Builder for Work offer classes to gain high-demand skills.
- Resume Services: Members can access free resume reviews to sharpen their job application materials.
A Comparison of Key AARP Benefits (After 50)
| Feature | AARP Membership Benefit | How it Helps After 50 | Example Providers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Savings | Exclusive discounts on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and flights. | Makes traveling more affordable, allowing for more leisure time during retirement. | Expedia, Best Western, Avis, British Airways |
| Health Insurance | Access to endorsed dental, vision, life, and Medicare-related insurance plans. | Provides essential coverage options, helping to manage rising healthcare costs as you age. | UnitedHealthcare, Delta Dental, VSP, The Hartford |
| Prescription Discounts | Special discounts on prescription medications through Optum Rx. | Reduces out-of-pocket expenses for vital medications, supporting financial stability. | Walgreens, CVS, Walmart |
| Financial Planning Tools | Free online calculators for retirement and Social Security planning. | Offers guidance for making informed decisions about retirement savings and benefits. | AARP Social Security Calculator, Retirement Calculator |
| Career Resources | Access to a dedicated job board, resume reviews, and skills training. | Supports those seeking to re-enter the workforce, start a new career, or find flexible work. | AARP Job Board, Skills Builder for Work |
| Advocacy | The organization advocates for the needs of people 50+. | Supports policies related to healthcare, retirement security, and protection against fraud. | AARP Government Affairs |
Engaging Content and Community Resources
Beyond tangible discounts, AARP provides a wealth of educational content and opportunities for social engagement. AARP The Magazine and AARP The Bulletin are delivered to members, offering articles on a wide range of topics. Online, members can access games, movie screenings, and virtual classes to stay sharp and entertained. For those interested in community involvement, AARP offers various volunteer opportunities, allowing members to make a difference in their communities. The AARP Foundation also provides assistance to older adults with limited incomes, connecting them to programs for food, housing, and taxes.
Conclusion: A Worthwhile Investment for Many
For adults aged 50 and over, the wide array of benefits of AARP makes the modest annual membership fee a worthwhile investment. The discounts on travel, dining, and insurance can easily outweigh the cost, while the financial planning tools, career resources, and health benefits provide invaluable support for navigating life's later stages. Furthermore, membership offers access to a community of engaged individuals and supports the organization's powerful advocacy efforts on behalf of older Americans. While the value depends on how an individual uses the benefits, most find that AARP provides a significant return on investment, making it a valuable resource for anyone over 50. For those still under 50, joining early allows access to many of the same discounts, with age-restricted benefits becoming available later.
Key Takeaways
- Save Big on Travel: Leverage significant discounts on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and flights, making travel more accessible and affordable.
- Secure Your Health: Access valuable insurance options and discounts for healthcare, vision, and hearing needs, helping to manage costs and maintain well-being.
- Boost Your Finances: Use free financial calculators, career services, and discounted legal aid to plan for a secure financial future.
- Enjoy Community and Content: Engage with a rich library of content, games, and local events to stay connected and entertained.
- Support Advocacy Efforts: Your membership contributes to AARP's powerful advocacy for older Americans on issues like Medicare and Social Security.
- Add a Household Member for Free: A single membership includes a free secondary membership for an adult in your household, doubling the value.
- Benefit From Brand Recognition: AARP’s reputation gives it the power to negotiate deep discounts and competitive benefits from major companies.
