AARP Member Benefits: A Comprehensive Overview
For an affordable annual fee, an AARP membership unlocks hundreds of carefully chosen discounts, programs, and services tailored to the needs of its 50+ population, though anyone 18 or older can join. From saving money on everyday purchases to accessing valuable resources for financial planning and health, the benefits are designed to enhance members' lives.
Travel and Entertainment Discounts
Many members find that travel and entertainment discounts alone can offset the cost of membership. AARP offers a wide range of savings to help you explore more for less.
- Car Rentals: Members can save up to 35% on base rates with Pay Now bookings through partners like Avis and Budget. Other options include Payless and Zipcar.
- Hotels & Resorts: AARP members can access discounts of 10% or more at hotels from brands like Wyndham, Choice Hotels, and Best Western. Some partners offer additional perks like late checkout.
- Cruises and Vacation Packages: Through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, members can receive onboard credits for select cruises and discounts on vacation packages.
- Dining: Popular restaurant chains like Denny's, Outback Steakhouse, and Carrabba's Italian Grill offer 10% or more off your check.
- Entertainment and Events: The Movies for Grownups program offers free online movie screenings, while local chapters provide opportunities for discounted events.
Financial Security and Services
AARP provides numerous resources to help members manage their money, plan for the future, and protect against financial fraud.
- Fraud Watch Network: This free service offers alerts and resources to help protect members from common scams and identity theft. Members can also save on identity theft protection from Norton 360.
- Banking and Investments: Members can access special rates on savings and CD products from Barclays. There are also AARP-branded Mastercards with cash-back rewards and discounts on Yahoo Finance Premium.
- Tax Assistance: The AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation and counseling for low-to-moderate-income taxpayers, with a special focus on those 50 and older.
- Publications: Your membership includes subscriptions to AARP The Magazine and AARP The Bulletin, which provide valuable information on money management, retirement, and other topics relevant to the 50+ demographic.
Health and Wellness Programs
Maintaining health and wellness is a top priority, and AARP offers several benefits to support a healthier lifestyle.
- Prescription Discounts: The AARP Prescription Discounts program, provided by Optum Rx, offers discounts on FDA-approved medications at over 66,000 participating pharmacies. Members receive deeper discounts than non-members.
- Vision and Hearing: Members can save on vision plans from VSP and eyewear at LensCrafters and Target Optical. Discounts are also available for hearing aid products and services from HearUSA.
- Staying Sharp: This program offers resources, articles, and activities designed to promote brain health and cognitive fitness.
- Fitness: AARP provides access to online workout videos, fitness tracking rewards, and personalized nutrition planning resources.
Insurance Options
Through partnerships with reputable providers, AARP offers members access to various endorsed insurance products at competitive rates.
- Auto and Homeowners Insurance: The Hartford offers exclusive savings on auto and homeowners insurance for AARP members, including up to 20% off when bundling policies.
- Life Insurance: New York Life provides several life insurance options for AARP members, including guaranteed acceptance plans.
- Medicare Plans: Members can enroll in AARP Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans provided by UnitedHealthcare.
- Pet Insurance: Fetch Pet Insurance offers a 10% discount on monthly premiums for members.
Community Involvement and Advocacy
Beyond personal discounts, an AARP membership supports a broader mission of social change.
- Advocacy: AARP is a nonpartisan advocate for older Americans, fighting for issues like strengthening Social Security, lowering prescription drug costs, and promoting family caregiver support.
- Volunteering: The AARP Foundation offers numerous volunteer opportunities, such as the Tax-Aide program and Experience Corps, which tutors young students.
Comparison of AARP Membership Options
To help you decide which option is best, here is a comparison of the different membership terms and costs as of 2025.
| Feature | 1-Year Membership | 3-Year Membership | 5-Year Membership |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Rate | $20 | ~$18.33/year ($55 total) | ~$15.80/year ($79 total) |
| First-Year Offer | $15 (with auto-renewal) | N/A | N/A |
| Household Member | Free second membership included | Free second membership included | Free second membership included |
| Savings per Year | Up to 25% off first year | 8% off annual rate | 21% off annual rate |
| Best For | Testing out the benefits | Medium-term commitment | Best long-term value |
Is an AARP Membership Right for You?
An AARP membership can be highly valuable if you plan to utilize its array of discounts and resources. The annual fee is relatively low, and for many, the savings from just one or two benefits—such as a multi-day car rental or a large purchase on technology—can cover the cost. However, the value is subjective and depends on your lifestyle and how actively you engage with the offerings. The included advocacy and community programs also offer intangible benefits, supporting a cause that impacts the 50+ population. The best way to evaluate if it's worth it is to join for one year and track your savings. You can cancel at any time if you find the services don't meet your needs.
Conclusion
In summary, the benefits of an AARP membership extend far beyond simple discounts. Members gain access to a comprehensive suite of savings on travel, dining, insurance, and health products. These tangible benefits are complemented by invaluable resources for financial and health planning, as well as opportunities for community engagement and powerful advocacy efforts. With a free second household membership and a range of subscription terms, joining AARP offers a practical way to save money and stay informed on issues critical to healthy aging and retirement. To explore the full list of available programs and discounts, you can visit AARP's official benefits page.
