A World of Exclusive Discounts and Savings
One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of an AARP membership is the access to hundreds of exclusive discounts from national and local partners. These savings are available across multiple categories, helping members stretch their budgets further on everyday necessities and special indulgences.
Travel Discounts
For those who love to travel, AARP offers numerous opportunities to save on everything from accommodations to getting around. These travel perks are accessible through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia, as well as directly with partner brands.
- Hotels & Resorts: Members can save up to 10% or more at popular chains like Hilton, Best Western, and Wyndham properties. Some hotels may also offer additional perks like late checkout.
- Car Rentals: Save on base rates and receive additional benefits from Avis and Budget. Budget Truck Rental also offers discounts for those planning a move.
- Cruises & Flights: Book through the AARP Travel Center to receive onboard credits for cruises and savings on vacation packages. For flights, members can get discounts on eligible round-trip tickets with British Airways.
- Expedited Passport Services: Get discounts on expedited passport and travel visa services through RushMyPassport.
Dining and Entertainment Discounts
An AARP membership can also make your social life more affordable. Discounts are available at many popular national restaurant chains and entertainment venues.
- Restaurants: Enjoy savings on food and non-alcoholic beverages at dozens of restaurants, such as 10% off at Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, and Denny's.
- Shopping & Retail: Find special offers on gifts from retailers like Harry & David and 1-800-FLOWERS. Additionally, access a variety of coupons for local shops and groceries through the AARP website.
- Entertainment: Get deals on theme park tickets for places like Disneyland and save on tickets for shows and events via Ticketmaster. For at-home fun, access free online games, movie screenings, and digital books.
Protecting Your Health and Finances
Beyond leisure, AARP offers robust resources and discounted services that contribute to members' long-term financial security and well-being. By leveraging its partnerships, AARP helps members navigate complex issues like insurance, retirement planning, and fraud protection.
Insurance Programs
AARP provides access to a wide array of insurance options, often through trusted providers, to help members protect their assets and health.
- Auto & Home Insurance: AARP-endorsed auto and homeowners insurance from The Hartford offers exclusive savings and coverage options for members.
- Medicare & Health Insurance: Access supplemental health insurance plans, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Part D through UnitedHealthcare. Dental plans are available through Delta Dental.
- Life & Long-Term Care Insurance: New York Life provides various life insurance and long-term care options designed to help members protect their families and plan for the future.
- Pet Insurance: Save on monthly premiums for pet insurance from Fetch.
Financial Planning and Fraud Prevention
Navigating personal finance can be challenging, but AARP offers tools to help members stay on track and protected.
- Financial Resources: Access guidance on Social Security, Medicare, and other financial topics. Find financial health check-ups and resources to help with budgeting and retirement planning.
- Fraud Watch Network: An invaluable resource that provides information and alerts to help members recognize and avoid scams, helping to protect their assets from identity theft.
- Tax-Aide: This program provides free, IRS-certified tax counseling for low- to moderate-income taxpayers, with a focus on those 50 and older.
Health, Wellness, and Advocacy
AARP's mission to enhance the quality of life for aging Americans extends to proactive wellness and social advocacy.
AARP's Commitment to Wellness
- Health Information: Stay informed with expert tips and articles on healthy living, nutrition, and fitness via aarp.org and its publications.
- Wellness Programs: Access online fitness classes, workouts, and tools like the BMI calculator. The 'Staying Sharp' program offers resources for brain health.
- Vision & Hearing Care: Save on eyewear and exams at LensCrafters and Target Optical. Take advantage of a free hearing test and discounted hearing aid products from HearUSA.
The Power of Advocacy
AARP is a vocal advocate on both the national and state level, championing social change and fighting for the rights and interests of its members. Key areas of advocacy include:
- Lowering prescription drug costs
- Protecting Social Security and Medicare benefits
- Combatting age discrimination in the workplace
A Comparison of Key AARP Member Perks
| Benefit Category | Example Perks | Annual Savings Potential | Key Provider/Partner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel | Up to 10% off hotels, up to 35% off car rentals, onboard cruise credits | Highly variable, depends on travel frequency | Expedia, Avis, Budget, Hilton |
| Insurance | Discounts on auto and home bundles, life insurance coverage options | Hundreds of dollars per year for savvy members | The Hartford, New York Life, UnitedHealthcare |
| Health & Wellness | Prescription discounts, vision/hearing care savings, fitness resources | Moderate to significant, depending on health needs | Optum Rx, VSP, Delta Dental |
| Financial Services | Fraud protection, tax assistance, financial planning guidance | High, especially if using fraud prevention and tax services | Norton LifeLock, AARP Foundation |
| Dining & Retail | 10-15% off at select restaurants, various retail coupons | Moderate, depending on frequency of use | Denny's, Outback, Harry & David |
How to Maximize Your Membership
To ensure your AARP membership is worth the annual fee, it's crucial to actively engage with the benefits. Start by exploring the full list of offerings on the official AARP website and identify which discounts and services align with your needs and lifestyle. Remember that a single, large saving on an insurance policy or a big trip can easily cover the cost of membership for years. Don't forget to utilize the free second household membership to double your savings potential.
For more information on the full scope of AARP’s offerings and resources, visit the official website: AARP Member Benefits
Conclusion
Answering the question, "what benefits do you get with an AARP membership?", reveals a comprehensive package of discounts, resources, and advocacy. From significant savings on travel and insurance to valuable tools for financial planning and healthy aging, AARP offers benefits that can significantly enhance the quality of life for its members. By leveraging the full range of programs, individuals can find value well beyond the annual membership fee.
