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What Gas Stations Take AARP? Earn Rewards and Save on Fuel

4 min read

Saving money is a priority for many, especially for older adults, and gas is a major expense. The AARP partners with specific fuel companies to offer members rewards and discounts, directly answering the question of what gas stations take AARP and how to access those savings.

Quick Summary

AARP members can get gas discounts through strategic partnerships with major fuel retailers like Exxon Mobil and Shell. These aren't direct, universal AARP discounts, but rather extra perks and bonus points within each company's existing loyalty program that members receive by linking their AARP account.

Key Points

  • Link Your Memberships: AARP savings at gas stations are primarily accessed by linking your AARP membership number to the respective company's loyalty program, not by showing your card at the pump.

  • Exxon Mobil Rewards+: Linking your AARP membership to the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ program allows you to earn extra points on fuel and other purchases, plus a 500-point bonus for new members.

  • Shell Fuel Rewards®: AARP members who link their Fuel Rewards® account receive Complimentary Gold Status, which offers an instant discount of at least 5¢ per gallon.

  • Not a Direct Discount: The AARP partnerships with gas stations are point- or tier-based reward systems, not an upfront, per-gallon discount like a senior discount at a restaurant.

  • Use the Apps: The easiest way to manage and redeem your fuel rewards is by using the official Exxon Mobil Rewards+ or Fuel Rewards® apps on your smartphone.

  • Explore All Options: Combining AARP fuel rewards with other savings strategies, like grocery store gas points or rewards credit cards, can lead to even greater savings at the pump.

In This Article

AARP Gas Discounts at Exxon Mobil

For AARP members seeking to save at the pump, Exxon Mobil is a primary partner. The discount isn't applied directly at the time of purchase but is integrated into the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ program. By linking your AARP membership to your Rewards+ account, you can unlock a range of benefits that translate into significant savings over time.

How to Link Your AARP and Exxon Mobil Rewards+

  1. Create an Exxon Mobil Rewards+ Account: If you don't have one, sign up online or through the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ app. It's a quick and free process.
  2. Link Your Memberships: Log into your Rewards+ account and navigate to your profile or benefits section. There, you will find an option to enter your AARP membership number to link the two accounts.
  3. Use Your Rewards: Once linked, use your Rewards+ card, app, or linked phone number at the pump or in the store to earn points automatically. Every 100 points equals $1 in savings that you can redeem on future fuel, car wash, or store purchases.

Exclusive AARP Member Benefits

  • Extra Points: Earn bonus points on everyday purchases, including fuel and convenience store items.
  • Monthly Member Days: Take advantage of double fuel points on special AARP Member Days.
  • Welcome Bonus: New Exxon Mobil Rewards+ members who link their AARP account can receive a 500-point ($5) welcome bonus after their first fill-up.

AARP Gas Discounts at Shell Stations

Shell is another major fuel provider that partners with AARP to offer savings through its Fuel Rewards® program. By linking your AARP membership, you gain access to perks that reduce the cost per gallon at participating Shell stations.

How to Link Your AARP and Shell Fuel Rewards®

  1. Join the Fuel Rewards® Program: First, create a free account online at the Fuel Rewards website or via the app.
  2. Link Your AARP Membership: Log in and connect your AARP membership number to your Fuel Rewards® account. This process is necessary to activate the AARP-exclusive benefits.
  3. Enjoy the Savings: Use your Fuel Rewards® card or alternative ID (like a linked credit card) at the pump to receive your savings per gallon.

Shell AARP Member Benefits

  • Complimentary Gold Status: Linking your AARP account grants you ongoing Complimentary Gold Status, which guarantees savings of at least 5¢ per gallon on every fill-up at participating Shell stations.
  • New Member Bonus: As a new Fuel Rewards® member joining through AARP, you can earn a one-time 50¢ per gallon discount on your first fill-up (up to 20 gallons).

Comparison of AARP Fuel Rewards Programs

To help you decide which program best suits your needs, here is a comparison of the AARP benefits offered by Exxon Mobil and Shell.

Feature Exxon Mobil Rewards+ Shell Fuel Rewards®
Reward Type Points based (100 pts = $1) Instant cents-per-gallon discount
Linking Required Yes, via Rewards+ account Yes, via Fuel Rewards® account
Member Status Extra points, bonus on member days Complimentary Gold Status
New Member Bonus 500 points ($5) bonus on first fill-up One-time 50¢/gallon savings on first fill-up
How to Redeem Use Rewards+ card, app, or linked phone Use Fuel Rewards® card or linked credit card
Flexibility Points usable on fuel, car washes, and store items Instant fuel savings, plus rewards for other purchases

Finding More Ways to Save on Gas

Beyond AARP's direct partnerships, here are additional strategies to help seniors maximize their fuel savings.

Leverage Grocery Store Rewards

Many grocery chains, such as Kroger and Safeway, have fuel programs. You can earn points on your grocery purchases and redeem them for significant savings per gallon at their affiliated gas stations. Check your local grocery store for details on their reward program.

Use Credit Card Rewards

Consider using a credit card that offers bonus cash back or rewards points on gas purchases. Some cards specialize in automotive rewards, while others provide rotating categories that feature gas stations throughout the year.

General Tips for Stretching Your Fuel Budget

  • Pay with Cash: Some stations offer a small per-gallon discount for customers paying with cash instead of a credit card.
  • Drive Less: Consolidate errands to make fewer trips. Consider walking or using public transport for shorter distances.
  • Check Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires can significantly improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency.
  • Use Fuel-Saving Apps: Tools like GasBuddy or the AARP Now app can help you find the cheapest gas prices in your area.

Conclusion

While the answer to what gas stations take AARP is not a simple list of stations with a universal discount, members can realize substantial savings by engaging with specific rewards programs. By linking your AARP membership to Exxon Mobil Rewards+ or Shell's Fuel Rewards®, you can turn a regular purchase into a rewarding one. The key is proactive account linkage, which ensures you receive all the bonuses and extra points you're entitled to as an AARP member. For a complete list of AARP discounts, visit the official AARP Member Benefits page and explore all the ways your membership can save you money.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, AARP does not offer a universal discount at all gas stations. Its fuel savings are specifically through partnerships with companies like Exxon Mobil and Shell, where you must link your AARP membership to their respective rewards programs.

To get savings at Shell, you must first enroll in the Fuel Rewards® program and then link your AARP membership number to that account. This will grant you Complimentary Gold Status, which provides an instant discount of at least 5¢ per gallon.

Yes, joining the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ program is free. As an AARP member, you can link your membership to your Rewards+ account to receive extra points and special bonuses on top of the standard rewards.

AARP membership can be extended to your spouse for free. If they are on your membership, you can typically use the same linked rewards account, but check the specific program's rules for multiple users. They can also get their own linked account.

The Exxon Mobil deal is points-based, where you earn points that convert into dollar savings for future purchases. The Shell deal offers an instant cents-per-gallon discount at the time of purchase, thanks to the complimentary Gold Status.

The discounts apply to linked rewards programs. For Exxon Mobil, points can be earned and redeemed on qualifying in-store purchases and car washes. You won't get a discount just by showing your AARP card at the register.

Yes, AARP offers numerous automotive benefits, including discounts on car rentals from Avis and Budget, savings on oil changes at Valvoline, and discounts on auto insurance from The Hartford.

Some independent or regional gas stations might offer senior discounts, but it is not a widespread practice. Your best bet is to inquire directly at the station or leverage a rewards program like the ones partnered with AARP.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.