AARP's Endorsement Process and Exclusive Partnerships
AARP is not an insurance provider itself, but rather an organization that advocates for people aged 50 and over. To offer insurance and other financial products to its members, AARP establishes exclusive, long-term partnerships with select companies. This endorsement signifies that the products have been carefully evaluated and meet AARP's stringent standards for quality and service. These partnerships allow AARP to offer tailored benefits and discounts to its members, while the partner company gains access to a large, targeted demographic.
For most health-related products, the primary partner is UnitedHealthcare. This partnership has been in place for many years and is the exclusive insurer of AARP's branded Medicare plans. For property and casualty insurance, The Hartford holds the exclusive endorsement for auto and home insurance.
UnitedHealthcare: The Exclusive Insurer for AARP's Medicare Plans
UnitedHealthcare is the exclusive partner that offers a suite of AARP-branded Medicare plans. These are specifically designed to address the needs of AARP members and those eligible for Medicare. The main types of plans offered under this umbrella include:
AARP Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans (Medigap)
Medigap plans help cover some of the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. AARP, through UnitedHealthcare, offers several standardized Medigap plans, labeled with letters such as Plan A, Plan G, and Plan N. The availability of these plans can vary by state.
- Plan G: This is a popular choice for new Medicare enrollees, as it offers comprehensive coverage of many out-of-pocket costs, with the exception of the Part B deductible.
- Plan N: A lower-premium option that covers most costs but requires a copayment for some doctor's office and emergency room visits.
AARP Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
These plans combine the coverage of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) into a single plan, often including additional benefits like dental, vision, and hearing care, as well as prescription drug coverage. AARP's Medicare Advantage plans, also offered by UnitedHealthcare, come in various formats:
- HMO Plans: Require members to use a network of contracted physicians and hospitals.
- PPO Plans: Offer more flexibility, allowing members to see out-of-network providers, though often at a higher cost.
- Special Needs Plans (SNPs): Cater to individuals with specific chronic conditions or those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.
AARP Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans
For those who stick with Original Medicare or a Medigap plan, AARP offers stand-alone Part D plans to help cover prescription drug costs. These are also insured by UnitedHealthcare and include options with varying coverage and premium levels, such as the AARP Medicare Rx Preferred and AARP Medicare Rx Saver plans.
Other Insurance Plans Endorsed by AARP
Beyond health coverage, AARP also endorses other types of insurance to meet its members' needs. These partnerships also feature exclusive discounts and benefits.
AARP Auto and Home Insurance Program from The Hartford
Since 1984, The Hartford has been the exclusive partner for AARP's auto and home insurance programs. This program is tailored for experienced drivers and homeowners, offering special benefits and savings. Some key features include:
- Auto Insurance: Features like new car replacement coverage, disappearing deductible, and a 12-month rate protection period.
- Homeowners Insurance: Offers specific coverage for items like personal belongings, with potential discounts for bundling policies.
AARP Dental Insurance Plans from Delta Dental
In partnership with Delta Dental, AARP offers members access to a range of dental insurance options. These plans focus on preventive care and cover common procedures like fillings and crowns. Coverage can vary by state and plan type, but typically includes PPO and DHMO options.
AARP Vision Plans from VSP
Through VSP, AARP members can access exclusive vision insurance plans. The benefits often include an annual eye exam, allowances for glasses or contacts, and savings on lens enhancements. For example, the EyeHealth Focus Plan is designed specifically for AARP members and offers unique benefits.
Comparison of AARP-Endorsed Medicare Plans (2025)
| Feature | AARP Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | AARP Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
|---|---|---|
| Insurers | UnitedHealthcare | UnitedHealthcare |
| Used With | Original Medicare (Parts A & B) | Replaces Original Medicare |
| Coverage | Fills gaps in Original Medicare (copays, coinsurance) | Combines A & B, often adds Part D, dental, vision, hearing |
| Networks | No network restrictions (use any provider accepting Medicare) | Often network-based (HMO, PPO), with varying flexibility |
| Referrals | No referrals needed for specialists | May require referrals depending on the plan type |
| Travel | Some plans offer foreign travel emergency coverage | Varies by plan; often limited to U.S. |
| Extra Benefits | Focused solely on medical costs | Often includes dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs |
Conclusion: Choosing the Right AARP-Endorsed Plan
Understanding which plans AARP endorses is the first step toward making an informed decision about your coverage. The AARP endorsement, backed by vetted insurance providers like UnitedHealthcare, The Hartford, and Delta Dental, signifies a commitment to quality and service for its members. From the comprehensive suite of Medicare options to auto, home, and dental coverage, these partnerships provide numerous benefits. When evaluating your options, consider your specific health and financial needs to determine which of the AARP-endorsed plans aligns best with your circumstances.
For more information on the various plans available, you can visit the official AARP Medicare website at www.aarpmedicareplans.com.
