Why am I getting AARP mail? Your Guide to Unsolicited Mail

Over 38 million Americans are members of AARP, but many more receive unsolicited mail from the organization. Many people find themselves asking, Why am I getting AARP mail?, often without ever having initiated contact with the organization.

Quick Summary

You are getting AARP mail because your name and address appear on a mailing list, which AARP purchases or acquires from third-party data brokers, public records, and other organizations, targeting a demographic that is typically 50 years and older, regardless of your membership status.

Key Points

• Data Brokers: AARP frequently acquires mailing lists from data brokers who collect publicly available information and demographic data, including age.

• No Membership Required: You do not need to be an AARP member to receive mail from them, as most of their unsolicited mail is designed to solicit new members.

• Multiple Mail Types: Mailings can be promotional, intended to sell you on a membership, or informational, aiming to build brand recognition.

• Easy Opt-Out: You can easily stop AARP mail by using their online opt-out tool, calling member services, or sending a written request.

• Deceased Relatives: If you receive mail for a deceased relative, you must proactively contact AARP to have their name removed from mailing lists.

• DMAChoice: For a broader reduction in junk mail, you can register with the DMA's Mail Preference Service to reduce solicitations from many different companies.

The Source of Your Mail: How AARP Found Your Information

AARP's direct mail strategy is highly effective because they are experts at obtaining contact information for their target demographic. You don’t need to be an AARP member to receive their mail; in fact, the bulk of their mailings are promotional, designed to convert non-members into members. The answer to 'why am I getting AARP mail?' usually lies in the sophisticated world of data brokering.

Public Records and Data Brokers

One of the most common ways AARP obtains your information is through publicly available records. These can include voter registration lists, change-of-address forms filed with the post office, and other public databases. Data brokers, companies that specialize in collecting and selling personal information, aggregate these public records and combine them with other data points, such as subscription lists, purchase history, and demographics. AARP can then buy targeted mailing lists from these brokers, focusing on individuals who are approaching or have reached a certain age.

Partner Lists and Other Third Parties

Beyond public records, AARP has extensive partnerships with other businesses and non-profit organizations. If you have ever signed up for a magazine, donated to a specific charity, or participated in a loyalty program, your information may have been shared with or sold to a partner organization. These lists are a valuable resource for AARP, as they provide a pool of potential new members who have already demonstrated an interest in related areas like health, finance, or community engagement.

Unsolicited Mail: Understanding the Types of AARP Communications

Not all AARP mail is created equal. Understanding the different types of mail you might be receiving can help you decide on the best course of action. Generally, the mail falls into two categories:

• Promotional Offers: This is the most common type of unsolicited mail. These packets often contain compelling invitations to join AARP, highlighting the benefits, discounts, and services available to members. They are designed to pique your interest and drive a conversion.
• Informational Mail: This may include free magazines, newsletters, or informational pieces about topics relevant to seniors, such as healthcare, retirement planning, or travel. While still a form of marketing, these pieces are less direct about soliciting membership and aim to build brand awareness and trust.

What if I'm receiving mail for a deceased relative?

If you're dealing with mail for a family member who has passed away, it can be particularly upsetting to see their name appear in the mailbox. AARP, like many other organizations, relies on third-party data that can be slow to update. You will need to take proactive steps to remove their name from these mailing lists, which often involves contacting AARP directly.

How to Stop Getting AARP Mail: Your Action Plan

Taking control of your mailbox is entirely possible, and you have several options for stopping unsolicited AARP mail. Patience is key, as it can take some time for your request to be fully processed across all their mailing lists.

1. Online Opt-Out: The most efficient method is to use AARP's official online opt-out system. This allows you to specifically request removal from their direct mail lists. You can find this option on their website to manage your AARP communication preferences.
2. Contact Member Services: If the online method isn't working, or if you prefer speaking with someone, you can call AARP's member services line. Be prepared with the recipient's name and address as it appears on the mailing label to ensure accuracy.
3. Mail-in Request: For those who prefer a paper trail, you can send a written request to AARP's corporate address. Clearly state that you wish for the recipient's name to be permanently removed from all mailing lists. Be sure to include the full name and address exactly as they appear on the mailer.
4. DMAChoice: Registering with the DMA's Mail Preference Service can reduce the amount of direct mail you receive from many companies, including AARP. It's a broad-based solution for cutting down on unsolicited junk mail.

Comparison of AARP Mail Management Methods

Method	Speed	Effort Level	Scope	Cost
Online Opt-Out	Fastest (2-4 weeks)	Low	AARP specific	Free
Member Services Call	Fast (2-6 weeks)	Medium	AARP specific	Free
Mail-in Request	Slow (4-8 weeks)	Medium	AARP specific	Postage
DMAChoice	Medium (30-90 days)	Medium	Broad, covers many companies	Small fee

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Mailbox

Receiving unsolicited mail can be frustrating, especially when it targets personal details like age. The simple answer to why am I getting AARP mail? is a combination of your age and the availability of your data. By understanding the sources of their information and using the provided opt-out methods, you can regain control over your privacy and enjoy a less cluttered mailbox. Whether you choose the quick online option or a more comprehensive approach, taking action is the surest way to stop the flow of mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does getting AARP mail mean I'm a member?

No, receiving mail from AARP does not mean you are a member. Most unsolicited mail is marketing material intended for people who are not members yet, with the goal of convincing them to join.

How do I unsubscribe from AARP mail?

You can unsubscribe by visiting AARP's website and using their online opt-out form, calling their customer service number, or sending a written request to their mailing address. Using the online form is typically the fastest method.

Will AARP stop mailing me if I ignore it?

Ignoring AARP mail will not make it stop. Your name and address will likely remain on their mailing lists, and they will continue to send you promotional materials. You must take an active step to opt out.

Is AARP mail a scam?

No, AARP is a legitimate, non-profit organization. The mail you receive is part of their standard marketing outreach. While the mail itself isn't a scam, it is unsolicited if you haven't initiated contact with them.

What age does AARP target for mailings?

AARP primarily targets individuals aged 50 and older for its marketing efforts, as this is the demographic they represent. Even if you are slightly younger, they may send you mail as you approach this milestone.

Can I stop mail for someone else, like a deceased parent?

Yes, you can. You will need to contact AARP's member services and provide the name and address of the deceased person, as it appears on the mail, to have them removed from the mailing lists. You can also use the online form.

Why is AARP sending me mail if I'm not a member?

AARP sends mail to non-members because they have identified you as a potential member based on your age and demographic information. They use targeted marketing to grow their membership base, relying on data from third-party sources.

Will AARP sell my contact information to other companies?

AARP has policies regarding data sharing. While they may share data with partner organizations, they also offer members and individuals on their lists the ability to manage their communication preferences to limit such sharing. Utilizing their opt-out options can help.