Membership in AARP comes with plenty of perks that seniors across the U.S. may not know about. While many recognize AARP for its publications and political advocacy, the real value often lies in the everyday discounts, financial tools, and support services it offers to seniors. If you’re over the age of 50 or are helping someone who is, it’s worth understanding the wide range of AARP benefits available at your fingertips.
Read MoreDon't Miss These AARP Benefits for Seniors: Save Money, Stay Active, and Get Support
What is AARP?
AARP (the American Association of Retired Persons) is a non-profit organization designed to support people who are age 50 and older. Membership is open to anyone 18+ but is targeted to help seniors improve their quality of life as they age. AARP provides resources in areas like healthcare, finance, travel, insurance, and wellbeing.
How Much Does AARP Membership Cost?
One of the most appealing aspects of AARP is its affordability. As of 2024, standard membership costs start at just $16 per year. However, if you sign up for longer-term plans or enroll in automatic renewal, you can get it for as low as $9 a year. Membership includes a spouse or any household member at no extra cost, making it even more valuable.
Top AARP Benefits and Discounts for Seniors
AARP offers thousands of discounts and services. Here are some of the most beneficial and widely used options:
1. Travel and Vacation Discounts
From hotel stays to car rentals and cruises, AARP partners with top travel brands to give members great rates:
- Hotels: Members receive up to 10%–15% off hotel stays through brands like Hilton, Wyndham, and Choice Hotels.
- Car Rentals: Discounts of up to 30% through Avis, Budget, and Payless plus added perks like free upgrades and additional drivers.
- Cruises: Save on select voyages through companies like Norwegian Cruise Line and Grand European Travel.
- Vacation Packages: AARP travel center powered by Expedia helps seniors get reduced rates on flights and bundled trips.
2. Food and Dining Perks
If you enjoy going out to eat, AARP membership can make dining out more affordable:
- Denny’s: 15% discount at participating locations on your total bill.
- Bonefish Grill, Carrabba’s, and Outback Steakhouse: 10% off meals and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Local Discounts: Many regional and local diners also offer AARP-exclusive deals—check online or ask in-store.
3. Health and Wellness Benefits
AARP offers several ways to stay healthy while saving money on essential services and products:
- Prescription Discounts: Use AARP’s Prescription Discount Card provided by Optum Rx and save up to 66% on medications not covered by insurance.
- Vision and Hearing: Get discounts through partners like LensCrafters and Hearing Care Solutions.
- Gym Memberships: Discounts through fitness programs like SilverSneakers help seniors stay active without paying full-cost gym prices.
4. Insurance Products and Services
AARP partners with top insurance providers to offer exclusive plans designed for senior needs:
- Auto Insurance: Through The Hartford, members can access car insurance specifically tailored for experienced drivers.
- Homeowners Insurance: Also through The Hartford, with added coverage for things like overland water and identity fraud.
- Life Insurance: New York Life offers term and permanent life insurance with options and pricing suited for aging adults.
- Dental and Vision Plans: AARP Dental Insurance Plans and Vision discounts help reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses.
5. Financial Planning Tools and Services
AARP provides access to numerous tools for financial wellness and retirement planning:
- Investment Guidance: Partners like Fidelity and AARP Money Map help members understand investments, savings, and retirement income options.
- Tax Preparation: AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free tax-filing help for those with moderate to low income—especially helpful for retirees.
- Budget Tools: Digital calculators and guides help seniors plan budgets, manage debt, and track expenses.
Types of AARP Memberships
AARP offers several types of memberships to suit different people:
- Standard Membership: Available to anyone 50 and older. This includes full access to all benefits, discounts, and resources.
- Associate Membership: Available to those under 50. While some discounts may be limited, most services are included.
- Gift Membership: You can also gift AARP membership to a friend or family member with the same benefits at the same price.
How to Join AARP
Joining AARP is simple. You can enroll online through their official website, by phone, or through the mail. Once registered, new members receive a welcome kit in the mail that includes a membership card and an outline of top benefits. Digital tools are also available through the AARP mobile app, where users can easily find and use discounts from their phones.
Extra Benefits and Programs That Go Beyond Discounts
AARP is more than just savings—it offers a variety of resources that promote education, community support, and senior well-being:
- Online Courses: Learn new skills, from cooking to tech basics, through Virtual Community Center events.
- Advocacy Programs: AARP lobbies for issues that affect older Americans—like Social Security, Medicare, and age discrimination laws.
- AARP Fraud Watch Network: Alerts, helplines, and tips that help seniors protect themselves from scams and identity theft.
- Community Volunteering: AARP connects members with local opportunities to give back and stay active socially.
Benefits for Veterans and Caregivers
AARP has dedicated programs for caregivers and veterans, recognizing the extra challenges they face:
- Caregiving Support: AARP offers guides, checklists, and local resource locators for those caring for aging parents, spouses, or friends.
- Veteran Support: Through partnerships with the U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs, AARP helps veterans connect with benefits and retirement services.
Summary: Why Use Your AARP Membership?
AARP membership offers incredible value at a low cost. Whether you're looking to save on daily expenses, plan for retirement, improve your health, or travel more affordably, AARP has something to offer. The wide variety of benefits—from dining to insurance to educational tools—makes it one of the best deals available for seniors. With just a few uses, your annual fee pays for itself many times over.
Sources:
- “Membership Benefits” – AARP.org
- “Top Discounts with AARP” – The Penny Hoarder
- “AARP vs. Other Senior Discount Programs” – Forbes
- “Is AARP Worth It?” – NerdWallet