In the U.S., everyone’s heard of AARP. If you’ve hit 50 years of age, you’ve likely started receiving ads and invitations to join in the mail. Despite AARP’s widespread popularity (the most recent data shows that the organization has about 38 million members), you may not know everything AARP has to offer.
While there are numerous organizations similar to AARP that work on improving the quality of life of seniors, few match the scope of AARP’s operations or offer the same value.
If you’re considering signing up for an AARP membership but don’t know enough about the organization to make a decision, keep reading to learn more about the group and what it offers its members, retirees and non-retirees alike.
Joining AARP
Like many other non-profit and social organizations, there is an eligibility requirement for joining the AARP. To apply for membership, you have to be at least 50 years of age. The subscription fee for the first year is $12 per month if you sign up for auto-renewal. From the second year and onwards, the annual membership renewal fee is $16. Keep in mind that purchasing a membership allows you to add your spouse for free—they’ll enjoy all the same benefits and discounts.
Signing up for the AARP is a straightforward process; all you have to do is visit their official website and join from there.
Types of AARP Discounts and Benefits
AARP partners with hundreds of organizations across the country to improve the lives of seniors, and also has a well-developed website and app full of information and tools. The majority of AARP benefits fit into one of the following categories:
- Free online services, resources, and content available to anyone with an Internet connection
- Free online services, resources, and content created for seniors only
- Member-exclusive online services, resources, and content
- Member-exclusive discounts
- Benefits and discounts provided to AARP members from third-party corporations and organizations
Online Tools, Resources, Networks, and Services AARP provides a wide range of top-notch online tools, resources, networks, and services. You can access these platforms through the AARP website or the AARP NOW app made available to members upon subscription. Some benefits include:
- Finance and health tools
- Social security resources and benefit calculator
- Retirement planning resources
- Tax filing assistance
- Job search tools and resume help
- Car buying program
- Fraud watch network
- Entrepreneurship resources
Discounts on Food, Travel, and Other Experiences
You’ve worked hard for the better part of your life, so why not enjoy the finer things once you’ve retired? AARP membership includes discounts for major restaurant chains, hotels, flights, car rentals, movie theatres, and more.
Insurance Programs and Discounts
AARP membership can also indirectly save you money on auto insurance, vision insurance, dental insurance, home insurance, and more. How does this work? Note that AARP doesn’t directly offer these discounts; private insurance companies create policies with the specific needs of seniors in mind and extend these plans to AARP members at a discounted rate.
For example, you should find out if you are eligible for AARP member auto insurance plans and discounts via third-party insurance providers. On top of lower rates and specialized policy options, these insurance companies typically include services such as senior driver safety programs, roadside assistance, and towing in their AARP member-oriented programs.
Entertainment and Online Content
Many retirees look for new ways to fill their time now that they’ve stopped working. AARP offers entertainment options like news and politics updates, articles curated for the 50+ audience, discounted books, a discounted subscription to Audible, podcasts, online games and puzzles, and more.
AARP Savings and Opportunities
AARP membership opens the door to countless resources, services, information, and discounts. While people look forward to their retirement years, it’s no secret that finances limit many seniors. As a senior, you’ll want to save anywhere you can, and you’ll want access to resources and opportunities. AARP helps seniors by meeting their unique needs based on their demographic and lifestyle.
[…]
You Need To Make Sure You Get The Right Life Insurance
3 Steps You Can Take Today To Set Yourself Up For Early Retirement