The American Association of Retired Persons, or AARP for short, was created to enrich and support the lives of individuals over the age of 50. Joining AARP is by no means a requirement, but many members find that AARP benefits are well worth the modest annual membership fee of $16. Discover the many benefits of belonging to AARP.
A Note Before We Dive Into AARP Benefits
Whether you already belong to AARP or are still considering membership, knowing how to maximize your rewards on the go is essential. A good way to stay informed and have benefits at your (literal) fingertips is to download the AARP Now app on Android or iPhone. Here, you can keep tabs on your membership reward points, access exclusive content and browse available AARP benefits wherever you are.
10 Perks Only AARP Members Can Enjoy
Wondering if AARP is worth the investment? These benefits outweigh the minuscule cost of membership.
1. Earn Restaurant Discounts
Perhaps one of the top AARP benefits accessed most often by members are the restaurant discounts. At casual and fine dining restaurants around the country, you can save up to 15% on your bill simply by presenting your membership card. Some of the most popular restaurants include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Denny’s
- Bonefish Grill
- Joe’s Crab Shack
- Cinnabon
2. Low-Cost Vision and Dental Insurance
Taking care of your eye and dental health is paramount to high-quality living. AARP offers dental insurance through Delta Dental with multiple plan options to fit your needs. Depending on the plan you select, covered services include anything from exams and cleaning to major dental work. To care for your eyes, AARP offers vision insurance through EyeMed with plan options starting at less than $5 per month. Covered services include vision exams, diabetic eye exams and eyeglasses, depending on the plan you select.
3. Save on Pet Insurance
Your furry friends are always there for you. Be there for them with discounted pet insurance thanks to your AARP benefits. Members can access a lifetime discount of 10% on pet insurance from Fetch by The Dodo, designed to both maintain your pet’s good health and offer treatment for illnesses. This plan offers reimbursement of up to 90% for veterinary services provided by any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. and Canada, making it a great option for pets who like to travel with their parents.
4. Travel Discounts and Packages
Speaking of traveling, AARP offers a variety of discount programs for everything from rental cars to complete vacation packages and travel planning. For example, AARP members can save up to $200 when booking a round-trip flight on British Airways. If you’re looking for extra spending money on your trip, you can enjoy a $50 Visa gift card when booking a vacation package with airfare through AARP’s Travel Center powered by Expedia.
5. Prepared Meals Delivered for a Discount
Shopping, meal prep and cooking isn’t always part of the plan. When it’s not, look to AARP benefits for exclusive savings on prepared meals delivered directly to your door. Members enjoy sign-up offers and ongoing discounts of up to 20% on services like Freshly, Schwan’s Home Delivery and Silver Cuisine by bistroMD.
6. Savings on Entertainment
Whether you prefer to soak up entertainment comfortably at home or get dressed up and paint the town, expect to save with AARP. Members enjoy savings on ticket purchases from Ticketmaster for live shows, plays and concerts. Online and through the app, members can also access free content, including games, shows and podcasts exclusively created for AARP.
7. Save on Home Care and Medical Alert Devices
Though not fun to think about, life sometimes throws you a curveball, and in-home care becomes a necessity. AARP helps you save through CareLinx by connecting you with licensed, professional home caregivers when you need it most. AARP members also enjoy 15% off Lifeline Medical Alert Devices with complimentary shipping and activation.
8. Real Estate and Moving Perks
As life changes, so do your needs. You may decide you want to relocate to be closer to family or simply want to downsize your current home. Regardless of your reason, AARP offers valuable discounts when you’re ready to make the change. Offered through Realogy, receive a benefit of up to $7,200 when buying or selling a home. AARP also offers moving assistance discounts for truck rentals through Budget and discounts on professional moving services through Shyft.
9. Free Courses and Job Board
If your entrepreneurial spirit cannot be tamed, take a look at the free employment and skill-building resources offered to AARP members. Boost your marketability with skills training through AARP Skills Builder for Work, or get tips on starting your own business. When you’re ready to take your job search to the next level, have your resume professionally reviewed at no cost by AARP Resume Advisor before searching for opportunities on the organization’s job board.
10. Financial Planning and Investing Services for Less
From planning for the cost of long-term care to developing a trust or will, your AARP benefits provide access to free and discounted tools designed to support your financial health. At their annual Tax Aide events, you can even get free help with your taxes if you meet certain income requirements. If your goal is to pay off debt and build wealth, AARP offers a variety of savings and investment offers to maximize your returns.
AARP: A Big Bang For Your Buck
While AARP might get a bad rap, the American Association of Retired Persons offers a number of benefits for those over the age of 50. The modest membership fee of $16 will be more than worth it when you take into consideration everything you will receive in the form of discounts, planning services, and free courses. Already have a membership? Be sure to double check our list to make sure you are getting the most out of your account.
You might also be interested in: Everything To Know About AARP Before Joining
