[Arctic Fox]

I know that membership offers many potential benefits and discounts, but:

1) of how many of these do you take advantage?

2) are the same benefits/discounts available through other sources anyway?

Thank you

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I mostly just take advantage of their rewards points to get free magazines, and discounts at Carabba's. It adds up.

[tophcfa]

Originally Posted by Arctic Fox

I know that membership offers many potential benefits and discounts, but:

1) of how many of these do you take advantage?

2) are the same benefits/discounts available through other sources anyway?

Thank you

Membership is cheap and they send you stuff to read that is sometimes interesting. Only real direct benefit I see is hotel discounts that are redundant if you have AAA. I support them because they are a strong advocate to NOT have Social Security and Medicare gutted, which will constantly be on the table going forward given our country’s unsustainable debt.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Originally Posted by tophcfa

Membership is cheap and they send you stuff to read that is sometimes interesting. Only real direct benefit I see is hotel discounts that are redundant if you have AAA. I support them because they are a strong advocate to NOT have Social Security and Medicare gutted, which will constantly be on the table going forward given our country’s unsustainable debt.

oooof. . . excellent points for everyone in TV. . . .

[Babubhat]

No longer useful. Most discounts that were worthwhile are gone

[mulligan]

Also, keep in mind that they are owned by an insurance company.

[TOTV Specialist]

Just a kind reminder for all users to remain on topic and to remember site rules. The OP is seeking advice about AARP, so leave the political commentary out of it. Thank you.

[frose]

look into who backs/finances it.. I can't write what this organization is, i will be in totv jail again.

[Dana1963]

Originally Posted by mulligan

Also, keep in mind that they are owned by an insurance company.

Another opinion spouting a wealth of misinformation.
Unless proof of ownership can be confirmed. Currently, they help members by providing discounts thru United Healthcare because of their membership numbers, does not mean they are owned by insurance company. Also Home Car Rv insurance is provided thru The Hartford Insurance Company, which is cheaper than I can get from USAA.

[Pinball wizard]

An alternative to AARP is AMAC. Lots of discounts and benefits but leans in a different direction.

AMAC - The Association of Mature American Citizens

[Kenswing]

I see no reason in joining AARP.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Originally Posted by mulligan

Also, keep in mind that they are owned by an insurance company.

They are not owned by an insurance company. They are in a partnership with UnitedHealthCare and have been since 1997.

It's a mutually beneficial partnership, which also benefits seniors who participate in both.

I'm not old enough for medicare, and so I get no benefit from the partnership at all. But AARP is one of the strongest lobbyists for Seniors, senior rights, legislation to protect seniors from abuse and crime, and programs for seniors at a statewide and local community level. So I'm fine supporting them for that reason even though my only real benefits are the magazines and a few restaurant discounts.

[Arctic Fox]

Thank you all for your thoughts (and to Admin for clearing out the "extras")

I have decided to join for a year as the saving on one car rental from Budget (compared to my current cheapest source) will more than pay for it.

Oh, and they're offering a free bag, too!

[JohnN]

AARP gives a $5/month discount on Consumer Cellular. If you use them, that pays for itself.

[HapEvillager]

I used my AARP card yesterday for a 10% discount at Bonefish. I have also used it for car rentals.