What reinstating your AARP membership means

Reinstatement means reactivating a membership that has lapsed — either because you didn't renew it before the expiration date, or because AARP cancelled it for non-payment. When you reinstate, you regain access to AARP's member benefits, discounts, and publications without having to sign up as a new member. Your membership number and history remain the same.

The process is straightforward and usually takes a few minutes. You can reinstate online, by phone, or by mail. The cost depends on whether you're reinstating a lapsed membership (which may be discounted) or reactivating one that was cancelled for non-payment (which typically requires paying the full current membership fee plus any arrears).

Key Takeaways

  • You can reinstate a lapsed AARP membership online at aarp.org, by calling 1-888-687-2277, or by mailing a check to AARP's membership office.
  • A lapsed membership can usually be reinstated at a discounted rate if you act within a certain window; after that window closes, you pay the standard annual rate.
  • If your membership was cancelled for non-payment, you'll need to pay the full current membership fee plus any outstanding balance before reinstatement.
  • Reinstatement restores your membership number and history, so you don't lose your place or start over as a new member.
  • Your membership becomes active when ready upon payment, and you can start using your member benefits right away.

Reinstating online through AARP's website

The fastest way to reinstate is through AARP's website. Go to aarp.org and look for the membership section. You'll be asked to enter your name, date of birth, and the email address or phone number associated with your former account. AARP will search for your lapsed membership record.

Once your record is found, you'll see the reinstatement offer — usually a discounted rate if your membership hasn't been lapsed for too long. Review the membership term (typically one year) and the cost, then proceed to payment. AARP accepts credit cards and debit cards. Your membership activates as soon as the payment processes, usually within minutes.

Reinstating by phone

Call AARP's membership department at 1-888-687-2277. Have your former membership number ready if you have it, along with your date of birth and the address on file. A representative will look up your account and confirm that you're may be able to access for reinstatement.

The representative will quote you the reinstatement rate, explain what's included in your membership, and process your payment over the phone. They accept credit cards and debit cards. Ask the representative to confirm your current contact information and preferred mailing address before you hang up, so your membership materials go to the right place.

Reinstating by mail

If you prefer to pay by check, you can reinstate by mail. Contact AARP at 1-888-687-2277 or visit aarp.org to request a reinstatement form. Fill out the form with your personal information and former membership details, then mail it along with a check for the reinstatement fee to the address provided on the form.

Processing by mail takes longer than online or phone reinstatement — typically two to three weeks from the time AARP receives your check. Your membership becomes active on the date AARP deposits your check, not the date you mail it. Keep a copy of the form and a record of your check number for your records.

What happens if your membership was cancelled for non-payment

If AARP cancelled your membership because a payment failed or bounced, reinstatement requires paying the full current annual membership fee plus any outstanding balance from the previous billing cycle. You cannot reinstate at a discounted rate in this situation.

Contact AARP directly by phone at 1-888-687-2277 to find out the exact amount owed. A representative can tell you whether the cancellation was recent enough that your membership record is still active, or whether you'll need to rejoin as a new member instead. If your record is still active, you can reinstate when ready by providing updated payment information.

What to expect after reinstatement

Your membership card will arrive in the mail within one to two weeks of reinstatement. In the meantime, you can use your membership number (which AARP will provide when ready after payment) to access member discounts at participating retailers and to log into the AARP website.

Your AARP magazine subscription resumes with the next available issue. If you have an AARP account online, your login credentials remain the same. Check your email for a reinstatement confirmation and any welcome-back offers AARP may send to returning members.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to reinstate before I have to rejoin as a new member?

AARP typically allows reinstatement at a discounted rate for a limited time after your membership expires — usually around 30 to 60 days, though this can vary. After that window closes, you pay the standard annual membership fee. Contact AARP directly to find out whether your lapsed membership still qualifies for the discounted reinstatement rate.

Will I lose my membership number if I reinstate?

No. Reinstatement preserves your membership number and your membership history. You don't start over or lose any record of your time as an AARP member. Your account is straightforward reactivated.

Can I reinstate if I'm not yet 50 years old?

AARP membership is open to people 50 and older. If your membership lapsed because you were under 50 at the time, you can reinstate once you turn 50. Contact AARP to confirm your may be able to access based on your current age.

What if I can't find my membership number?

You don't need your membership number to reinstate. AARP can look up your account using your name, date of birth, and the address or phone number on file. Call 1-888-687-2277 or start the online reinstatement process, and a representative or the website will locate your record.

Do I have to reinstate the same membership type I had before?

When you reinstate, you return to the same membership level you had previously. If you want to change your membership type — for example, from individual to joint membership — you can discuss that option with a representative when you reinstate, though you may be charged differently depending on the change.