What is AARP?
AARP is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that focuses on the interests of people aged 50 and older. It combines member services (discounts, publications, insurance and financial products) with research, education and advocacy on issues such as health care, economic security, work and independent living. Founded in 1958 by educator Ethel Percy Andrus, the organization has grown into a large membership association and a significant public-policy presence.
Key definitions
– Nonprofit (501(c)(4)): a social-welfare organization that may lobby on public-policy issues. AARP is organized under this IRS category, which allows political advocacy.
– 501(c)(3): a tax-exempt charitable entity. AARP operates charitable programs (for example, through the AARP Foundation) that fit this classification.
– Nonpartisan: the organization does not endorse or contribute to political candidates or parties, although it lobbies on policy issues.
– Lobbying: efforts to influence legislation, regulation, or public policy at state or federal levels.
How AARP works (overview)
– Membership model: adults age 18 and older may join, though the group’s mission targets those 50+. Membership fees are a major source of revenue.
– Services and businesses: AARP licenses its name, publishes magazines and bulletins, sells or markets insurance and investment products, and arranges member discounts and education programs.
– Advocacy and outreach: AARP lobbies on policies affecting older adults (Social Security, Medicare, prescription drug costs, anti-age discrimination, housing and isolation issues). It operates local chapters and volunteers to carry out community programs.
– Structure: a mix of nonprofit advocacy (501(c)(4)), charitable work (501(c)(3) foundation), and some for‑profit operations or partnerships.
What AARP does not do
– It does not endorse or donate to political candidates or parties. It encourages civic participation and lobbies on issues, but stops short of campaign contributions.
Criticism and political stance
– Although officially nonpartisan, some observers view AARP’s policy positions—support for public retirement programs, opposition to privatizing Social Security, emphasis on government assistance—as leaning toward the liberal side of the spectrum. Its advocacy role and scale of influence in state and federal policymaking draw both praise and critique.
Affiliates and initiatives
– AARP runs or supports a variety of programs addressing housing, social isolation, elder poverty, and strengthening Social Security and Medicare. It also operates the AARP Foundation for charitable assistance and publishes titles such as Modern Maturity and the AARP Bulletin. The organization receives government grants for some nonprofit operations and generates revenue from advertising and licensing.
Short checklist: what to consider before joining AARP
– Eligibility: are you at least 18? (Yes — anyone 18+ can join; services targeted at 50+.)
– Cost: check current membership fee and renewal terms on AARP’s website.
– Benefits: list specific perks you expect to use (insurance offers, discounts, publications, tax-help services).
– Age-restricted benefits: verify whether particular products (certain insurance plans) require age 50+.
– Advocacy alignment: decide whether AARP’s policy priorities match your views.
– Local presence: is there an active local chapter or volunteer program where you live?
– Conflicts or commercial ties: understand which services are provided directly by AARP, which are licensed, and which are offered by partner companies.
Small worked numeric example (illustrative)
Using figures reported by AARP:
– Members: about 38 million
– Total revenue (2023): $1.85 billion
Two quick calculations:
1) Average members per U.S. congressional district
– 38,000,000 members ÷ 435 districts ≈ 87,356 members per district
– This shows approximate geographic penetration (actual distribution varies by district).
2) Revenue per member (simple average)
– $1,850,000,000 ÷ 38,000,000 ≈ $48.68 per member
– This gives a rough sense of organizational revenue relative to membership size (not a measure of membership fee amount).
Notes and assumptions: the calculations use aggregate figures and average values; they do not reflect regional differences, membership tiers, or the detailed revenue mix (membership dues, advertising, royalties, insurance commissions, federal grants, etc.).
Sources (for further reading)
– AARP — About AARP: https://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/
– AARP — 2023 Annual Report: https://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/annual-report/
– AARP Foundation: https://www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/
– IRS — Social Welfare Organizations (501(c)(4)): https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/other-non-profits/social-welfare-organizations-501c4
– OpenSecrets — Top Political Spenders and Lobbying: https://www.opensecrets.org/
Brief educational disclaimer
This explainer is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not personalized financial, legal, or political advice. For decisions involving membership, insurance, investments, or other financial products, consult official AARP materials and, if needed, a qualified professional.