How AARP Fits Into Your Retirement Budget

Before we dive into the specific discounts, let’s talk about the big picture: your budget. Creating a simple budget is the first step toward financial peace of mind. Start by listing your fixed monthly income. Then, track your spending for a month or two to see where your money is actually going. You’ll likely find two categories of expenses: needs (like housing, utilities, groceries, and healthcare) and wants (like dining out, hobbies, and travel).

The goal isn’t to eliminate the “wants” but to spend more wisely on the “needs.” This is precisely where an AARP membership shines. The annual fee, which is typically less than a single dinner out, is a strategic investment in reducing your essential costs. When you save 10% on your groceries or 15% on your auto insurance, you are effectively increasing your disposable income without earning an extra dollar.

We encourage you to think of your membership fee as the starting point of a fun savings game. Keep a small notebook or use a notes app on your phone. Every time you use an AARP discount, jot down how much you saved. At the end of the year, you’ll have a tangible record of your return on investment. You will likely be shocked to see that a small fee of around $16 has saved you hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.