Understanding Your AARP Membership Card
The AARP membership card is a critical piece of identification for members, providing access to a variety of discounts and benefits. Member benefits may include discounts on travel, hotel accommodations, car rentals, and insurance plans, making it essential to have your card handy. If you have lost or damaged your AARP membership card, you will need to take steps to obtain a replacement to ensure uninterrupted access to these benefits.
Reasons for Replacing Your AARP Membership Card
There are several reasons you might need a replacement card: it may have been lost, stolen, damaged, or you may require a different name on the card due to a legal name change. It's important to act quickly in case of a lost or stolen card to prevent unauthorized use and maintain the security of your account.
Steps to Request a Replacement AARP Membership Card
The process for requesting a replacement card is straightforward and can be done online, by phone, or by mail. To initiate the process online, visit the AARP website and log into your member account. If you do not have an account, you can create one using your membership details, including your member number. Once logged in, navigate to the 'Membership' section and select 'Request a Replacement Card'. Follow the prompts to confirm your identity and submit your request. Alternatively, you can call the AARP customer service at 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277) and follow the automated instructions or speak with a representative to request a replacement card. If you prefer to submit a request by mail, you may download a membership card replacement form from the AARP website, fill it out, and send it to the address provided.
What Information You Need to Provide
When requesting a replacement card, you will need to provide specific information to verify your identity. This typically includes your full name, date of birth, address, and membership number. You may also need to answer security questions related to your AARP account. If your card was stolen, it may be beneficial to mention this when making your request to ensure proper handling.
How Long It Takes to Receive Your Replacement Card
Once your request for a replacement card is processed, it usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks for the new card to arrive via mail. If you need your membership number sooner, you can still access it through your online AARP account or by contacting customer service. For urgent situations, some members may be able to obtain a temporary digital membership card which can be accessed and printed from the AARP website.
Tips for Keeping Your AARP Membership Card Safe
To avoid the need for future replacements, consider some best practices for keeping your membership card safe. Always store your card in a secure place, such as a wallet or a cardholder. Consider utilizing a digital version of your card if available through the AARP app or website, which can be easily accessed on your smartphone. In case of travel, keep a photocopy or a digital image of your card stored securely in your email or cloud storage for easy access in case of loss.