AARP Customer Service Issues

I recently received your notification about the changes to my Barclay's Mastercard effective from 9-20-[redacted]. I am disappointed with the announcement as it requires me to inform several monthly payment vendors of the switch, which will be time-consuming. The new card being a Travel Rewards Mastercard adds further inconvenience. It's likely that many other customers, like myself, will switch to a different credit card provider due to this unnecessary burden caused by Barclay's. Moving forward, I will not be renewing my AARP card next year, following this unsatisfactory experience. Good luck with your decision.

My wife is having difficulty finding properly fitting shoes. She usually wears open-toed sandals due to her narrow and slightly longer feet, which I believe is due to her Dutch heritage. Shopping in stores is tiring for her due to early Alzheimer's, so online shopping is preferred. She prefers comfortable athletic or running shoes over formal or stylish ones. Any assistance in finding suitable footwear would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Mark O'ConnellWinter is approaching.

I received an email with concerning information that I'd like to share with you all. It highlights the mismanagement of Social Security funds and the government's disrespect for seniors who have contributed their hard-earned money. The government's manipulation of terminology aims to undermine the true nature of Social Security as our earned income, not an entitlement. It's infuriating to see how our investments were mishandled, while the government now refers to our rightful retirement income as a "Federal Benefit Payment." We need to raise awareness about this issue and demand accountability for the exploitation of our contributions. It's time to call it what it truly is - Our Earned Retirement Income. Let's spread the word and stand up for our rights. Thank you.

Upon reviewing my correspondence with The Hartford regarding their auto insurance program, I find myself disheartened with AARP's partnership. Having held a positive perception of The Hartford since childhood, I engaged with their auto insurance offer that included a complimentary Weekender Duffel bag. Despite opting to stay with my current insurer due to The Hartford's higher quote, I eagerly awaited the promised gift. Following several calls to [redacted], I was repeatedly informed of delays in shipping the item. Over 11 weeks later, I am yet to receive the duffel, prompting my dissatisfaction with the promotional practices upheld. I have escalated my concerns by contacting AARP Member Benefits and the Better Business Bureau. Notably, I've found challenges in reaching AARP via email, highlighting the importance of resources like GetHuman. - J.S. [redacted] West Market Street, Mercer, PA 16[redacted] AARP membership number: [redacted] [redacted] [redacted] 1

I recently contacted The Hartford regarding their affiliation with AARP, and I expressed my disappointment with the AARP's Auto Insurance Program provided by The Hartford. Growing up, I held The Hartford in high regard as a trustworthy and reliable insurance company. After receiving a mailer offering a free auto quote from The Hartford along with a complimentary Weekender Duffel bag, I decided to explore the offer. Despite choosing to stay with my current insurer due to The Hartford's higher quote, I eagerly waited for the duffel bag. Following several calls to the [redacted] number over an 11-week period, I was repeatedly told the bag would arrive soon but it never did. This lack of follow-through on promised incentives has left me dissatisfied. I have shared my concerns with The Hartford, AARP Member Benefits, and plan to inform the Better Business Bureau. - J.S. from Mercer, PA. [redacted AARP membership number]

I am disappointed that AARP did not advocate for its members regarding the [redacted] Medicare Part B increase. Senator Bernie Sanders is in discussions with President Biden about this issue, particularly the substantial rise, with a significant portion purportedly for the Biogen Alzheimer's drug. The Department of Veterans Affairs reportedly rejected this drug for its members. As a longtime AARP member, I am troubled by the lack of action from the organization on this important matter. It's disheartening to see AARP seemingly inactive when it comes to standing up for its members' interests.

Good morning! I hope you are doing well. I am reaching out because my dad has a touchscreen phone with your company, but he is struggling to use it. He is interested in a flip phone if you still offer them. Could I return his current phone and exchange it for a flip phone through your company? Alternatively, can I purchase a flip phone for him and set up service through AARP or should I just return the touchscreen phone? My dad is 80 years old, and he's finding the touchscreen difficult to use, so a simpler flip phone would be better for him. Thank you.

To the CEO of AARP, I currently have AARP United Healthcare, and I am disappointed with the insurance coverage. It does not include alternative medicine treatments like acupuncture, naturopathy, or functional medicine, which my doctor suggests. Therefore, I am considering other options. Additionally, I feel that AARP's values do not align with my own beliefs and causes. I believe that AMAC may be a better fit for me. Sincerely, Byron Y.

I recently spoke with an agent to cancel my membership, and I mistakenly paid for an additional year when signing up for another service online. I didn't receive a confirmation number for the cancellation, and I was charged $12. How will I get a refund for the accidental payment made?

As a long-standing member who appreciates your publications, I recently felt let down, like many others, regarding the Body Reset "ad." I decided to try the steak chimichurri and nutty sweet potato recipe by buying all the ingredients listed, assuming the recipe was available to AARP members. It was disheartening to find out that the recipe was only accessible if I purchased the book from the website linked in the magazine. As my wife and I aim to focus on our health after dealing with various challenges, it would have been helpful for the article to make it clear that the recipes were tied to purchasing the book. This move seems to prioritize profits over member interests, which is disappointing coming from AARP. -T.S.

Dear AARP, I recently read your article on voting in the latest AARP newspaper, which I always enjoy. Your articles are typically concise and knowledgeable, but I noticed a mention of "widespread election fraud in the [redacted] elections" that was later stated to have been discredited. I have found that there have been significant discrepancies and instances of ballot box stuffing in several states in the past month. Charges have been brought against individuals for these actions. In California, it has been reported that mail-in ballots have been mishandled, with multiple ballots being sent to homes and deceased individuals. It's important for readers, especially seniors, to be informed accurately. It appears as if you are taking a particular political stance by not presenting the complete truth in this matter. I recommend conducting thorough research to provide your readers with accurate information. Thank you, W. Christner

I disagree with AARP's decision to thank Senator Grassley in a recent ad in the DM Register. AARP should remain non-partisan, and thanking him for over-the-counter hearing aids feels inadequate considering his stance on capping insulin costs for Type 1 diabetics. As a parent to a Type 1 diabetic daughter who has suffered long term effects, including hearing loss, I find it offensive. Insulin is a life-saving necessity, and many have tragically rationed it due to high costs. The ad is insulting, and as an AARP member, I am reconsidering my association if this is the stance they support.

I would like to request AARP's assistance with the problem of streaming services asking users to sign in on a device after a period of inactivity. I have experienced this inconvenience with Hulu, ESPN+, and HBO Max, where I am still charged monthly fees. If I am paying for the service, it should be readily accessible without the need to constantly enter passwords and re-enter my information. This process can be overwhelming for older individuals.

As an AARP member, I was deeply upset by the article "FANS and Friends FOREVER" by David Hochman. The mention of Jane Fonda, also known as Hanoi Jane, as a hero in relation to Vietnam brought up strong feelings for me as a Vietnam Veteran. She spent time with the enemy during a time when American lives were lost in the fight against Communism. Following her actions, I, along with many fellow veterans I know, choose not to support her work. There are more details I could share, but it may not serve a purpose at this point.

I am wondering why your organization continues to disseminate misinformation about Covid, such as the ineffectiveness of masks and vaccinations, the necessity of booster shots, and inaccuracies in testing. The phrase "follow the science" appears to be based on fabricated data, and current research reveals that vaccines have not halted the virus's spread. Additionally, the closure of schools has had lasting negative effects on children, while vaccinated individuals seem to be more susceptible to the virus. It seems there was no Covid virus, only a rebranding of the flu, which normally claims many elderly lives annually. There was a suspicious drop in flu-related deaths during the so-called pandemic, likely due to misclassification of cases. The government has declared an end to vaccine mandates and plans to conclude the Covid situation by May 11th, [redacted]. I am questioning if organizations like AARP are now receiving compensation from the government for spreading misinformation, similar to hospitals, healthcare professionals, media outlets, and tech companies that censor opposing views. Thank you for your attention, and I await your reply.

I recently filed a complaint with the PA Insurance Department regarding The Harford. I have been a loyal customer for over 15 years through AARP, ensuring that all payments have been made on time and in full. However, in March of this year, I discovered that one of my car insurances was canceled by the company without my knowledge. Although a manager resolved the issue and reinstated the policy, I was not informed about the refund they had issued. Due to health concerns in May, I was unable to check my mail promptly. Upon contacting The Hartford, they explained that they do not have the capacity to make calls and did not contact me via email. This lack of communication is unacceptable, particularly for a company promoted by AARP for retirees. I believe a fair resolution would involve ensuring my registration and tags are not suspended. I have provided documentation from my doctor and copies of my ID cards. I am considering finding a new insurance provider in light of these mistakes by The Hartford. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Another complaint from an AARP member, CraigH2427, highlights the abrupt cancelation of auto insurance by The Hartford without notification or grace period. Despite offering to pay a late fee, the company refused to reinstate the policy for at least a year. The lack of compassion shown by the supervisor during the call has left CraigH2427 disappointed, prompting him to reach out to AARP and The Hartford directly.