Thursday, October 29, 2009

AARP Under Scrutiny

The nation's preeminent seniors group, AARP, has put the weight of its 40 million members behind health-care reform, saying many of the proposals will lower costs and increase the quality of care for older Americans.

The group and its subsidiaries collected more than $650 million in royalties and other fees last year from the sale of insurance policies, credit cards and other products that carry the AARP name, accounting for the majority of its $1.14 billion in revenue, according to federal tax records. It does not directly sell insurance policies but lends its name to plans in exchange for a tax-exempt cut of the premiums.

The organization, formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons, also heavily markets the policies on its Web site, in mailings to its members and through ubiquitous advertising targeted at seniors.

The group's dual role as an insurance reformer and a broker has come under increasing scrutiny in recent weeks from congressional Republicans, who accuse it of having a conflict of interest in taking sides in the fierce debate over health insurance. Three House Republicans sent a letter to AARP on Monday complaining that the group was putting its "political self-interests" ahead of seniors.

Full Article and Source:
AARP: Reform Advocate and Insurance Salesman

7 comments:

Rosey said...

AARP seems to be more interested
in their own self interests. They refuse to acknowledge the guardianship racket scam in the Probate court system which is senior's biggest threat to freedom, liberties, and property.

Maybe because they are so strongly affiliated with ABA and the legal profession who are the perps to this SCAM

Betty said...

It appears AARP is acting like congress - sucumbing to lobbying.

If they don't straighten this out, they will lose their good reputation.

Anonymous said...

This is not what Seniors expect from AARP. I am very disappointed.

Sue said...

Good reputation? I think it is halfway down the sewers. AARP is a SMOKESCREEN folks. They do not represent us, they are in bed with those who profit from us.

Anonymous said...

If AARP is so in to the insurance business, then their support of the health care bill is tainted in whatever way serves them.

Anonymous said...

It's pretty much impossible to reform something that you're profiting from.

Anonymous said...

AARP has done me good with tax assistance and advise. I like how they treat members, keep up the good work. lots of free support. Its not really like a millionares club . fees are very cheap , I saved a lot of money . thanks Chris