Getting access to presale tickets and other benefits through a Ticketmaster membership is something many concert and event goers are interested in. The process of becoming a Ticketmaster member is relatively straightforward, but does require following a few steps. Here is a comprehensive look at how to become a member of Ticketmaster.
The Benefits of a Ticketmaster Membership
Before going through the steps to sign up, it’s helpful to understand the key benefits a Ticketmaster membership provides:
- Access to presales – Members get early access to tickets before the general public for many shows/events
- Special offers – Members may be eligible for special deals, like discounted or fee-free tickets
- Upgraded experiences – Access to VIP packages, meet & greets, premium seating, etc.
- Dedicated customer service – Priority access to Ticketmaster customer support
These incentives make membership worthwhile for frequent concert/event attendees looking to get the best tickets and experiences.
Ticketmaster Account Requirements
To become a Ticketmaster member, you first need to have a Ticketmaster account. Creating an account is free and only requires:
- A valid email address
- Your first and last name
- A password of your choice
With these three basic details, you can create your Ticketmaster account in just a couple of minutes. Be sure to verify your email address after signing up.
Ways to Get a Paid Ticketmaster Membership
After setting up your Ticketmaster account, there are a few different paid membership options to enroll in to access full member benefits:
Ticketmaster Rewards
This is Ticketmaster’s own membership program with two tiers:
- Tier 1 – $25 per year. Provides access to some presales and special offers.
- Tier 2 – $100 per year. Includes all Tier 1 benefits plus more presale ticket access.
Rewards memberships can be purchased directly through your Ticketmaster account. Tier 1 is best for casual concert goers, while Tier 2 is ideal for frequent event attendees.
American Express Card Member Presales
If you have an eligible American Express credit card, you can unlock presale tickets and other offers through your Ticketmaster account. Simply link your AmEx card to your account under payment options.
There are no extra fees or membership costs – access is included as part of your American Express card benefits. However, you must have a qualifying AmEx card like the Gold or Platinum.
Verified Fan Presales
For high-demand events and concerts, Ticketmaster utilizes Verified Fan presales. These require fans to register ahead of time and get verified for presale code access. Once verified, you can participate in the special presales.
Verification is free and typically only requires a Ticketmaster account. So if there is a specific event you really want tickets for, register for the Verified Fan presale when available.
Artist/Venue Fan Clubs
Many big artists and venues operate their own fan clubs that provide presale ticketing access. For example, joining an artist’s official fan club could provide presale code access when they go on tour.
Fan club memberships typically have an annual fee (around $20-$50 in many cases). This option makes the most sense for dedicated fans of specific performers.
Partner Company Programs
Ticketmaster partners with a number of other companies and organizations to offer presales and other ticketing benefits. For example:
- Wireless carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile
- Banks and financial institutions
- AAA membership
- Select restaurant and retail loyalty programs
Check with organizations you already participate in to see if any offer Ticketmaster deals for members. For example, a Verizon Wireless customer could get presale codes through Verizon Up rewards.
The Ticketmaster Membership Signup Process
Once you’ve decided on an eligible paid membership option, signing up is straightforward. Here are the steps:
- Log into your Ticketmaster account online or via the mobile app
- Go to the Memberships section
- Select join next to the membership program you want
- Enter payment details to complete enrollment
- Start enjoying your membership benefits
The whole process from your Ticketmaster account typically takes 5 minutes or less. After signing up, you can find details on all your membership perks and presale codes in your account.
Key Tips for New Ticketmaster Members
Here are some important tips to make the most of your new membership privileges:
- Act fast on presales – they often sell out quick
- Save payment details in your account to checkout faster
- Turn on notifications so you never a miss a presale opportunity
- Read the details carefully for each presale’s terms
- Take advantage of special offers and upgraded experiences
- Link your membership rewards account if part of an eligible program
Following these tips will help you maximize your Ticketmaster membership and get the best seats and prices.
Can You Get a Ticketmaster Membership for Free?
Unfortunately Ticketmaster does not offer any free membership tiers with substantial benefits. However, there are a few limited options:
- Basic Ticketmaster account – Gets access to standard ticket sales but no presales
- Verified Fan – Free for specific events but not ongoing
- Artist/venue e-mail lists – Get notices but usually no presale codes
Still, paid memberships are recommended for the full perks. Investing in an annual plan can easily pay for itself through ticket discounts and savings.
Canceling or Changing Your Ticketmaster Membership
You can manage, cancel, or switch your level of Ticketmaster membership at any time through your account. Here’s how:
- Go to “My Memberships” section in your account
- Click “Cancel Membership” to stop auto-renew
- Confirm cancellation request
- Or choose “Change Membership” to switch programs
Upon canceling, your membership benefits will remain active until the end of your current annual period. You can always renew again or rejoin later on down the road.
Is a Ticketmaster Membership Worth It?
For frequent concert and event attendees, a paid Ticketmaster membership can absolutely be worth the cost. If you typically scramble for tickets last minute or pay extra fees, the presale access alone makes it beneficial.
However, casual attendees may not find enough value. Do some math – if you attend 3-4 events per year, a $25 membership could easily pay for itself through presale deals and discounted tickets.
Overall the value comes down to how often you need tickets and want the best deals. For avid concert and event goers, a Ticketmaster membership provides significant perks and advantages.