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The SAA dues model will be changing on January 1, 2026. The new dues model was approved by the SAA Council during its August 2025 meeting.
The current and new dues model can be seen below: Please note that no dues will increase by more than $75 for any individual membership tier under the new structure.
1. Why is SAA increasing dues?
SAA has been operating at a budget deficit for several years, which is not sustainable. Dues have not increased since 2018, while the cost of maintaining and expanding member programs has continued to rise. The new dues model helps ensure that SAA can meet its current and future obligations while continuing to provide valuable programs, education, publications, advocacy, and services for members.
2. Why now?
After several years of deficits and rising operational costs, the Council determined that a dues adjustment is necessary to maintain SAA’s fiscal health. The last increase was in 2018, and since then, the cumulative inflation rate of ~29% and new program investments have significantly increased expenses.
3. How does SAA ensure fiscal accountability?
The Council reviews SAA’s financials and strategic goals regularly.
4. How will this change support SAA’s mission?
The dues adjustment allows SAA to sustain and strengthen its core programs—such as continuing education, publications, advocacy, and the Annual Meeting—while expanding resources that support the archives and records profession.
5. Who approved the new dues model?
The new model was approved by the SAA Council during its August 2025 meeting. This follows a 2023 referendum in which members voted to transition the responsibility for setting annual dues to the Council.
6. When will the new dues take effect?
The new dues model will take effect on January 1, 2026.
7. How does the new model differ from the current model?
The new model maintains SAA’s tiered structure but adjusts the tiers and amounts to reflect inflation and the organization’s financial needs.
8. How will this affect my dues rate?
Your rate will depend on your income tier under the new model.
9. How will I know what my new dues will be?
View the Membership Dues Model table chart above.
10. I recently renewed my membership. Will this affect me?
No. The new rates apply only to renewals processed on or after January 1, 2026.
11. What if I experience financial hardship and cannot afford the new dues?
The Bridge tier is a benefit to current renewing members that may be used twice in nonconsecutive years. The current process will remain; you must contact SAA directly to request this rate.
12. Where can I find my current dues level?
To find your current dues level, login to your profile on SAA. Underneath “Membership” at the top of the page, you will see “Current Membership Level.” This will list your current level in the current dues model. You can also contact the Service Center via our contact form or by phone at (312) 606-0722.
13. Will dues be reviewed more regularly in the future?
Yes. The council intends to review dues periodically to ensure they remain fair, equitable, and aligned with SAA’s financial realities and strategic priorities.
14. How can I share feedback or ask additional questions?
Members are encouraged to attend the Town Hall on December 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. CT. Register here to learn more about the dues model. In the meantime, please reach out to membership@archivists.org with any questions.