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Membership FAQ

Why should I join the ABA?

The ABA provides members with opportunities to enhance their professional skills, grow their network, and access world-class resources to stay on top of current developments in the legal field.

How can the ABA save me money?

The ABA offers exclusive member discounts on brand-name products and services, member-only pricing at our online store for ABA books; discounted and free CLE programs, including unlimited access to a library of more than 500 online programs in the CLE Member Benefit Library at no additional cost.

Who can join the ABA?

Membership in the ABA is open to everyone through different membership categories. You may join as a U.S. licensed lawyer, a non-U.S. licensed lawyer, law student (at an ABA-accredited law school), student (post-secondary education–level student), recent law school graduate who has not yet taken the bar exam, or a non–lawyer (includes paralegals, law librarians, economists and others interested in the ABA).

How much does it cost to join the ABA?

Annual membership fees are based on the type of membership. View our dues and eligibility page to find your rate. 

Are my dues tax-deductible?

You may be able to deduct up to 98% of your dues as a business expense on your U.S. taxes. The ABA estimates that 2% of your total ABA dues are allocated to ABA lobbying activities and therefore is not deductible. Be sure to consult your tax advisor with any questions.

Am I eligible for a discounted membership?

The ABA offers special dues programs. View the rates at the link provided. We also have special rates for those who have temporarily left the workforce or other special circumstances. Call the Member Service Center at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522 to learn more.

Please note - Attorneys licensed to practice law within the United States, its territories or possessions do not qualify for any category of law student membership and may not be enrolled as a law student member.

How do I join the ABA?

Join at any time by selecting "Join" on the ABA homepage, completing the downloadable membership application, or by calling the Member Service Center at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522 between 9 am and 6 pm ET on weekdays.

When can I start to use my member benefits?

Take advantage of your new membership the moment you receive your membership number. Your membership number will be included in your confirmation email. New members can expect to receive their welcome materials following enrollment processing. View details about your membership at MyABA.

When is the membership year?

Your ABA Membership year will start on the date you joined the ABA. Dues are charged for the full 365-day period. 

How do I log into the website?

If this is the first time you are signing in to the new ABA website, you will need to create/claim your account. This process will require you to create a new password. The password is case-sensitive and must be 10 characters or more with a combination of upper and lower-case letters, numbers, and symbols. For additional login assistance, please contact Member Service Center at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522 between 9 am and 6 pm ET on weekdays.

Am I already a member?

There are two easy ways to confirm your membership. Check your status by accessing your online member profile. If this is the first time you are signing into the ABA website, you will need to create/claim your account.  This process will require you to create a new password. You also may confirm your membership by contacting the Member Service Center at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522 between 9 am and 6 pm ET on weekdays.

When will I receive my renewal notice?

Membership renewal notices are sent 3-4 months before the beginning of your membership year (which is your billing anniversary date). We appreciate your prompt payment, which ensures your membership and benefits remain active.

How can I pay my dues?

Log into MyABA, click on “Membership” and “Renew-Today.” If this is the first time you are signing into the ABA website, you will need to create/claim your account. This process will require you to create a new password. You may call the Member Service Center to pay by phone at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522 between 9 am and 6 pm ET on weekdays. You can also mail your payment in the envelope provided with your dues invoice.

Do you offer Automatic Renewal?

Yes. To ensure your benefits and services continue without interruption, choose Auto-Renew at checkout when paying your dues online, or by contacting the Member Service Center at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522 between 9 am and 6 pm ET on weekdays. You will be notified by email before your credit card is charged.

What is a Member Group (also known as Section, Division or Forum)?

ABA Member Groups (also known as ABA Sections, Divisions, and Forums) focus on specific areas of law or career stage, facilitating a more in-depth examination of issues, regulations, and trends.

Can I join a Member Group without joining the ABA?

No. Membership in Member Groups is available only to ABA Members.

Why should I join a Member Group?

ABA Members value their Member Groups for the substantive information provided through periodicals, webinars, and discussion boards along with the opportunity to build a national network of colleagues.

How much does it cost to join a Member Group?

Dues vary by group and average around $55 per membership year. Learn more about current pricing for ABA Member Groups dues

How do I update or join a new Member Group? 

To update or join a new member group, log into MyABA or call the Member Service Center at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522 between 9 am and 6 pm ET on weekdays.

How do I cancel my ABA Membership?

Members may cancel at any time by calling the Service Center at (800) 285-2221 (domestic calls only) or (312) 988-5522. Memberships are not refundable once paid. Canceled memberships will not be renewed, however, members will have access to all member benefits through the end of their term.