The graduated dues program, approved by the House of Delegates at the Long Beach meeting last year, is getting close to reality for all AAPG members.
AAPG began offering new applicants the opportunity to join, utilizing the graduated dues program last July but effective this billing cycle existing members will fall under the program’s guidelines. This means major changes to the next dues statement you will receive.
The graduated dues program affords three levels of dues, all based on individual members’ annual personal gross income (PGI). Dues will no longer be based upon type of membership (excluding Student and Emeritus members).
Also, there are more options available for publications for those members who qualify.
Members’ Responsibilities
The changes in the graduated dues program necessitates several important modifications to the dues statement, and requires each member to carefully review and complete the information on the dues statement to ensure proper level and calculation of the amount of dues owed for the year.
For example, one important step for the members who are eligible for Level 2 or 3 dues is to be certain the total remittance line is filled in properly. The total dues will be based on the basic dues amount, AAPG Foundation contributions, publication options selected and Division dues.
All Active and Associate members will be billed at the maximum rate ($80). Any member electing to utilize lower dues will be required to indicate the appropriate level on the form and write their initials as confirmation.
Electronic signature will be required for online payments.
AAPG’s graduated dues structure was designed to enable and encourage geoscientists worldwide to join the Association, regardless of economic limitations.
Delivery methods for monthly publications are tied to the level selected.
Members will continue to receive full benefits – including voting privileges for Active members – regardless of the dues level that is selected.
AAPG does not require proof of income or any member’s PGI; this is an honor-based program, defined by AAPG standards of professional conduct.
Program Details
Details of the graduated dues program include:
- Level 1 dues –
$80 for North America, $90 if outside North America (annual income greater than $50,000). Members can receive the BULLETIN either online with a CD, or in print, and the EXPLORER in print.
- Level 2 dues –
$40 for North America, $50 if outside North America (annual income greater than $25,000, but less than $50,000). Members receive the BULLETIN online only, plus the EXPLORER in print.
- Level 3 dues –
$20 (annual income less than $25,000). Members have access to the online versions of the BULLETIN and EXPLORER.
All annual income amounts are based on and equivalent to U.S. dollars.
All members (applicants) with addresses outside North American who select Levels 1 or 2 must pay the additional $10 mail surcharge to receive the print editions of the BULLETIN and EXPLORER.
Levels 2 and 3 may purchase print copies of BULLETIN and EXPLORER for additional annual added fee(s).
Members wishing to contribute to the Foundation via their dues statement also will have greater choice and flexibility regarding distribution of their gifts (select funds will be listed on the back of the statement).
Complete details are available at the AAPG Web site.
Members also can now indicate their preferred billing address for various items from AAPG.
For example, you can choose to receive mail (and publications such as the EXPLORER) at your home address and other items, like your dues statement, at your office.
Your preferences can be entered online via the Members Only area of the AAPG Web site.