The Dues Waiver Program is intended to help members by providing assistance to attorneys whose financial circumstances are such that full payment of membership dues would pose a financial hardship. Situations which would merit a dues waiver include:
- unemployment or income constraints
- time out from practice for family or health reasons
- reduced income based upon extraordinary practice or business losses
Current or prospective members of the New York State Bar Association are eligible to apply for dues waivers. Participation in the program is limited to two consecutive membership years, absent extenuating circumstances.
Those who wish to apply for a dues waiver must complete the application and sign the certification. All dues waiver applications are treated confidentially.
Download the Dues Waiver Application.
In the year following one’s participation in the program, members will receive an invoice for the full dues amount. The Dues Waiver Program operates on an annual basis, and may be terminated at the close of any calendar year.
Dues Waiver Program participants are entitled to all NYSBA benefits of membership as provided under the bylaws.
How are dues waivers determined?
After determining the regular Association membership dues amount, applicants may apply for a 25 percent or 50 percent waiver. All dues waiver applicants are requested to pay a minimum of one-half the regular dues for their membership category. Applicants should submit a note explaining the reason for their request and complete the certification. In exceptional circumstances, where even these reduced dues levels prove difficult, applicants must submit a note with this application that explains their extenuating circumstances, and suggest whatever payment is manageable.
