The American Planning Association (APA) recognizes that financial difficulties may arise due to life’s transitions and unexpected challenges. To assist members in such situations, APA provides reduced membership dues for individuals who are unemployed or undergoing significant life transitions without income.
Reduced Membership Dues Rates
If you are currently unemployed or undergoing a major life transition, you may qualify for a discounted rate on your national APA, chapter, and AICP dues. Please note that this discount does not apply to division dues or subscription fees for publications.
The discounted dues rates are:
- National APA: $50
- Chapter: $10 *
- AICP: $25
* Does not include APA California Chapter-only dues.
Eligibility Criteria
Members may qualify for one year of reduced dues for every three years of continuous membership, up to a maximum of five years total. This reduced rate must be requested annually after receiving your renewal notice. You can apply for reduced dues by submitting your application here:
AICP Certification Maintenance (CM) Exemptions
If you are an active AICP member, you may be eligible for an exemption from your Certification Maintenance (CM) requirements due to significant life changes such as unemployment, retirement, or other major life transitions.
There are two categories of exemptions available:
Active Status – Maintain AICP Membership:
Allows you to keep your AICP membership active while pausing some or all CM requirements. This option is available for members who are unemployed, in transition, retired, or practicing internationally.
Inactive Status – Temporarily Pause AICP Membership:
Allows you to temporarily pause your AICP membership (pause paying dues and continuing education) during periods of significant life events, such as parental leave, military service, health or caregiving leave, foreign residency, or other qualifying circumstances.
You can learn more and apply for a CM exemption here:
Learn More
For additional details on eligibility and the reduced dues process, visit the APA Membership FAQ page.
APA will support you through every stage of your career. If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please contact APA at AICPCM@planning.org or 312.431.9100.