What is ChapterSpot?
ChapterSpot is a membership platform where you will be able to log in and update your own member information and renew your membership online.
Why is LWV adopting a unified membership system?
There are many benefits to this new system. First, this will increase and diversify overall membership and accordingly will increase our ability to fulfill our mission. Second, restructuring the dues model will increasethe funding at the state and local levels where it is needed. Third, adopting technology that streamlinesmembership will free up time for League leaders to focus on more substantive work.
What will the dues rate be?
Dues will be pay-what-you-can. The recommended dues rate will be $75, but you can pay any amountmore than that, or any amount less than that to a minimum of $20.
How much of my dues will go to my local League?
20% of dues will go to the local League, 47% will go to the state League, and 33% will go to LWVUS.
Can I make a contribution that goes exclusively to my local League?
Yes. On the page after you choose your dues rate, there will be an option to make a contribution directly toyour local League. 100% of that donation will go to your League.
What payment methods can I use?
The preferred payment method is ACH, which is an electronic payment method that just requires typing inthe numbers at the bottom of a check. This is preferred because it has the lowest fees and maximizes theamount of money going toward League work. The secondary option is to pay online by credit/debit card. Itwill also still be possible to pay by check as needed. Any fees will be deducted from the amount paid to each level of League.
Can I still pay by check?
Yes. This is not the preferred method because this requires more time and effort from the League treasurer,but it is still possible. If you need to pay by check, the check should be made out to LWVUS and given toyour League’s treasurer.
Are my dues tax-deductible?
The Greenville League is a 501 c4 so dues are not tax-deductible.
Will there still be household memberships?
No. You can still sign up for yourself and someone else, but it’s not designated as a household membershipanymore. The recommended dues rate will be $150 (the individual recommended rate times two) and theminimum rate will be $40 (the minimum rate times two), but as with individuals, you can choose anyamount, including the current household rate of $90.
Will there still be lifetime memberships?
Yes, those who have been members for 50 or more years will still be exempt from dues.
Will there still be student memberships?
No. The pay-what-you-can model is intended to extend the understanding of possible financial need to allmembers, including students. Some Leagues may choose to subsidize members to pay below the $20 minimum.
When will I renew?
You will renew a year after your last renewal (e.g. if you renew in October, you will renew again the followingOctober). This is how Greenville has been doing dues renewal for a few years so you should not see a difference in the timing.
How will I know it’s time to renew?
You will receive an email reminder from ChapterSpot when your expiration date is approaching.
Is there an easier way?
Yes! If you check the box for auto-renew, each year your membership will automatically renew for the same rate you previously chose. You will still receive a reminder email notifying you that the renewal is coming up, but you won’t need to do anything.
When does membership switch over to ChapterSpot?
At the end of January/beginning of February 2025.
Should I still renew before it switches over?
Yes, prior to ChapterSpot launching you should still renew as usual.
Is there anything else I need to do?
In January/February 2025, you will be asked to log in to the ChapterSpot portal for the first time to “claimyour membership.” This just means that you will log in and be given the opportunity to fill out anymembership information asked by your League.
What if I don’t have my own email address?
Your email address is your username for ChapterSpot, so it’s important that you include one, even if you’reonly a sometimes internet user. This is the way you will receive renewal reminders and “forgot password”emails. Because your email is your username, you won’t be able to have the same one as someone else. Ifyou currently share an email, we recommend setting up a second email address that can forward messagesto the one you primarily use.
Can I sign up to get fewer emails?
Yes. You can unsubscribe from some types of messages, such as fundraising emails or optionalnewsletters. As a member of the organization, some messages, such as those about your membership, are not optional.
What if I don’t use the internet?
You will not be required to access the portal. You can continue to write checks for your dues payments andyour League’s roster manager can continue to input your information to the roster as needed.
Can I put in a second address if I live in different places at different times of the year?
Yes, you will be able to do that in the ChapterSpot portal.
What if I have additional questions later?
Please email lwvgreenvilleco@gmail.com with any questions.