The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has worked to keep the membership fee as low as possible. As you know, costs continue to rise, and the annual fee must be increased to address the fiscal realities we face to deliver a safe and quality Scouting program. The fee adjustments are consistent with the National Council’s long-range projections that were announced two years ago.
To ensure we have the resources to fulfill the promise of Scouting, the following national membership fee structure will take effect August 1, 2022.
- $75 for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts participants
- $100 for a unit charter/affiliation fee
- $15 for Scout Life magazine; this is the first price increase since 2005
There will be no change in fees for the following programs:
- $45 for Exploring participants
- $45 for all adult volunteers (includes cost of background check)
- $25 one-time joining fee for new program participants in Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, Venturing and Sea Scouts
The above represent the annual membership fees which are due for existing members when you unit recharters in January 2023. For new members joining this fall, fees will be pro-rated (except for the $25 joining fee) based on the month they join. The fall membership packets will have the update membership fees chart included.
These are national membership fees only. Councils have the option of adding a local council membership fee in addition to the fees that are paid to the national council. Your Jayhawk Area Council executive board has elected not to institute a council membership fee program. Your annual Friends of Scouting contributions, participation in the annual popcorn sale and attending your council’s summer camp programs and council events all help support the local council operations mitigating the need for a council membership fee.
The national membership fee helps cover the cost of essential services, including program resources, liability insurance for those participating in approved Scouting activities, criminal background checks, youth protection, and the development of intellectual property for national, council, and unit programs. As they move forward, the national council executive board will continue to look at the membership fee structure and how they deliver the Scouting program for future generations. Thank you for your understanding, together we will continue to provide a great Scouting program for our families.
