DUES
How much are union dues?
According to the UAW Constitution, for most private‑sector members, union dues are calculated as 2.5 hours of straight‑time pay per month for hourly employees. Because dues are based on wages, the more money an employee makes, the more they pay in union dues.
All members receive the same representation regardless of how much they pay - paying higher dues does not result in additional or enhanced representation.
Based on UAW financial disclosures, in 2025 the UAW collected an average of approximately $577 per member per year in base dues. This figure does not include any additional costs such as initiation fees, fines, or other assessments that may be authorized under the UAW Constitution.
What if I don’t want to join the union or pay dues?
Under Michigan law, you are not required to join the union as a member, but if the union is voted in, you may still be required to pay union dues or fees as a condition of employment. If the union wins, the terms of any negotiated contract apply to you whether or not you join, but only union members are allowed to vote on contract ratification or union leadership.
How does the union collect union dues?
If a union is voted in and a contract is negotiated, union dues are typically collected through automatic payroll deduction. Dues are deducted directly from employees’ paychecks according to the dues structure established by the UAW Constitution and the collective bargaining agreement.
Can UAW increase dues?
Yes. The UAW can increase dues, but only through a vote of delegates at a national constitutional convention, not by local union decision or individual officers.
Wouldn't we control how our dues are spent?
No. Decisions about how union dues are spent are made by the UAW’s leadership and governing bodies, not individual members.
By law, unions are required to disclose how dues money is spent in an annual financial report filed with the U.S. Department of Labor (known as an LM‑2 report), which is available for public review.
Can the union collect other monies besides dues?
Yes. In addition to monthly dues, the UAW Constitution authorizes the collection of initiation fees, fines, and other assessments. Each new member may be required to pay an initiation fee as a condition of membership. (Article 16 – Initiation Fees and Dues).
The UAW Constitution also permits the union to impose fines or penalties on members who violate union rules or fail to comply with authorized union actions, including fines related to crossing an established picket line, following internal charges and a hearing. (Articles 31, 32, and 50 – Charges, Discipline, and Strikes).