Where Do Teachers’ Union Dues Go?

As a teacher, you know how tight your paycheck can feel. If you’re paying hundreds of dollars in union dues every year, it’s natural to wonder where that money actually goes. The truth is, much of your dues don’t stay in your classroom or even in your local union. Understanding how those dollars are spent can help you make an informed decision about union membership.

Do your dues primarily fund bargaining and representation?

You may assume most dues are used for collective bargaining and help if you face a problem at work. In reality, financial reports show that only a small share of dues go toward those services. In some cases, less than ten percent of spending is directly tied to member representation.

Representation covers contract negotiations, grievance support, and protection in disciplinary situations. While these functions are essential, they account for only a fraction of overall spending compared to other priorities.

How much money goes into politics?

A large portion of dues is devoted to political activities and lobbying. National unions like the National Education Association (NEA) spend tens of millions of dollars each year on politics. In some years, the NEA has spent more on politics than on member representation.

Political spending may include campaign donations, lobbying lawmakers, and funding ballot initiatives. Because of the scale of these investments, your dues may support candidates or causes that you do not personally agree with.

Do local unions keep most of what you pay?

No. Much of your dues flow up to the state and national organizations rather than staying with your local. Studies of teachers unions in several states have shown that locals often keep only 10 to 20 percent of total dues, with the majority directed to state and national affiliates.

That local portion usually funds basic needs such as office spaces, meeting costs, or limited staff. The bulk of decision-making power rests at higher levels, where budgets drive policy priorities.

How much is spent on administration?

A significant amount of your dues covers union overhead. This includes six-figure salaries for union leaders, staff benefits, travel, conferences, and office expenses. These costs often outweigh the money spent directly on teachers.

Public filings show union presidents and executives earning compensation well above the average classroom salary. Conferences and travel also represent recurring costs that add up quickly.

What about contributions to outside groups?

Your union dues may also support outside advocacy organizations. These contributions can total hundreds of millions of dollars. While unions may say these gifts advance education, many are directed to broader political or social agendas.

These groups range from national coalitions to issue-based nonprofits, not all of which are directly tied to classroom needs.

Do you receive valuable benefits in return?

Teachers unions do provide liability insurance, legal help, and professional development opportunities. However, these programs are a small slice of the budget. You can often find the same coverage and support through independent teachers associations for far less than the cost of union dues.

For many teachers, these benefits are worthwhile, but it’s important to weigh their value against the overall cost of membership.

The bottom line

Since the Janus decision, you are not required to pay dues to keep your job. Membership is a personal choice, and you should evaluate your circumstances carefully to determine whether it makes sense for you. When you see that much of your dues fund politics, executive salaries, and outside organizations, rather than direct representation, it’s worth asking whether the benefits match the cost.

Your union’s priorities may or may not align with your own values and needs. By taking the time to understand where your money goes, you place yourself in control of your career and your paycheck.