DUES
How much are union dues?
Since this is a newly formed independent union, we do not know how much the union dues will be, as we are not familiar with the specifics of their constitution (if there is one). Union dues fund various operational costs of the union such as salaries of union officials, legal expenses, formation of documents, member services, etc... Without a clear understanding of the union's financial structure and member obligations, it is challenging to predict the exact amount members may be required to pay.
Usually unions charge a percentage, flat monthly amount or a multiplier of hourly rate. Here are a few examples:
Percentage
If you make $15/hour and dues are 4% of your base pay per month, you will pay $1,248 per year in union dues (for a full-time employee).
If you make $18/hour and dues are 4% of your base pay per month, you will pay $1,497 per year in union dues (for a full-time employee).
Hourly Rate Multiplier
If you make $15/hour and dues are 3.5 hours of your base pay per month, you will pay $630 per year in union dues (for a full-time employee).
If you make $18/hour and dues are 3.5 hours of your base pay per month, you will pay $756 per year in union dues (for a full-time employee).
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 you likely would be required to pay a large portion of the dues called “agency fees”. If the union does win, opting out may not be in your best interest because the terms of any contract negotiated apply to you, and you do not get to vote on the ratification of the contract.
How does the union collect union dues?
If a union gets voted in, they will likely collect union dues from your paycheck each week. The dues will likely be automatically deducted from your paycheck. If a union gets voted in, you will likely have to pay union dues just to keep your job.
Wouldn't we control how our dues are spent?
No. All spending decisions are made by the union to support the union's overall operations. All unions are required to report their receipts and disbursements in an annual report with the Department of Labor.
Can the union increase dues?
Yes. Unions are free to raise dues any time they want.
Can the Union collect other monies besides dues?
Yes, the Union can also charge initiation fees and other fines, fees and assessments, such as a fine for crossing an established picket line during a strike.