Apply

Because ASJA is a professional freelance writers organization, application is required.* The process is the same for professional and associate membership. The application includes examples of published clips and media from recognized publications, websites and brands, as well as books. A fee of $310 is required to complete the application.

*If you were previously an ASJA member, you do not need to reapply. See Renewing and Rejoining Members below.

If you’re an associate member with national clips or have published two books with a traditional publisher, why not apply for professional membership? Associate members can apply for professional membership at any time during the year via the membership portal. There is no charge for this application. If the associate member applies for professional membership during the renewal period, they will pay only the next year’s dues of $235 (no initiation or application fees necessary!). If ASJA’s membership approval team decides that an associate member applying for professional membership is still not ready, the membership will be renewed at the associate level.

If you’re a current member, you simply need to renew your membership. Been a member in the past? You can also skip the application process, by clicking the button below. Membership dues are $235. If you’ve been paying half-dues for a professional membership*, just renew as a professional member and our system will charge the half-dues rate of $117.50. (This is not the same as a retired membership.)

What if you’re already a member, but you are no longer working as a freelance writer? Retired membership might be just the right fit for you. Because they’re no longer freelancing, retired members cannot attend client networking events, but they also pay half the price ($117.50) of regular dues. And we won’t ask your age. If you come back to writing and want client networking benefits again, just renew as a professional member.