Membership is the lifeblood of the VFW — every member is a recruiter
We understand the unique bond you share with other veterans of overseas conflicts because we, too, have been there. Since 1899, the VFW has been the nation's leading veterans service organization in the fight to better the lives of all those who've worn the uniform of the United States military.
No matter which conflict called you to service, we invite you to join us. Stand strong with nearly 1.7 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary as together, we continue to fight for all that's good FOR VETERANS.
Membership is the lifeblood of the VFW. Without active, passionate members, we will cease to exist. Membership gives our leaders strength through numbers and the voice necessary to legislate for all veterans and fight to keep the benefits they earned and deserve.
100% membership is our job and baseline we must always maintain. Every member is a recruiter.
The Membership Co-Chairmen are responsible for planning membership programs for the year and coordinating statewide membership drives. Drives should always include the Auxiliary.
| Post Size | 100% Goal | Points | 101% Bonus | Bonus Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25–450 members | 31 Jan 2027 | 10 pts | 1 May 2027 | +20 pts |
| 451+ members | 28 Feb 2027 | 20 pts | 1 May 2027 | +30 pts |
| District (≤2,500) | 31 Jan 2027 | 10 pts | 1 May 2027 | +20 pts |
| District (2,500+) | 28 Feb 2027 | 20 pts | 1 May 2027 | +30 pts |
Points apply toward All-State Commander honors. Membership drives earn 5 pts each (max 25 pts for Post).
There are three qualifiers for membership in the VFW, as set out in our By-Laws. An individual must meet all three in order to become a member:
1. Honorable Service — currently serving or has served honorably as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, AND one of the following:
As the largest combat veterans organization around, VFW membership spans the globe. We're an elite group of combat warriors who have each other's backs long after the fight is over.
Annual dues of just $45.00 cover a full calendar year as a Member-At-Large for your state.
Join as Annual Member →By becoming a VFW Life member, you make a lifetime commitment to serving your fellow service members and veterans. Benefits include:
Pay in full with a one-time payment, or use our installment plan: $45 initial payment, then the remaining Life membership amount billed over 11 months.
| Age (as of Dec 31) | One-Time | 11 Installments* |
|---|---|---|
| 18–30 | $425.00 | $38.64/mo |
| 31–40 | $410.00 | $37.27/mo |
| 41–50 | $375.00 | $34.09/mo |
| 51–60 | $335.00 | $30.45/mo |
| 61–70 | $290.00 | $26.36/mo |
| 71–80 | $225.00 | $20.45/mo |
| 81+ | $170.00 | $15.45/mo |
*With initial payment of $45.00
Become a Life Member →Legacy Life membership enables VFW Life members to leave a lasting impression on our great organization. Three prestigious levels are available: Gold, Silver, and Bronze.
Each level offers generous benefits reserved exclusively for Legacy Life members. Once your Legacy Life membership begins, an annual endowment in your name will be made to your Post, Department, and the national organization — ensuring your contributions help not only today's veterans, but the veterans of tomorrow.
You may also purchase a Memorial Legacy in the name of a deceased VFW Life member to help future generations know and remember their sacrifice and contributions.
View our list of current Legacy Life members by state →
Learn About Legacy Life Membership →Family members of eligible VFW members can join the VFW Auxiliary — supporting veterans, service members, and their families alongside the VFW for over 100 years. Visit vfwauxaz.org to learn more and join.