Become a member

In general, yes. As an organization, we're nonpartisan but political, which means we do not support or oppose candidates or political parties. We do take positions on issues, policies, and legislation.

We encourage the political involvement of our members. Our democracy and political parties benefit from the participation of informed people. Our members as individuals can be active in a political party, participate in a candidate campaign, or seek election to public office. However, while doing those activities, members should not wear a League logo or represent themselves as a League member. They also may not conduct those activities while performing a service or attending an event as a League member or volunteer.

There are some limits put on the political activity of our board members to maintain the nonpartisanship of the organization.

Membership in LWVSF has many perks. In addition to supporting the League, you'll learn about politics, meet with local representatives, and get invaluable experience in public policy and government.

We host many events for members, some with expert speakers, some just for fun.

Because we're a member-led grassroots organization, you'll have many opportunities to learn new skills and take on leadership roles. You'll help set the direction of LWVSF by voting on our budget, board of directors, and other key decisions. And, members can educate people about elections, register voters, serve on or chair a committee, advocate about an area of focus, serve in an appointed seat, and more!

You can also influence the work of the national and state Leagues. LWVSF members vote on the areas of focus of the local, state, and national Leagues. They also can attend the state and national League conventions on behalf of LWVSF. Membership in LWVSF includes membership in the California and U.S. Leagues.

People of all genders are welcome to become members. We're fully committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

You're welcome to become a LWVSF member even if you don't live in San Francisco. We have members around the Bay Area and beyond who have a connection to the city and care deeply about its future.

Two things to keep in mind: you can only be a voting member in one local League and city regulations say non-residents can't serve in some of our appointed seats in local government.

Want to help another way? Donate to LWVSF and you'll support our work empowering voters and defending democracy. 

Everyone joins as an individual member. Membership is $75 a year (recommended) or pay what you can ($20 minimum) — Join today!

• Household: You can add a second member when you join ($150 recommended for both, $40 minimum), who will need a unique email address. Any additional members have to join separately.
• Students: You're welcome to join. If cost is a concern, just pay what you can or apply for our Youth Council.

Tax deduction: 20% of dues supports LWVSF, and is tax deductible. The rest is split by the California and national Leagues, is not tax deductible, and makes you a member of both those Leagues.

Want to make an additional impact? Make a separate donation to LWVSF in support of our work empowering voters and defending democracy San Francisco. Donations are fully tax deductible.

Your membership dues are split by three Leagues with different tax designations. Part, but not all, of your League membership dues may be tax deductible as a charitable contribution.

Tax deductibility of the three membership dues portions:

• LWV of San Francisco, 20% portion – Yes, because LWVSF is a 501(c)(3)
• LWV of California, 47% portion – No, because it's a 501(c)(4)
• LWV of the U.S., 33% portion – No, because it's a 501(c)(4)

Donations to LWVSF are fully tax deductible.

LWSVF's Tax ID: 94-2804620

Yes, students are encouraged to join the League! Membership is $75 or pay what you can ($20 minimum).

• 16 or older: You'll be a voting member and can vote on our budget, board, the issues we advocate on, and other key membership decisions.
• Under 16: You'll be an associate member. While you can't vote, you'll have lots of opportunities to get involved and share your points of view. 

And, if you're age 14 to 22, we encourage you to apply for our Youth Council—a place to lead, learn, and make an impact.

You can pay what you can for membership ($20 minimum). You'll get the same benefits. Join today!