Contributions & Self-Support

Alcoholics Anonymous has no dues or fees, but we do have expenses. By tradition, AA is self-supporting through our own contributions. There is no funding from New York or the United Way or other outside entities. A.A. groups themselves ought to be fully supported by the voluntary contributions of their own members.

The Seventh Tradition states: “Every A.A. group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.” While contributions cover each group’s rent and other expenses, the Seventh Tradition is essential at every level of A.A. service. It is both a privilege and a responsibility for groups and members to ensure that not only their group, but also their intergroup/central office, local services, district, area, and the General Service Office remain self-supporting. This keeps A.A. free of outside influences that might divert us from our primary purpose — to help the alcoholic who still suffers.