February Becomes the Common Renewal Month for All Members and Units Starting in 2028

Scouting America announced an important change at this year’s National Annual Meeting that will simplify the membership and unit renewal process nationwide. By February 2028, all members and all units will have a single, common renewal month of February. This change is in response to feedback from unit leaders and other Scouters who asked for a simpler, more consistent renewal experience. We appreciate and value their input.

Key updates include:

Beginning September 2026, all units due for renewal will renew to February 2028.
All memberships and unit charters will have a common renewal month of February by February 2028
- To simplify the process and in response to unit leaders’ requests, Scouting America is returning to unit control of member renewals. If the unit does not renew a member, that member may renew themselves after the unit-only period closes.
The current 60-day grace period will end December 31, 2026
- Members renewing in November 2026 will still receive a 30-day grace period through December
- Members renewing in December 2026 must renew by December 31 to avoid being dropped.

To support the transition during 2026 and 2027:

Beginning in September 2026, new and renewing units will use the standard charter fee plus pro rata fees through February 2028.
No changes for new and renewing members through 2026.
Unit leaders should watch for updates from their local council, as additional guidance and implementation details may vary by council during the transition period.
This is a significant operational change designed to reduce complexity and create a more streamlined experience for volunteers, families, and councils alike.

Follow-Up to the May 2026 Membership Mixer
Kenneth Gordon, Chair
National Membership Engagement Committee