How to join

Becoming a member of the National Federation of the Blind is easy to do and can be done in a variety of ways.  Membership in the NFB is extremely rewarding because it opens up a network of unparalleled support, friendship, and resources.  With more than 50,000 members, the National Federation of the Blind is the largest and most influential membership organization of blind people in the United States.

Become a member through your local chapter or division

The best way to join is by attending a chapter or division meeting in your local area.  Generally, you simply submit your contact details and pay the annual membership dues of that chapter or division.  Membership in a chapter or division also makes you a member of the national body of the NFB.  By becoming an active member of the NFB family, the newly blind or uninformed blind person will gain self-confidence and self-esteem and learn ways to overcome problems that may arise.  Cultivating relationships, gaining access to local information, and learning from blind people in your area are just a few of the benefits of joining at this level. 

For chapter and division contact information, meeting times, and resources in your area, go to either State and Local Organizations or Divisions and Committees. 

Become a member through an affiliate

"Member-At-Large" of an affiliate

The National Federation of the Blind has an affiliate in all 50 states, along with the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Most of these affiliates allow people to become members-at-large of the affiliate.  This is done mostly in cases when people live in areas that do not have local chapters or divisions.  As in membership through a chapter or division, membership-at-large of an affiliate is also, by virtue of a person's membership in the affiliate, a member of the national organization.  By becoming a member-at-large of an affiliate, a person can gain access to statewide NFB affiliate events and the network of friendship and support available in her or his state.

For affiliate contact information, meeting times, and resources in your area, go to State and Local Organizations.

Become a member through the National headquarters

"Member-At-Large"

Interested people are encouraged to join the National Federation of the Blind.  You can help us in our work by becoming a member-at-large.  To become a member-at-large fill out this online form with your contact details and provide a form of payment for annual membership dues.  You can also use this Member-At-Large Form (Word Doc) and mail your information and payment to us.

Become a member through a mentoring relationship

Many times people come to their first chapter or division meeting because a friend has invited them.  But not all of us are lucky enough to know a member of the NFB who can direct us to a meeting.  NFB-LINK, provides mentoring relationships for individuals who would like resources and guidance on a variety of blindness topics. This easy-to-use online system will match you with a knowledgeable, experienced mentor who can answer your questions, refer you to additional resources, and connect you to the NFB.

No matter how you become a member of the National Federation of the Blind, we encourage you to join our growing family!  It will change your life for the better.