I am voluntarily applying for membership in the American Association of Franchisees & Dealers (“AAFD”) and certify that I own a franchise or independent dealer business. I understand that I may be required to re‑accept the then‑current Membership Terms & Conditions on a bi‑annual basis, or at such other intervals as may be determined by AAFD Board of Trustees.
EQUALITY AND NON-DISCRIMINATION: While membership in AAFD is held by individuals, AAFD requires each franchisee brand chapter’s leadership review and select applicants for membership based on qualifications, without regard to race, color, gender, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, age, or disability. AAFD will not support any chapter action that violates this equality and non‑discrimination requirement.
MEMBERSHIP PAYMENT: I understand that AAFD offers annual membership and may, at its discretion, provide an option to pay the annual dues in installments, which may result in a higher total annual cost of membership. I further understand that AAFD reserves the right to withdraw the installment payment option based on my payment history. Payment options currently available to me are:
Grandfathered Pricing: I understand that my AAFD National Dues are grandfathered at the rate in effect when I joined. I acknowledge that AAFD may reset or remove this grandfathered rate if my payments become delinquent or if I terminate my membership.
Annual Payment Option: I authorize AAFD to charge my one‑time initiation fee and my first year’s dues to my authorized payment source today. Thereafter, my annual renewal dues will be withdrawn/charged on or after the anniversary date of my membership from my authorized bank account or credit card. I understand that any applicable increase in membership‑dues will be applied automatically unless otherwise specified in writing.
Monthly Payment Installment Option: I understand that I am being permitted to pay my annual membership dues in monthly installments in lieu of a single annual payment. I acknowledge that a minimum of twelve (12) monthly installments must be paid before I may cancel my membership payments. I authorize AAFD to charge the one‑time initiation fee, the first month’s dues, and any applicable chapter special fees to my authorized credit card today. Thereafter, my monthly dues payment will be withdrawn/charged each month from my authorized bank account or credit card, typically mid‑month unless otherwise communicated or requested. I understand that any applicable increase in membership‑dues will be applied automatically unless otherwise specified in writing.
I agree to AAFD payment terms and understand that my membership will automatically renew on a monthly or annual basis in accordance with my selected renewal term. I authorize recurring payments using my chosen payment method.
I understand and agree that my designated payment source will be charged automatically on a recurring basis unless I cancel my membership in writing with a minimum of fourteen (14) days’ notice. I acknowledge that cancellations apply only to future payments and that no refunds will be issued for payments collected prior to the requested cancellation date. Cancellation of payments applies to membership payments only; any payments made to Legal Fund Trusts require thirty (30) days’ notice and is dependent on the commitment/agreement terms.
I further understand that cancellation of this authorization does not alter or eliminate any outstanding balances or fees owed to AAFD. I agree that AAFD may modify my membership status to Legacy or Associate status should I terminate my membership prior to the completion of my paid‑in membership term.
I also agree to pay any returned‑check charges or failed merchant‑services credit‑card transaction fees permitted under applicable state law if a draft or funds transfer is not honored by my financial institution. I understand that a late fee will be assessed for any failed payment not resolved within ten (10) business days of the failed transaction, and that such fees will continue to accrue monthly until all missed dues are paid in full.
MEMBERSHIP LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: I acknowledge and agree that any potential liability of AAFD, its Trustees, employees, and contractors arising from any disputes or claims is limited and subject to specific conditions, including a cap equal to the amount of AAFD National Dues paid during my uninterrupted current membership term. This limitation applies retroactively to the first day of my current active membership term. I further understand that inactive members—whether due to resignation of membership or failure to maintain on‑time payments—waive all rights to bring claims against AAFD or its representatives.
MEMBER PRIVACY & CONFIDENTIALITY: I understand that the AAFD is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all chapter members. Member names and identifying information shall not be shared outside of the AAFD with any franchise, franchisor, or external party beyond the Steering Committee or Board of Directors without the member’s express consent. I agree to uphold this same standard of privacy and confidentiality with respect to any information I learn about other members through my participation in the AAFD and its chapters.
I also understand that, to enhance member value and provide access to cost‑saving opportunities, the AAFD may engage select branded partners who may be granted limited access to member names solely for the purpose of sharing exclusive offers or programs that support members’ business operations. Participation in such communications is entirely optional, and I may opt out of having information shared with branded partners at any time.
CHAPTER MANAGEMENT POLICY: I agree and accept AAFD’s Chapter Management Policies and Procedures which sets forth our respective rights and responsibilities regarding membership and chapter support, which are available through the Chapter Support Team and/or the Chapter Board of Directors.
To read the AAFD’s Chapter Management Policy Statement and Agreement, please click link below.
Chapter Management Policy Statement and Agreement, please click here.