1. What is the Dual Membership Release (DMR) program?

• The DMR program is a partnership between SHRM and local Chapters to streamline and strengthen dual membership (SHRM + local Chapter) through a single, unified process.  Members join or renew both memberships in a simplified single transaction managed by SHRM.

2. Why is dual membership important?

• Dual members are more engaged with their local Chapter, and certification rates among dual members are almost double. Renewal is easier and more compelling, combining the value propositions of both SHRM and the local Chapter.

3. How does dual membership benefit me as a Chapter member?

• Simplified Membership: No more separate renewals – one profile, one transaction for both SHRM and Chapter memberships.

• Seamless Access: Immediate access to SHRM’s national resources (HR knowledge base, research, certification, compliance tools, and global HR network).

• Enhanced Programming: Chapter leaders can focus more on delivering high-quality events and professional development, with less time spent on administration.

• Stronger Partnership: Deepens the Chapter’s integration with SHRM, leveraging national resources for Chapter member benefit.

4. Why should I become a dual member?

• Dual members are more engaged with their local Chapter, which includes higher interaction with senior HR professionals, and certification rates are almost double among dual members.  In addition, there is an easier renewal process where a single transaction covers both memberships and only one expense to submit for approval.

• Dual membership offers seamless access to SHRM resources their panel of world-class speakers.

5. What are the main benefits for members?

• Simplified membership: one renewal for both SHRM and your local chapter

• Enhanced programming and focus from chapter leadership

• Seamless access to SHRM’s national resources

• Stronger partnership between your local chapter and SHRM

6. How will my membership renewal work as a dual member?

• Your local Chapter and SHRM renewal dates will now be aligned. After a one-time adjustment, you’ll renew both memberships together.

• Depending on your current renewal dates, your Chapter membership may be lengthened or shortened to match SHRM’s date. You may receive a credit or invoice for the adjustment. Future renewals will be seamless and simultaneous.

7. Will my renewal date change?

• Your chapter membership renewal date will be aligned with your SHRM renewal date. This may result in your chapter membership being lengthened or shortened during the transition, with a possible credit or invoice issued accordingly.

8. If I am not currently a SHRM member and only a Chapter member, what will change for me?

• Your current Chapter membership will transition to dual membership with SHRM later this year. A special “transition” offer of 50% off dual membership is available to you when transitioning to a dual membership for the first time.

• Current chapter members may also choose to “opt out” of a dual SHRM membership. This means that website access would be limited to only event registrations, in which non-member rates would apply.  Other website features that will go away for non-members include the member directory, job board, and newsletter archives.

9. If I opt out of dual membership, am I still able to participate in Chapter activities?

• Yes. Opting out of dual membership does not restrict your participation in Chapter activities.  As a local member, you are able to participate in as many Chapter events and activities as you were before.  However, please be aware of the limited website access, as noted in question #8, should you choose to opt out of a dual SHRM membership.

10. How do I register for chapter events if I opt out of dual membership?

• Local members who opt out of dual membership will be able to register for events at the Chapter’s website.  We are currently putting together customized event packages with discounted pricing to encourage local members to maintain an active relationship with the Chapter on an annual basis. Please stay tuned more information on these packages and pricing options!

11. How do I engage in volunteer leadership and committee roles if I opt out of dual membership?

• Local members are welcome to join and volunteer on committees and support chapter activities (we are a volunteer led organization after all!)  However, we highly encourage dual membership with SHRM so you will have full access to both SHRM and Chapter resources as you serve on committees and/pr support Chapter activities.

12. How are dues and payments handled?

• Chapters set their own dues and the current rate of $85 (annual dues) will no longer apply for those with a dual membership with SHRM. There will be a single rate for dual membership with SHRM + your local Chapter.   This transaction will occur on the SHRM website (the Chapter site will link to SHRM).  Dual membership supports 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year membership pricing.

13. Where do I complete my membership transaction?

• All membership transactions are completed on the SHRM website. Chapter sites will link to SHRM for this purpose.

14. Where can I get more information or help?

• Please visit the special Dual Membership page for more information on the transition to dual membership.  In addition, more details and transition information will be shared regularly as the transition launch date approaches on December 7, 2026.