Life Membership Moratorium

Life Membership Buy Back Program Moratorium

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is happening to the Life Membership Buy Back Program?

The Fraternity is placing the Buy Back Program on a moratorium. This means that no Brother will be able to pay for missed dues years in order to qualify for Life Membership until further notice.

2. Why is the Life Membership Buy Back Program being placed on a moratorium?

The decision was made to allow the General Board and International Headquarters (IHQ) time to conduct a comprehensive review of the program and explore ways to automate this process.

3. What is the duration of the Life Membership Buy Back Program moratorium?

The moratorium on the Buy Back Program starts August 20, 2025 and will conclude once the General Board conducts a full review and approves revisions. An update will be provided after the September 2025 General Board Meeting.

4. I already submitted my Life Membership Buy Back payment. What happens to me?

If your payment was submitted before August 20, 2025, your Buy Back will be honored.
 

If your payment is pending or incomplete, the Finance Department will contact you directly to confirm next steps.

5. I was planning to use the Life Membership Buy Back Program this year. Do I lose that opportunity?

No new Buy Back requests will be processed while the moratorium is in place. We understand this may be disappointing, but we encourage you to continue your consecutive dues payments to remain eligible for Life Membership under the standard criteria.

6. Does this affect current Life Members or Subscribing Life Members?

The moratorium only impacts Brothers who intended to use the Buy Back Program. If you are already a Life Member or Subscribing Life Member, your status remains unchanged.

7. How will this affect Life Membership eligibility?

Brothers will continue to qualify for Life Membership through consecutive years of financial payments (currently set at 10 years) without the use of Buy Back. We are committed to supporting Brothers who wish to pursue Life Membership and will provide guidance as needed.

8. Is this decision related to finances or an audit?

This decision was made as part of a broader review of the Life Membership programs to ensure long-term alignment with the Fraternity’s vision.

9. Who made this decision?

The moratorium was approved by the General Board of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

10. When will we know more?

Updates regarding the Life Membership Buy Back Program will be communicated after the Fall 2025 General Board Meeting.

11. How can I continue working toward Life Membership?

The most important step is to remain financial by paying dues consistently each year. Brothers are encouraged to reach out to the Membership Department if they would like personalized guidance on their path to Life Membership.

Closing Note:
We thank you for your understanding and continued commitment to Sigma as we evaluate the best way to honor your dedication and service to the Fraternity.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the International Headquarters at 202.726.5434.