There is one time a year for most public education employees to opt out of their teachers union. That time is now. Here’s why it might make sense for you.
Illinois teachers’ unions spend little on representing teachers, what should be their core focus. So why should teachers fund union bosses’ politics, excesses and salaries with their union dues?
They don’t have to. Education employees in public schools can opt out of union membership, save their hard-earned money and keep all the benefits of the union contract.
But time is limited: most unions require notification during August to stop pulling dues from teachers’ paychecks.
From classroom teachers to the support staff in public schools, here are the answers to frequently asked questions about opting out of a teachers union.
What is “opting out?”
“Oping out” is the process public school education employees can use to leave the union and stop paying dues, while continuing employment and keeping pay and benefits.
How do I opt out?
If you are an education employee in a public school within the state of Illinois, you will want to send a letter directly to the union. Visit one of these sites to get the paperwork you need:
- For education employees represented by an affiliate of the Illinois Federation of Teachers: LeaveIFT.com
- For education employees represented by an affiliate of the Illinois Education Association: LeaveIEA.com
- For education employees represented by the Chicago Teachers Union: LeaveCTU.com
Why would I want to opt out?
- The union spends too much on politics and on causes with which I disagree.
- The union doesn’t represent its members well.
- The family budget is tight, and that extra money could go a long way.
- Opting out gives you the freedom to make choices you think are best.
Whatever your reason, you have the choice and cannot be forced to pay dues.
What happens if I am not a member of a union?
Nonmembers do not pay any fees to the union. But you are still guaranteed the benefits provided in the collective bargaining agreement.
What you keep likely includes the following:
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- Salary and raises.
- Health insurance.
- Pension benefits.
- Vacation days and holidays.
- Overtime pay.
- Seniority.
- Leaves of absence, including sick leave.
On the other hand, nonmembers are not entitled to perks guaranteed to members through the union’s internal rules or membership agreement. Examples may include:
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- Voting rights on ratification of a contract, strike authorization, etc.
- Holding union office or representing the union as a delegate to a convention.
- Utilizing union-negotiated discounts for things such as additional life insurance, health clubs, tickets to events, etc.
- Maintaining any liability insurance the union provides, as opposed to insurance provided by the government employer.
- Receiving newsletters or other union publications.
- Attending special union events such as meetings, picnics, Christmas parties, etc.
Will I lose health insurance and other benefits?
No. You are guaranteed any benefits provided in the collective bargaining agreement with your employer. Your employer cannot treat non-members differently than union members.
What about liability insurance and job protection?
Alternative associations, such as the Association of American Educators, offer liability insurance and job protection coverage, often at a fraction of the cost of union membership
Interested in learning more about how Illinois public school educators can obtain liability insurance and job protection? You can learn more and sign up at the Association of American Educators.
How much money can I save?
Because you are no longer paying any union dues, you can save hundreds or possibly over $1,000, depending on the union.
