PGA Of America Will Be Collecting Member Dues Despite COVID-19 Shutdown

Facing the prospect of a shutdown in the busiest time of year for America golf professionals, some organization members are unhappy at the recent PGA Of America dues call.

Jonathan Doctor, owner of JMJ Golf, filed an open letter to the PGA of America after the organization emailed members moving ahead with their normal dues payments for its 28,000 members.

Even with most golf professionals facing the prospect of reduced or no income, the organization reminded members in an email that dues must be paid on time despite the coronavirus shutdown.

However, the PGA did voice empathy in their email:

PGA Professionals will now have two payment options: Pay full dues amount any time through July 31, 2020 without penalty or late fee. Pay Section dues amount only any time through July 31, 2020 without penalty or late fee. Pay National dues ($100), Life ($44), Liability ($12 and MAP ($6) by October 31, 2020 without penalty or late fee.

“During these extraordinarily challenging times for so many PGA Professionals, we have worked closely with our 41 sections to find the best path forward regarding 2020 dues payments,” said PGA President Suzy Whaley. “While we wish it was possible to waive dues for all members, as a 501(c) 6 not-for-profit organization, IRS regulations do not allow us to take such an action.

Doctor, in questioning the dues reminder in the heat of an unfolding pandemic (as per the organization by-laws, it should be noted), writes:

Maybe the view from Palm Beach Gardens is a little hazy, but the $70 billion dollar global golf industry isn't as healthy as that number would lead people to believe. Expenses to operate facilities have never been higher. Social regard for the game and for country clubs has never been more critical. Available talent to fill positions in golf facilities has never been more scarce. And the PGA Professional is without doubt the facility owners and management groups automatic reset button for cutting a budget and showing facility savings to the bottom line. It has become more difficult than ever to justify to facilities, members and students, as well as young professionals the need to even BE a PGA Member.

As of its most recently available tax documents for the 2018 tax year, the non-profit PGA of America has about $360 million in net assets and fund balances.

But as noted, the dues collection is in their by-laws as part of their 501(c) 6 status.