Here are some questions we are commonly asked about our membership scheme.

  • Who can join?
    We have over 19,000 members made up of people from all over the world. We have members who are on the autism spectrum, parents, family members, carers, professionals, support groups, hospitals and anyone who is interested in receiving the latest information from the world of autism. Members need to be 18 and over as there are annual voting rights. Find out more: How can I become a National Autistic Society member?
  • Who should be the member - the person with autism or the parent/carer?
    Membership is open to everyone. We have many members who are on the autism spectrum as well as parents and carers. The information that our magazine Communication includes is designed to be of interest to everyone. However, we do request that members are over 18. If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact the membership team (see details top right).
  • What is the difference between individual and joint membership?
    Joint membership allows two adults in the household to be addressed as members in all our mailings and for both members to take advantage of publications discounts. There is no difference in the amount of information received; it is merely to allow family members to be involved and show support. Often parents wish to take out joint membership with an adult child on the autism spectrum to introduce them to the organisation. Join us today.
  • What is the difference between organisation and individual membership?
    We suggest that an individual is nominated to be the main contact and receive mailings. However, it is possible to change the primary contact should the organisation wish to do so, as the organisation effectively owns the membership rather than the individual. Organisations who are members receive the same information as all other members. Organisation members do not receive voting rights.
  • Do you offer a family membership?
    Unfortunately we do not offer a family membership category. Find out more: Which membership is right for me? 
  • What is life membership?
    For a one-off fee you can become a life-long member of the NAS. You will receive a special life member’s pack and badge, and need never worry about renewing your membership again. Life membership costs just £300, which is the same as 15 years at the current individual membership rate of £20 per year. Find out more: How can I become a National Autistic Society member? What are the membership fees? Which membership is right for me?
  • What does overseas membership mean?
    Membership to The National Autistic Society can be a great way of keeping up-to-date with what is happening if you are based outside of the UK. The standard individual, joint and organisation memberships are available but at a slightly higher rate to cover postage costs. Unfortunately we cannot support overseas memberships at a concessionary rate. In this instance the Republic of Ireland is classed as outside of the UK. If you would like more information about overseas membership, please contact the membership team (see details top right). Join us today.
  • Do I qualify for concessionary membership?
    Concession rate membership is available to low income individuals and households. This may include pensioners, those on state benefits or those whose financial situations are such that a full rate membership subscription would be a barrier to joining us. Concession rate membership is subsidised by the charity, so please consider whether you can afford full rate membership before applying for a concession rate subscription. If you would like to discuss a concessionary membership further, please contact the membership team (see details top right). Find out more: How can I become a National Autistic Society member? What are the membership fees? Which membership is right for me?
  • Why is it cheaper to pay by Direct Debit?
    Many people find it easier to manage their membership by setting up a Direct Debit. This means that your annual payment is made automatically and don’t have to worry about renewing every year. Paying by Direct Debit works out a little cheaper too. This is because we save on administration costs by only having to process the payment once. This means we can pass the saving onto you!

    If you would like to set up an annual Direct Debit and take advantage of the reduced membership subscription fee, please download this application form and return it to us using our freepost address:

    Membership Department
    The National Autistic Society
    Freepost NW3 931
    London
    EC1B 1BR

    Find out more: How can I become a National Autistic Society member? What are the membership fees? Which membership is right for me?
  • When will I receive my welcome pack?
    We send out welcome packs out by 2nd class Royal Mail at the end of each week. Once we have received your payment we will endeavour to send out your pack as soon as possible. If you have not received your 'Welcome pack', please contact the membership team (see details top right).
  • Can I subscribe to Communication magazine without being a member?
    Communication is for members only. In order to receive the magazine you need to become a member of the NAS. As a member not only do you receive Communication four times a year, you can also sign up to our membership e-newsletter and take advantage of our various member-only discounted schemes. Find out more: What are the benefits of membership? How can I become a National Autistic Society member?
  • How can I renew my membership?
    The month before your membership is due to expire we will send you a renewal notice in the post with the opportunity to change your details request any further information. Complete the form and return it to us with a payment for your next year's membership. You can pay by cheque, postal order, credit or debit card or you can renew online.

    We can also take renewal payments by credit or debit card over the telephone. Please call 020 7903 3563 to make a payment over the phone – unfortunately we cannot accept Visa Electron, Solo or Amex over the telephone.

    However you have chosen to pay, once your payment has been processed you will receive a letter confirming your payment and a new membership card for the year.

    Alternatively you can set up a Direct Debit at a discounted annual rate – which most members find easier to manage. If you would like to set up an annual direct debit and take advantage of the reduced membership subscription fee, please download this application form and return it to us using our freepost address:

    Membership Department
    The National Autistic Society
    Freepost NW3 931
    London
    EC1B 1BR

    If you have opted to pay by Direct Debit, you will receive a notification that your payment has been taken with a new membership card included.

    Find out more: Why is it cheaper to pay by Direct Debit?
  • How can I change my contact details?
    You can change your contact details at any time by calling the membership department on
    020 7903 3563 or by emailing membership@nas.org.uk.