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Explanation of Membership Types:
In grades 4th and higher, players must join USCF (U.S. Chess Federation) in order to play in USCF-rated events. There are three membership options:
For ages 14 and under, players can obtain a Scholastic Membership, which includes 6 bi-monthly issues of Chess Life magazine. This membership gives the player the right to play in all USCF events, including adult events. This membership is $19/year.
Ages 14 and under may also choose an Economy Scholastic Membership for $13/year. This membership gives the same rights as above but does not include any magazine subscription.
For ages 19 and under, players can obtain a Youth Membership, which includes 12 monthly issues of Chess Life magazine. This also gives the player the right to play in all USCF events. This membership is $25/year.
In grades 3rd and under, players do not need to join USCF in order to play in 3rd and under sections (if they play "up" in older divisions, they need to join). In lieu of a membership, players in grades 3rd and under can be issued a Junior Tournament Participant (JTP) number (permanent number for life). This option is free, but it carries no USCF benefits, other than being able to play in 3rd and under sections in scholastic tournaments. If the child decides to join USCF (must join upon reaching 4th grade), he/she keeps the same ID number (this number is issued for life.) Of course, players in 3rd grade and under are welcome (and encouraged) to join USCF for the above benefits. Also, any player who plays in a National Scholastic Championship tournament must join USCF. Important note: If a 3rd/under player initially joins USCF as a paid member, then this membership must be kept current in order to play in USCF events. If the player initially joined as a paying member, then his/her 8-digit USCF ID number will begin with the digit 1xxxxxxx. If the player initially signed up under the JTP option (free), then his/her 8-digit USCF number will begin with the digit 2xxxxxxx, and the player need not join USCF except as noted above.
It is very important that you know your child's USCF ID number. This number is necessary to enter all USCF-rated events. Also, the membership must be kept current for grades 4-12 (and 3rd/under players whose ID number begins with a "1".) You should bring proof of membership with you to tournaments (membership card, latest mailing label, receipt, etc.)
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