We would like to inform all members of an upcoming change to the annual membership dues. On May 20, the Board of Directors approved an increase in dues from $800 to $1,000.

This change will take effect beginning July 1, 2025.

As part of this increase, $150 of the new dues amount will be allocated to a dedicated legal defense fund. This fund is being established to help the organization address extraordinary legal needs that may arise and to ensure we are prepared to safeguard the interests of our members into the future. Examples are protecting the Warranty Reimbursement Act and fighting legacy OEMs from selling direct-to-consumer in Illinois (i.e. VW’s Scout or Honda’s Afeela).  

The decision to increase dues was made with careful consideration by the CATA Board of Directors and reflects CATA’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the strength and sustainability of our organization.

Secondly, as part of ongoing efforts to streamline administrative processes and improve service to our members, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) will begin transitioning all membership dues to align with CATA’s fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30.

Beginning in June, the CATA will initiate a phased transition to move all membership renewal dates to July 1. This change will ensure a consistent membership cycle across the organization and improve efficiency in planning, budgeting and communication.

How This Affects Members:

• Members with June 2025 renewal dates will be the first to renew on the new July 1 cycle.
• Members with July 2025 renewal dates will remain the same.
• Members with renewal dates of August 1, 2025, or later will receive advance notifications and a prorated dues rate to adjust their membership to the new cycle.

All new dealer membership applications will be subject to the full $1,000 annual dues amount and will be aligned with the July 1 renewal cycle. This approach allows for a gradual and equitable shift without disrupting member benefits.

CATA will communicate directly with all affected members well in advance of any changes to ensure clarity and a smooth transition.

If you have any questions about how this change might affect your membership, please contact the CATA. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to serving you more effectively through this improved system.