Why are there so many Smithsonian memberships?
The Smithsonian is a diverse organization with 19 museums, 9 research centers, and the National Zoo.
There are many membership options to reflect the varied tastes and interests of its supporters.
Individuals can choose to support the activities of a particular museum, the National Zoo, or
a research center. There are three Smithsonian-wide memberships
—Smithsonian Associates,
Friends of the Smithsonian, and National Associates—each offering different valuable benefits.
Why should I support Smithsonian Associates?
As the largest museum-based education program in the world, Smithsonian Associates
produces vibrant educational and cultural programming that offers unparalleled access
to the Smithsonian's world of knowledge.
Supporting Smithsonian Associates is one of the smartest and easiest ways to become
a Smithsonian insider. Members receive a range of valuable benefits, including early
registration access, discounts, and more. In addition, members play a vital role in
assuring that our tradition of excellence continues.
Unlike the Smithsonian's museums, Smithsonian Associates receives no federal funding
and relies on individual contributions to help bridge the gap between program costs
and registration revenues, as well as to support our essential work in building and
serving a community of lifelong learners.
Become a member today!
What is the difference between Smithsonian Associates Introductory and Circle of Support membership levels?
Smithsonian Associates members at the Advocate level and above are part of our Circle of Support.
These individuals receive additional enhanced benefits on top of the introductory-level
membership perks and become part of a special community of like-minded donors who are
passionate about their pursuit of knowledge.
Learn more about Circle of Support
What is the difference between a Smithsonian Associates membership and a Friends of the Smithsonian membership?
A Smithsonian Associates membership directly supports Smithsonian Associates’ diverse array of engaging,
high-quality online and in-person programming ensuring we can continue to inspire and educate audiences
of all ages. We receive no federal funding and rely on donations and membership support.
Friends of the Smithsonian is a national membership which helps fund research, outreach, exhibitions,
and scholarships across all Smithsonian museums and programs.
Can I transfer my Friends of the Smithsonian membership to a Smithsonian Associates membership?
In most cases, yes! Friends of the Smithsonian members may transfer to Smithsonian Associates
to show their support and receive enhanced benefits. Contact us for assistance in transferring
your membership.
Contact us
How do I purchase a gift certificate or give a gift membership?
My membership benefits allow me to give an Explorer-level gift membership to a friend or family member. How do I do that?
If your membership benefits include the option to send an Explorer-level gift membership to a friend or family member,
you can send it to them via your membership Portal.
Go to your membership portal
When can I expect to receive my first Smithsonian magazine and the Smithsonian Associates
program guide after signing up for membership?
It takes six to eight weeks for you to receive your first Smithsonian
magazine and four to six weeks for your first Smithsonian Associates program guide.
How long does it take to get my Smithsonian Associates membership card after purchasing a membership?
How will I be notified about members-only and/or free programs and special discount opportunities?
Although select members-only programs are included in our monthly Smithsonian Associates
program guide, many of these opportunities, including seasonal discounts, are shared via email.
We encourage to you have an up-to-date email address on file to ensure these communications reach you.
Manage your account
How do I update my address?
Update your address
You may also write us with your new address. Please allow 6 weeks for the change to take effect.
Why are some membership prices increasing?
As of April 1, 2025, we’re making membership changes to help offset the gap between income from
program registrations and the costs involved in providing Smithsonian-caliber online and in-person
programming to you and expanding our important work of building and serving a community of lifelong learners.
Why am I receiving two copies of the Smithsonian magazine?
You may be receiving multiple copies of Smithsonian magazine because you have more than
one subscription, such as a Smithsonian Associates membership and a Friends of the
Smithsonian membership, both of which include the magazine as a benefit. Additionally,
you may be receiving the magazine from an external source outside of the Smithsonian.
If you are receiving multiple magazines, please contact Customer Service at 202-633-3030
(Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET) or email CustomerService@SmithsonianAssociates.org.
Please provide the following information from both the magazine labels: Your full
name and address as it appears on each label, the number, and expiration date.
Are Smithsonian Associates memberships tax-deductible?
Yes, Smithsonian Associates memberships are tax-deductible. In accordance with IRS
regulations, this amount is determined by the value of your membership minus the
fair market value of your benefits (i.e. Smithsonian magazine subscription,
complimentary registrations, etc.).
In additional to membership support, individual donations are 100% tax-deductible.
What is the Smithsonian’s tax ID number?
The Smithsonian's tax ID number is
53-0206027.
Is it possible to give to Smithsonian Associates through my Donor Advised Fund (DAF)?
Can I renew my membership using my Individual Retirement Account (IRA)?
Who can I contact if I have questions about my membership?
You can contact our customer service team with your questions.
Contact us
