Why you should join
Florida is a “right to work” state. That means that membership in the union that represents you is not automatic. In other words, you can enjoy many of the benefits of union representation, including having an enforceable contract, without paying dues. However, your membership contributes to the strength of UFF-UF’s collective voice, making us more effective, whether lobbying the in the state legislature or negotiating our Collective Bargaining Agreement. Our collective strength comes back to you in increased salary and improved working conditions. We are stronger together!
In addition, membership provides a number of specific benefits that are only for dues-paying members and their families. These include:
Representation
As a UFF-UF member, you can receive UFF representation should you need to file a grievance or are facing disciplinary action. Non-members must either represent themselves or hire outside legal assistance. This is a benefit that can potentially save you tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees.
A voice in defining UFF priorities and plans
UFF-UF is led by its members. We define our plans and priorities collegially and democratically. As a member, you have a say in all matters concerning UFF, including how we negotiate our contract, how we defend faculty rights and due process, and who represents us as UFF officers.
Member discounts
Florida Education Association (FEA), our parent organization, and our national affiliates — AFT and NEA — have partnered with merchants you know and trust to provide discounts year-round.
Follow FEA Member Benefits on Facebook for up-to-date info on existing benefits and limited-time offers.
*The FEA/Access card delivers savings of up to 50% off at more than 350,000 premier shops, restaurants, hotels, retailers and more – across the country and even right in your own neighborhood!
*MyDeals is the FEA/Access mobile app (Google Play and Apple App Store) and gives you show-your-phone discounts at 250,000 places.
*NEA Member Benefits also offers members-only insurance programs, financial services and discounts designed to meet your ever-changing needs.
*NEA Educators Employment Liability Program provides members with protection from personal financial liability stemming from employment-related lawsuits. NEA supports state “hold harmless” legislation which requires that the employer pay for your defense or related damages in case you are sued. However, since this is not law in Florida—and because the liability potential can be so serious for individuals—NEA provides all UFF members with professional liability insurance through the NEA Educators Employment Liability (EEL) Program.
*Gainesville Vision gives an additional 10% off eyeglasses for UFF members. Schedule online at GainesvilleVision.com. When asked “How did you hear about our office”, type UFF.
In addition to our state and national benefit programs, UFF/FEA members benefit from our ongoing relationship with a team of partners:
*NTA Life provides supplemental health and life insurance products and services to educators.
*Creative Benefits for Educators is owned by the locals of UFF/FEA and was created to make it easy for teachers and school employees to find the best insurance, retirement and financial programs available.
Who can join
UFF-UF Bargaining unit members
Any member of the University of Florida bargaining unit is eligible to join the UF Chapter of United Faculty of Florida. The bargaining unit is specified in Appendix A of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. It includes faculty and other professionals in colleges and units including CLAS, Engineering, Arts, Business, HHP, Libraries, Education, Journalism, CWC, and PK Yonge School. We represent both tenure track and non-tenure-track faculty. If you have any questions about whether or not you are in the bargaining unit, you are welcome to contact us for assistance.
At-large members
If you are not in the bargaining unit (as is the case for OPS employees and faculty and professional staff in IFAS, Law, Health Sciences, Dentistry, Medicine), you can still join UFF and enjoy many of the benefits of UFF membership as an At-Large Member United Faculty of Florida.
1. Complete the At-Large Membership Form
2. Email or mail the completed form to the UFF State Office (115 N Calhoun Street Suite 6 Tallahassee, FL 32301), with the appropriate membership fee. OR contact us and we will send you a secure electronic enrollment form: uff@floridaea.org.
Retiree members
Have you retired from UF? Become a member of the Retired Chapter! Check out the Retired Members’ Site for news and information about your Chapter. Complete the Retired Membership Form, email or mail the completed form back to the UFF State Office. OR contact us and we will send you a secure electronic enrollment form: uff@floridaea.org.
updated 8/23/23