Membership & Dues
What's the difference between membership dues and donations?
Membership dues payments require us to provide membership benefits (such as the newsletter, Amtrak discount, and AGR points), while donations do not. Both are tax-deductible, except that the fair market value of member benefits you receive — including the value of AGR points (estimated at 2.5 cents each) — must be deducted from the tax-deductible portion of dues.
How much do membership dues cost?
Dues vary by membership level. Please visit our Join Us page for current pricing.
When does my membership renew?
On your annual join-date anniversary, not the calendar year end.
Can I pay for multiple years of membership upfront?
Yes. Include a note specifying the number of years you'd like to prepay along with your payment.
Account & Membership Cards
Where is my membership card?
Physical membership cards were discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most discount programs — including the Amtrak member discount — accept your member ID number instead. We are developing digital membership card options.
Why wasn't my membership renewed even though I sent in a payment?
If you used a donation form without indicating "MEMBERSHIP," your payment was processed as a donation rather than a membership renewal. Our renewal mailings now clearly specify membership renewal. If you believe your payment was misapplied, please contact us.
When will my Amtrak Guest Rewards (AGR) points appear in my account?
Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks from your join or renewal date. Memberships are processed monthly, after which Amtrak needs an additional 3–4 weeks to post the points to your AGR account.
Payment & Cancellation
How do I cancel my membership or change my membership level?
- To cancel: Email members@railpassengers.org with "CANCELLATION" in the subject line.
- To change your membership level: Call 202-408-8362 or log into your account online.
How do I manage my auto-renewal settings?
- Monthly members: Must email us to cancel auto-renewal.
- Annual members: Can disable auto-renewal through your online account dashboard.
Benefits & Discounts
How do I access my Amtrak member discount?
When booking on Amtrak.com or through the Amtrak app, select the discount type "Rail Passengers Association" and enter your member ID number. The discount applies to select fare types on most routes.
Is the member discount available at Amtrak ticket counters?
Yes. Present your member ID number (your email address registered with us, or your account number) at any Amtrak ticket window.
What other benefits come with membership?
See the full list of member benefits on our Join Us page.
Organization
Is the Rail Passengers Association affiliated with Amtrak?
No. We are an independent nonprofit advocacy organization. We work with Amtrak and engage regularly with Amtrak management and government relations staff, but we are entirely separate from Amtrak and frequently advocate positions critical of Amtrak's performance or policies.
Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Rail Passengers Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are fully tax-deductible. Membership dues are deductible to the extent they exceed the fair market value of benefits received (newsletter, discount, AGR points).
How do I contact Rail Passengers?
See our Contact Us page.