Societies, Memberships, and Fees

You know, I don't have a problem belonging to Societies. As a matter of fact, they're pretty much essential in my line of business. Stick around long enough, publish regularly in their journals, and do a fair bit of networking and in about a decade you get someone to nominate you for Fellow. In my business, becoming a Fellow in a Society is a big deal. It shows that you're regarded very highly by your peers, which shows that you've had what they refer to as "impact". That's a key word in my business ... impact.

Unfortunately, you don't just pick ONE society, you have to pick several ... because, being a Fellow in multiple societies is much better than being a Fellow in just one. Problem is, societies cost money. And they all want their money in December.

So here I am looking at what it's going to cost me, and I'm looking at a bill which will come in at around $500. That's money that I could use for Christmas shopping, holiday travel, and whatnot.

But it's tax deductible! Well, yes and no. Yes, it is ... but only if you meet a certain threshold, which last year the wife and I did not reach. It's doubtful we'll reach it again this year.

*sigh*

Well, time to ante up.