Member reminder: Update your mailing address
National Press Club members need to check their account to ensure that their mailing address is correct. Addresses need to be updated by the end of the year to guarantee members receive a NEW membership card.
To enhance the security of the Club and streamline membership processes, the Club is implementing a new check-in and arrival procedure effective March 3.
“Given the rising threats against journalists, this is part of our commitment to ensuring the safety of all members and employees—similar to security measures in many buildings across Washington, D.C.,” wrote NPC President Emily Wilkins in a letter to members last week.
The new cards will be used at the security gates and includes a barcode for checking into the Club.
The Club plans to send the new cards to members by snail mail in mid-January.
Members can update their mailing addresses by emailing [email protected] or by going online.
Online instructions:
- Login at https://members.press.org/
- Once logged in, click on your name in the upper right-hand corner.
- Then click ‘Edit My Profile.’
Wilkins included the following Frequently Asked Questions in her letter:
Once I have my card, what do I do?
Anytime you come to the Club on or after March 3, scan the barcode on your member card at the scanner outside of Lane 1 to check in to the Club.
Do I have to scan my member card every time I come?
Yes, starting March 3, every time you visit the Club — regardless of the reason or duration — you will need to scan your new member card.
So how about guests?
As always, your guests are welcome at the Club. Please meet your guests at the entrance and check them in at the front desk. The Club will no longer be issuing QR codes for member-guest entry.
Will my current/old member card work?
No, you will need the new card with the barcode after March 3.
What happens if I forget my card?
Please do not forget your card after March 3! If you do, you will NOT be allowed to enter the Club.
Why are we making this change? Why not just stick with existing cards?
A few reasons. One is that we are in the process of updating the Club’s security measures to match other buildings and membership organizations. As journalists face an increasing number of threats, we think this is particularly important for our members and guests.
The Club will also be able to see how many and what category of members are visiting the Club, their frequency of visits, and how many lapsed members are attempting to access the Club. This data will help us better understand member engagement and identify trends.
You’re collecting data? Will it be kept private?
The data collected is primarily reviewed in aggregate to assess Club-wide trends. Any individually identifiable data will be handled in strict confidence, in line with our privacy policies.
Does the new card cost anything extra?
No, we are sending them to members for free, just like we do with current member cards. Just remember to update your address by December 31.
What about the colorful stickers? I love them!
Unfortunately, we will be discontinuing the distribution of stickers. While they were a convenient way to confirm dues payment in the past, the new member card will now serve as a live check-in mechanism and a proxy card to access the security gates, making the stickers unnecessary—and they’re surprisingly costly to produce and mail! This change is being made to bolster Club security, and the safety of our members is more important than a sticker.
Can’t the security team just remember my face?
While our staff does their best to remember members’ names and faces and ensure they feel welcomed at the Club, we have thousands of people passing through the gates each day, and it’s simply not reasonable to ask staff to remember everyone.
It is mid-January, and I have not received my membership card even though I updated my address by December 31.
Something might be wrong with your payment method, or you might have missed your annual dues or monthly payment. Please check your account balance or contact [email protected].
It’s now June and my card is not working.
Were you suspended or have outstanding dues? If so, that will lead to suspension of your card. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Your silly Q&A didn’t address my question!
If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to [email protected].
What were those dates again?
December 31 - Update your address!
March 3 - Must have your card to enter!