FAQs
How can I, my group, or my Service Body make a contribution?
Members may give at their meetings by contributing to the Seventh Tradition as it is being passed. Groups may then contribute according to the informed group conscience. The typical distribution is 60% to the local intergroup, 30% to WSO, and 10% to the region. However, outside the United States, where service boards are a part of the service structure, a different percentage may have been established. Check with your region chair or trustee for the distribution in your area. Read the Seventh Tradition of OA pamphlet for more information.
How does my group or Service Body get credit for our contributions?
Always include your WSO group number on any check or money order that is sent to any of the service levels. This identifies your group as the source of the contribution.
How does OA support itself?
OA has no dues or fees for membership. Our program is open to all who have a desire to stop eating compulsively, regardless of personal financial condition. OA is self-supporting through member contributions. Most groups “pass the basket” at meetings to cover expenses. People give what they can when they can. OA does not solicit or accept outside contributions.
Literature sales provide additional funds to support OA’s expenses. The money is used for OA’s primary purpose to carry the message of recovery that is possible through the Twelve Steps of Overeaters Anonymous.
How much money should I give?
The current suggested donation is US$5.00 or more per meeting. However, never stay away from a meeting for financial reasons. Give what you can when you can.
Is there a limit on how much I may contribute?
There are limits on what a member is allowed to contribute to the World Service Office: A member may contribute up to US$7,500 per year to the general fund, up to $7,500 per year to any special fund, and up to $7,500 per year to honor the memory of the deceased member. OA, Inc., will accept a bequest in any amount from the will of a deceased member.
Read the Seventh Tradition of OA pamphlet for more information.
What are Automatic Recurring Contributions (ARCs)?
Automatic Recurring Contributions are another way to live our Seventh Tradition. In addition to your contributions at face to face meetings, which are distributed by your group treasurer, this is a way to contribute directly to the World Service Office. Once you set up your contribution, it is automatically withdrawn periodically and sent to World Service, so you don’t have to remember.
To start an Automatic Recurring Contribution, go to oa.org/contribute and check the box next to “Make this a recurring gift.”
Where do I send my group’s contribution?
Contact your local service bodies for their contribution instructions. Individual or group donations to World Service should be mailed to the World Service Office, PO Box 44727, Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87174-4727 USA. You may also contribute online. Please include the WSO group number on all contributions.