DIrect dues FAQ
Why collect dues directly when Cornell already deducts dues from our paychecks?
Our Union’s dues secure our ability to stand up for workers, to protect each other, and to retain control over our own future. It is in our best interest to be as independent of Cornell as possible when it comes to our finances. The University routinely makes mistakes and introduces unnecessary delays in their handling of our records and in the deductions of our dues. By switching to direct dues collection, we remove the extra step between grad workers and our Union, and thereby take back the power Cornell wields over us and our ability to mount strikes and bargain collectively for strong contracts that benefit all grads.
How do direct dues work?
When you sign up for direct dues payments on my.cgsu.org, you add a payment method and authorize automatic payments twice per month, just like the bi-monthly payroll deductions. Payments can be either through credit/debit card or bank account. Note that we never store your payment information; instead, we work with Stripe, a reputable payment vendor, to manage payment methods so that your sensitive financial information is never stored in our system.
How will this affect me as a graduate worker?
Our union being stronger benefits us all! Also, Cornell displays staggering incompetence when collecting dues. They’ve consistently made mistakes that our members have had to pay for with higher deductions at random times, forgetting to deduct from bargaining unit members for months, and taking weeks to update people’s preferences. We can do this better, faster, and more securely than they can. Direct dues are more consistent and more transparent than Cornell’s deduction process. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying and why.
What are the steps for signing up?
Go to my.cgsu.org.
Enter your @cornell.edu email address. We will send you a sign-in-confirmation code (it may take a minute or so for the email to arrive).
Enter the confirmation code back on my.cgsu.org. We recommend copying and pasting the code.
Go to “Dues” in the navigation bar. There you will see your membership status, pay rate as known to the Union, and automatic payment enrollment options. You will also see payment history here after dues have been processed.
Select “Set up automatic payments.” This will take you to a Stripe page where you enter a payment method. Note that we never store your financial details; Stripe does this for us.
Once done, you’ll be redirected back to my.cgsu.org where you should now see an active dues payment enrollment and options to change payment method or cancel, should you need them.
If I’ve authorized Cornell to deduct dues from my paycheck, will I be paying twice?
No! We will only start collecting dues from you once Cornell halts dues deduction from your paycheck. This may take several weeks, because Cornell administration moves slowly, but we will make sure you’re never over-deducted.
Can I change my payment method after I sign up?
Yes, you can sign in on my.cgsu.org at any time and change your payment method. Any details you enter are stored with Stripe, not in our system. Stripe only tells us minimal information that we display for your convenience.
Can I unenroll or cancel direct payments in the future?
Yes, you can cancel automatic payments at any time. However, per our contract with Cornell, grad workers are obligated to fulfill their dues and fees obligations to the Union so long as they hold a bargaining unit appointment. If you cancel payments, yet remain on an appointment, you would then fall out of good standing with the Union, which can affect your employment or employment eligibility with Cornell.
My question isn’t listed here but I would like to know more!
Please reach out to dues@cgsu.org and someone will get back to you.