Frequently Asked Questions

Joining and Membership

Q. What is TSEA?
A. The Tennessee State Employees Association is an independent, nonprofit association that advocates for Tennessee’s state employees, higher education employees, and retirees. TSEA works on pay, benefits, employee rights, and working conditions.

Q. Is TSEA a union?
A. TSEA is an association. It advocates for employees with lawmakers, state officials, and employers, but does not negotiate collective bargaining agreements.

Q. How do I join TSEA?
A. Complete the online membership application. If you need help with the application, contact the TSEA office.

Q. Can higher education employees join?
A. Yes. TSEA serves higher education employees as well as state employees and retirees. Visit the higher education page or contact the TSEA office for help joining.

Q. Can retirees be members?
A. Yes. Retirees are part of TSEA. Contact the office for help joining as a retiree or updating your membership when you retire.

Q. Do I have to finish my probationary period before joining?
A. No. You can apply during training, orientation, or your probationary period.

Q. How much are membership dues?
A. Standard active membership dues are $19.99 per month. For retiree membership, other membership categories, or questions about payment, contact the TSEA office.

Q. I submitted an application. How do I check its status?
A. Contact the TSEA office with your name and the date you applied. Staff can check your application, membership status, and dues arrangements.

Q. How do I update my contact information?
A. Use the Member Portal or contact the TSEA office. Keeping your email address and mailing address current helps you receive TSEA updates.

Q. How do I cancel my membership?
A. Send written notice to TSEA. Contact the office for instructions and confirmation.

Workplace Questions and Benefits

Q. How do I ask TSEA for help with a workplace issue?
A. For assistance, contact the TSEA office at 615-256-4533 or [email protected]. Tell staff what happened, when it happened, and whether you have received a notice or have an upcoming deadline.

Q. What should I have ready when I contact TSEA about a workplace issue?
A. Have your department or institution, a brief timeline, relevant notices, and any deadline you have been given. Staff can tell you what else is needed to review your request.

Q. Does membership automatically guarantee legal representation?
A. No. Requests are reviewed under TSEA’s Employee Rights guidelines. Contact staff about your situation so they can explain what assistance may be available.

Q. Does TSEA’s staff attorney handle divorce or other personal legal matters?
A. TSEA’s Employee Rights services concern employment-related issues, not general personal legal matters. Visit the Employee Rights page for information.

Q. Where can I find information about member benefits?
A. Visit the Member Benefits page for available programs and links. Check each program’s current eligibility, enrollment, and payment requirements.

Q. Do I have to buy insurance when I join?
A. No. Joining TSEA does not require purchasing an optional insurance plan. Enrollment opportunities and requirements depend on the plan.

Q. Can I ask TSEA about retirement or benefits?
A. Yes. Contact the office to discuss your questions or visit the Compensation and Benefits page. Staff can help you find information and the appropriate next steps.

Q. Where can I find scholarship information?
A. Visit the TSEA Scholarship Program page for current application dates, eligibility, and instructions.

Chapters and Getting Involved

Q. How do I find my chapter?
A. Visit the Chapters page to find your chapter and its information. If you are unsure which chapter you belong to, contact the TSEA office.

Q. Do I have to attend chapter meetings?
A. No. Meeting attendance is not required for membership. Meetings are a way to hear updates, meet other members, and get involved.

Q. Where can I find meetings and events?
A. Check your chapter page and the TSEA calendar for dates and details.

Q. How do I share photos from a chapter meeting or TSEA event?
A. Use the photo upload form. TSEA reviews submissions before they appear publicly. You can also view the photo gallery.

Q. Where can I follow TSEA’s legislative work and election endorsements?
A. Visit On the Hill for legislative information. See TEAM PAC’s endorsements for the current endorsement list. Endorsements for your area are also listed on your chapter page.

Member Portal and Staying in Touch

Q. Where do I get help with the Member Portal?
A. Visit Member Portal Help for login and account information. If you still need assistance, contact the TSEA office.

Q. I am not receiving TSEA emails. What should I do?
A. Check your spam or junk folder and mark TSEA messages as wanted mail. If you still do not receive them, contact the office so staff can check your email address and subscription status.

Q. How do I contact TSEA?
A. Call 615-256-4533 or visit the Contact page. The Staff page can help you find the right person.