Union Plus

What is a Union?

Learn more about what labor unions do and why you should join one

Improving the Lives of Working Families

A labor union or trade union is an organized group of workers who unite to make decisions about conditions affecting their work. Labor unions strive to bring economic justice to the workplace and social justice to our nation. 

Who are Union Members?

There are more than 60 unions representing more than 14 million workers throughout the country. No matter what work you do, there's probably a union that represents your work. Check out this list of AFL-CIO affiliated unions.

Benefits of Belonging to a Union

The main reasons to join a union are higher pay, better benefits and a voice on the job. As a union member, you have a collective voice regarding things such as: Pay and wages; Work hours, Benefits (including but not limited to: retirement plans, health insurance, vacation and sick leave, and tuition reimbursement); Workplace health and safety, and ways to balance work and family.

How do Unions Work?



How to Form a Union


Setting the Standard

Additionally, unions set the standard. According to an Economic Policy Institute report, a high school graduate whose workplace is not unionized but whose industry is 25% unionized is paid 5% more than similar workers in less unionized industries. 

Visit the AFL-CIO website for more information about the difference being union makes.

Everyday Benefits to Help Working Families


Union Plus benefits and discounts are for union members and Working America members. Benefits include everything from financial services and legal services to discounts on AT&T, travel, car rentals, flowers and more. Benefits also include unique assistance for workers facing financial hardship due to disability, layoff, strike and more. 


Can't Join a Union?

Working America defends the interests of working people who do not belong to a union. If for some reason you can't join a union but want to support your fellow working Americans and fight for good jobs and a just economy.

Working America has more than 3 million members — workers without the benefit of a workplace union. They use their collective power and resources to demand that politicians address the priorities that matter most to working people — not just wealthy special interests.

Using strength in numbers and the collective buying power of the affiliation with the AFL-CIO. Working America also provides its members with benefits and discounts for day-to-day life.

Learn More about
Working America