Value & Cost of Cub Scouting

Cub Scouting is a Great Value! 

Scouting is a values-based program with its own code of conduct. The Scout Oath and Law help instill the values of good conduct, respect for others, and honesty. Scouts learn skills that will last a lifetime, including basic outdoor skills, first aid, citizenship skills, leadership skills, and how to get along with others. We all know that for over a century, Scouting has instilled values and knowledge in our youth that they will need to become leaders in their communities and country, but now we have academic studies to prove it!

Cost of Cub Scouting

One of the most frequent questions we are asked by parents of prospective Scouts is “how much will it cost?”  That’s an excellent question to ask.  Since we run a year-round program and accept new Scouts anytime during the year, some of the costs will depend on when you join.  We will attempt to explain all of the costs below.  

​We hope that after you have reviewed this information, you will agree that Cub Scouting is a great value, especially compared to the costs of team sports or other activities that only operate during a portion of the year. 

It is Pack 703’s goal to reimburse you for all up front out of pocket new member expenses (National BSA dues $85 and council fees of $60, totaling $145) and pack dues for all scouts ($155).  However, this is up to the fundraising efforts and success of your scout.  To join or renew membership with Pack 703, fundraising profit and/or direct payment of $300 is required. Below is a detailed explanation of the process. 

Please keep in mind that fundraising is never mandatory or expected.  It is intended to help offset the cost of Scouting for those families that want to participate. 

New Scouts

When new Scouts join, they will submit their application on-line through the BSA application website.  During the on-line application process, BSA will collect a total of $145 plus processing fees. These fees include national annual dues for the next 12 months ($85), and the Great Rivers Council Program fee ($60). These fees go directly to the BSA and pay for the program costs and BSA insurance. None of this money goes to the Pack, so we have separate dues that cover the costs of awards, programming and the cost of our outings and activities.  

Pack fees ($155) are due by Dec. 1st.  However, if the scout has fundraising product sales with profits of $300 (approximately $625 in popcorn/meat/wreath sales) prior to December 1st, the pack will absorb this amount and you owe nothing.  If the scout is unable to earn profits of $300, the family will be responsible for the balance no later than the December Pack Meeting/Event.  

Returning Scouts
Dues & Fees

All national and council dues and fees are due on the anniversary date of joining the BSA. If the scout has fundraising funds available and if directed by the parent, the Pack will use these funds to pay some/all of the national and council fees. If the scout is unable to earn profits to fully cover this amount, the family will be responsible for the balance.

Pack dues are due by September. 1st of each year. If the scout has fundraising funds available and if directed by the parent, the Pack will use these funds to pay some/all of the pack dues. If the scout is unable to earn profits to cover this amount, the family will be responsible for the balance prior to December 1st.

If a scout earns profit beyond $300 (prior to December 1st of each year, the additional profit will go towards the scout’s dues for the next year. If a scout earns profit to cover the scout’s dues for the next year, the profits will be distributed to the Scout’s Individual Scout Account and the Pack according to policy.

Payment Methods

Pack 703 offers several convenient payment options:

  • Cash – please place cash in an envelope with the name of your Scout and a description of your payment
  • Check – checks should be made out to “Pack 703 Fairview” and should have the Scout’s name in the memo field.
  • Credit Card – we accept credit cards with a magnetic stripe in person (processed through Square).
  • Venmo may be possible, contact the Cubmaster or Pack Treasurer.
Individual Scout Account (“ISA”)

If the scout’s fundraising profit is more than $300 in profit in a fundraising year, such additional profits will be applied to the Scout’s ISA according to pack policy, with a significant portion of profits credited to the scout’s ISA. ISA funds can be use at the parent/guardians discretion for any scouting related expense (uniform, books, summer camp, etc.).

Financial Hardship

Pack 703 wants every youth interested in joining our Pack to enjoy the same opportunities regardless of a family’s financial situation.  If any of the costs associated with Scouting will put an undue financial strain on your family, please let us know so that we can attempt to make arrangements.  See our financial aid page for more information.

Other Scouting Expenses

Besides the items discussed above, please be aware of the following periodic expenses:

  • Scout Uniform – the uniform is an important part of the Scouting experience.  For current pricing information, please see https://www.scoutshop.org.  The pack also attempts to maintain a closet of lightly used uniforms that are free.
  • Activities & Outings – The cost of Pack activities and outings is ZERO!!!! However, please note that at times we must collect a fee for additional family member to attend events. Further, there are some district and council activities and outings that are not official
  • Day Camp – The cost of the Boonslick District Day Camp is ZERO!!!! We build this fee into our pack dues.
  • Summer Camp – While not required, Summer Camp is a great opportunity for Scouts.  Please see the Great Rivers Council page for current information.
Disclaimer

The dues information provided above are based on the 2025 BSA Registration Fees and are subject to change for future years. Pack 703 has no influence over these fees, but has included them in our annual Dues.  If BSA raises their fees in future years, we will have to adjust our dues accordingly. We will make every effort communicate any changes as soon as we know about them.