What is A.A.?

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who help each other stay sober. There are no dues or fees. The only requirement is a desire to stop drinking.

A.A. isn’t connected to any church, political group, or treatment center. Members recover by working the Twelve Steps and by sharing their experience with each other.

Open and closed meetings

  • Open meetings: anyone is welcome, including family, friends, and anyone curious.
  • Closed meetings: for people who have a drinking problem or think they might. If you’re not sure, you belong there too.

Most listings on our meeting list say whether a meeting is open or closed.

Common questions

Tap a question to see the answer.

No. Groups pass a basket to cover rent and coffee, and giving is up to you.

No. You can just listen. Many people say nothing at their first few meetings.

No. A.A. isn’t a religion. Members include people of many faiths and people of none.

A.A. is anonymous. Members don’t share who they see at meetings.

Only you can decide. Try our Is A.A. for me? questions, or listen in at an open meeting.

Yes. Our meeting list and the free Meeting Guide app both show them.

Yes, to an open meeting.

More questions and answers from aa.org

For family and friends

If someone you love drinks too much, you’re not alone either. Al-Anon, and Alateen for teens, are separate fellowships for the families and friends of alcoholics. You’re also welcome at any open A.A. meeting. Visit Al-Anon

Next: Find a meeting