1.         What is TOPS?
TOPS Club, Inc. is a nonprofit, weight-loss education and support organization. Our members refer to us simply as TOPS, which is an acronym for Take Off Pounds Sensibly. We focus on developing healthy lifestyles through weight management and sponsor research aimed at finding the root cause and effective treatment of the disease of obesity.  For more details, click here.
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2.         Who can join TOPS?
Virtually everyone is welcome. TOPS is available to men, women and children from age 7 to 100+.
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3.         Can I visit a TOPS meeting before I decide to join?
Yes. Visitors are always welcome. The first TOPS chapter meeting is free of charge.
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4.         Do TOPS members actually achieve weight-loss success?
Yes.  We have thousands of successful members. For some examples of the success that is possible through TOPS membership, go to the TOPS homepage and click on “Our Successes” – or click here.
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5.         How do I find a TOPS chapter meeting that is convenient for me?
There are two ways to locate a TOPS chapter meeting:

• Go to the TOPS homepage and click on “Find a Chapter” then enter your zip or postal code – or click here. 
• Call TOPS Headquarters at 800-932-8677 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:30 PM CST (for chapter meeting locations/times only).
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6.         How do I join TOPS?
You may join TOPS as an Online Member through our TOPS Store. You will begin receiving TOPS News (our membership magazine, published nine times each year) and have access to the "member" areas of our website immediately. Be sure to print out your receipt. You may eventually choose to join a local chapter to take advantage of the accountability of a weekly weigh-in and receive face-to-face support – when you do, simply turn the receipt in when you weigh in at the TOPS chapter you have selected to join and they will enroll you in the chapter. You can also wait until you find a local chapter and pay the fee at the time you join the chapter.
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7.         I belong to another organization (gym, weight-loss facility, etc.) – is it permissible to belong to TOPS, too?
Yes. TOPS provides a supportive, encouraging and caring environment and knows that many people need additional assistance with the difficult challenge of weight management.
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8.         What makes TOPS different from other weight-loss organizations?
TOPS helps our members make changes that promote good health and last a lifetime – not for just a few short weeks – in behaviors, attitudes, exercise and eating. We sell no food products and accept no advertising from commercial companies. We empower volunteers who share similar weight issues to help each other with supportive materials and educational tools.
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9.         Is there someone I can talk with about TOPS membership?
Yes. The Field Staff in your area are well-suited to address any questions or concerns you might have about TOPS.  You do not have to be a member to contact them.  Click on “Find a Chapter” on the TOPS homepage – or click here – then enter your zip or postal code. When your local chapter listings appear, you will notice the names, email addresses and telephone numbers of the Coordinator and Area Captain. These TOPS Field Staff are happy to help you. Feel free to contact them. You may also feel free to talk with TOPS members and chapter officers at your free visit to a TOPS chapter.
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10.         What does TOPS do for me after I lose weight?
TOPS has a robust recognition program to reward and honor people for maintaining weight through time.

11.         How much does it cost to become a TOPS member?
TOPS is very affordable. The annual adult membership fee is only $26 in the United States and $30 in Canada. Local chapters charge weekly fees that range from $0.50 to $2.00. 
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12.         What do I get with my annual TOPS membership?
As a TOPS member, you have full access to all areas of the TOPS website; the My Day One booklet, which features a six-week, ready-set-go plan to get you started in taking off pounds sensibly; a one-year subscription to TOPS News, our membership magazine that is published nine times per year, sharing inspirational stories, healthy tips, and helpful advice; and membership in a local chapter of your choice for weekly weigh-ins and support.
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13.         Where does my TOPS membership fee go?
The bulk of your membership fee is used to develop and provide the best educational materials and support for you in your weight-loss journey – a substantial portion of this fee pays for your annual subscription to TOPS News, our membership magazine. After this mission, a small percentage is devoted to seeking a safe treatment and, hopefully, a cure for obesity.
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14.         Is it possible to join TOPS as an online member and not attend chapter meetings?
Yes.  You will receive many of the same materials and website access as chapter members. TOPS is best known for our supportive, educational chapter environment and recognition efforts – you will be missing this personal touch. The good news is that online memberships are fully transferable to chapter membership.
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15.         How do I start my own TOPS chapter?
Please contact your local Field Staff.  The Field Staff in your area are the best people with whom to address any interest in starting your own TOPS chapter – all it takes is a minimum of four interested people to begin. To contact your Field Staff, click on “Find a Chapter” on the TOPS homepage – or click here  – then enter your zip or postal code. When your area listings appear, you will notice the names, email addresses and telephone numbers of the Coordinator and Area Captain. These are the members of TOPS Field Staff who can help you. Feel free to contact them.