From time to time, we’re asked if memberships can be paused. For years, the answer was generally “no”, but we made exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

We’re going to give a “pause” policy a try and see how it goes.

So, now the quick answer is yes, we offer the option to pause – for some memberships. This doc explains how that works.

First, here’s how we define a “pause” #

A “pause” is a step down to a Community membership for one month (no more, no less), then a step back up to your previous membership level at your previous (potentially) grandfathered rate. It’s a specifically defined change that we hope addresses a need members have expressed.

There’s also the option to change your membership for a longer term, should that be a better fit. Such a change could result in an increased monthly fee when and if you step your membership level back up.

Here’s how pauses work at Cowork Frederick #

Now & Then and Unlimited Weekday members can pause the coworking part of their membership by stepping down to a Community membership for one month, then stepping back up to their previous membership level at their previous grandfathered rate, if applicable. They can do that once per year, for one month (exactly, no more or less).

You give us written notice (email is fine) at least 30 days in advance, and the change to a Community level membership happens on the date you specify. Fees for your existing membership level will be prorated as needed. We schedule the bump back up to your current rate to happen a month later. Note that means that the day of the month you are charged moving forward will change to the day of the month your pause kicked in.

Mail service and lockers cannot be temporarily paused, so if you have either membership add-on, you will also pay that while on your one-month pause.

If you want to step your membership down more than one month, we’ll treat it like a change in membership, not a pause. You can let us know when you want to step your membership level back up. When you do, you’ll be charged the current market rate for that membership from that point forward. See the related document on Membership Changes & Cancellations.

For clarity, here’s who can pause #

Pauses only apply to memberships that use flex-desk, shared office space: Unlimited Weekday and Now & Then.

They do not apply to Community memberships. It also does not apply to All-in, Semi-private, or Private Office members who have a designated physical space. And, it does not apply to mail service, so that excludes Mail & Meeting memberships.

Here’s why we do it that way #

1. Cowork Frederick is a community you join and participate in, not a building you use.
   There are many aspects of membership that do not involve coming in to do work here. Members connect, learn, and help each other through events and our “virtual water cooler”, Slack.
2. There’s value in connection.
   If a member won’t be in the building for a while, they can still participate in and benefit from this community. In fact, times when members are away can be a perfect time to strengthen online ties to other members by responding to requests for help, celebrating successes, etc., or even sharing news from wherever they are. People sometimes discount the level of interest others have in them.
3. Continuity for you.
   Community members get updates about and can provide feedback on changes, events, and other happenings around Cowork Frederick. Maintaining a Community membership during a pause keeps you up-to-date so returning to onsite coworking doesn’t come with surprises.
4. Saves time and effort.
   Keeping your membership active saves administrative work like stopping and restarting your access to the network, building, Slack, etc. – for us and for you.

FAQ’s #

Q: I’ll be away 5 weeks (3 weeks, pick a number that isn’t a month). Can I pause that long?
By definition, a pause is one month. If you’ll be away less than a month, just keep your membership where it is. If you’ll be away more than one month, pick a date for your pause to start, ideally your next billing date.

Q: Can I still come in to cowork occasionally or to an event during a pause?
Hmm. Good question. A Community membership does provide access to events and discounted day passes. but, pauses are meant for people who would want to keep their membership level where it is, but will be away or otherwise unable to come in to cowork. I (Julia) would love to know your thoughts.