Regular fees paid by homeowners to fund the HOA's operating and reserve budgets.
HOA dues, sometimes called assessments or maintenance fees, are mandatory recurring payments that every owner in the community owes to the association. They are typically collected monthly, quarterly, or annually and are the HOA's primary revenue source. The board sets dues during the annual budget process to cover projected operating expenses plus the required reserve contribution for that year. Dues amounts vary widely — from under $100/month for a simple suburban neighborhood to over $1,000/month for a high-rise condominium with full amenities. Failure to pay dues triggers the same collection process as any other unpaid assessment.
Dues fund everything from trash removal to insurance to major repairs. Communities that chronically underprice dues to keep homeowners happy often face deferred maintenance backlogs and eventual special assessments far larger than the savings.
Assessment
Any mandatory charge the HOA levies against owners — includes regular dues and special assessments.
Operating Fund
The HOA's general checking account used to pay recurring, day-to-day expenses.
Reserve Fund
Money set aside by an HOA for future major repairs and replacements of common elements.
Delinquency
The status of an owner account when dues or assessments are past their due date and unpaid.
LotWize handles hoa dues tracking automatically — along with violations, ARC requests, meeting minutes, and homeowner communications, all in one platform built for self-managed HOAs.
Start 14-Day Free TrialThis page provides general information only — not legal or financial advice. HOA laws vary by state and community. Always consult your governing documents and an HOA attorney for guidance specific to your situation.