About the US Chess Federation (US Chess) FAQ's

US CHESS VISION

Chess is recognized as an essential tool that is inclusive, benefits education and rehabilitation, and promotes recreation and friendly competition.

US CHESS GOALS

• Increase the use of chess in education
• Expand the social, recreational, and rehabilitative applications of chess
• Develop the depth and breadth of our partnerships
• Use chess to increase opportunities for under-represented segments of society
• Continuously improve internal operations and member services

US CHESS CORE VALUES

• Education. Chess is an educational tool aiding in the learning of planning, cause and effect relationships, pattern recognition, and research, all key skills for success in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
• Customer Service. We strive to be responsive, adaptive and proactive in providing services to our customers.
• Excellence. We recognize the value of excellence both in chess as an activity and the services we provide to our customers.
• Communication. We will continually inform and be responsive to our members and customers.
• Integrity. We respect and maintain good relationships with our customers and stakeholders as well as the game of chess itself.
• Accessibility. Chess can and should be enjoyed by individuals regardless of social or economic status or physical or developmental capability.
• Love of the Game. Chess is a historic and iconic game, and we celebrate its history, growth and evolution in our activities and services.
• Outreach. We work to extend the knowledge and appreciation of chess.

FAQ's related to US Chess:

Q: How do I contact US Chess?

A: Contact us at: Staff Directory.

Q: What are my benefits for joining?

A: Your membership provides a door into the world of chess through affiliated clubs, organizations and US Chess sanctioned events and an opportunity to establish a nationally recognized rating. You may also obtain personal recognition (titles, Top Lists, MAP) and accreditations (TD Certifications, Chess Coach Certification). As a US Chess member, you may have access to current and historical chess information, through electronic issues of Chess Life and Chess Life Kids magazines at our website uschess.org,

Q: How can I get information for a membership?

A: Email us at [email protected] or call our office at 800-903-8723 ext. 1.

Q: Do you have free information which explains how the pieces move and how to write chess moves?

A: Yes. You can find basic information in our “New to Chess?” section on our homepage or the “Forms” area.

Q: Where can I purchase chess books, sets and chess computers and also get advice as to what to purchase?

A: US Chess Federation Sales sells a variety of chess related items. You can contact US Chess Federation Sales for a free catalog and/or check out our US Chess Federation Sales Shop online catalog or speak directly to one of their customer service representatives by calling: 1-800-388-KING (800-388-5464).

Q: Where can I go in my area to play chess?

A: US Chess provides listings of chess clubs for all regions of the United States. Please check “Clubs and Tournaments category on our homepage.

Q: After I become a member of US Chess and play in a US Chess rated event, will I get a chess rating?

A: Yes. The organizer of the event will send the results to US Chess and a rating will be calculated. You can view your rating and history in our Member Services Area (MSA). If you play in US Chess Correspondence Chess events you will receive a Correspondence Chess rating, separate from your OTB rating. Additional information about Correspondence Chess is located behind our “Activities & Interests” category on our homepage.