Understand how DVC maintenance fees work and what they cover.

One of the most important aspects of Disney Vacation Club ownership is the annual maintenance fee. Also known as DVC annual dues, this recurring cost helps fund the upkeep of your home resort and other essential services. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a long-time member, understanding your fees is key to budgeting and planning your Disney vacations effectively. This guide explains what’s included, how fees are calculated, and how they vary by resort.

What Are DVC Maintenance Fees?

DVC maintenance fees are yearly charges that owners pay based on the number of points they hold. These fees go toward resort operations, administration, property taxes, and capital improvements. For example, owners at Bay Lake Tower or Saratoga Springs help cover the cost of landscaping, pool maintenance, and staff salaries through their dues.

Every December, Disney releases the estimated dues for the following year. Members are billed in January and can choose to pay in full or set up monthly payments through their online portal. You can review historical and current data using the DVC annual dues page or view breakdowns in Disney’s official fee chart.

How Are Fees Calculated?

Your maintenance fee is calculated by multiplying the annual per-point cost by the number of points you own. For instance, if you own 150 points at a resort with $8.38 per point in dues, your yearly fee will be $1,257.

The per-point rate varies depending on resort age, location, and operating expenses. For example:

• Old Key West and Hilton Head tend to have lower dues.

• Premium resorts like Grand Floridian or Aulani have higher dues due to luxury services and amenities.

You can estimate your cost using the DVC point calculator or consult with a professional at DVC Sales for personalized help.

What Do Maintenance Fees Cover?

Resort Operations
This includes utilities, housekeeping, front desk staffing, landscaping, and security. Resorts such as Animal Kingdom Villas and BoardWalk Villas require extensive operations due to their size and features.

Capital Reserves
Funds are allocated for future major improvements like roof replacements, furniture upgrades, or pool renovations. Resorts like Copper Creek or Boulder Ridge benefit from this long-term planning.

Property Taxes
Disney includes estimated real estate taxes in the dues, which are based on assessed property value.

Administrative Costs
These include customer service, accounting, and website management for the DVC program.

How to Manage and Pay Your Fees

Once you’ve completed your purchase, whether directly or through the DVC resale listings, you’ll receive instructions on how to log in and manage payments. You can:

• Pay in full or enroll in monthly autopay

• Track payment history and upcoming dues

• Get fee updates for resorts like Vero Beach or Beach Club Villas

If you’re purchasing resale, brokers like DVC Sales will advise you on how prorated dues are handled at closing.

Tips to Keep Costs in Check

• Buy at resorts with lower per-point dues

• Stay updated with fee increases using the 2026 points chart

• Consider selling if dues no longer align with your lifestyle. Check out the cost to sell DVC page

Final Thoughts on Maintenance Fees

Understanding your DVC maintenance fees ensures you can budget for future vacations and make smart buying decisions. Whether you own at Polynesian Villas or Grand Californian, your dues support the world-class service Disney is known for. If you’re planning to purchase or evaluate your contract, explore resources from DVC Sales to get started.