Generally known as the Joint Mathematics Meetings, the national meetings of the AMS are held annually for the purpose of advancing mathematical achievement, encouraging research, and providing the communication necessary to progress in the field. These meetings serve to preserve, supplement, and utilize the results of the research of mathematicians throughout the world.

The national meetings are held jointly with the Mathematical Association of America and always take place during the first or second week of January. The AMS portion of the program for each of these meetings includes up to five Invited Addresses and ordinarily at least twenty (20) Special Sessions. In addition, these meetings include multiple short courses, minicourses, tutorials, exhibits, social events, and networking and employment opportunities.