well, I actually had a similar question. Because based on this I should be member... But I am not

Rank Required activity Required merit
Brand new 0 0
Newbie 1 0
Jr Member 30 0
Member 60 10
Full Member 120 100
Sr. Member 240 250
Hero Member 480 500
Legendary 775-1030 1000
You get merit points when someone sends you some for one of your posts. For more information, checkout Forum ranks/positions/badges and Merit & new rank requirements.