Frequently Asked Questions

What is IAB?

We are the Independent Association of Businesses united to support and improve the business conditions of small businesses and self employed.

How long has IAB been in business?

IAB was formed and incorporated in Washington D.C. in August of 1982.

Who owns IAB?

IAB is not owned by anyone. IAB is a non-profit company that is run by a Board of Directors who are elected by the members of IAB.  The elections take place annually and all members are invited to be in attendance.

Where is IAB located?

The main offices of IAB are located in Washington D.C.  The Administrative offices are located in Arlington Texas in the IAB Building.

What recognition has IAB received?

Due to our extraordinary work with the independent business community across America, IAB has been recognized by congressional and White House administrations, including the US Commerce Secretary, Speaker of the House and Vice President.  We continue to serve the interests of small business owners and the self employed as America’s Premier Membership Association.

How does IAB help small businesses?

By being a member of IAB individuals have access to providers who will offer services at a discounted rate or even at no cost; such as tax assistance, legal assistance and corporate services.

How does IAB serve as an Advocate for the members of their Association?

With offices in Washington D.C., IAB is in a good position to promote the interests of self employed and small businesses.

How does IAB communicate with members?

Primarily through digital technology, IAB communicates with our members via websites, newsletters, a member web forum, blogs, web radio, emails and our membership services department by phone

What are some additional privileges of being part of IAB?

Being a member of IAB provides benefits and services that would be difficult to attain by oneself.  Such as, access lifestyle benefits, health benefits, insured benefits and various business services by state per individual state regulations.  There is strength in numbers; being part of a Nationwide Association that has been in existence for almost 30 years provides stability for individuals, self employed and small businesses.

Is IAB an Insurance Company?

No, IAB is not an insurance company.  IAB does not collect premiums and does not pay claims.  Members of IAB have access to some insured benefits.  However, any transaction a member has is between the insurance company and the individual.

What Insurance Carrier does IAB use and what is its rating?

IAB's primary Insurer of its medical and dental insured benefits, FAIRMONT SPECIALTY GROUP, CRUM AND FORSTER, AND US FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY, which recently received a increase in its ratings from the prestigious rating company, AM BEST to an "A" (EXCELLENT) rating. Only the largest, most stable and properly managed companies ever attain to this rating with AM BEST. IAB is proud of being insured and a strategic partner with these Companies.

How do I contact IAB?

For general questions on how to use your membership call our member services department at 1.800.275.1171

Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (CST)

For all other inquiries call 1.817.468.0400.

When can I start using my benefits?

Your discount benefits are available to you immediately after your initial payment is collected. Then, if you enrolled on the 25th or before, you may begin using your insured benefits and BeechStreet benefits on the first of the next month. If you enrolled on the 26th or after, then those benefits will begin on the first of the following month.

Why do my cards have only my name on them?

Membership cards are only sent in the name of the primary member. Remember, these cards are for identification purposes only. Once they are presented at a provider’s office, your member number will be used to show all eligible dependents listed on your membership.

Who would qualify as an eligible dependent?

A dependent may be any of the following:

How do I search for Drs in the network?

You may locate providers by calling IAB Member Service at 1-800-275-1171. However, if you would like to see the complete list of providers in your area for yourself, you may do so by utilizing the easy to use “Locate a Provider” feature of this website.

Do I have to call before going to the Dr?

The only reason you would need to call IAB before going to the doctor would be to verify if the doctor is in the BeechStreet network. If you have already verified this, then you may call the doctor and make the appointment without calling IAB.

When visiting a Dr what do I pay at the time of service?

Your plan does not regulate how much you pay when you are seen. We encourage you to verify with your provider whether you will be billed before or after the claim is processed.

What are my options for paying my monthly membership dues?

IAB's "no-hassle" automatic payment program allows you to have your monthly dues drafted automatically from a bank account, debit card, or credit card each month. You may also pay through a paper bill three months at a time.