Independent Market Solutions – IMS

Connect with Ohio-Domiciled, Regional, and National Carriers

As part of your OIA membership, you’re invited to apply for Independent Market Solutions – an exclusive market access program that facilitates subcoded access to participating carriers. Plus, certain markets give you the ability to “graduate” to a direct appointment. See below for more details!

For the most up to date carrier listing, please refer to the OIA IMS page.

Independent Market Solutions (IMS) was established in 2007 with the goal of creating greater market access for member agencies. In 2026, OIA made the investment to become part of IMS and have grown market availability in Ohio to include the participating carriers shown above. The purpose of IMS is to provide member agencies access to quality insurance markets and alternatives that may be otherwise unavailable. IMS creates marketplace leverage through its negotiated contracts, which can be particularly helpful for smaller or rural agents.

The IMS program is more than just a market access solution. For member agencies, it also works like an incubation program where you can gain appointments with various insurance carriers and quickly begin writing business. Many IMS markets require low to no volume commitments, offer competitive commissions, and a pathway to direct appointments. IMS agents can also participate in any earned program contingencies.

Both OIA and IMS seek to perpetuate independent agents rather than consolidate them. Every IMS agent owns their book of business and can qualify to roll that business toward a direct appointment. Certain insurance markets feature the opportunity to “graduate” to a direct appointment once the carrier’s minimum premium threshold and performance standards are met. Access to IMS is an exclusive OIA member benefit. There are no other fees or strings attached.

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To learn more about IMS and how to get signed up, click here: IMS – Ohio Insurance Agents Association

IMS FAQs: