IMS Independent Market Solutions

A market access solution to fit any need for any size agency.

Access to markets shouldn’t prevent you from writing business. Big I Illinois understands this and has joined with 14 Big I associations in 16 states to develop IMS – a standard market access solution to fit every member.

Independent Market Solutions facilitates relationships between agents who are unable to secure company appointments due to any number of reasons, and carriers with an appetite for writing property coverage.

After the contract process, new or small agencies with little or no direct appointments can begin writing policies immediately following carrier appointment.

Mid-sized to large agencies can place a niche piece of business to satisfy clients' needs without taking on additional minimums or placing less desirable risks with an existing market.

Access to IMS is available at no charge to Big I Illinois members, and there are no minimum premium volume requirements.

Big I Illinois Members: Login to get started!

Independent Market Solutions

What You Need to Know

  • No joining costs or monthly fees

  • Standard commissions plus profit sharing

  • Agent owns 100% of expirations

  • Own your book of business

  • Sub-producer appointments

  • Direct working relationship with carriers to help you build relationships

  • Opportunity for direct appointments when minimum volume thresholds are met

  • Exclusive Big I Illinois program

  • New carriers/products added regularly

  • Exceptional customer service

The Purpose of IMS

  • Provide member agents access to markets and alternatives that may be otherwise unavailable.

  • Offer more choices for independent agents, which equates to greater competition for their services.

  • Create added marketplace leverage, particularly for smaller agents, through IMS negotiated contract terms.

Big I Illinois Participating Carriers

  • Attune: Business Owners Policy (BOP), Workers' Compensation, Excess Liability

  • Branch Insurance: Automobile, Homeowners

  • CNA Surety: Bonds

  • Coterie: Business Owners Policy (BOP), General Liability (GL), Professional Liability (PL)

  • Foremost Signature Auto & Home: Foremost will resume appointing IMS agents in 2Q 2022. Please continue to check our website for further updates.

  • Progressive: Personal Auto, Motorcycle, Boat, RV, Commercial Auto

  • RMS Hospitality: General Liability, Liquor Liability & Assault & Battery for Hospitality

  • Travelers: Automobile, Homeowners, Dwelling Fire, Specialty Lines

  • UFG Insurance: Business Owners Policy (BOP)

  • V3: Workers’ Compensation

For the most up-to-date carrier listing and offerings, visit the Illinois landing page on the IMS website.

Go To IMS Website