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  • Report:  #367398

Complaint Review: Independent Producers Of America/IAC/ABBA/Independence America Insurance Company

Independent Producers Of America/IAC/ABBA/Independence America Insurance Company Beware of this copycat company...can you say MEGA Life/NASE/Cornerstone America? Irving, TEXAS

  • Reported By:
    Somewhere in the SE Florida
  • Submitted:
    Wed, August 27, 2008
  • Updated:
    Fri, January 29, 2010
  • Independent Producers Of America/IAC/ABBA/Independence America Insurance Company
    4929 West Royal Lane
    Nationwide
    U.S.A.
  • Phone:
    800-772-8667
  • Category:

Warning to ALL those with resumes on CareerBuilder etc. You've all read the many ripoff reports about MEGA Life/HealthMarkets etc. and the crazy way they treat their "independent contractors". This company (IPA, ABBA, IAC)doesn't want to make YOU rich, they want to make their band of brothers (all ex-NASE/Cornerstone) rich. Just like before, they will say ANYTHING to you to get you to do what THEY want. Funny thing is, they have so little creativity that they can't even find the time to make up new lies for you to tell your prospective clients!

You do not have to get in your car and "walk and talk" business owners in the rain, snow, 100% heat while paying $4/gallon for gas etc. in order to sell health insurance. And you do NOT have to charge someone a $95 application fee after already adding up to $90 in an association plan they do NOT need on top of incredibly overpriced health insurance.

Wake up people! It's 2008 and because of the internet and online applications, 95% of the health insurance written in this country is done over the phone...not in person.

The captive agents sell Independence American health insurance (administered by IAC - a third party administrator) which in itself is not all that bad except for their lack of prescription drug coverage. The problem with the insurance is that it is extremely overpriced and your agent will LIE to you and say anything to get you to buy it because they have nothing else to sell.

If you are considering joining this company by thinking you will retire a millionaire in 10 years...move on. You cannot maintain a book of business because a truly independent broker will come across your client and roll your business by simply showing your ex-client a better plan while saving them about $200 per month.

I've been captive and I've been independent. Captive advances are simply loans. Since 99.9% of agents hired into captivity flunk out of the business, they leave owing companies like this thousands of dollars and usually signed on NOT realizing this and/or being lied to about it as well as the "stock" accumulation program. You won't retire a millionaire in 10 years if the stock ALL your money is in takes a dive the year before you vest. Just ask some of the NASE/Cornerstone hangers on that have lost over HALF of their stock value just in the past 18 months.

The way these top tier managers/VP's are making money off your efforts is simple. They keep the $95 app fee, they make a killing off REQUIRING you to sell the ABBA membership which virtually gives your client nothing but a headache and is taught to be sold in a misleading way, they charge you interest on your debit balance and they charge you an average of $300 to join their little company. Multiply that by the 100's of recruits they hope to get every month and the thousands of app fees and ABBA memberships and the guys who left Cornerstone/NASE to start this deal are getting rich.

They also cash and deposit your client's initial premium payment WAY before the policy is ever issued which other health insurance companies DO NOT. You do the math. How much interest are they earning during the 2-8 weeks before that policy ever goes into effect? Multiply that by the soon to be 1000's of apps taken weekly...60% of which will never be issued or not taken.

Yes, THEY are getting rich, YOU ARE NOT!!! You will be making a piddly 18%. Oops, make that 9%. They will only advance you 6 months and when that policy falls off the books you ARE charged back...they just call it a "taken rate". Soon, your taken rate will be around 40-50% (if that high) and your advance commission weekly will drop to about 4 - 4.5%.

In the REAL insurance world, you can negotiate a 25% contract, buy your own leads (don't get me started on the crap they call leads and the way they also make money off their so called manager's lead accounts), and if you get paid AS EARNED, you avoid chargebacks altogether.

This is purely a scam that these guys perfected in the early 90's over at NASE/Cornerstone America. Read HUNDREDS of ripoff reports about how badly the agents were/are treated there.

If you are in the market for health insurance, steer clear of the captive agent. They are only looking out for themselves and most of them haven't been in the business 6 months. Find an independent agent with at least 5 years of experience selling insurance for multiple carriers so you can feel assured that you are getting the best product at the best rate for your unique and individual needs.

Freeatlast
Somewhere in the SE, Florida
U.S.A.

28 Updates & Rebuttals


Top of the table

United States of America

TAKE OFF THE BLINDERS! CAPTIVE IS FOR THE SCARED!

#29UPDATE EX-employee responds

Fri, January 29, 2010

really!!? if you want to sell insurance and sleep at night the only real way is to show your clients all there is out there. sit on the same side of the table with them and go through all the companies. At the end they will be happy you took the time to show them, they will buy from you and you will get paid! yes you will get paid as earned but its your money! you dont owe the company on "your own sales" . If you need money to live get a part time job untill you billed it up. there is a reason they keep you captive. there is NO WAY IN HELL that there product ie. IPA,IAC, Mega or whoever fits every person. LOL what a joke! and appointment fees! are no where near 285.00 LOL!! When an IPA or mega or healthmarkets agent comes to your house do they speak to you about LTC,DI or LIFE? hell NO. they might run you a life quote if you ask. but no way in hell does it price in the real world. and the ABBA thing! LOL dont get me started. I am appointed with over 30 companies in south Florida. go to a BGA get your self set up. do you even know what BGA stands for? they will teach you every product out there and you can really help people make an informed decision. I AM TOP OF THE TABLE! WHAT ARE YOU!!


If an ipa or mega rep would like offer there input, please feel free. I look forward to replacing your business.


And yes I once made the mistake of working for one of these captive companies. so tell me im only saying this stuff because I couldn't make. LOL


Ex ipa

South Carolina,
South Carolina,
U.S.A.

IPA UNDER INVESTIGATION

#29UPDATE EX-employee responds

Sat, November 28, 2009

Just as Rick, Mark and Dave were all involved with an Investigation by the Dept of Financial Services back in early 2000 - and they managed to skate their way out of trouble - it seems that their old tricks have already caught up with them and that they are under investigation AGAIN -

Potential recruits: BEWARE - this company is nothing but trouble and currently in HOT, HOT water with all the deceptive recruiting tactics that should be considered profiteering given these hard economic times and the fact they charge New Agents $285.00 to contract with IPA

take the first warning VERY seriously - nobody can afford to PAY IPA $285.00 to end up worse off than when they were recruited - and it has happenned time and time again with this company.

 


The Real MARK HUNT

Jacksonville,
Florida,
USA

Will the real Mark Hunt step forward regarding IPA Independent Producers of America, IAIC, IAC???

#29

Thu, August 27, 2009

These boards sometimes contain a form of internet graffiti now, someone is fraudulently pretending to be me on this board. I guess this is the latest version of identity theft crime. I am truly a victim (for now) who wishes to set the record straight. As a son and grandson of military heroes, I truly love my country and support our constitution and the 1st amendment/ free speech. It does, however, scare me, and should you as well, that someone can pose as another person and get away with it. Obviously, this type of site did NOT verify or substantiate any statements or persons alleging they are someone whom they are not. Here are the facts: I am a hard-working family man who is affiliated with a wonderful company. I joined Independent Producers of America over 2 years ago with the vision that I could be a part of a word-class organization. I am very proud of this organizations products, values, people, and character. What impresses me is that Independent Producers of America puts its people before profits. Perhaps this is one of the reasons that we are growing in a difficult economy. It is my experience that when you are building something great, others will take notice. Some see the opportunity and want to join and contribute. Others become jealous, envious, or intimidated. Perhaps some are competitors, disgruntled former agents who did not get a promotion, or someone who was terminated from our company for failing to live up to their responsibilities. Regardless of the reason these postings appear BE INFORMED! Do your homework carefully. If you are considering a career change, doesn'tt your family deserve the truth? Do in-depth research with credible sources, whether it is with our organization or another potential great opportunity for you and your family. We are talking about your future. Please feel free to contact me at mhunt@ipa-america.com, I will be glad to help you in any way that I can. NOTE: I am working with this site to provide all of my proper identification material in hopes that they will remove anyone fraudulently posing as me. Identity theft, defamation, slander, and libel are all illegal. Rest assured that I will protect my family name and reputation to the fullest extent of the law regardless of how long it may take. I will not be a helpless victim of this newest form of identity theft. I wish you success and happiness in your career endeavors! Onward and Upward! The Real Mark Hunt


Ex ipa

South Carolina,
South Carolina,
U.S.A.

TO ALL THE EMPLOYEES OF IPA - WHAT'S YOUR DUE COMPANY?????

#29

Mon, August 24, 2009

All of you "EMPLOYEES" of IPA - what is your DUE COMPANY? $50,000? $100,000? $200,000 - Do you even have the sense to realize what 1.25% compounded monthly does to even a measly $50,000 Due Company......LOL. Go online, type in your total debt into a a debt calculator, use your own numbers from the "reports" you get monthly from IPA - and then tell me how quickly your debt will clear. Now that number will be assuming you STOPPED writting business today, but you won't will you....NO, NO, NO - you'll keep peddling that plan - and keep increasing your debt - and NONE of you have a 100% placement rate with a 0% lapse rate - so you will be cashing checks that CANNOT pay themselves off - therby INCREASING your debt.

Have you even bothered to crunch the numbers - you have at best a 20% renewal rate - you are paying RIDICULOUS interest on money you didn't even EARN - IT WAS LENT TO YOU - your accounting is pathetic - your lapse rates are over 4% monthly - you have some of the poorest underwriting turn around in the Nation - ARE YOU KIDDING ME? YOU ARE IN A MINE FIELD and dancing around celebrating - trust me - the end ain't gonna be pretty!!!!

You act like it's the people who leave who are crazy..... HAHAHAHA

YOU ARE BRAINWASHED AND SHACKLED WITH DEBT!!!! Your account won't clear in 12 months, 18 months, 24 months or 36 months - infact - IT WILL NEVER CLEAR - it just won't happen. You were told when you started you would have a cleared account in MAXIMUM 24 months by Pertile himself...... let me ask you - DO YOU HAVE A CLEARED ACCOUNT?  NO - NO YOU DON'T - well why is that Mr. this-is-the-best-company-out-there...... why hasn't your account cleared in the time frame you were TOLD it was going to clear?

BECAUSE THEY CHANGED CONTRACT, THE INSURANCE COMPANY, THE INTEREST LEVEL, THEY CHANGED THE RULES - WHY? Not for YOUR benefit - Not because agent is KING like they tell you - because they are NOT PROFITABLE - the accounts were upside down - meaning the company didn't want to finance all the debt at 12% - they want MORE PROFITS - 17% it is...... - HA - let me ask you: is that the action of a company where the agent is KING? HOW the F*&^ does increasing the agents DEBT LOAD benefit the AGENT? IT DOESN'T - but it does give a few agents who might have left had they had a smaller due company GOLDEN HANDCUFFS. THE TRUTH IS - most of you if you had the opportunity to leave - you would.

IPA will keep you SHACKLED WITH DEBT - SCARED and DEMORALIZED - and you as the brainwashed agent, divisional, regional will hope that if you just do what your told for long enough it will all work out..........

So tell me - if this is such a great company that truly wants people to be financially free - why don't they let you go as earned on your account? Why not give the option to any agent - because it is not profitable to to IPA to have agents who don't pay interest........

The fact you are completely oblivious to all of this means YOU ARE INSANE!!! You wouldn't let your bank INCREASE your interest rate on your MORTGAGE by 50%, but you'll let the company YOU TRUST (there's your first mistake) do it to you. "Guys, don't worry, you'll all be millionaires, stay the course, believe in us..."

TO TRUST THOSE WHO DELIBERATELY PLACE YOU IN HARMS WAY IS FOOLISH!!!!!

From the Bible: Mathew 7:16
"You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they?"

From the Bible: 2 Peter 2:3
"In their greed they will exploit you with deceptive words. The ancient verdict against them is still in force, and their destruction is not delayed."


Florida Agent

Jacksonville,
Florida,
USA

Ex-Agents make me laugh

#29

Mon, August 24, 2009

Some of what you have read is true. Not eveyone that comes to work with IPA-America has success. It takes a special type of individual to build wealth. If you are considering a career with IPA, take into consideration the following:

 

You will not succeed with IPA if you have any of the following qualities:

1. you are lazy

2. you don't like to work

3. you have no personality

4. you need someone to tell you what to do

5. you blame others for your failure

 

IPA and it's business model is set up for people that can succeed in life without someone else pulling the puppet strings. Rather than balme the company for your short-comings as an agent, take a look in the mirror. It's your fault! Go get a job that pays hourly and leave the real money to us. "They didn't give me leads" They didn't give me any clients". GIVE ME GIVE ME GIVE ME!!! That's all I hear from you wanna-be agents. You think the grass is greener somewhere else? The problem is not the product, and it's not management either. The problem is you!! Good luck!


Mark Hunt

Florida,
USA

I agree with the first poster

#29

Mon, August 24, 2009

IPA is modeled after Cornerstone America - a company that I became very wealthy with back in the 90's. Right now, however, IPA is losing traction because of the poor leadership in the company. I have hired and trained some of the best people at CA and here at IPA as well - I spent alot of my time recruiting people away from Cornerstone to bring them into a better deal at IPA, but things have now changed - and it looks as though we are in for a rough ride at IPA.

My recommendation to those who are considering joining IPA - DON'T!!! You can't offer a win-win-win situation to anyone when you can't provide choices to your customers, income to your agents, or profits to the insurance company. I have been in the insurance business for over 10 years, but I fear the Captive Agent Distribution Model's days are numbered - we just can't go on paying people in debt and destroying families by putting them in financial ruin - and making a profit from it.

 


wjon67@aol.com

Madison,
Tennessee,
U.S.A.

The Real Answer, not half truths...

#29

Fri, August 14, 2009

I personally have my insurance with IAC it has been great.  No lies, no song and dance.  It is as it states without any limitations that other companies place on their insureds without letting them know about it.  IPA is a home based business opportunity a Marketing and Sales position with a career organization that has experience on how make you a Professional Health/Life Agent.  Show you the business, offer ongoing training, and provide benefits that are priced well in the marketplace.  We offer advance on commission because on an average sale as the complainer suggests being paid as earned would pay you $80.  Our advance program pays an average of $480 advance which is a loan, for each sale which allows New people in the business the ability to make a living selling 2, 3, 4, even 5 policies a week you are making good money.  Why is Free at last so afraid to identify himself.  Was he hired, couldn't sell and has to blame somebody??  I don't know his personal agenda he may have been fired for unethical business practices and is on a rampage about that...anyway, you feel free to call me with any questions, concerns or otherwise, because I have been with IPA for 3 years,  insured with them for 2 1/2 years and have experience nothing but positives.

In these times  of bulletin boards, blogs, and other means to post complaints...look up companies you do business with...Walmart, your bank, Visa, Blue Cross Blue Shield, there are THOUSANDS of people saying these are communist thieves for how they were handle...or wronged...or ripped off.  Were they?  Knee jerk reactions are the way that unlearned people react...an eye for an eye.  Maybe he was mishandled but to involve himself in Libel...I hope one day people will not be spineless or nameless as in this case and will ask for information or help instead of posting erroneous information riddled in half truths and exaggerations. 

I am Wayne Jones I am in Nashville TN my office number is 615.420.6003 If you have questions, concerns, answers...ha,ha please feel free to call me.

 


Love To Sell

St Ann,
Oregon,
U.S.A.

failures are failures

#29Consumer Comment

Tue, July 14, 2009

It's funny how failures always blame other people.


M.

Northville,
Michigan,
U.S.A.

To the poster above this reply...

#29UPDATE EX-employee responds

Tue, June 30, 2009

The reason for this Website is for people to remain anonymous. For someone to reveal their information so that your company could file a frivolous lawsuit would be the most stupidest thing to do.

To all agents and would-be customers of NASE, MEGA, or any other benefits driven company in order to offer business services and insurance, do your research BEFORE you buy. There are plenty of other good and reputable insurance companies that pay claims and do not require ridiculous application fees, which also offer comprehensive insurance plans WITHOUT all the "holes" in order to deny your claim.

Contact the BBB and also "Google" the company to find out about complaints and fines that these companies have had to shell out to state regulators and insurance commissioners. It would also be wise to contact your state insurance commissioner for further research on a company.

I'm an ex-agent of one of these companies and all I can tell you from my experience in peddling these ridiculous insurance plans, is to STAY AWAY and save yourself un-necessary grief and aggravation when it comes to paying your claim.

Good Luck!


Independent Producers Of America, LLC

Tampa,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Independent Producers of America, LLC Responds.

#29UPDATE Employee

Sat, May 16, 2009

Independent Producers of America, LLC (IPA) is a national sales and marketing organization which takes pride in serving its customers through its network of independent agents. IPA strives for the highest possible customer satisfaction and our agents are working hard to achieve their goals each and every day.

It is disappointing to learn of a complaint directed at IPA or one of our agents. However, it is not possible to respond meaningfully to anonymous postings or other forms of internet graffiti.

All such communications should be sent, in a signed letter including your name, address, phone number and e-mail address, to IPA's legal department at 485 Madison Avenue-14th Floor, New York, New York 10022. IPA takes these communications seriously and will treat them appropriately.

Thank you.


Independent Producers Of America, LLC

Tampa,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Independent Producers of America, LLC Responds.

#29UPDATE Employee

Sat, May 16, 2009

Independent Producers of America, LLC (IPA) is a national sales and marketing organization which takes pride in serving its customers through its network of independent agents. IPA strives for the highest possible customer satisfaction and our agents are working hard to achieve their goals each and every day.

It is disappointing to learn of a complaint directed at IPA or one of our agents. However, it is not possible to respond meaningfully to anonymous postings or other forms of internet graffiti.

All such communications should be sent, in a signed letter including your name, address, phone number and e-mail address, to IPA's legal department at 485 Madison Avenue-14th Floor, New York, New York 10022. IPA takes these communications seriously and will treat them appropriately.

Thank you.


Independent Producers Of America, LLC

Tampa,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Independent Producers of America, LLC Responds.

#29UPDATE Employee

Sat, May 16, 2009

Independent Producers of America, LLC (IPA) is a national sales and marketing organization which takes pride in serving its customers through its network of independent agents. IPA strives for the highest possible customer satisfaction and our agents are working hard to achieve their goals each and every day.

It is disappointing to learn of a complaint directed at IPA or one of our agents. However, it is not possible to respond meaningfully to anonymous postings or other forms of internet graffiti.

All such communications should be sent, in a signed letter including your name, address, phone number and e-mail address, to IPA's legal department at 485 Madison Avenue-14th Floor, New York, New York 10022. IPA takes these communications seriously and will treat them appropriately.

Thank you.


Independent Producers Of America, LLC

Tampa,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Independent Producers of America, LLC Responds.

#29UPDATE Employee

Sat, May 16, 2009

Independent Producers of America, LLC (IPA) is a national sales and marketing organization which takes pride in serving its customers through its network of independent agents. IPA strives for the highest possible customer satisfaction and our agents are working hard to achieve their goals each and every day.

It is disappointing to learn of a complaint directed at IPA or one of our agents. However, it is not possible to respond meaningfully to anonymous postings or other forms of internet graffiti.

All such communications should be sent, in a signed letter including your name, address, phone number and e-mail address, to IPA's legal department at 485 Madison Avenue-14th Floor, New York, New York 10022. IPA takes these communications seriously and will treat them appropriately.

Thank you.


Beware, Fl

Somewhere,
Florida,
U.S.A.

SCAM _ SCAM _ SCUM

#29UPDATE EX-employee responds

Sat, May 02, 2009

I worked with Mark Burns in TAMPA - he lied - period.

Here is how it works - you get paid 18% as a rookie - 20% as a senior agent - after you write 50,000 AV and then as a field trainer you are paid 22% and 24% as a divisional. The advances are 6 month advances if you have a good placement rate - but you also have to pay 1.25% interest on the advance EVERY month - thats 17% interest per year - CREDIT CARD DEBT!!!! AND - you never get the other 6 months - they pay you 2 weeks after you submit your business, and you never get the remainder - all the rest of the months go to pay down your "DUE COMPANY" your loan - remember????? You took out a loan with them when you cashed your check for 17% interest (1.25% compounded monthly) and you have to pay it all back if you leave - EVERY PENNY PLUS INTEREST!!!

You can eventually get to a CLEAR ACCOUNT, but it will take you YEARS and just like your mortgage - you will have paid this company in interest more than what you were paid!!!! And how you you qualify to "VEST" (get your money they owe you) - you have to write a minimum of 40,000 AV for 8 consecutive quarters (2 years) before you qualify for 1 YEAR OF VESTING????? 2 years of BS - not getting paid properly - being lied to - having to pay interest - dealing with IDIOTS - and not knowing the product and getting horrible training - before you get to actually have your 1st year - HAHAHAHAHA - ARE YOU KIDDING ME???

Trust me - there is much more to this company - their top producer in TAMPA - MARK BURNS - is an adulterer who has tried to force himself on several of his female agents and he is their ROLE MODEL FOR SUCCESS - LIE - CHEAT - and don't forget to try and screw every woman who walks through the door!!!

This company has no morals and no code of conduct - they are out to hire as many people as possible and then drive them away so they can sue you for all the money they paid you and keep all of your insurance business

GET OUT GET OUT GET OUT -


Ipa Associate

FL,
Florida,
U.S.A.

You did read the contract didn't you?

#29UPDATE Employee

Mon, April 27, 2009

I've been involved in several insurance companies some brokers some not. To answer all the above and in regards to the company not treating agents fairly. I would ask if you read the contract that you agreed to when you signed up with IPA? If so then I don't know why you're complaining about the issues listed. The IPA contract has everything clearly written for all to read in regards to how the agent will be paid whether it be loans i.e. advance commissions. I've never found free money anywhere or a job you get paid at for not having to work. My question to those treated unfairly or those that did not receive leads did you even try to generate any of your own leads? Maybe that's why you didn't get leads in the first place. It takes effort and hard work on your part to make something of yourself unless you want to be a crook just selling insurance to whoever you can get to hand over a check. In regards to the individual receiving unsatisfatory insurance coverage I'm sure that I or anyone else I work with would do anything they can to resolve the issue and get you proper coverage. The company cannot control every agent they can only do their best to educate their agents and make sure they know what to do. It is up to the agent to make the right decision if there is a decision to be made and these actions you've written can occur with any agent in any insurance company. I would rather part as friends then give a policy to a prospect that does not fit their needs. For everyone that thinks this is a scam I know it's hard to work for your money but money just doesn't fall out of the sky. I've run my owned my own business before that went bankrupt and closed recently due to many extreme variables beyond my control. Being an independent contractor is much the same thing as having your own business it's not a JOB.


Darknowindachau

Jasper,
Tennessee,
U.S.A.

It's only pragmatic.

#29Consumer Suggestion

Fri, December 05, 2008

I had an interview with company... my story isn't much different than anyone else's. The e-mail offers a sales position with "starting salary $75,000 - $120,000 yearly."

Mary Kay Cosmetics does the same thing. I've dated a girl that worked for that company. It's the same principle.

They offer all the rock-start glamour and promise of a 6-figure a year job with part time hours.

Anyway, I'm a recent college graduate - I have a B.S. in Political Science and Economics. One of my economics courses includes Health Care Economics and Finance. I understand the idea behind the pool of risk, risk aversion, and pretty much every other facet to health insurance that exists in a regular competitive market that offers a normal (not inferior or giffen) good.

I encourage any agents to debate me on the issue. I'm not doubting the fact that some of you are successful. I'm doubting the fact that others will also become successful. I am doubting the fact that the job is immediately glamourous as promised in the interview and in the e-mail sent to potential interviewees.

Ask yourself this question: How many Mega Life and Health commercials have you seen during prime time TV? I only see them late at night or early in the morning.

The insurance industry is no different than any other industry when it comes to economics principles. Any company that claims to operate against the grain and turn out to be more successful than any other company is full of garbage. If Cornerstone and Mega were the massive companies with the most clout as they say they are, then all agents from all other companies would be tearing the doors down at their local Cornerstone group leader's office to get a job.

Btw, I didn't meet one person at the interview that day that had ever worked for the insurance industry before. Once the group leader saw I've had classes in healthcare, the e-mails and phone calls stopped.

APC


Mary

Alpharetta,
Georgia,
U.S.A.

To the Quality Career Agent

#29Consumer Suggestion

Tue, September 30, 2008

You definitely sound brainwashed and have overdosed on the corporate Kool-Aid. Your rhetoric sickens me.

If you are part of such an upstanding organization, then why do you continue to hire and keep on board agents who intentionally misrepresent your so called answer to the healthcare woes of the country? The agent that sold me my policy lied through his nose, not to mention other parts of his body.

Your misconceptions about real insurance agents who can sell more than one company shows your ignorance. In fact, you made one statement that is so contradictory it's funny.

I'm now stuck with your so called wonderful coverage and I only have outpatient testing coverage of $2500 per year. This is NOT what I call wonderful major medical coverage.

If your agent had told me the truth from the beginning instead of selling on PRICE, I would have chosen a different carrier with full coverage. He knew this and in order to make his premium competitive, he cut my benefits and didn't tell me.

Stick it in your ear. Your company will eventually end up just like the other companies mentioned in this report...and it's obvious you you to work for them as well.


Quality Career Agent

Flower Mound,
Texas,
U.S.A.

Failure Blames Others

#29UPDATE Employee

Mon, September 29, 2008

This guy has communicated so many untruths and inacurracies he proves himself at worst incompetent and at best ignorant...ABBA is a fantastic association with superior benefits that complement superior major medical health insurance plans...there are no better benefit plans on the market that come close to the quality or coverage represented by the marketing group IPA...he knows that and is mad because he continues to fail in the industry...he now tries to hawk inferior plans via telephone to unaware, unsuspecting individuals...he does not meet with anyone because he has forgotten that the true definition of sales includes building a personal relationship...he does not care about his clients, he wants to do the least amount of effort to try to make money...he will give you the cheapest plan in order to "make a sale"..."good insurance is not cheap and cheap insurance is not good"

Agents at IPA build wealth by taking care of their clients and building renewals...people do not renew if they are not happy with their policies it is that simple...this sad fellow on the other hand rolls his unhappy clients to another plan that will make them unhappy...so next year he rolls the people to another plan that they will be unhappy with...HE IS THE ONE RUNNING A RIPOFF!!! God forbid you get sick and are on one of his plans...you will be stuck with $1,000's of unpaid bills and you will NOT be able to get onto another insurance plan

IPA has a business model that works to help promote a long term win/win environment for ALL parties...first and foremost the client, second the agent, and third the insurance company...this business model is completely different than simply "selling insurance", therefor the "fees" that are referred to go towards building the program and helping more clients get superior health coverage...this is not a "get rich quick scheme" and no one is "getting rich" by screwing people out of their money...IPA offers agents a framework, many tools and support systems to help them launch into a benefits consulting career...other companies do not give their agents nearly the support or tools that IPA does...and that has a cost to it...

IPA/ABBA business model is the answer to the problems created by companies selling on the phone or over the internet...go to any dept of insurance website and and dicover that they discourage consumers from buying insurance over the phone or over the internet...

This guy fails to understand and utilize the business opportunity he had with IPA and is now blaming the system for his failure instead of looking in the mirror...get better NOT bitter little man!


Getreal

Cumming,
Georgia,
U.S.A.

Dear Agent: Get Real

#29UPDATE Employee

Fri, September 26, 2008

I am currently trapped with this bunch of clowns. While you mentioned that the coverage is decent, you fail to mention that IPA tacks on a lot of dollars the client has to pay monthly for things they don't need. And if they think they need them, they can get them other places for much cheaper.

IPA is definitely trying to pattern themselves after UGA/Cornerstone and you don't need a crystal ball to see where we are headed. That's why I am outta here after the first of the year. As soon as my clients find out that other companies don't charge a $95 application fee and that they can get the so called accident/critical illness benefit for a family for $20 instead of $90, they cancel the policy. We are pushed in our office to write high deductible policies and add that $90 ABBA plan. This is b/c IPA makes a ton off the ABBA plans which aren't worth the paper they are written on.

To make it clear, IPA agents are told in order to qualify for their pitiful little quarterly bonuses that an ABBA membership has to be written on every policy sold in order for the sale to count. Sounds like extortion to me.

To the general public considering Independence American as their health insurance provider - beware of your agent. They don't know what they are talking about and will lie to you because that's what they are trained to do. To anyone considering "becoming a millionaire" with IPA - ain't gonna happen. You'll just end up owing them thousands of dollars which is what they want.


Getreal

Cumming,
Georgia,
U.S.A.

Dear Agent: Get Real

#29UPDATE Employee

Fri, September 26, 2008

I am currently trapped with this bunch of clowns. While you mentioned that the coverage is decent, you fail to mention that IPA tacks on a lot of dollars the client has to pay monthly for things they don't need. And if they think they need them, they can get them other places for much cheaper.

IPA is definitely trying to pattern themselves after UGA/Cornerstone and you don't need a crystal ball to see where we are headed. That's why I am outta here after the first of the year. As soon as my clients find out that other companies don't charge a $95 application fee and that they can get the so called accident/critical illness benefit for a family for $20 instead of $90, they cancel the policy. We are pushed in our office to write high deductible policies and add that $90 ABBA plan. This is b/c IPA makes a ton off the ABBA plans which aren't worth the paper they are written on.

To make it clear, IPA agents are told in order to qualify for their pitiful little quarterly bonuses that an ABBA membership has to be written on every policy sold in order for the sale to count. Sounds like extortion to me.

To the general public considering Independence American as their health insurance provider - beware of your agent. They don't know what they are talking about and will lie to you because that's what they are trained to do. To anyone considering "becoming a millionaire" with IPA - ain't gonna happen. You'll just end up owing them thousands of dollars which is what they want.


Getreal

Cumming,
Georgia,
U.S.A.

Dear Agent: Get Real

#29UPDATE Employee

Fri, September 26, 2008

I am currently trapped with this bunch of clowns. While you mentioned that the coverage is decent, you fail to mention that IPA tacks on a lot of dollars the client has to pay monthly for things they don't need. And if they think they need them, they can get them other places for much cheaper.

IPA is definitely trying to pattern themselves after UGA/Cornerstone and you don't need a crystal ball to see where we are headed. That's why I am outta here after the first of the year. As soon as my clients find out that other companies don't charge a $95 application fee and that they can get the so called accident/critical illness benefit for a family for $20 instead of $90, they cancel the policy. We are pushed in our office to write high deductible policies and add that $90 ABBA plan. This is b/c IPA makes a ton off the ABBA plans which aren't worth the paper they are written on.

To make it clear, IPA agents are told in order to qualify for their pitiful little quarterly bonuses that an ABBA membership has to be written on every policy sold in order for the sale to count. Sounds like extortion to me.

To the general public considering Independence American as their health insurance provider - beware of your agent. They don't know what they are talking about and will lie to you because that's what they are trained to do. To anyone considering "becoming a millionaire" with IPA - ain't gonna happen. You'll just end up owing them thousands of dollars which is what they want.


Getreal

Cumming,
Georgia,
U.S.A.

Dear Agent: Get Real

#29UPDATE Employee

Fri, September 26, 2008

I am currently trapped with this bunch of clowns. While you mentioned that the coverage is decent, you fail to mention that IPA tacks on a lot of dollars the client has to pay monthly for things they don't need. And if they think they need them, they can get them other places for much cheaper.

IPA is definitely trying to pattern themselves after UGA/Cornerstone and you don't need a crystal ball to see where we are headed. That's why I am outta here after the first of the year. As soon as my clients find out that other companies don't charge a $95 application fee and that they can get the so called accident/critical illness benefit for a family for $20 instead of $90, they cancel the policy. We are pushed in our office to write high deductible policies and add that $90 ABBA plan. This is b/c IPA makes a ton off the ABBA plans which aren't worth the paper they are written on.

To make it clear, IPA agents are told in order to qualify for their pitiful little quarterly bonuses that an ABBA membership has to be written on every policy sold in order for the sale to count. Sounds like extortion to me.

To the general public considering Independence American as their health insurance provider - beware of your agent. They don't know what they are talking about and will lie to you because that's what they are trained to do. To anyone considering "becoming a millionaire" with IPA - ain't gonna happen. You'll just end up owing them thousands of dollars which is what they want.


Screwedbyipa

Conyers,
Georgia,
U.S.A.

IPA ripped me off in Atlanta

#29UPDATE EX-employee responds

Fri, September 19, 2008

I agree 100% with the first guy who posted about this scam of a company. There were about 10 of us who all got hired in Atlanta at the same time with promises of free leads and field training and before I left they had hired about 20 more people. There were so many of us that came in all at once that half of us never got the first lead because the company claimed there was no "space" in their lead system and we would have to wait. What a load of BS. We all paid $285 to Russ Winn in Atlanta and ended up leaving with nothing. I heard several complaints that agents were refused field training by their manager because he was too busy trying to stay the number one agent in the company.

I'm glad I got out but mad I lost the $285. I'm now with an MGA who didn't charge me a single penny for any of my multiple company appointments which is the way it really works. To the guy who said something about modeling after successful company: I don't know any of those guys you mentioned although I know one of them is related to Russ Winn. Their old company may have been successful, but these guys need to realize that was then and this is now. It looks like they are so busy trying to protect their little circle of friends and relatives that they've forgotten to take care of those they entice into their little scam so their business isn't going to grow (at least not in Atlanta with the fools running the deal here). As far as the product goes, it's okay but overpriced. The real shame in all of this is IPA themselves and it's hard to believe that Independence American or IAC or whoever is allowing their name to be dragged through the mud when they could just allow their product to be sold by independent agents and not this captive bunch of thieving crooks.


Outsider

Ruston,
Louisiana,
U.S.A.

IPA/CMA Etc

#29Consumer Comment

Sat, September 13, 2008

As an outsider looking in and knowing both companies I would just like to make a few comments.

1. IPA is modeled after CMA, but at one time CMA managers and reps had the best deal going

2. This is my personal feelings, maybe Keeler , Baker , Groves, Pertile etc were tired of the way CMA was treating the reps and the customers and are trying to do the right honorable thing with their new company.

3. Why not model after a successfull company with better product
I couldnt find a like to the guy in Boca Raton in his report but would like to see his site.

Right now most inusrance is being sold over the internet, but just like "internet leads" for insurance reps it ran its course and agents are going back to Telemarketed Leads, they were tired of talking to people who filled out a survey to get an XBOX 360. People will get tired of the coldness of doing everything over the internet and want to see their insurance rep. Thanks


Agent

Lakeworth,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Agent

#29UPDATE Employee

Thu, September 11, 2008

Notice that this guy did not say who he works for or where he got all of his exerience from. He is a ex employee of cornerstone/Mega/midwest/healthmarkets and gets a hell of a lot of overides from that company because he was a manager who got laid off from them and then he went to start his personnel scam.His company was just investigated because of inapproperiate business dealings, go figure. He also changes the name of his company every 2 or 3 years so that the crap that builds up on his company does not get to deep. The reason he has a grudge against independence american is because we are distroying his bussiness because people are seeing that his product is a cheap indemnity product and our is a full Major Medical Policy. He talks about you not having to meet with your agent and that on line is the way to go . He says this because he does not want to see you in a store and have to turn the other way because of selling a crap product and being imbarrassed . Wouldn"t you want to know who is selling you health coverage and be able to see it in person befor buying over the phone? Independence American company has a fantastic product that is a Major Medical product that can be used all over the US, Canada and internationally. If you click on his sight that he so nicely provided for you , you will notice that he is located in Boca Raton , in a big marble building . His office has around 10 telemarketers calling all over the US soliciting people and offering them crap coverage just to earn a buck. Who do you think is getting rich now!!! this guy is the real scam and I should know because I used to work for him!!. My suggestion is to never buy over the phone and always meet with a agent so you can put a name with voice and feel comfortable with the product that you have purchaced.

The one comment that I will agree on is that cornerstone is a company that is in a lot of trouble and does not take care of ther clients or there employies.Just ck them out on this sight, Also as far as being a independent agent versues a captured agent, the problem with a independent agent or a broker is that they dont really care if you get the best coverage just that they are able to strip down a policy enough to get you to buy it and they have NO allegience to any one company. On the other hand, a captured agent for Independence American believes in his policy and really cares abought his client and makes sure he gets his client the best possible coverage possible. Rest assured , we will continue to do our best to rid the country of scams like his by providing a Major Medical Product to people and getting rid of crap coverage like his.


This guy is the reason that insurance is the way it is in America!!!


Agent

Lakeworth,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Agent

#29UPDATE Employee

Thu, September 11, 2008

Notice that this guy did not say who he works for or where he got all of his exerience from. He is a ex employee of cornerstone/Mega/midwest/healthmarkets and gets a hell of a lot of overides from that company because he was a manager who got laid off from them and then he went to start his personnel scam.His company was just investigated because of inapproperiate business dealings, go figure. He also changes the name of his company every 2 or 3 years so that the crap that builds up on his company does not get to deep. The reason he has a grudge against independence american is because we are distroying his bussiness because people are seeing that his product is a cheap indemnity product and our is a full Major Medical Policy. He talks about you not having to meet with your agent and that on line is the way to go . He says this because he does not want to see you in a store and have to turn the other way because of selling a crap product and being imbarrassed . Wouldn"t you want to know who is selling you health coverage and be able to see it in person befor buying over the phone? Independence American company has a fantastic product that is a Major Medical product that can be used all over the US, Canada and internationally. If you click on his sight that he so nicely provided for you , you will notice that he is located in Boca Raton , in a big marble building . His office has around 10 telemarketers calling all over the US soliciting people and offering them crap coverage just to earn a buck. Who do you think is getting rich now!!! this guy is the real scam and I should know because I used to work for him!!. My suggestion is to never buy over the phone and always meet with a agent so you can put a name with voice and feel comfortable with the product that you have purchaced.

The one comment that I will agree on is that cornerstone is a company that is in a lot of trouble and does not take care of ther clients or there employies.Just ck them out on this sight, Also as far as being a independent agent versues a captured agent, the problem with a independent agent or a broker is that they dont really care if you get the best coverage just that they are able to strip down a policy enough to get you to buy it and they have NO allegience to any one company. On the other hand, a captured agent for Independence American believes in his policy and really cares abought his client and makes sure he gets his client the best possible coverage possible. Rest assured , we will continue to do our best to rid the country of scams like his by providing a Major Medical Product to people and getting rid of crap coverage like his.


This guy is the reason that insurance is the way it is in America!!!


Agent

Lakeworth,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Agent

#29UPDATE Employee

Thu, September 11, 2008

Notice that this guy did not say who he works for or where he got all of his exerience from. He is a ex employee of cornerstone/Mega/midwest/healthmarkets and gets a hell of a lot of overides from that company because he was a manager who got laid off from them and then he went to start his personnel scam.His company was just investigated because of inapproperiate business dealings, go figure. He also changes the name of his company every 2 or 3 years so that the crap that builds up on his company does not get to deep. The reason he has a grudge against independence american is because we are distroying his bussiness because people are seeing that his product is a cheap indemnity product and our is a full Major Medical Policy. He talks about you not having to meet with your agent and that on line is the way to go . He says this because he does not want to see you in a store and have to turn the other way because of selling a crap product and being imbarrassed . Wouldn"t you want to know who is selling you health coverage and be able to see it in person befor buying over the phone? Independence American company has a fantastic product that is a Major Medical product that can be used all over the US, Canada and internationally. If you click on his sight that he so nicely provided for you , you will notice that he is located in Boca Raton , in a big marble building . His office has around 10 telemarketers calling all over the US soliciting people and offering them crap coverage just to earn a buck. Who do you think is getting rich now!!! this guy is the real scam and I should know because I used to work for him!!. My suggestion is to never buy over the phone and always meet with a agent so you can put a name with voice and feel comfortable with the product that you have purchaced.

The one comment that I will agree on is that cornerstone is a company that is in a lot of trouble and does not take care of ther clients or there employies.Just ck them out on this sight, Also as far as being a independent agent versues a captured agent, the problem with a independent agent or a broker is that they dont really care if you get the best coverage just that they are able to strip down a policy enough to get you to buy it and they have NO allegience to any one company. On the other hand, a captured agent for Independence American believes in his policy and really cares abought his client and makes sure he gets his client the best possible coverage possible. Rest assured , we will continue to do our best to rid the country of scams like his by providing a Major Medical Product to people and getting rid of crap coverage like his.


This guy is the reason that insurance is the way it is in America!!!


Agent

Lakeworth,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Agent

#29UPDATE Employee

Thu, September 11, 2008

Notice that this guy did not say who he works for or where he got all of his exerience from. He is a ex employee of cornerstone/Mega/midwest/healthmarkets and gets a hell of a lot of overides from that company because he was a manager who got laid off from them and then he went to start his personnel scam.His company was just investigated because of inapproperiate business dealings, go figure. He also changes the name of his company every 2 or 3 years so that the crap that builds up on his company does not get to deep. The reason he has a grudge against independence american is because we are distroying his bussiness because people are seeing that his product is a cheap indemnity product and our is a full Major Medical Policy. He talks about you not having to meet with your agent and that on line is the way to go . He says this because he does not want to see you in a store and have to turn the other way because of selling a crap product and being imbarrassed . Wouldn"t you want to know who is selling you health coverage and be able to see it in person befor buying over the phone? Independence American company has a fantastic product that is a Major Medical product that can be used all over the US, Canada and internationally. If you click on his sight that he so nicely provided for you , you will notice that he is located in Boca Raton , in a big marble building . His office has around 10 telemarketers calling all over the US soliciting people and offering them crap coverage just to earn a buck. Who do you think is getting rich now!!! this guy is the real scam and I should know because I used to work for him!!. My suggestion is to never buy over the phone and always meet with a agent so you can put a name with voice and feel comfortable with the product that you have purchaced.

The one comment that I will agree on is that cornerstone is a company that is in a lot of trouble and does not take care of ther clients or there employies.Just ck them out on this sight, Also as far as being a independent agent versues a captured agent, the problem with a independent agent or a broker is that they dont really care if you get the best coverage just that they are able to strip down a policy enough to get you to buy it and they have NO allegience to any one company. On the other hand, a captured agent for Independence American believes in his policy and really cares abought his client and makes sure he gets his client the best possible coverage possible. Rest assured , we will continue to do our best to rid the country of scams like his by providing a Major Medical Product to people and getting rid of crap coverage like his.


This guy is the reason that insurance is the way it is in America!!!

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