·7 min read

How to Refer Insurance Clients to IPA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Referring insurance clients is simpler than most professionals expect. This guide covers exactly how to make a referral, what to say (and what not to say), and how to maximize your earnings through IPA's referral partner program.

Step 1: Identify the Referral Moment

Insurance referral moments are everywhere once you start looking: a client mentions buying a home or investment property, starts a new business or adds employees, purchases a vehicle, mentions their insurance is expensive or they haven't shopped in years, or goes through a major life change like divorce, inheritance, or retirement.

Step 2: Make the Introduction

  • In person or by phone: "I work with an insurance agency that shops top-rated national carriers. They often find better rates than what people are currently paying. Want me to have them reach out?"
  • By text: "Hey, for your homeowners insurance, here's a link to request a quote from IPA — they shop the whole market. [your referral link]"
  • By email: "As you get closer to closing, you'll need homeowners insurance. I refer my clients to IPA — they compare 50+ carriers and handle everything professionally."

Step 3: Let IPA Handle the Rest

Once you've made the introduction, step back. IPA's national partners take over — contacting the client, running the market comparison, presenting options, and placing the policy.

Step 4: Receive Your Referral Compensation

IPA processes referral compensation monthly. Every placed policy from your referrals generates a fee that appears in your monthly earnings summary and is paid via ACH. Annual renewals generate additional credits automatically.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly do I say when referring a client to IPA?+
Keep it simple and compliant: 'I work with an insurance agency called IPA that shops top-rated national carriers. They find competitive rates across all the major insurers. Want me to connect you or share their link?' No quoting, no coverage advice, just the introduction.
Should I tell clients I earn a referral compensation?+
Disclosure practices vary by state and professional context. Your IPA referral agreement will specify any disclosure requirements for your state. In most professional contexts, disclosing the referral relationship is considered good practice.
What if my client asks me a coverage question?+
Deflect to IPA: 'That's a great question — IPA's licensed team can walk you through the options. They'll compare across carriers and explain the coverage in detail.' Do not attempt to answer coverage questions as an unlicensed referrer.
How long does it take for IPA to follow up with a referred client?+
IPA aims for same-day contact for referred clients. In most cases, IPA reaches out within a few hours of receiving a referral. Partner referrals are treated as priority contacts.
What if my referral doesn't respond to IPA?+
IPA makes multiple contact attempts for referred clients. You're not responsible for ensuring your referral follows through — your job is the introduction, IPA's job is the follow-up.

Ready to Start Earning Referral Income?

Join IPA's referral partner program. Refer your clients, we handle the insurance — you earn up to 50%.