What We Offer
There is a place for you in the IMA. We believe that everyone should have a place to grow and connect outside their own ministries. Find out what it looks like to become a member!
1) Credentialing
The IMA provides appropriate licensure that corresponds with ministers’ individual needs, experience, and situation.
Exhorter — One who is a beginner in ministry. (See bylaws Article 1 Section 3:1.a.) Exhorters are required by policy to receive minimal religious training or pastoral mentoring, pursuant to the by-laws Article 1 Section 3:1.a (4), before changing their licensing level. ($150 annually)
Licensed Minister — Any minister who is not ordained who has been qualified to perform sacerdotal duties. (See bylaws Article 1 Section 3:1.b.) ($250 annually)
Ordained — One who is ordained, to perform sacerdotal duties, with supporting valid documentation of date and place of ordination submitted with the application. (See bylaws Article 1 Section 3:1.c.) The IMA accepts ordinations from other associations and individual churches that are in the United States. ($275 annually)
Additional credentialing options are available for missionaries and seniors.
Active Missionaries — An active missionary is a foreign missionary who spends the majority of their time in the country in which the mission endeavor is located. In order to be eligible for this certification the missionary must be physically involved on the mission field without secular employment or employment in a local church or religious organization. ($150 annually)
Seniors — A Senior Member who is 65 or older and is not a pastor. ($150 annually)
Please note: Missionary and Golden Ager (65+) status grants a $150 annual flat rate for membership, independent of Credential Level
2) Covering
The primary expression of the IMA is in a local church — whether at home or on the missions field. As a members-first non-profit association, we are able to provide Federal Exemption coverage to the US-based local churches of our members.
Local Churches led by IMA-member Pastors may apply for their church to become an Affiliate Church — recognized by the IRS under the IMA's 501c3 Group Coverage. The purpose of this coverage is for Federal Tax Exemption only, giving member churches the ability to receive tax-deductible donations.
3) Connection
Fellowship, relationship, and resources are vital to the overall health and wellbeing of any minister. The IMA exists to provide these offerings to all its members.
Our annual National Conference connects ministers and allows opportunities for networking and idea-sharing as well as a retreat for spiritual refreshing. We choose proven, tested speakers with our members’ needs in mind. Our goal is to facilitate a three-day event that leaves our member ministers feeling empowered, renewed, and refocused.
Our District Conferences and various meet-ups throughout the year also provide opportunities for connection and collaboration. These region-specific events allow for more tailored approaches to local settings.
Benefits of IMA Membership
- Loving legacy of honor
- Associate with ministerial colleagues
- National and local conferences
- Camaraderie with soldiers of Christ
- A staffed, competent Home Office
- Support when facing difficulties
- Networking of ministries
- Encouragement for gospel outreach
- Exclusive IRS coverage
- Structure, yet freedom
- Sharing gifts and talents
- Grow with folks you know
- Informative monthly newsletter
- Support for district leadership
- Growth by serving on boards
- Relate to greater body of Christ
- Receive help in church or ministry difficulty when requested
- A true sense of accountability based on mutual respect and honor
- Identify with ministers from across the country and around the world
- Great spiritual fellowship amongst ministers
- An association, not a denomination
- Active Districts in place across the USA
- General Board models servant leadership
- Very reasonable financial dues
- Strong emphasis on support to missions
- Blanket IRS coverage for churches and ministers
- Annual convention held at various locations
- The Bible regarded as the inspired Word of God
Member Application Process
1. Familiarize yourself with the IMA By-Laws/Constitution and Doctrinal Statement to ensure alignment and agreement.
2. Download the Member Application Packet, complete, and mail with supporting documentation, picture, and payment to IMA Home Office or Click the link below to fill out online application.
3. District Chairman reviews the Application for approval
4. Once approved, membership materials will be sent to the member's mailing address as provided on the application.
Membership Renewals
The IMA is an association made up of member ministers. Ministers must renew their membership annually (due by January 1st each year). Any member wishing to change their license level must re-apply for that level.
Associated Church Renewals
The primary expression of the IMA is in a local church - whether at home or on the missions field. As a members-first non-profit association, we are able to provide Federal Exemption coverage to the US-based local churches of our members. Church Renewal Forms and Fees are due January 1st of each year. Failure to submit forms within ninety (90) days of the due date will result in the resignation of your Affiliated Church Status and may require an application for reinstatement.
Church Renewal Fees are based on average weekly attendance:
1. Less than 100 people: $175 annual fee.
2. 100-249 people: $250 annual fee.
3. 250-499 people: $300 annual fee.
4. 500-1000 people: $350 annual fee.
5. 1000+ people: $400 annual fee.
