Become a Member of IOA

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Thank you for your interest in joining the International Ombuds Association (IOA). The mission of IOA is to support and advance the global organizational ombuds profession and to ensure that practitioners work to the highest professional standards. We are a member-led, professional association. Learn more about our history and our commitment to supporting ombuds worldwide.

The people who make up our association come from a variety of backgrounds. Explore some of their stories by reading The Independent Voice, and explore all that IOA has to offer by reviewing our full list of member benefits. 

*Group memberships are only available to groups of four or more individuals from the same organization.
**Retired Member category is only available to previous Retired Members or IOA Members. 

Membership dues are voluntary and non-refundable.

Membership Category Information

Group Membership FAQs

Join Today: Individual Membership

Join Today: Group Membership

Transfer of IOA Membership

IOA memberships are held by individuals. If an individual leaves an organization, they may retain their membership and an interim membership will be offered to the organization they departed upon request. A transfer of membership may be initiated by contacting IOA staff at [email protected]. A $25 fee will apply for each transfer of individual membership.

Group Members may transfer memberships during their renewal period or with the permanent departure of staff. Roster changes for Group Memberships should be submitted to the IOA office at [email protected].

Tax Information for U.S. Members

Contributions or gifts to associations that are exempt under IRS 501(c)6 are not tax-deductible as charitable contributions. However, they may be deducted as ordinary and necessary business expenses. An estimated 15% of 2024 IOA dues will be allocated to lobbying expenditures and are therefore not deductible as a business expense.