Frequently Asked Questions

Independent Funeral Group of America
A VGM Company

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The VGM Group?
What business services are offered?
Why would an independent funeral home want to be an IFGA member?
Does IFGA preclude the relationship I have with my manufacturer's representative?
What does it cost to belong to IFGA?
Do I have to make a long term commitment or sign a contract?
How often can I expect my dues to increase?
How do I become a member of IFGA?
Once I join, how do I buy from IFGA Participating Manufacturers?
How do I obtain more information about IFGA's business services?

What is The VGM Group?

Founded in 1986 by Van G. Miller, The VGM Group comprises 16 companies that provide group purchasing contracts and ancillary services to four markets: Home Medical Equipment dealers, Orthotic and Prosthetic practitioners, green-grass golf establishments and independent funeral homes (IFGA). VGM negotiates contracts with major product manufacturers, and the resulting pricing allows independents to be competitive with national chains.

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What business services are offered?

Complete programs for

Business insurance, including comprehensive liability, professional liability, building and business personal property, worker's compensation and business auto/vehicle.
Financial Services, including equipment leasing, floor-planning of inventory, and revolving lines of credit.
Technologies services and negotiated pricing, including long-distance and toll-free telephone service, calling cards, paging, messaging, internet web page design and maintenance - members often realize double-digit savings.
Creative services, including graphic design, copy writing, corporate identity programs and printing, all at below market rates.
Business management services, including succession planning and financing, pre-need marketing programs, industry-specific legal advice, and more.

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Why would an independent funeral home want to be an IFGA Member?

IFGA members receive better pricing through national buying contracts based upon quantities purchased by the entire group; savings on nationwide group insurance programs; attractive financing opportunities, and an array of business management services.

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Does IFGA preclude the relationship I have with my manufacturer?

Absolutely not. All group members continue to order and buy products as they have in the past. We've found the program enhances sales, both because of the pricing discounts and the opportunity to sell to Members who previously bought little or no product.

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What does it cost to belong to IFGA? Do I have to make a long-term commitment or sign a contract?

There is no membership fee. Dues, payable at the beginning of each month, are currently $50. There are no contracts.

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How often can I expect my dues to increase?

The rate you join at is the rate you pay as long as you're an IFGA member. "It has always been our policy to enhance membership value without raising dues," says CEO Van G. Miller.

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How do I become a member of IFGA?

Complete the membership application and click the submit button, or call Jim Coontz, IFGA director of membership services at 888-480-4342.

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Once I join, how do I buy from IFGA Participating Manufacturers?

It's very simple:

We notify our manufacturers that you've joined IFGA.
You submit your purchase orders with the initials IFGA, followed by your Member number.
Products are priced according to the current IFGA contract, which may also include a fiscal year-end rebate paid directly by IFGA to Members.
The Participating Manufacturer bills all charges directly to you.
IFGA Members must keep their accounts current with each Participating Manufacturer, or their membership will be canceled.

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How do I obtain more information about IFGA's business services?

Call IFGA toll-free at 888-480-4342. A service representative will direct you to the proper department.