Membership FAQ's

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Membership Frequently Asked Questions

Our FAQ page is designed to support both current and prospective members by providing clear, accessible answers to the questions we hear most often.

Whether you're renewing your membership, exploring the benefits of joining, or looking for guidance on professional requirements, this hub brings together the information you need in one convenient place.

1. What are the main benefits of becoming an IDA member?

IDA membership offers professional connection, industry visibility, career development, access to business resources, and opportunities to be actively involved in shaping the future of the interior design profession in Alberta.

2. How does IDA help members build professional connections?

Members can take part in networking events, mentorship opportunities, volunteer roles, and access a nationwide community through Interior Designers of Canada (IDC), which includes more than 3,000 members.

3. What business tools and resources are available to members?

IDA provides members with industry-specific insurance discounts, model contract templates, salary surveys, business resources, and promotional opportunities such as competitions and directory listings.

4. What membership categories does the Interior Designers of Alberta offer?

IDA offers several membership categories, including Registered, Associate, Intern, Student, Inactive, Retired, Fellow, and Honourary. Each category has its own purpose, eligibility, and requirements.

5. Which membership categories can I apply for?

You can apply for Registered, Associate, Intern, or Student membership. Fellow and Honourary memberships are awarded by the IDA Council and cannot be applied for.

6. Why am I placed in the Intern category when applying for Registered or Associate membership?

All applicants for Registered and Associate membership are initially placed in the Intern Member category until their required experience and qualifications can be verified or completed.

7. How do I transfer my membership to Inactive or Retired status?

To transfer to Inactive or Retired membership, you must contact the IDA office directly. These categories are not available through the online application process.

8. Why are IDC membership dues now billed separately?

IDC has transitioned to collecting its own dues directly from members starting January 2020. Members will now receive a separate invoice from IDC to ensure uninterrupted access to national advocacy and professional services.

9. When are IDA membership dues due?

Membership renewal payments are due by December 31, and invoices can be accessed through your IDA Member Portal.

10. Does IDA offer a payment plan for membership dues?

Yes. IDA offers a three-instalment payment plan to help members manage costs. Instalment details are available through the provided payment plan information link.

11. Are there penalties for late membership payments?

A 15% late renewal fee applies to payments received after December 31. Memberships not paid by March 15 of the following year will be cancelled. Late fees do not apply if the instalment plan is selected by December 31.

12. What happens if I let my membership lapse and want to rejoin later?

If you choose not to renew and later want to return, you must requalify under current membership standards, which may have changed since your original acceptance and could result in a different membership classification.

Land Acknowledgement For all of Alberta, including Treaty 6, Treaty 7, Treaty 8 and the Metis Nation

We acknowledge that we are on the traditional lands of the Indigenous Peoples of Alberta, including those covered by Treaties 6, 7, and 8, and the homeland of the Métis Nation.
We honour the histories, cultures, and ongoing contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples.