FAQ

What is a host agency?

Host agencies are businesses that affiliate with home-based travel agents in an independent-contractor agreement. Each home-based agent is still 100% the owner and operator of their business and they are not employees of their host agency. A host agency is an umbrella organization that an independent agency can align with for better commissions, supplier relations and marketing/tech tools. The defining factor is that the hosted agency uses the host travel agency’s accreditation number instead of having their own accreditation number.

Do you require experience?

No, we do not require our independent contractors have any experience at all.

What do I need to become an independent travel agent?

You need to have a business name and business email address. Depending on where you are located, you will need at the minimum a “DBA” (Doing Business As). Many states make that a fairly easy process – you just register with your local county clerk’s office. You may also set up a business structure such as a corporation or LLC. Besides your business structure, you will need Errors & Omissions Insurance (E&O Insurance). Depending on the host agency, you may be required to obtain your own, but many offer it to their independent contractors at a reduced price.

What are the fees?

The enrollment fee is $175.00. There is an annual renewal fee of $100.00, which is waived if independent contractor earns at least $600.00 in commissions for the year. E&O Insurance is offered at $100.00 annually.

What is required to join?

We require you to attend our New Owner’s Seminar. After that, all fees must be paid, a contract must be signed, an enrollment form must be submitted and copies of your business structure (dba, LLC, corporate structure) must be on file.

When I fill out the information form on this site, have I joined?

No. The online form is used to gather basic information about you. When you submit the form, we will contact you to discuss our programs. If we meet your criteria and you meet ours, we will be happy to assist you in completing our full membership application.

How long does it take to get started?

Once fees have been paid, the seminar has been completed and all documents have been submitted, it will be 24-48 hours to complete registration and receive access to travel suppliers’ agent portals.

What types of training does LTA Central offer?

After the New Owner’s Seminar, we provide supplier “Lunch and Learns” scheduled throughout the year. You will have access to all the training programs available through the suppliers’ agent portals. We have an annual conference for the host agency and the consortium. You are also encouraged to attend any agent events that are put on by suppliers throughout the year. Once you are a travel advisor, you will have access to the trainings provided by ASTA, CLIA and The Travel Institute (fees may be charged for these trainings).

What kind of support does LTA Central offer to its agents?

We are available via email or phone during office hours Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:30pm. We have a Facebook Group exclusive to our independent contractors where we post information and you can ask questions of other advisors that belong to our host agency. We also provide the cell phone number of the General Manager and the Vice President for any emergencies you may have.

Do you offer marketing programs?

Yes, through our parent company Leisure Travel Alliance (LTA), which is a travel consortium, you have access to their FREE marketing program. They customize all direct mail and email projects by individual agency, they manage design and production and they manage and pay for distribution (including the cost of postage for direct mail). You will need to provide a list of your contacts/client with email addresses, etc. to enroll in their program.

What type of networking opportunities do you offer?

Through our “Lunch and Learns”, you will be able to network with our agents and at our annual conference, where our members can come together to collectively focus on the travel industry. In addition, we have an active Facebook group page specifically for our members to get to know each other, ask questions and provide support to one another. We encourage all agents to expand their circle by joining other networking groups where they can grow their customer base.

Do you accept all travel agents?

Yes.

Do you provide error and omissions (E&O) insurance?

Yes, we can add you to our policy at a rate of $100 per year.

How long is a contract with LTA Central?

Our contract has a 30-day notice clause to terminate your relationship with the host agency. The host agency may terminate the contract, or the independent contractor may terminate it with a notice of 30 days.

Benefits of Working With LTA Central

Receive Enhanced Commissions, Education, Training and Networking, Managed Consumer Marketing, Access to Technology and much more

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LTA Central has enhanced commission programs with travel suppliers. Simply stated, you will have opportunities for and access to enhanced pricing and enhanced commissions.

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