Frequently Asked QuestionsWe have compiled the most frequently asked customer questions about insurance certificates and Royal Neighbors. If you do not find the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us by mail, phone, or e-mail.
Can men and children purchase life insurance and annuity certificates from Royal Neighbors of America?
Yes. Since 1895, Royal Neighbors of America has been dedicated to insuring lives, supporting women, and serving communities. We provide women and their families valuable insurance products, member benefits, and personal fulfillment opportunities through local volunteerism.
Where does the name "Royal Neighbors" come from?
From its earliest roots, Royal Neighbors of America has been committed to community service. The name derives from Proverbs 27:10, "For better is a neighbor that is near than a brother that is far." The word "royal" was added to signify the nobility of neighbor helping neighbor.
How can I learn more about Royal Neighbors’ life insurance, annuities, and member benefits?
On this Web site, you will find information on Royal Neighbors’ portfolio of life insurance, traditional annuities and IRAs, and Medicare Supplement insurance, as well as on our special member benefits. Our member sales team is available to answer your questions at (866) 845-6665.
Why was Royal Neighbors of America established?
Our history tells a story of nine strong, visionary women who saw a need and set out to do something about it. From addressing the suffrage movement and the right to own life insurance to the importance of extending the hand of friendship to communities nationwide, Royal Neighbors of America is still thriving.
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Who established Royal Neighbors?
Marie L. Kirkland, who is credited as the "Mother of the Society," and eight other women first met in Council Bluffs, IA, in November 1888, as an auxiliary to the local camp of the Modern Woodmen of America. Less than a year later, they reorganized themselves as a social society, taking the name "Royal Neighbors of America." The first Royal Neighbors Camp, Camp No. 1, was organized in Council Bluffs in July 1890. During their third Head Camp, held in 1894, the group decided to seek a charter as a fraternal benefit society in the state of Illinois; the group was chartered in March 1895.
What does it mean to be a fraternal benefit society?
Fraternal benefit societies like Royal Neighbors of America are centered on three great traditions:
- Individuals voluntarily join together based upon common interests.
- They govern themselves for the benefit of their fellow members through a network of local organizations called chapters.
- There is a strong commitment to mutual support of the members and service to the community.
Royal Neighbors of America offers the added value of member benefits and activities to its members, their families, and their communities. With life insurance and annuities, we help our members protect their financial futures.
How do I become a member?
You may become a beneficial member by purchasing a Royal Neighbors life insurance, annuity, or Medicare Supplement insurance plan. (Products may not be available in all states.) General membership is available for an annual fee of $14.95. Interested in becoming a member? Download and complete the Application for General Membership Form and return to: Royal Neighbors of America, 230 Sixteenth Street, Rock Island, IL 61201-8645, or Contact Us for more information.
What is a Chapter?
Chapters serve as a forum for bringing together women from all backgrounds and interests to celebrate women’s diversity and foster their strengths through relevant programs, networking, guest speakers, and community volunteer outreach programs.
Why does Royal Neighbors have chapters?
As a fraternal benefit society, Royal Neighbors is more than a place to buy life insurance and annuities. In their early years, fraternal benefit societies such as Royal Neighbors often represented the social and cultural centers of members' lives. It was not uncommon for a Royal Neighbors chapter to have a membership of 800 or more and hold numerous meetings and activities each month. The traditions and values of chapters continue, tailored to the active lifestyles people lead today. Meetings are educational, provide networking opportunities, and provide community volunteer opportunities. They create family time, something needed in our busy, fast-paced world.
How do I know the location of Royal Neighbors’ chapters?
To find the chapter nearest you, click on Chapter Locator. Or, you can always Contact Us via e-mail or call us toll-free at (800) 627-4762, and we'll be glad to help.
What kinds of activities do chapters offer?
All Royal Neighbors chapters are community centered and family oriented. But each seems to have its own unique personality, a reflection of its membership and community. The range of activities that chapters plan is equally diverse. One month, a local chapter might host an educational seminar focused on women’s health issues, the next month members may join together to perform a community service project such as collecting non-perishable goods for a local food pantry. Many chapter activities are centered on community service, including raising funds for local organizations by holding raffles, soup/sandwich suppers, bake sales, or spaghetti dinners. Read about our latest Featured Chapter to see what one of our most active chapters is doing.
Are there special activities for kids?
Most chapter events are family oriented and open to everyone. In addition, Royal Neighbors also has youth chapters for our special members age 16 and under. Youth chapter activities emphasize quality learning experiences, fun social activities, and community service projects.
Can I bring friends and family to Royal Neighbors events?
Of course! Fun and fellowship are what Royal Neighbors is all about, and friends and family are always welcome. If you're not currently a member but are interested in finding out about Royal Neighbors events in your area, use our Chapter Locator tool.
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