Last updated: January 1, 2026. These terms govern your use of the IBT website and certification services.
By accessing the IBT website or applying for IBT certification, you agree to these Terms of Service. If you do not agree, you may not use IBT's services. IBT reserves the right to update these terms; continued use following notice of changes constitutes acceptance.
IBT provides business certification services based on acceptance sampling of client satisfaction. IBT certification is a statement about the statistical evidence available at the time of assessment. It is not a guarantee of future business performance, a warranty of any kind, or an endorsement of any particular product or service. IBT certification indicates only that the assessed business met IBT's published statistical standard during the assessment period.
Businesses applying for certification agree to: (a) provide a complete and accurate client list; (b) sign the Completeness Declaration affirming the list's accuracy; (c) provide supporting documentation for cross-verification upon request; (d) not pre-contact clients before or during the IBT outreach window; (e) not misrepresent their certification status or standing. Breach of these obligations may result in immediate revocation of any issued certificate and a 24-month reapplication bar.
Certified businesses are granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to display the IBT certification seal and standing badge corresponding to their current, valid certificate. This license terminates immediately upon certificate expiration, revocation, or termination of these terms. IBT marks may not be modified, used in a misleading context, or applied to businesses other than the certified entity.
IBT's liability for any claim arising from certification services is limited to the amount of the certification fee paid. IBT is not liable for any indirect, consequential, punitive, or incidental damages. IBT makes no warranty regarding consumer purchasing decisions, business outcomes, or the accuracy of information provided by respondents.
The IBT directory is provided as an informational resource. IBT does not warrant that information in the directory is current at all times; directory data is updated following each certification decision. Consumers who rely on IBT certification data in making purchasing decisions do so at their own risk. IBT is not a consumer protection authority and does not handle individual consumer disputes.
These terms are governed by the laws of the United States and the state in which IBT is incorporated. Any disputes shall be resolved through binding arbitration under the rules of the American Arbitration Association, except that either party may seek injunctive relief in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Questions about these terms should be directed to info@bureauoftrust.org.