Small business insurance can help independent business owners better cope with the challenges and risks inherent in their work. Several types of small business insurance policies are available—what’s right for you?
Types of Small Business Insurance Policies
All small businesses need to be insured. The types of policies available include the following:
General Liability Insurance: These policies protect against personal injury lawsuits, property damage caused by third parties, lawsuits or claims regarding false advertising, copyright infringement, and other legal claims that are costly to defend.
Commercial Property Insurance: This policy covers the cost to repair or replace lost, stolen, or damaged property that belongs to your business, such as retail inventory, office furnishings, or specialized production equipment.
Business Owner’s Policy (BOP): A BOP combines general liability and commercial property insurance and often offers a cost-saving advantage.
Business Interruption Insurance: Policies that protect you against unexpected business temporary closures, such as those caused by fire, flood, or another natural disaster. It can also be included as part of BOP.
Professional Liability Insurance: This insurance best suits businesses that provide professional services. It covers lawsuits over errors, negligence, or oversight on the part of the service provider.
Cyber Insurance: This policy type can help cover the costs of a harmful cyber-attack on your business, including ransomware and data breaches.
Worker’s Compensation Insurance: If your employees become injured or get ill at work, worker’s compensation insurance will cover their lost wages and medical costs during their recovery.
Commercial Auto Insurance: These policies cover the legal, medical, and property damage-related expenses if your work vehicle causes an accident.
Hired and Non-Owned Auto Insurance (HNOA): HNOA pays for accidents that involve cars that are not owned by the company, such as rental, leased, or personal vehicles used in business activities.
Why Do I Need Business Insurance?
Three reasons you need business insurance as a small business owner:
- You and your clients are protected: If a client files a claim against your business or products, having insurance can avoid the time-consuming and costly process of fighting a lawsuit.
- Your employees are protected: A small business insurance plan can cover job injuries and employee illnesses.
- It is a legal necessity: Depending on your industry, you must satisfy state and federal minimum business insurance requirements.
Find Out Your Legal Requirements
Knowing what the legal insurance requirements are for your field or industry is key. Laws on insurance vary by state and industry, so check your state’s website for information. The following federally required insurance for all small businesses with employees, according to the Small Business Administration:
- Worker’s compensation
- Unemployment
- Disability insurance
Assess Your Risks
You’ll also want to consider the specific risks your business faces. For example:
- If you sell products, you will need product liability insurance to protect against defective product claims.
- If you provide services, professional liability insurance can cover claims against alleged errors and negligence.
- If you hold significant physical assets, commercial property insurance can protect against fire, smoke, wind, hail, water, and vandalism.
Plan for Expansion
Think about the future and how to ensure your business can steadily grow. Starting with the bare minimum leaves no room for expansion. Always aim for the maximum coverage possible. Greater coverage allows for increased security and continued prosperity.
Discuss Your Coverage Needs with an Agent
Once you know your risks, discuss your needs with one of our qualified small business insurance agents. We can help you fine-tune your policy to ensure the right fit for your budget and business activities.
Choose the Best Insurance for Your Small Business
Determining the insurance to put in place to comply with the legal requirements and provide security for your company can be challenging. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. One of our small business insurance agents can work with you to develop a tailored policy that addresses your unique needs. Call today to schedule a consultation.