What kind of insurance should I consider for my small business?
Insurance Policies for Small Businesses
As a small business owner, it is important to consider appropriate insurance to safeguard your business from potential risks and liabilities. There are several types of insurance policies available for small businesses that you should consider.
1. General Liability Insurance
This policy provides coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury claims. It also covers legal fees and court costs if your business is sued. General liability insurance is especially important if your business interacts with customers or visitors frequently.
2. Property Insurance
This policy covers the physical property of your business, including your equipment, inventory, and buildings. It covers damages or theft caused by natural disasters, fire, or vandalism, among others.
3. Professional Liability Insurance
Also known as Errors & Omissions Insurance, this policy protects businesses that provide professional services. It provides coverage against claims of negligence or mistakes made by you or your employees that resulted in financial losses for a client.
4. Workers’ Compensation Insurance
If your business employs people, you are required by law to hold workers' compensation insurance, which provides coverage for employees who suffer workplace injuries or illnesses. It will cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages.
5. Commercial Auto Insurance
This policy covers your business vehicles, including work trucks, vans or cars used for deliveries, travel between job sites or transporting employees or clients.
When choosing an insurance plan, assess the specific risks of your business, and take into account the types of clients, employees and assets as well as the industry in which you operate. Depending on your state of operation and specific circumstances, there may be additional insurance requirements, limitations, or exceptions to coverage, so make sure to consult with a licensed attorney or insurance provider to ensure that you are adequately protected.