Get business insurance (2024)

Business insurance protects you from the unexpected costs of running a business. Accidents, natural disasters, and lawsuits could run you out of business. Protect yourself with the right insurance.

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Pick the type of business insurance you need

You get some protections from the kind ofbusiness structure you choose. Alimited liability company (LLC) or a corporation status can protect your personal property from lawsuits. However, that protection has limits.

Unexpected catastrophe? Business insurance can fill in any gaps in coverage. This will make sure both your personal and business assets are fully protected..

You also may be legally required to purchase certain types of business insurance.

The federal government requires every business with employees to have the following:

Some states also require additional insurance. Laws requiring insurance vary by state. Visit your state’s websiteto find out the requirements for your business.

Six common types of business insurance

After you purchase insurance that's required by law, you can find insurance to cover any other business risk. As a general rule, you should insure against things you wouldn’t be able to pay for on your own.

Speak to insurance agents to find out what kinds of coverage makes sense for your business. Then compare terms and prices to find the best deal for you. Here are six common kinds of business insurance to look for:

Insurance type

Who it's for

What it does

General liability insuranceAny businessThis coverage protects against financial loss as the result of bodily injury, property damage, medical expenses, libel, slander, defending lawsuits, and settlement bonds or judgments.
Product liability insuranceBusinesses that manufacture, wholesale, distribute, and retail a productThis coverage protects against financial loss as a result of a defective product that causes injury or bodily harm.
Professional liability insuranceBusinesses thatprovide services to customersThis coverageprotects against financial loss as a result of malpractice, errors, and negligence.
Commercial property insuranceBusinesses with a significant amount of property and physical assetsThis coverage protects your business against loss and damage to company property due to a wide variety of events. These include fire, smoke, wind and hailstorms, civil disobedience and vandalism.
Home-based business insuranceBusinesses that are run out of the owner’s personal homeCoverage that’s added to homeowner’s insurance as a rider can offer protection for a small amount of business equipment and liability coverage for third-party injuries.
Business owner’s policyMost small business owners, but especially home-based business ownersA business owner’s policy is an insurance package that combines all of the typical coverage options into one bundle. They simplify the insurance buying process and can save you money.

Four steps to buy business insurance

  • Assess your risks.Think about what kind of accidents, natural disasters, or lawsuits could damage your business. Is your business located in a commercial area that is at risk from seasonal events? Commercial property insurance will help protect against loss.
  • Find a reputable licensed agent.Commercial insurance agents can help you find policies that match your business needs. They receive commissions from insurance companies when they sell policies, so it's important to find a licensed agent that’s interested in your needs as much as his or her own.
  • Shop around.Prices and benefits can vary significantly. You should compare rates, terms, and benefits for insurance offers from several different agents.
  • Re-assess every year.As your business grows, so do your liabilities. If you have purchased or replaced equipment or expanded operations, contact your insurance agent. You should discuss any changes in your business and how they affect your coverage.

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Get business insurance (2024)

FAQs

What kind of insurance do you need to open a business? ›

Commercial General Liability (CGL) is the standard commercial liability policy used to insure businesses. There are three primary coverage sections that make up a CGL policy: premises liability, products liability and completed operations.

Do you need insurance for LLC in PA? ›

You'll need general liability insurance if you operate a business that's exposed to other risks too. Those might include: Third-party accidents. Reputational harm.

What type of insurance is sold to small businesses? ›

At minimum, you should start with these types of small business insurance: General liability coverage. Workers' compensation coverage. Commercial auto coverage.

Should I shop around for business insurance? ›

As a general rule, you'll want to get business insurance quotes from at least three different companies.

How much is a $2 million dollar insurance policy for a business? ›

On average, an insurance policy that offers coverage for up to $2 million can cost about $30 a month in premiums.

Is business insurance tax deductible? ›

The IRS generally considers business insurance a cost of doing business, so your policy premiums may be deductible from your taxable income. A tax professional can ensure you fill out the proper paperwork to ensure you are taking advantage of all deductions available to you.

Is a LLC free in PA? ›

The only fee to register an LLC in Pennsylvania is $125 at initial registration. Then, every 10 years your business will be required to submit a decennial report with a registration fee of $70. If you are not yet ready to file your LLC, Pennsylvania offers a name reservation option.

How much does general liability insurance cost in PA? ›

The cost of general liability insurance in Pennsylvania varies based on the type of business structure. On average, limited liability companies (LLCs) can expect to pay around $143 per month, while sole proprietors can anticipate a monthly cost of approximately $28.

Do I need a business license in PA if I have an LLC? ›

To operate in Pennsylvania, businesses must register their business structure – such as an LLC, partnership, corporation, or other structure – with the Pennsylvania Department of State. There is one exception to this requirement.

Should a small business have insurance? ›

If you've asked yourself, “Do I need insurance for my small business?” The answer is yes. A small business insurance policy can help with protecting your assets and company. Without this coverage, small businesses may have to pay to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property on their own.

What is business insurance called? ›

Small business insurance, sometimes called commercial insurance, helps protect a business's assets, property, and income. A business owner's policy (BOP) is the most common insurance product for small businesses, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III).

How does insurance work for business owners? ›

A BOP helps protect you by paying for costs or damages if you're held responsible. It also covers legal defense costs if you're sued, and as your business is unique, so is your BOP. You can get additional coverage based on what your business needs. A delivery truck drives away from the storefront.

Should I get insurance before starting a business? ›

Even if you run your startup by the book, employees, customers or rivals may sue; insurance offers protection. While only a few first-time founders take out insurance early on, two-thirds of repeat entrepreneurs do so.

Why might it be a good idea to purchase business insurance? ›

Business insurance protects companies from financial losses and liability after events such as: Employee illness and injury. Property damage and vandalism. Income losses.

Do I need insurance for my LLC in Florida? ›

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, you're legally required to carry insurance if your business has employees. Florida LLCs can hire employees, and if you do, you'll be required to carry an insurance policy.

Is insurance a good business to start? ›

A career selling insurance can be a good way to make money. It provides many opportunities to earn a high income with strong potential for growth. Because your income will mostly come from commissions, there can be no limit to how much you earn.

Are insurance businesses profitable? ›

After suffering some of the worst years in their history, insurers say they now see a path to profitability for home and auto policies. Big rate increases are driving up revenue, while the inflationary pressures that pushed up repair and replacement costs appear to be easing.

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