commercial insurance: by coverage

As a business professional, this may not be your first run around with insurance. Or, maybe it is? Whatever your level of experience, we are here as much or as little as you need us. If you know what coverage you’re looking for, start a quote below. Or, build your knowledge and understanding about how proper coverage can keep your operations in check.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is business insurance, and why is it important?

Business insurance is a collection of insurance coverages that protect businesses from various risks and potential financial losses. It provides financial support in case of unexpected events such as property damage, liability claims, natural disasters, or lawsuits. Without proper coverage, a single incident or lawsuit could have devastating financial consequences for a business.

Having business insurance is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps mitigate the financial risks associated with unforeseen events, safeguarding the business’s operations, assets, employees, and reputation. Secondly, it provides protection against liability claims, covering legal costs, settlements, or judgments that may arise from lawsuits. Additionally, business insurance builds trust and confidence among clients, partners, and stakeholders who often require proof of insurance before entering into contracts or collaborations.

Overall, business insurance plays a vital role in protecting a business’s financial health and stability. It ensures that unexpected events and liabilities don’t result in significant financial setbacks, allowing business owners to focus on their core operations with peace of mind. With the right insurance coverage in place, businesses can weather unforeseen challenges and maintain their long-term success.

How much does business insurance cost?

The cost of business insurance depends on several factors, including the size and type of business, the coverage you need, and your location. The average cost of business insurance can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars per year.

One of the most significant factors in determining the cost of business insurance is the type of coverage you need. There are several types of business insurance, including general liability, property insurance, professional liability, and workers’ compensation. Each type of insurance provides coverage for different risks, and the cost will vary based on the amount and type of coverage you select.

The size of your business will also impact the cost of insurance. Larger businesses with more employees and higher revenue will typically pay more for insurance than smaller businesses. Additionally, businesses in high-risk industries, such as construction or manufacturing, will pay more for insurance than those in lower-risk industries.

In summary, the cost of business insurance varies based on several factors, and working with an experienced insurance broker can help you navigate the complex world of business insurance and find the right coverage for your needs. We are happy to help you, don’t hesitate to reach out!

How can I prepare for yearly audits?

Your yearly premiums are based on an estimation of your growth and usage for the upcoming year. This estimation serves as the basis for calculating your insurance premium. However, since these estimates are projections, an audit is conducted to review the actual figures from the past year. The audit typically focuses on key factors such as payroll, sales, or vehicle usages, depending on the type of policy you have.

During the audit, the insurance company compares the estimated figures to the actual figures from the past year. If the estimate was higher than your actual usage, you may be entitled to a refund for the excess premium you paid. This means that if your business experienced lower payroll, sales, or vehicle usages than anticipated, the audit can result in a reimbursement of the difference. On the other hand, if the estimate was lower than your usage, you may be required to pay the additional premium to make up for the underestimation.

Maintaining accurate documentation and records throughout the year is crucial for a smooth and accurate audit process. By having comprehensive records of your payroll, sales, or vehicle usages, you can provide evidence to support the actual figures during the audit. Accurate documentation not only facilitates the audit but also helps you estimate the following year’s benchmarks more accurately, which, in turn, determines your premium.

By preparing for the audit and maintaining accurate records, you ensure that your insurance premium reflects your actual usage and growth, avoiding any surprises and potentially optimizing your costs in the long run. It’s advisable to consult with your insurance provider to understand their specific audit requirements and to ensure compliance with their policies and procedures.

is business insurance tax deductible?

According to the IRS, you can usually deduct insurance premiums in the tax year to which they apply.

In many cases, insurance premiums paid for policies such as general liability insurance, professional liability insurance, property insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and business interruption insurance can typically be deducted as ordinary business expenses. This means that the premiums you pay for these policies can reduce your taxable income, potentially lowering your overall tax liability.

It’s worth mentioning that certain types of insurance, such as life insurance or certain employee-related policies, may have different tax implications and may not be fully deductible. Again, consulting with a tax professional is advised to understand the specific deductibility rules and guidelines applicable to your business and jurisdiction.

Remember to maintain accurate records of your insurance premiums and consult with a qualified tax advisor to ensure compliance with tax regulations and make the most informed decisions regarding tax deductions.

Source: 1 Internal Revenue Service (IRS), “Publication 535 (2021), Business Expenses

Can I make changes to my policy throughout the year?

Absolutely! We understand that life is unpredictable and your insurance needs may evolve over time. That’s why we offer the flexibility to make changes to your policy throughout the year, ensuring it remains customized to your requirements.

Whether you need to add or remove coverage, update your contact information, or make adjustments to your policy limits, our user-friendly platform and knowledgeable support team make the process seamless.

To make changes, simply log in to your account on our website and access the policy management section. There, you’ll find intuitive tools to modify your policy based on your changing circumstances. If you prefer personal assistance, our dedicated customer support team is just a phone call away.

It’s important to note that any changes to your policy may have an impact on your premium. Our team will provide you with all the necessary information and guidance regarding the potential effects on your coverage and cost, empowering you to make informed decisions.

We recommend reviewing your policy periodically to ensure it aligns with your current needs. By staying proactive and adjusting your coverage as necessary, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re adequately protected.

Should you have any further questions or require assistance with modifying your policy, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you navigate any changes you may need throughout the year.

How often should I contact my insurance agent?

We understand that as a busy business owner, finding time for regular check-ins can be challenging. However, it is crucial to ensure that your plan is optimized and meets all your needs. To accommodate your schedule, we recommend connecting with us at least 4-5 times a year. These regular interactions will help us address any concerns, make necessary adjustments, and avoid unexpected issues during audits.

If it is not feasible for you to connect 4-5 times a year, we still strongly advise checking in at least twice. The first check-in should be during your plan renewal, where we can review and update your coverage. The second check-in should be scheduled mid-term to assess the plan’s effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments. This proactive approach is in your best interest and ensures there are no surprises during audit time.