Errors & Omissions Insurance – Everything You Need to Know

Errors & Omissions insurance, also known as E&O insurance, is a specialized type of liability insurance that provides coverage for professionals who provide advice or services to their clients. It protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, and omissions that result in financial loss to the client.

What is Errors & Omissions Insurance?

E&O insurance is designed to protect professionals from claims of negligence, errors, or omissions that may arise in the course of providing services to their clients. It provides coverage for legal fees, court costs, and damages that may be awarded to the client in the event of a lawsuit.

Professionals who may need E&O insurance include:

Accountants
Architects
Attorneys
Consultants
Engineers
Insurance agents
Mortgage brokers
Real estate agents
Technology professionals

If you work in one of these professions, it is important to consider whether you need E&O insurance to protect your business.

Why do Professionals Need Errors & Omissions Insurance?

Even the most careful and experienced professionals can make mistakes, and a single error or omission can lead to a costly lawsuit. E&O insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection in the event of a claim.

Without E&O insurance, a professional may be personally liable for damages awarded to the client, which can be devastating to their personal and professional finances. E&O insurance helps to protect against this risk and allows professionals to focus on their work without worrying about the financial impact of a lawsuit.

What Does Errors & Omissions Insurance Cover?

Errors & Omissions insurance typically covers:

  • Legal fees and court costs
  • Settlements and damages awarded to the client
  • Lost income due to time spent defending against a claim
  • Reputation damage caused by the claim

Each policy may have different coverage limits and exclusions, so it is important to carefully review the terms of the policy before purchasing.

How Much Does Errors & Omissions Insurance Cost?

The cost of E&O insurance will vary depending on the type of business, the level of risk, and the coverage limits. Generally, the cost of E&O insurance is higher for professions with a higher risk of litigation.

The cost of E&O insurance can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per year. It is important to compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to ensure you are getting the best coverage at the best price.

FAQs

What is the difference between errors & omissions insurance and general liability insurance?

General liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage caused by your business operations, while E&O insurance covers claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in your professional services.

Do I need errors & omissions insurance if I already have general liability insurance?

While general liability insurance may provide some coverage for claims arising from your professional services, it is not designed to provide the comprehensive coverage offered by E&O insurance. If you provide professional services, it is important to consider purchasing E&O insurance to fully protect your business.

Can I be sued if I have errors & omissions insurance?

Yes, even if you have E&O insurance, you can still be sued. However, E&O insurance provides financial protection in the event of a claim, which can help to minimize the impact on your personal and professional finances.

What should I look for when purchasing errors & omissions insurance?

When purchasing E&O insurance, it is important to carefully review the terms of the policy, including the coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles. You should also compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to ensure you are getting the best coverage at the best price.

Is errors & omissions insurance tax deductible?

Yes, in most cases E&O insurance premiums are tax deductible as a business expense. However, it is important to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific tax implications for your business.

In conclusion, Errors & Omissions insurance is an important type of coverage for professionals who provide advice or services to their clients. It provides financial protection in the event of a claim and allows professionals to focus on their work without worrying about the financial impact of a lawsuit.