You know that insurance protects your business. But did you know that there are other benefits of insurance for business owners? Proof of insurance can help you build a loyal customer base and generate more business. And in some instances, a certificate of insurance may be required to land a job or even bid on a project.
In this Certificate of Insurance 101 article, we’ll walk you through the basics, including how a certificate of insurance can help you land more business.
What is a Certificate of Insurance Form?
Insurance can help protect your business from unforeseen events such as accidents, negligence, and lawsuits. When you have the right insurance in place, you’ll want your customers to know that your business is covered. That’s where a certificate of insurance comes in.
So what is a certificate of insurance? A certificate of insurance (COI) is a document that shows your customers your business is insured.
If you’re wondering how to obtain a certificate of insurance, it’s fairly simple. You can contact your insurance provider and ask them to email or mail you a copy of your COI. Be sure to review it for accuracy and make some copies so you always have one on hand when you need it.
How a COI Can Help Market Your Business
It may be surprising to hear that an insurance document can be used as a marketing tool. But when you think about all the accidents that can occur when running a business, proof of insurance may help you stand out from the competition. There are many reasons to have a certificate of insurance. One of them is that it can help your business thrive. Here’s how:
1. It builds credibility.
Someone considering working with you will likely want to know that your business is reputable and protected from liabilities and risks, especially when you work in an industry where accidents are common. Sharing a certificate of insurance form demonstrates your commitment to safety and builds trust with your customers.
2. It can attract new customers.
When you’re reputable and responsible, people may be more likely to use your services and recommend you to others. Most people don’t want to work with an uninsured business, so having a COI can open doors to new opportunities and relationships.
3. It meets contract requirements.
Before bidding or starting a job, you may need to share proof of insurance to ensure that your business has the necessary coverage in place. Having a COI in hand ensures that you’re meeting your obligations. Even if your state doesn’t require you to have business insurance, a customer or vendor may request it. To learn more about your state’s insurance requirements, visit the Secretary of State’s website1 or speak with a licensed legal or insurance professional in your state.
4. It demonstrates professionalism.
Having a certificate of insurance form demonstrates your accountability and attention to detail. It shows that you’ve taken steps to safeguard your business and protect your customers. You can even let potential customers know you have the coverage you need by adding your certificate to your website or including it in your marketing materials.
5. It saves you time.
Having proof of coverage in hand will save you time in the long run and allow you to be ready to take on new opportunities. Instead of running around trying to meet contractual requirements, you’ll have a COI when you need it.
The Benefits of a COI Start with a Policy
Don’t have an insurance policy yet? Simply Business® can help. Just go online or give us a call, and we’ll help you get the business insurance you need. Get started today with our free quote comparison tool to see policies that may be right for your small business.
Once you’re covered, you can access free copies of your certificate of insurance by logging into your Simply Business account or requesting one through our website.
Get Insured in Under 10 Minutes
Get an affordable and customized policy in just minutes. So you can get back to what matters: Your business.
The Proof is (Now) in Your Pocket
We’re making it even easier to access your certificate of insurance anytime, anywhere. We’ve added a new feature that lets you keep a copy of your COI in your digital wallet, so it’s always there when you need it.
A Trusted Partner
Protecting your small business from liabilities and risks gives you peace of mind. So you can understand why others will be relieved to know you have insurance. Whether it’s required or not, a certificate of insurance may be the very document you need to grow your business.
References:
- Learn more at e-secretaryofstate.com/