Business Insurance for Sole Proprietors
Fast, affordable coverage from America’s
leading small business insurer.
Speak with a licensed insurance agent: 1-866-283-7545
Monday – Friday, 7am – 10pm ET M–F, 7a –10p ET
Why do sole proprietors need business insurance?
Owning a successful business is a dream many hope to achieve. Working for yourself means you can set your own hours and build your brand. However, business ownership can come with many associated risks. Sole proprietors face additional risks because your business is not a separate entity.
A business can be sued for almost anything. If that business is a sole proprietorship, the owner’s personal assets may be at risk, in addition to the assets of the business. Sole proprietors carry the full liability for their businesses and they face unique challenges. That's why business insurance is recommended – it can help cover costs associated with risks.
For example, a client might sue if they fall at your business. A court can award them damages and the sole proprietor would be personally liable. However, the right business insurance gives you the protection you need.
Insurance policies available for sole proprietorships:
Typically businesses have three different kinds of insurance policies that they start with. Each policy includes specific coverage options and unique protections to help you confidently run your organization and address any concerns that arise.
Professional liability insurance is also referred to as an errors and omissions or E&O policy. This type of coverage offers several benefits for business owners who operate as sole proprietors. It includes coverage for negligence, lawsuits, personal injury (slander, libel), and coverage for previous services.
As an example, let's say you're running a personal training business. You take on a client who has very lofty goals for their progress. When they fail to meet these goals, they sue, even though you told them that the goals were too ambitious. Another example would be an event planner who organizes a fundraising event for a non-profit. The invitations go out with the wrong date on them, and the mistake is not discovered until a week before the event. As a result, attendance is way down, and the client’s fundraising goals are not met. They sue you for negligence. Professional liability insurance can cover the cost for you to defend yourself against the lawsuit, as well as a judgment or settlement costs.
Another term for general liability is commercial general liability (CGL). It keeps businesses afloat by protecting them from claims that might disrupt their normal operations. General liability can cover bodily injury, medical expenses, and property damage. It also covers personal and advertising injury, including defense costs.
Here’s an example. Suppose a client comes to your office on a rainy day. They slip and fall on your wet floor, breaking their wrist. A CGL policy could cover their medical expenses and even lost wages. Or, suppose you are an interior decorator and you are measuring a client’s windows for custom treatments. Your ladder slips, and crashes through a large plate glass window, shattering it. Your general liability policy could cover the cost to replace the window. With so many different risks, Hiscox continually refines our products to meet our clients' needs. Learn more about general liability insurance costs.
A business owners policy (BOP) offers general risk coverage. It bundles general liability with standard coverage for your business property. If the tools you use to do your work are damaged or stolen, or if you’re sued by someone else for injury or property damage, your BOP could cover the costs.
Why do sole proprietor businesses select Hiscox?
At Hiscox, we know owning your own business comes with a lot of risks and challenges. Mitigating those risks can give you more time for clients and customers. And, that well-deserved vacation.
Here are six reasons business owners select Hiscox for their sole proprietor insurance:
- Claims responsiveness: Need to report a claim? Hiscox can immediately assign an agent to help you.
- Commitment to excellence: Our professional agents offer the highest standard in customer service. With a 4.8/5 rating, we consistently strive to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
- Coverage for contracts: Our insurance coverage satisfies most standard contract insurance requirements.
- Custom insurance: We specialize in businesses like yours. We can create a custom policy specific to your industry.
- Flexible payments: We offer monthly payment plans without fees.
- Global coverage: Businesses can work anywhere in the world and file claims through Hiscox. Simply file your claims in the U.S., a U.S. Territory or Canada.
Are you interested in learning more about Hiscox sole proprietorship insurance?
With Hiscox backing you, you can focus on success. Get a free quote now and if you have any questions, call us at 1-866-283-7545. Our team of licensed agents is available Monday – Friday, 7am – 10pm ET.
Hiscox Customer Reviews
Vincente, Los Angeles, CA
“Great customer service on the personal and business side”
I'm very happy with my experience both personal and business wise with Hiscox
James, St. Augustine, FL
“Beyond EASY”
very convenient and extremely easy. The employees on the telephone are very helpful
Dan, St Paul, MN
“Very helpful and friendly service. Answered all of my questions. I would recommend their services”
Glenda, Fort Worth, TX
“I will definitely recommend Hiscox to my colleagues.”
I was completely blown away by the level of quality customer service. I was given a quote based on my needs and was able to complete the process on the first call.
Kevin, Salina, KS
“No Complaints – Hiscox Rocks”
I appreciated the experience I had with the Hiscox's representative. He was very informative and thorough. He reviewed my policy and answered my questions to my satisfaction. I will be happy to recommend Hiscox's to anyone. Overall my experience was good!
This information is provided to assist you in understanding the coverage we offer and does not modify the terms and conditions of any insurance policy, nor does it imply that any claim is covered. Coverages are subject to underwriting and may not be available in all states.