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Why do public speakers need insurance?
An allegation that someone was harmed by your speech could have major reputational and financial consequences. Business insurance can cover the cost of hiring an attorney and paying for damages if you're sued. It can also cover injuries, property damage, and data breaches.
Find affordable coverage
Motivational speakers, keynote speakers, and other public speakers can save money on insurance by comparing quotes from top-rated providers.
Fill out Insureon's easy online application to get free quotes and advice from a licensed agent.
What types of insurance do public speakers need?
These insurance policies cover the most common risks of public speaking.
Business owner’s policy
A business owner's policy, or BOP, is a cost-effective way for public speakers to buy general liability coverage and commercial property insurance together.
BEST FOR
- Audience injuries
- Audience property damage
- Stolen or damaged business property
General liability insurance
This policy covers common public speaking risks, such as an accident that injures someone or damages their property. It’s often required for a commercial lease.
BEST FOR
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Damaged customer property
- Other third-party accidents
Professional liability insurance
This policy helps cover legal expenses if a professional speaker is sued over an unsatisfactory speech or an error. It's sometimes referred to as errors and omissions insurance (E&O).
BEST FOR
- Failure to appear at a promised time
- Accusations of slander
- Copyright infringement
Workers’ compensation insurance
Most states require workers' comp for public speaking companies that have employees. It also protects sole proprietors from work injury costs that health insurance might deny.
BEST FOR
- Employee medical expenses
- Disability benefits
- Employee injury lawsuits
Commercial auto insurance
Commercial auto insurance covers financial losses when a public speaker's vehicle is involved in an accident. Most states require it for vehicles registered to a business.
BEST FOR
- Property damage caused by your vehicle
- Bodily injuries from an auto accident
- Vehicle theft and vandalism
Cyber insurance
Cyber liability insurance helps public speakers recover from data breaches and cyberattacks. It's strongly recommended for any small business that stores personal information.
BEST FOR
- Customer notification costs
- Data breach investigations
- Fraud monitoring services
Looking for different coverage? See more policies.
How much does insurance cost for public speakers?
A public speaker who works independently will pay less for insurance than a larger company.
Factors that affect insurance premiums for public speakers include:
- Professional services offered, such as keynote addresses or inspirational speeches
- Business property and equipment
- Business income
- Types of insurance purchased
- Policy limits and deductibles
How do I get public speaking insurance?
It's easy to get public speaking business insurance quickly. Our application will ask for basic facts about your business, such as revenue and number of employees.
You can buy a policy online and get a certificate of insurance with Insureon in three easy steps:
- Complete a free online application
- Compare insurance quotes and choose policies
- Pay for your policy and download a certificate
Insureon's licensed insurance agents work with top-rated U.S. insurance companies to find the right coverage for your public speaking business, whether you work independently or hire employees.
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Common questions about public speaker insurance
Answers to frequently asked questions about the best insurance policies for public speakers.
Are self-employed public speakers required to get business insurance?
Small business insurance requirements vary by state and industry. While most states don't require public speakers to carry small business insurance, you may be required to carry specific policies due to client contracts and other factors.
For example, most states, such as California, require all small businesses with any number of employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
Workers' compensation is also important for sole proprietors and independent contractors, as it can protect you if you suffer a work-related injury.
In addition, if you have a company-owned vehicle, you will need commercial auto insurance. Not only is commercial auto insurance required in most states, but personal auto insurance generally does not cover company-owned vehicles. You could face heavy legal fees, medical bills, and auto repair costs if you aren't properly insured.
Lastly, some clients may require you to carry a professional liability insurance (also called errors and omissions insurance) policy before signing a contract. Professional liability insurance can protect your business in the event that a client claims you didn't meet the terms of the contract or you were professionally negligent in some way.
Professional liability insurance also protects your business if a deadline is missed or there is some kind of breach of contract, providing peace of mind for both you and your future clients.
What other kinds of insurance policies should public speaking businesses carry?
Public speakers should consider the following policies to protect their business:
- A hired and non-owned auto policy (HNOA) is a must if you plan on using your personal vehicle or a leased or rented vehicle for work-related activities.
- Employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) can help you cover any legal costs associated with litigation brought by employees claiming they were subject to harassment or other wrongful employment practices.
- Directors and officers (D&O) insurance assists your business officers, advisors, and board of directors if any of their business decisions are challenged legally.
- Commercial umbrella insurance will provide additional coverage over and above the underlying limits on your general liability, employer's liability, and commercial auto policy, should you face an exceptionally expensive injury, incident, or lawsuit.
Another possible option to consider is a hold harmless agreement. This is an indemnity that protects your business in the event that a third party, such as a contractor or real estate agent, tries to sue you for damages under certain circumstances.
If you have any questions about insurance industry offerings, contact one of our licensed agents, and they'll help you find the best policies for your needs.