Liquor liability insurance

Liquor liability insurance: Liquor liability insurance provides coverage for legal fees, settlements, and medical costs if alcohol is sold to an intoxicated person who then harms others or damages property.

When do small businesses need liquor liability insurance?

Most states require every business that sells or serves alcohol to carry liquor liability insurance. Your general liability policy likely excludes alcohol-related liability – that’s why you may need liquor liability in addition to other policies. Securing this policy may be a requirement for obtaining a liquor license or a commercial lease. Even when it’s not required, a small business owner might purchase it to gain protection against the actions of intoxicated customers. Read more about liquor liability coverage.

Businesses that may need liquor liability insurance include:

Note: If your small business serves alcohol at a company function, you are exposed to the same risks as a business that sells alcohol. Host liquor liability insurance covers corporate functions, fundraisers, and other events where alcohol is served.

Businesses in states with dram shop laws also need liquor liability insurance

Liquor liability insurance is crucial in states with dram shop laws, which place the blame for actions by intoxicated individuals on the establishment that served them. That means you could end up footing the bill for property damage, medical expenses, and costs related to a lawsuit.

Find business insurance requirements in your state

Select your state to learn about insurance requirements for your small business.

Arrow pointing to region of United States

How much does liquor liability insurance cost?

Bar owner doing calculations of inventory.

For a bar, the median annual premium for liquor liability insurance is slightly more than $2,000. However, a restaurant typically pays less than $600 a year. The cost depends on:

Industry and risk
Coverage limits
Location
Percentage of sales from alcohol

View Liquor Liability Insurance Costs

Learn more about liquor liability insurance

What our customers are saying

"Great streamlined process. Quick, easy, and support is very helpful."

Ryan F.

System integration

"Denise Smith is a breath of fresh air. I loved every second dealing with her. And, yes, I'm talking about buying insurance. Most people don't love that, but Denise made the experience exceptional. She is a rock star!"

Kristine W.

Food products manufacturing

"We needed quotes fast and coverage even faster. We received both. We appreciate your service. THANK YOU."

Rich H.

Engineer

Updated: July 7, 2022

Compare liquor liability insurance quotes

Save money by comparing insurance quotes from multiple carriers.