Why do writers need insurance?
From a lost manuscript to a breach of contract, legal trouble can arise quickly for an author. Business insurance helps pay for lawsuits related to missed deadlines, copyright infringement, and accusations of libel. It also provides financial protection against injuries, laptop theft, and data breaches.
One application, multiple quotes
Insureon helps freelance writers and authors compare small business insurance quotes from top U.S. carriers online.
Get several quotes with one easy application.
What types of insurance do writers need?
General liability insurance
This policy covers basic risks, such as a client who trips in your office and suffers a concussion. Bundle it with commercial property insurance in a business owner's policy (BOP) for a discount.
- Client bodily injuries
- Client property damage
- Commercial lease requirements
Media liability insurance
This policy covers lawsuits related to work performance, such as a client suing for breach of contract when you refuse to perform an unpaid rewrite. It's also called professional liability insurance.
- Accusations of plagiarism
- Defamation lawsuits
- Breach of contract
Business owner's policy
A business owner's policy, or BOP, is a cost-effective way for writers and authors to purchase general liability coverage and commercial property insurance together.
- Damaged client property
- Slip-and-fall injuries at your office
- Stolen or damaged business property
Workers’ compensation insurance
Most states require workers' comp for writing businesses with employees. It also protects sole proprietors from work injury costs that health insurance might deny.
- Employee medical expenses
- Disability benefits
- Legal fees from employee injuries
Cyber insurance
Cyber liability coverage helps pay for costs related to data breaches and cyberattacks. It's strongly recommended for writers and authors who handle sensitive information.
- Customer notification expenses
- Fraud monitoring services
- Cyberextortion payments
Commercial auto insurance
Commercial auto insurance helps cover costs if a vehicle owned by a writing business is involved in an accident. It's usually required for business-owned vehicles.
- Property damage caused by your vehicle
- Injuries caused by your vehicle
- Vehicle theft or vandalism
How much does insurance cost for media and advertising professionals?
A self-employed copywriter or freelance writing business will pay less for insurance than a larger company.
Factors that affect premiums include:
- Media, advertising, and writing services offered
- Business property and equipment
- Business income
- Types of insurance purchased
- Policy limits and deductibles
- Exposure to liability risks such as defamation
How do I get writer insurance?
It's easy to get business insurance for writers, authors, translators, and bloggers if you have your company information on hand. 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. providers to find the right insurance coverage for your writing business, whether you work independently or hire employees.
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