Business insurance for freelancers: coverage to consider

Start with the work you do, the risks you take, and the coverage your contracts require. Then compare actual policy terms.

Professional liability

Freelancers providing advice, design, consulting, or other professional services may want to ask about professional liability, sometimes called errors and omissions coverage. Ask which services are covered, how claims must be reported, and which exclusions apply.

General liability

Ask about general liability when your work involves customer premises, visitors, or potential bodily injury and property damage. Coverage is policy-specific. Professional mistakes and business property may need separate coverage.

Equipment coverage and home business insurance

Do not assume a household policy covers all business equipment, inventory, or business activity. Describe how you use your home and equipment to an insurance professional and ask what is included or excluded. If customers visit or you transport equipment, explain that too.

Questions to prepare before requesting a quote

• What services do I provide, and to which customers?
• What insurance do my contracts require?
• Do customers visit my home, or do I work at their locations?
• What equipment, inventory, or sensitive information do I handle?
• What deductibles, limits, exclusions, and reporting conditions apply?

This guide provides general planning information, not an individual coverage recommendation. Discuss your needs with a licensed insurance professional.

Return to the home-business checklist for the other setup steps.

By HomeBase · Content updated October 5, 2026