How to Get a Certificate of Insurance (COI) in 5 Minutes
A client, venue, or GC just asked for your "COI" and you have no idea what that is or how to get one. Here's everything you need to know — in plain English.
What is a certificate of insurance (COI)?
A Certificate of Insurance is a document issued by your insurance carrier that proves your coverage is active. It shows:
- Your name and business name
- The insurance carrier and policy number
- Coverage types and dollar limits
- Policy effective and expiration dates
- Any additionally insured parties
It is not the actual policy — it's proof the policy exists. Think of it like showing your car insurance card at a traffic stop.
Who asks for a COI and why
Almost anyone you do business with professionally may ask for one:
- General contractors — require subcontractors to carry GL before allowing them on a job site
- Wedding and event venues — require vendors (DJs, photographers, caterers, florists) to show $1M GL coverage
- Commercial property managers — require cleaning companies, landscapers, and maintenance workers to be insured
- Corporate clients — require service providers to carry professional liability
- HOAs and municipalities — require contractors to be licensed and insured before issuing work permits
5 steps to get your COI today
- Choose your coverage. Most small businesses need general liability (GL). Some also need professional liability. Use our quote tool to find the right coverage for your business type.
- Get a quote. Takes 2–3 minutes. Enter your business type, location, and revenue.
- Bind the policy. Pay online (monthly or annually). Coverage starts immediately.
- Download your COI. Go to your carrier's dashboard and download the PDF. It's ready instantly.
- Email it to whoever asked. Most clients accept a PDF via email. Some request physical mail — your carrier can arrange that too.
What is an "additionally insured" and how do I add one?
When a venue or GC says "name us as additionally insured," they're asking to be added to your policy so your coverage partially extends to them. This protects them if a claim arises from your work at their property.
How to add one:
- Log into your carrier's online portal
- Find the "Add Additional Insured" option (usually under your policy details)
- Enter the organization's exact legal name and address
- Download an updated COI showing them listed
Cost: Free with most online carriers. Takes 2–3 minutes.
What if my COI expired?
If your policy renewed, your carrier automatically issues an updated COI. If it actually lapsed (coverage ended), you need to renew or buy a new policy before you can get a valid COI. Don't work a job without active coverage — a lapsed policy means any claims are denied.
COI vs. proof of insurance — what's the difference?
They're the same thing. "Proof of insurance," "certificate of insurance," "COI," and "insurance certificate" are all terms for the same one-page document. Some industries use different terms but they all want the same thing.