By Spencer Bellott, ABMP Director, Risk Management
One of the many benefits of Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP) membership is professional liability insurance. Like all insurance, you hope you never need to use it, but it’s nice to know it’s there.
At some point, an employer, venue, or landlord might ask you for proof that you have insurance for your work as a massage therapist. You will want to provide them a certificate of insurance.
Q: What Is a Certificate of Insurance?
A: A certificate of insurance (COI) is a document created by the insurer that shows your name and the limits associated with your coverage. It is signed by the insurance company that provides evidence of insurance.
Q: Why Might I Be Asked for a COI?
A: Here are some examples why you might be asked to provide a COI:
- You just found a new place you are planning on leasing and your landlord requires you to have insurance for your business.
- You decided to moonlight and pick up some work as part of the gig economy and the company facilitating this work also requested proof of insurance.
- You just got a new job/contract and your employer requested proof you have insurance for your profession.
- You are required to provide proof of your professional license with your state.
Q: When Should You Not Provide a COI?
A: If you have a client who is asking for proof of your insurance or you receive a request in the mail from a representative of a past client, call ABMP to speak with someone in the risk management department to talk through the next steps with this request.
Q: How Can I Get a COI 24 Hours a Day?
A: The process is simple. Log in to abmp.com.
Under quick links at left, click on Certificate of Insurance.
Click on the COI link to download a copy you can provide to your landlord or employer.
If you need a COI from a prior year, please email expectmore@abmp.com.
Related Content
“What is Business Personal Property Insurance”
“Why ABMP Liability Insurance Does Not Have a Shared Aggregate”