No matter the size of your business, protecting yourself against unexpected accidents or lawsuits is crucial. That’s where general liability insurance comes in. It’s often the first and most important policy any entrepreneur should consider.

What Is General Liability Insurance?
General liability insurance protects your business from third-party claims involving:

Bodily injury (e.g., a customer slipping and falling)

Property damage (e.g., breaking a client’s equipment while working)

Advertising injury (e.g., copyright infringement or defamation)

Whether you run a storefront or operate a home-based business, this type of coverage is your frontline defense against costly legal claims.

Who Needs It?
Every business that interacts with clients, customers, or the public should have general liability coverage, including:

Retail stores

Consultants

Contractors

Event planners

Freelancers and solopreneurs

Coverage Limits and Costs
General liability policies typically start at $500–$1,000 annually for small businesses. Limits often begin at $1 million per occurrence, with $2 million aggregate coverage. These numbers may sound high, but even a single lawsuit could exceed that if you’re uninsured.

What’s Not Covered
General liability insurance doesn’t cover:

Employee injuries (covered by workers’ comp)

Professional mistakes (covered by professional liability)

Property you own (covered by commercial property insurance)

Best Providers to Consider
NEXT Insurance: Affordable, easy online quotes for small businesses.

Hiscox: Great for freelancers and consultants.

Nationwide: Strong reputation with customizable plans.

Final Thoughts
General liability insurance is the foundation of any solid risk management strategy. It protects your assets, your reputation, and your future making it one of the best business insurance options available.