Purchasing An Insurance Policy

Why does a Provider who operates a Family Child Care business need Liability & Accident insurance?

First and foremost, it is important to remember a Provider is operating a business in their home. Children are “in training” and as they grow and develop, they fall or may pinch a finger which needs medical attention. Accidents do occur and accident insurance provides you with coverage that may help to pay the medical bills. At times, the accidents result in injuries which harm a child, and a parent may sue for damages. General liability insurance can help protect your business if a lawsuit is filed. Many general liability insurance carriers require business owners to maintain separate accident insurance. The Assure Child Care program offers access to general liability insurance and accident insurance in a combined offering. Protect your business, the children you care for, and your own family by purchasing accident and liability insurance.

What is the advantage of a Group Insurance Program like the one available through Assure Child Care and the Adults & Children’s Risk Purchasing Group, Inc. membership?

A Group Liability policy is available to Members of the Adults & Children’s Risk Purchasing Group, Inc. Group policies are often designed to meet the unique needs of the group policyholder, in this case, child care providers, so they may provide broader coverage than individual policies. Group policies can also be more affordable for group members than purchasing similar coverage individually. Child Care Providers gain stability as the entire membership of the Adults & Children’s Risk Purchasing Group, Inc. is part of the group. The Assure Child Care Program also allows each Provider to select their desired limits of coverage, and the effective date of their policies.

Do I need Workers Compensation Insurance if I hire an employee occasionally?

While there are differences from state to state, almost all employers must carry this insurance. It provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries and illnesses. To find out the details of your state's law, contact your Child Care Licensing Specialist and the state department of workers compensation.

What is the difference between an occurrence and a claims made policy?

An “occurrence” policy is best for Family Child Care because it covers claims reported after the policy expires. As long as the incident occurred while a policy was in effect, the coverage is still available to respond to the loss. A “claims made” policy only covers a claim reported during a specified time, usually during the policy term.

Allegations and claims can be made against a Provider years after the injury and after a child has left care or even after a Provider goes out of the business.

To gain the most protection for your Child Care business, purchase an occurrence policy.

The policy which Assure Child Care offers is an “occurrence” policy.

Who is A.M. Best and what does the rating mean?

The liability carrier which Assure Child Care uses, Philadelphia Indemnity Insurance Company is rated “A++” by A.M. Best which is the highest rating given. The Accident Carriers: StarNet Insurance Company and Berkley Life & Health Insurance Company are both rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best.