Life Event
Starting a Business
Personal policies almost never cover business activity — vehicle use, home office, and professional liability all require separate policies.
Timing: Before first paying customer or first contractor hire.
Coverage adjustments
Commercial Auto
Required for delivery, rideshare beyond personal endorsements, or work vehicle use
BOP
Combines general liability + property for small businesses
Professional Liability
For services, consulting, or advice-based work
Cyber
If you handle customer data or payments
Priorities
- Commercial auto if vehicle is used for business
- BOP (business owner's policy)
- Professional/E&O liability
- Workers comp once you hire
Checklist
- Confirm personal auto excludes business use
- Add a business endorsement to home if running from house
- Document home-office equipment for property coverage
Risk alerts
- Filing a business claim under a personal policy is grounds for cancellation