What is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document that proves you have active insurance coverage. When clients, landlords, or vendors ask for "proof of insurance," they want a COI. This one-page document summarizes your coverage types, policy limits, effective dates, and names your insurance company. It's your ticket to signing contracts and starting work.

Why Clients Request COIs

Clients request COIs to protect themselves from liability. If you're working on someone's property or providing professional services, they want assurance that your insurance will cover any accidents or mistakes—not their personal assets or business. A COI shows you're a legitimate, professional operation that takes responsibility for your work.

Common Situations Requiring a COI

The most common situations requiring a COI include:

• Signing a commercial lease
• Starting work for a new client
• Subcontracting on larger projects
• Vendor applications for retail or events

Many clients also request to be listed as an "Additional Insured" on your policy, which extends certain protections to them. This is a standard request and your insurance provider can add it easily.

Get COIs Instantly with SmartInsured

Getting a COI should be fast and easy. With SmartInsured, you can download your Certificate of Insurance instantly from your online dashboard—24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Need to add an additional insured? Submit a quick request and receive your updated COI the same day. No waiting on hold, no paperwork delays.

Don't lose a contract because you couldn't provide proof of insurance quickly enough. SmartInsured makes COI management simple so you can focus on your work, not administrative hassles. Get covered today and have instant access to certificates whenever you need them.