
In Michigan, business insurance options are numerous, but understanding the coverage is crucial. Liability insurance is a must-have for businesses, as it protects against lawsuits and financial losses.
Michigan law requires businesses to have workers' compensation insurance, which covers employees' medical expenses and lost wages in case of work-related injuries.
Businesses in Michigan can choose from various types of insurance coverage, including property insurance, which protects against damage to buildings and equipment.
Business owners in Michigan often overlook the importance of business interruption insurance, which covers lost revenue and expenses during periods of business closure.
Types of Business Insurance
Business insurance in Michigan can be a complex topic, but it's essential to understand the different types of coverage available. General liability insurance is a must-have for many businesses, covering common risks in almost every industry.
General liability insurance can provide important protections even for businesses with a lower level of risk, such as office environments or small retail spaces. For example, if a server at your Ann Arbor restaurant spills soup on a customer's designer jacket, general liability insurance could help cover the cost to repair or replace it.

In addition to general liability insurance, other types of business insurance in Michigan include workers' compensation insurance, commercial auto insurance, and commercial property insurance. Workers' compensation insurance can help cover lost wages and medical expenses if an employee gets hurt on the job, while commercial auto insurance can help cover costs like medical bills and property damage.
Here are some common types of business insurance in Michigan:
- Commercial Auto
- Commercial Liability
- Commercial Property
- Cyber Security
- Directors & Officers
- Employment Practices Liability
- Errors & Omissions
- Inland Marine
- Workers’ Compensation
Types of Business Insurance
Business insurance is a vital part of protecting your company's assets and financial well-being. Most employers in Michigan with one or more employees are required to have workers' compensation insurance to cover lost wages and medical expenses if an employee gets hurt on the job.
You can choose from various types of business insurance, including commercial auto insurance, which can help cover costs like medical bills, rental reimbursement, and property damage if you or an employee gets in an accident.

All Michigan vehicles must have auto insurance with minimum coverage of $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $10,000 for property damage. Commercial property insurance can help protect a business's physical assets, including brick-and-mortar structures, inventory, equipment, and furniture.
A business owner's policy (BOP) combines commercial property insurance with general liability, which typically results in savings on monthly premiums. Professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions, can help protect your business financially if a customer or client claims you made a work mistake that cost them money.
Here are some common types of business insurance:
- Commercial Auto
- Commercial Liability
- Commercial Property
- Cyber Security
- Directors & Officers
- Employment Practices Liability
- Errors & Omissions
- Inland Marine
- Workers’ Compensation
General liability insurance can help cover costs related to common risks faced by many businesses, such as slip-and-fall injuries, other injuries related to your business, excluding employees, damage to someone else's property, accusations of libel, slander, or copyright infringement.
A BOP bundles commercial property insurance and commercial general liability coverage, making it a way for small, low-risk Michigan businesses to save money on insurance.
Auto
Auto insurance is a must-have for businesses that own vehicles. It covers injuries and property damage in an accident, along with vehicle theft, vandalism, and weather damage.
In Michigan, commercial auto insurance is required for business-owned vehicles. This policy is designed to protect your business from financial losses due to accidents, theft, or damage to company vehicles.
If you own a business vehicle, you'll want to consider the risks associated with accidents. Accidents involving business vehicles can result in serious injuries and property damage.
Here are some key things to know about commercial auto insurance in Michigan:
- Accidents involving business vehicles
- Theft of a business vehicle
- Damage to a company vehicle
Cyber
Cyber insurance is a must-have for Michigan businesses that handle sensitive information like credit card numbers. It covers financial losses from data breaches and cyberattacks, which can be costly and damaging to your reputation.
Customer notification expenses, fraud monitoring services, and data breach investigation are all covered under cyber insurance. This can help you respond quickly and effectively in the event of a breach.
If you use your personal vehicle for work purposes, you should consider adding hired and non-owned auto insurance (HNOA) to your general liability insurance or business owner's policy. This can help protect you in case of an accident while driving for work.
Here are some key benefits of cyber insurance:
- Customer notification expenses
- Fraud monitoring services
- Data breach investigation
Cost and Coverage
Commercial insurance can be affordable for small business owners in Michigan, with average costs ranging from $42 to $59 per month depending on the type of insurance.
General liability insurance is a must-have for many businesses, covering costs related to common risks such as slip-and-fall injuries and damage to someone else's property. It can help protect businesses financially in various situations, like accidents during business operations.
Factors that affect business insurance costs include your industry and risks, business operations, number of employees, policy limits, and deductibles. The insurance premiums for general liability insurance vary depending on several factors, including what type of work you do, how many employees you have, where your business is located, and any past insurance claims.
Here are some estimated monthly costs for different types of business insurance in Michigan:
As you add different types of coverage to your insurance package, the price you pay will increase. You will also pay more if you choose higher policy limits for your coverage, as opposed to the minimum policy requirements.
Cost of Small
The cost of small business insurance in Michigan can be a significant concern for entrepreneurs. Average costs for small businesses in Michigan are around $42 per month for general liability insurance.
Commercial insurance can be quite affordable for small business owners. Average costs in Michigan are: General liability: $42 per month, Workers' comp: $44 per month, Professional liability/E&O: $59 per month.
Factors that affect business insurance costs include your industry and risks, business operations, number of employees, and policy limits and deductibles. These factors can impact the overall cost of your insurance policy.
Here are some specific costs associated with small business insurance in Michigan:
It's worth noting that these costs can vary depending on your specific business needs and circumstances.
General Incidents Coverage
General liability insurance can help cover costs related to common risks faced by many businesses, such as slip-and-fall injuries and damage to someone else's property.
You can expect to pay more for higher policy limits, which provide more protection, as opposed to the minimum policy requirements. This means that choosing higher limits will increase your premium.
Accusations of libel, slander or copyright infringement are also covered by general liability insurance. This can be a costly and time-consuming process to defend yourself against, so having insurance can help protect your business.
Here are some examples of how general liability insurance can help cover costs:
A business owner's policy (BOP) can also help cover general incidents, bundling commercial property insurance and commercial general liability coverage. This can be a cost-effective option for small, low-risk businesses.
General Coverage
General Coverage is a vital aspect of any business insurance policy. General Liability insurance, also known as commercial general liability (CGL), can help cover costs related to common risks faced by many businesses, such as slip-and-fall injuries, other injuries related to your business, excluding employees, damage to someone else’s property, accusations of libel, slander or copyright infringement.
A General Liability policy can help protect businesses financially in various situations. For example, if a Grand Rapids carpet cleaner accidentally dislodges a corner of the carpet while cleaning, causing their client to trip, General Liability insurance could help cover the emergency medical treatment.
Even if you run a business with a lower level of risk, General Liability insurance can still provide important protections. In fact, accidental injuries or property damage can happen in an office environment or small retail space, such as a server at your Ann Arbor restaurant spilling soup on a customer’s designer jacket.
A General Liability policy covers damages and legal costs associated with injury claims by customers and other people you don't employ, damage to other people's property that was caused by your business, and medical costs associated with these incidents. It also covers libel, slander, and copyright infringement.
Here are some examples of what a General Liability policy can cover:
- Customer injuries
- Damaged customer property
- Damage to other people's property
- Accusations of libel, slander or copyright infringement
Michigan businesses can get an affordable, customized General Liability policy from NEXT, with premiums priced at $45 or less per month for 50% of their U.S. customers.
Obtaining and Customizing Insurance
Michigan business owners can get customized insurance that meets their specific needs, including Business Insurance, Commercial Property Insurance, General Liability Insurance, and Professional Liability Insurance.
To get started, you can explore options like Business Insurance, which can provide financial protection for your company in case of unexpected events.
If you're a small business owner, you might appreciate companies like I thought next, which offers great rates and outstanding follow-up service.
Here are some key types of insurance to consider:
- Business Insurance
- Commercial Property Insurance in Michigan
- General Liability Insurance in Michigan
- Professional Liability Insurance in Michigan
How to Obtain Company Insurance
You can get company insurance quickly and easily. Fast quotes from leading insurance providers can be obtained in seconds.
Start by sharing information about yourself, which will be kept secure and double-checked by a professional with experience in your field. They'll be in touch to help you find the right policy.
You can complete an easy online application to get quotes from top-rated insurance companies. This will give you a certificate of insurance the same day.
Get Customized Solutions

If you're a business owner in Michigan, you can get customized insurance that meets your specific needs.
Business insurance is a must-have for many types of businesses, including small businesses, which can be protected with policies like general liability insurance and professional liability insurance.
In Michigan, you can also get commercial property insurance to safeguard your business assets.
As a business owner, you might be wondering about the difference between libel and slander - libel is a written statement that harms someone's reputation, while slander is a spoken statement that does so.
Michigan has specific requirements for mechanics, including a license and insurance.
Here are some types of businesses that can be insured in Michigan:
- Agritainment
- Building and offices
- Events
- Hospitality
Protection and Licenses
In Michigan, having the right insurance can be a crucial step in securing licenses and permits for your business. You may need general liability insurance to obtain a business license, as is the case for vendors in the city of Battle Creek, Michigan.
To get started, you'll want to explore your options for business insurance in Michigan. Our team of licensed insurance advisors is standing by to assist you if you have any questions along the way.
Legal Fees and Defense Costs
Michigan general liability insurance can also help cover situations where you need to defend yourself against an accusation of copyright infringement, slander or libel.
Having the right insurance coverage can provide peace of mind, especially in uncertain situations where you may be accused of something you didn't do.
Accusations of copyright infringement, slander, or libel can be costly and time-consuming to defend, but with the right insurance coverage, you can focus on resolving the issue rather than worrying about the financial burden.
In Michigan, general liability insurance can help cover the costs associated with defending yourself against such accusations, giving you the protection you need to move forward.
Secure Licenses
Securing licenses and permits is an essential step in establishing your business in Michigan. You may need to have general liability insurance to obtain a business permit or professional license.
In fact, vendors in the city of Battle Creek, Michigan must carry general liability insurance to get a business license. This requirement is not unique to Battle Creek, as some lenders and banks also require proof of this type of insurance for businesses.
An insurance requirement can be written into contracts, which could impact your business if you don't carry Michigan liability insurance.
Other Insurance Options
In Michigan, you can also consider purchasing professional liability insurance to protect your business from claims of negligence or errors and omissions.
This type of insurance is often required for businesses that provide services, such as contractors, lawyers, and accountants.
Some business owners may also benefit from purchasing cyber insurance to protect against data breaches and cyber attacks.
Michigan law requires businesses to have workers' compensation insurance if they have three or more employees.
Businesses that operate in high-risk industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may want to consider purchasing commercial umbrella insurance to provide additional liability coverage.
Saving Money and Required Coverage
General liability insurance is a must-have for many businesses in Michigan, as it can help cover costs related to common risks such as slip-and-fall injuries, damage to someone else's property, and accusations of libel or slander.
You might be wondering how much this type of insurance costs. The good news is that it can vary depending on your business, but it's often a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're protected.
Here are some examples of how general liability insurance can help cover costs:
- A Grand Rapids carpet cleaner accidentally dislodges a corner of the carpet while cleaning, causing their client to trip. General liability insurance could help cover the emergency medical treatment they want to make sure they aren’t seriously hurt.
- A Lansing snow plower causes damage to a client’s driveway while removing snow. General liability could help cover the costs of fixing the damage.
Save Money
Saving Money is a top priority for any small business owner. We know that every dollar counts, and that's why we offer direct insurance policies that save you up to 20% compared to other insurance companies.
By cutting out the middleman, we're able to pass the savings on to you. This means you can allocate your budget more efficiently and invest in growth opportunities for your business.
Required Coverage
In Michigan, every business with employees is required to carry workers' compensation insurance. This is a non-negotiable requirement, with substantial fines and criminal penalties for businesses that fail to comply.
You can get away with having only one employee, including yourself as the business owner, and still be required to carry workers' comp. It's essential to note that the law doesn't explicitly state it, but it's a crucial coverage for your business.

Workers' compensation insurance is just one part of the puzzle. Many contracts require additional business insurance policies, such as general liability and professional liability. It's recommended that you carry policies to cover any part of your business that could be at risk.
If you're unsure about the specific policies required for your business, it's always better to err on the side of caution and consult with a professional. They can help you navigate the complex world of business insurance and ensure you're adequately covered.
Here's a quick rundown of the required coverage for Michigan small businesses:
Understanding Business Insurance
Business insurance in Michigan can be a complex and overwhelming topic, but understanding the basics can help you make informed decisions for your business.
In Michigan, business insurance is mandatory for most businesses, with the exception of sole proprietorships and partnerships with no employees. This is because the state requires businesses to have liability insurance to protect customers and employees.
Business insurance can help protect your business from financial losses due to unexpected events such as accidents, natural disasters, or lawsuits.
Errors and Omissions
Errors and Omissions insurance is a type of professional liability insurance that's common with professional services in Michigan. It can cover the cost of lawsuits related to your work performance.
Missed deadlines can be a major issue for businesses, and Errors and Omissions insurance can help protect you against lawsuits related to this. Accusations of negligence are also a common reason for lawsuits, and this type of insurance can provide financial protection against these claims.
Errors and oversights are also covered by Errors and Omissions insurance, which can help you avoid financial ruin in case of mistakes made while working.
Some examples of scenarios that may be covered by Errors and Omissions insurance include:
- Missed deadlines
- Accusations of negligence
- Errors and oversights
BiBERK Benefits
BiBERK is a leader among business insurance companies in Michigan, making it a great option for small businesses in the state.
We're often less expensive and easier to do business with than other insurance companies, which is a big advantage for small business owners.
Being part of the Berkshire Hathaway Insurance Group, the nation's largest insurance company in terms of assets, gives BiBERK a strong foundation and expertise in the industry.
You may know Berkshire Hathaway as the company started by Warren Buffett, a small business owner himself who's dedicated to providing small businesses with services that can help them grow.
NEXT and Business Insurance
NEXT is a great option for Michigan businesses looking for business insurance. They offer general liability insurance policies designed for small businesses and self-employed workers.
You can get a quote from NEXT in just about 10 minutes, which is a big time-saver. This is especially helpful if you're short on time or have a lot on your plate.
NEXT's online application process is fast and easy, allowing you to compare quotes from leading insurance providers in seconds. This means you can quickly find the right policy for your business.
If you need help or have questions, NEXT's U.S.–based licensed insurance agents are available to chat with you. They're pros with experience in various fields, so you can trust them to guide you through the process.
The entire process of getting insurance with NEXT usually takes less than 10 minutes, from quote to certificate of insurance. This is incredibly convenient, especially if you're in a hurry or need to get started right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best insurance for a small business?
For small businesses, a Businessowners Policy (BOP) is often the best choice, as it bundles essential coverages like general liability and property insurance into one convenient policy. This can help simplify insurance needs and save on costs, but it's essential to check state-specific requirements, such as workers' compensation insurance.
Do you need insurance for an LLC in Michigan?
In Michigan, an LLC with one or more employees working over 35 hours/week or three or more employees at a time must have workers' compensation insurance, but business insurance is not required otherwise. However, having insurance can still be beneficial for liability protection and other business needs.
How much is a $1 million dollar insurance policy for a business?
A $1 million liability insurance policy typically costs around $69 per month or $824 per year, but prices may vary depending on the business. For a more accurate quote, please contact us for a personalized estimate.
How much does an LLC insurance cost?
The average cost of LLC insurance in the USA is around $57 per month or $684 per year for a Business Owner's Policy, with additional costs for General Liability and Commercial Property insurance. The exact cost depends on various factors, including your business type, size, and location.
Sources
- https://www.insureon.com/states/michigan-business-insurance
- https://www.nextinsurance.com/general-liability-insurance/michigan/
- https://www.nextinsurance.com/business-insurance/michigan/
- https://www.secura.net/michigan-business-insurance
- https://www.biberk.com/where-we-insure/michigan-business-insurance
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