Tight schedules and massive workloads often result in missed deadlines. If you’re a tax preparer, you know how hectic it gets during tax season. Even a single-digit miscalculation can give rise to serious errors, creating legal issues and imposing financial consequences.

Here is when the Tax Preparer Insurance comes into play. It provides the ultimate backup against complex tax laws and other potential liabilities. Bestowing peace of mind helps professionals prepare and file their claims confidently.

What is Tax Preparer Liability Insurance? 

Also known as professional liability insurance or Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance is a specialized coverage designated to assist tax preparers, enrolled agents, accountants, CPAs, and other tax professionals. Moreover, it shields businesses against litigation arising from accidental errors.

After all, we are humans, and we make mistakes. Better safe than sorry!

Who Needs It?

During a time when tax laws keep getting complex, and changes are introduced frequently, as a tax preparer, shopping for a reliable policy becomes almost a necessity. It can sometimes be mandatory for you under the following conditions:

• Your client requires you to be insured.
• You are a small business owner handling your taxes without professional assistance.
• You work at a tax advisory firm, and your company wants to protect its business, as any alleged error can provoke a lawsuit.
• You want to safeguard your endangered personal assets in case of sues and claims. 

Other Insurance Policies for Tax Preparers

Eliminating the risks of financial disasters, professional liability insurance is a must-have. Regardless, you can consider some other policies, too, to enjoy comprehensive safety.

1. Cyber Liability Insurance

Digital technology has completely revolutionized our businesses. Despite the ease and convenience, digital interactions sometimes result in significant downfalls. Furthermore, cyber-attacks are getting more severe and sophisticated day by day.

Cyber liability insurance or cyber risk service is specifically tailored to save your sensitive information from cybercriminals. It provides network security coverage and protects your digital information. What makes it more essential is the provided data security. It assists the policyholder in fighting against ransomware attacks, data breaches, account seizures, and email compromises. 

Tech companies, law firms, the healthcare industry, and other digital enterprises are more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. 

2. Business Owner Policy

What if you get the facilities of three insurance policies in one convenient package? Yes! The Business Owner Policy bundles the general liability, business interruption, and commercial property insurance at a pocket-friendly price. 

BOP is an ideal insurance package for small to medium-sized firms. It tailors to your business-specific needs and delivers comprehensive coverage. Besides providing general liability coverage like body injury and property damage, it also guards you against business interruption costs.

On the other hand, large organizations are prone to more significant and complex risks. That is why they should invest in policies matching their complicated risk profile. 

3. Workers Compensation Insurance

Tax preparation firms must shop for this one! It is a government-mandated program that benefits both employees and employers.

It is adequate disability insurance that covers medical expenses, lost wages, injuries, rehabilitation, and salary replacement. However, the insurance company will only bear the job-related expenditures.

4. Commercial Crime Insurance 

Surprisingly! Around 75% of the workers have cheated or stolen from their employers. Besides employee theft, third parties can also cause your business to experience significant losses. Stealing customer data, revealing sensitive financial information, and digital transactions are the most common.

Fret not! Commercial Crime Insurance can back you up against such fraud and manipulation. It covers hefty losses that occur due to criminal acts.

How Much Does It Cost?

Since every business is different, estimating the exact figures isn’t impossible. The insurance premiums depend upon several factors, including business size, claim history, location, revenue, insurance limits, and clients. Small business insurance can cost you around $500 to $1,500 annually. 

Even though it comes with a cost, it drives benefits too! Let’s have a look at them.

Boosts Professional Confidence

Eliminating the risks of professional liabilities, this policy lends ultimate satisfaction. With more confidence, the business owner or employee can deliver high-quality services than unprotected ones. 

Covers Accidental Medical Expenditures

The insurance company will bear the associated medical fees in case of any accidental fall or slip in the office. Moreover, it also takes charge of bodily injuries, settlement expenses, and property damage. 

Backup Against Errors

Sometimes, even taxes submitted on time face unintentional errors. Luckily, the insurance policy will safeguard you against omissions and mistakes. 

Enhances Reputation and Credibility

As a deadline-oriented person, you are always worried about tax filing deadlines. Despite the concern, the deadlines can accidentally slip. In such a scenario, the insurance will protect you from legal lawsuits and claims, enhancing your reputation in the client’s eyes.

Shields Personal and Business Assets

Seizing assets is the most common way of legal settlement during financial claims. The policy adds a layer of protection and shields your personal and business belongings.

Final Thoughts

A meaningful investment today can save you from the problems that may arise in the future. Choose a reputable insurance company and shop for the most favorable policy that meets your needs. Remember to check the terms and conditions before signing any contract.

Don’t settle for anything less!