Certificate of Insurance (COI)
What Is a Certificate of Insurance?
A certificate of insurance (COI) is a one-page document that proves you have active coverage. It’s a summary of your insurance policy, including details like your business name, policy number, coverage, dates, and additional insureds.
Why COIs Matter for Beauty and Bodywork Professionals
A COI is proof of coverage for third parties who need assurance that your business carries active insurance. For beauty and bodywork pros, a COI helps you:
- Pass venue checks: Studios, suites, spas, and events often require a COI before you can work
- Verify additional insureds: Qualified third parties can easily confirm their additional insured (AI) status
- Show proper limits: Prove you have the right coverage at a glance
- Boost your credibility: Signal to clients and partners that you’re prepared to handle unexpected claims
What’s the Difference Between a COI and an Insurance Policy?
Think of an insurance policy as the book detailing your coverage, while your COI is the coverage page preview.
Swipe →
| Item | What It Is | What It Does | Who Uses It |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Certificate of Insurance (COI) |
One-page summary |
Proves active coverage; notes any additional insureds |
Venues, landlords, and event organizers |
|
Insurance Policy |
Full legal contract |
Defines actual coverage, exclusions, and endorsements |
You and the insurance company |
How to Get a COI for My Business
Once you purchase liability insurance for your business, you receive access to your certificate of insurance. Depending on your insurer, it can take a few days for your COI to be ready, but with Beauty & Bodywork Insurance (BBI), your COI is instantly available for download.
Who Would Ask to Be Added as an Additional Insured on My COI?
People or businesses who might request additional insured status on your COI include:
- Landlords and salon or spa owners for lease or booth rental agreements
- Event organizers to approve your vendor application
- Corporate programs hosting services at their location
- Property managers overseeing common areas
If they want coverage under your policy, they’re asking to be an additional insured. Otherwise, they just need to see proof of insurance, which makes them a certificate holder.
Related Terms
- Additional Insured
- Aggregate Limit
- Binder
- Carrier
- Certificate Holder
- Declarations Page
- Per-Occurrence Limit
- Proof of Insurance
