A-Rated Insurance Carrier
What Is an A-Rated Insurance Carrier?
An A-rated insurance carrier is an insurer that has received an “A” rating for its ability to pay for covered claims. This means an independent rating agency (commonly AM Best or S&P Global) has reviewed the insurer and said it’s financially strong. Think of it as a grade on a report card that your insurer has been properly vetted.
Beauty & Bodywork Insurance (BBI) is backed by a carrier with an “A-” rating from AM Best, meaning it has an excellent ability to pay your covered claims.
What It Means for Beauty & Bodywork Professionals
Studios, landlords, and event venues often ask for proof that your liability policy is backed by an “A-” or better carrier. Choosing an A-rated insurer helps you satisfy those contract requirements and signals that your coverage comes from a financially stable company.
Essentially, this rating can help you land your dream gig, showing that you’re a professional who’s prepared with the right liability insurance.
How the “A” Works: AM Best vs S&P
The rating agency will issue an insurer financial strength rating based on its unique scale.
- AM Best uses categories like Superior (A++/A+), Excellent (A/A-), and so on. An “A” or “A-” is in the “Excellent” band, indicating a strong ability to meet insurance obligations.
- S&P Global issues an “A” rating to a strong company that may have some financial challenges. Its highest financial strength rating is an “AAA.”
Independent agencies grade insurance companies differently, but with both AM Best and S&P Global, an “A” rating indicates that the insurer has a strong capacity to fulfill its financial commitments
What an “A” Rating Does Not Mean
- It’s not a guarantee that every claim will be paid; ratings don’t address how claims are handled
- It’s not the same as customer reviews or complaint ratios
- It doesn’t tell you whether a specific policy fits your services or venue requirements — always check your limits and exclusions
How to Verify a Carrier’s Rating
- Look up the company on the rating agency’s official website
- Match the name carefully to the insurer listed on your certificate of insurance (COI)
- Double-check with your insurer if you have more questions
BBI’s carrier’s financial strength rating is proudly listed on our website: Accelerant with an “A-” (excellent) rating from AM Best.
Real-World Example
Your lease contract may require proof of coverage from an insurer with an AM Best “A” rating. When you purchase a policy from BBI, you get an instant certificate of insurance that lists your insurer (BBI) and carrier (Accelerant), which you can send to any relevant business or landlord to show you have the proper coverage.
Additional Resources
Related Terms
Additional Insured
Carrier
Certificate of Insurance (COI)
Insurance Agency
Insurance Claim
Insurance Policy
Insured (Named Insured)
