Certificate of Insurance (COI)
Definition. A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a one-page document issued by your carrier proving you have specified insurance in force.
Also known as: COI, Insurance Certificate, Cert
Required by landlords, vendors, clients, municipalities, professional licensing boards. The COI proves coverage exists but does NOT create coverage — for that, the named party must be listed as Additional Insured on the actual policy.
Example
Commercial landlord requires COI showing $1M GL, $1M Auto, $500K WC before lease signing. Tenant submits the COI listing the landlord as Additional Insured.
Sources cited
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📘 Educational content only.
Reviewed by California-licensed Property & Casualty insurance agent
Jason Wootton (CA License #0I94454). Not insurance advice, an individual recommendation, or a solicitation in any state. Insurance regulations vary by state. For specific coverage decisions, consult a licensed insurance agent in your state.
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