EPLI Insurance: Understanding the Basics

As a business owner, you’re exposed to a variety of risks. One of these risks is employment practices liability. It’s important to protect your business against these risks, which is where employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) comes in. In this article, we’ll dive into the basics of EPLI insurance, why it’s important, and how it works.

What Is EPLI Insurance?

EPLI insurance is a type of liability insurance that protects businesses against claims made by employees and former employees. These claims can include wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and more. EPLI insurance covers the cost of defending against these claims, as well as any settlement or judgment awarded to the employee.

EPLI insurance is typically purchased as a standalone policy or as an endorsement to a general liability insurance policy. The coverage limits and premiums will vary depending on the size of your business, industry, and risk factors.

What Does EPLI Insurance Cover?

EPLI insurance covers a wide range of claims related to employment practices liability. Some of the most common claims covered by EPLI include:

Claim Type
Description
Wrongful Termination
A claim made by a former employee alleging that they were terminated for illegal reasons, such as discrimination or retaliation.
Discrimination
A claim made by an employee alleging that they were discriminated against on the basis of their age, gender, race, religion, or other protected characteristic.
Harassment
A claim made by an employee alleging that they were subjected to sexual harassment, hostile work environment, or other forms of harassment.
Retaliation
A claim made by an employee alleging that they were retaliated against for reporting illegal practices, filing a complaint, or participating in an investigation.

Other claims covered by EPLI insurance may include defamation, invasion of privacy, breach of contract, and more. It’s important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered.

What Isn’t Covered by EPLI Insurance?

While EPLI insurance covers a wide range of claims related to employment practices liability, there are certain exclusions to be aware of. These may include:

  • Intentional acts
  • Criminal acts
  • Bodily injury or property damage
  • Workers’ compensation claims
  • Unpaid wage and hour claims

It’s important to speak with your insurance provider to understand what is and isn’t covered by your policy.

Why Is EPLI Insurance Important?

EPLI insurance is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it protects your business against costly lawsuits and claims made by employees and former employees. These lawsuits can be time-consuming, stressful, and expensive, and can damage your business’s reputation.

Additionally, EPLI insurance can help you attract and retain top talent. Knowing that your business has EPLI insurance in place can give employees peace of mind, and can make your business a more attractive place to work.

What Are the Benefits of EPLI Insurance?

Some of the benefits of EPLI insurance include:

  • Protecting your business against costly lawsuits and claims
  • Safeguarding your business’s reputation
  • Attracting and retaining top talent
  • Providing peace of mind for you and your employees
  • Coverage for legal fees and settlement costs

How Does EPLI Insurance Work?

EPLI insurance works by providing coverage for claims made by employees and former employees. If an employee files a claim against your business, your insurance provider will typically assign an attorney to defend your business against the claim. They will also cover the cost of any settlement or judgment awarded to the employee, up to the coverage limits of your policy.

When purchasing EPLI insurance, it’s important to carefully review the policy language and ensure that it covers the specific risks faced by your business. You should also be aware of any exclusions or limitations on coverage, and speak with your insurance provider to clarify any questions or concerns you may have.

How Much Does EPLI Insurance Cost?

The cost of EPLI insurance varies depending on a variety of factors, including the size of your business, industry, risk factors, and coverage limits. Some small businesses may be able to purchase EPLI insurance for as little as a few hundred dollars per year, while larger businesses may pay thousands of dollars per year for coverage.

How Can I Get EPLI Insurance?

EPLI insurance can be purchased through a variety of insurance providers, including traditional insurance companies and online insurance marketplaces. It’s important to shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers to ensure that you’re getting the best coverage at the best price.

FAQs

What is the difference between EPLI and general liability insurance?

General liability insurance covers claims related to bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury, while EPLI insurance covers claims related to employment practices liability, such as wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

Is EPLI insurance required by law?

EPLI insurance is not required by law, but it’s recommended for businesses of all sizes to protect against costly lawsuits and claims.

What types of businesses should consider EPLI insurance?

Any business that has employees should consider EPLI insurance. This includes small businesses, startups, nonprofits, and larger corporations.

What should I look for in an EPLI insurance policy?

When purchasing EPLI insurance, it’s important to read the policy carefully and ensure that it covers the specific risks faced by your business. Look for coverage limits, exclusions, and limitations on coverage. It’s also important to speak with your insurance provider to clarify any questions or concerns you may have.

What happens if I don’t have EPLI insurance and an employee files a claim?

If you don’t have EPLI insurance and an employee files a claim, you will be responsible for covering the cost of legal fees, settlements, and judgments out of pocket. This can be extremely costly and can have a negative impact on your business’s finances and reputation.

Conclusion

EPLI insurance is an important piece of protection for any business with employees. It can safeguard your business against costly lawsuits and claims, protect your reputation, and provide peace of mind for you and your employees. Whether you’re a small business owner or the CEO of a large corporation, investing in EPLI insurance is well worth the cost.