NEXT offers Montana's best professional liability insurance, with affordable rates and dependable customer service. The Hartford takes second place, while Simply Business rounds out the top three.
Professional Liability Insurance in Montana
NEXT earns the highest score of 4.73 out of 5 in our analysis of the best professional liability insurance in Montana.
Get matched to top professional liability insurance companies in Montana below.
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Updated: October 27, 2025
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Best Professional Liability Insurance in Montana: Key Takeaways
NEXT is our top pick for professional liability insurance in Montana, followed by The Hartford and Simply Business.
Your industry risk, client contracts, potential claim costs and budget determine the best Montana professional liability insurance for you.
Assess your needs first, then compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best professional liability insurance in Montana.
Find Insurance for Your Business
Select your industry and state to get a customized quote.
Industry
State
Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Montana
| NEXT Insurance | 4.73 | $73 |
| The Hartford | 4.70 | $70 |
| Simply Business | 4.52 | $76 |
| Coverdash | 4.48 | $77 |
| Nationwide | 4.46 | $82 |
| biBERK | 4.44 | $79 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.41 | $75 |
| Hiscox | 4.38 | $77 |
| Chubb | 4.28 | $88 |
| Thimble | 4.25 | $75 |
How Did We Determine These Rates and Rankings?
These rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's proprietary analysis of small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries and should not be considered quotes. Your actual rate will differ based on business-specific factors. Contact insurers directly for accurate pricing tailored to your business needs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS INSURANCE
Professional liability coverage works best alongside other coverage types that create comprehensive financial protection for Montana small businesses.
Best Montana Professional Liability Insurance Reviews
Most professionals need professional liability insurance, but not all providers offer the same value. We've broken down what differentiates these top providers and why they made our list for Montana businesses.
NEXT
Overall Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.7/ 5
4.7/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Points
Average Monthly Premium
$73These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on professional liability policies.Our Survey: Claims Process
3.9/5Our Survey: Recommend to Others
4.8/5
The Hartford
Runner-Up for Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.7/ 5
4.8/5Affordability
4.6/5Customer Experience
4.7/5Coverage Points
Average Monthly Premium
$70These rates are for small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries or business types and focus solely on professional liability policies.Our Survey: Claims Process
4.5/5Our Survey: Recommend to Others
4.5/5
Cheapest Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Montana
The Hartford has the best options for low-cost professional liability insurance in Montana at $70 monthly ($844 annually). NEXT provides another affordable option at $73 per month for business owners seeking budget-friendly protection.
| The Hartford | $70 | $844 |
| NEXT Insurance | $73 | $870 |
| Thimble | $75 | $896 |
| Progressive Commercial | $75 | $899 |
| Simply Business | $76 | $914 |
| Coverdash | $77 | $919 |
| Hiscox | $77 | $924 |
| biBERK | $79 | $953 |
| Nationwide | $82 | $981 |
| Chubb | $88 | $1,058 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's proprietary analysis of small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries and should not be considered quotes. Your actual rate will differ based on business-specific factors. Contact insurers directly for accurate pricing tailored to your business needs.
Average Cost of Professional Liability Insurance in Montana
Professional liability insurance costs $77 monthly ($926 annually) in Montana, $1 less than the national average. Home-based businesses pay around $37 per month, while mortgage brokers average $164. Rates also depend on business location, claims history and coverage limits.
| Accountants | $144 | $1,731 |
| Ad Agency | $95 | $1,141 |
| Auto Repair | $81 | $967 |
| Automotive | $74 | $893 |
| Bakery | $52 | $629 |
| Barber | $43 | $515 |
| Beauty Salon | $49 | $586 |
| Bounce House | $58 | $700 |
| Candle | $41 | $492 |
| Cannabis | $121 | $1,452 |
| Catering | $78 | $931 |
| Cleaning | $54 | $648 |
| Coffee Shop | $61 | $736 |
| Computer Programming | $105 | $1,265 |
| Computer Repair | $61 | $737 |
| Construction | $76 | $910 |
| Consulting | $108 | $1,292 |
| Contractor | $63 | $755 |
| Courier | $49 | $588 |
| DJ | $46 | $556 |
| Daycare | $108 | $1,293 |
| Dental | $83 | $994 |
| Dog Grooming | $55 | $661 |
| Drone | $104 | $1,251 |
| Ecommerce | $61 | $735 |
| Electrical | $63 | $752 |
| Engineering | $102 | $1,220 |
| Excavation | $67 | $804 |
| Florist | $38 | $455 |
| Food | $110 | $1,324 |
| Food Truck | $58 | $700 |
| Funeral Home | $82 | $978 |
| Gardening | $40 | $481 |
| HVAC | $82 | $984 |
| Handyman | $54 | $647 |
| Home-based business | $37 | $443 |
| Hospitality | $73 | $880 |
| Janitorial | $49 | $583 |
| Jewelry | $62 | $739 |
| Junk Removal | $67 | $802 |
| Lawn/Landscaping | $50 | $601 |
| Lawyers | $145 | $1,746 |
| Manufacturing | $59 | $707 |
| Marine | $88 | $1,061 |
| Massage | $107 | $1,279 |
| Mortgage Broker | $164 | $1,965 |
| Moving | $82 | $984 |
| Nonprofit | $50 | $604 |
| Painting | $63 | $753 |
| Party Rental | $55 | $660 |
| Personal Training | $71 | $846 |
| Pest Control | $95 | $1,141 |
| Pet | $46 | $553 |
| Pharmacy | $58 | $693 |
| Photography | $66 | $795 |
| Physical Therapy | $94 | $1,124 |
| Plumbing | $89 | $1,070 |
| Pressure Washing | $57 | $687 |
| Real Estate | $123 | $1,471 |
| Restaurant | $81 | $969 |
| Retail | $55 | $665 |
| Roofing | $97 | $1,164 |
| Security | $97 | $1,165 |
| Snack Bars | $47 | $562 |
| Software | $95 | $1,137 |
| Spa/Wellness | $109 | $1,313 |
| Speech Therapist | $98 | $1,173 |
| Startup | $71 | $857 |
| Tech/IT | $97 | $1,165 |
| Transportation | $96 | $1,153 |
| Travel | $95 | $1,139 |
| Tree Service | $75 | $896 |
| Trucking | $111 | $1,332 |
| Tutoring | $61 | $732 |
| Veterinary | $116 | $1,394 |
| Wedding Planning | $77 | $925 |
| Welding | $77 | $926 |
| Wholesale | $62 | $739 |
| Window Cleaning | $62 | $741 |
How Did We Determine These Rates?
These rates are estimates based on MoneyGeek's proprietary analysis of small businesses with two employees across 79 major industries and should not be considered quotes. Your actual rate will differ based on business-specific factors. Contact insurers directly for accurate pricing tailored to your business needs.
How Much Professional Liability Insurance Do I Need in Montana?
Professional liability insurance requirements differ by profession in Montana. Health care providers, attorneys and contractors often face specific mandates, while other fields rely on client contracts and industry standards. Even without legal requirements, your coverage amount should reflect your risk exposure and clients' expectations. Many higher-risk professions carry at least $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate coverage.
Your coverage decision depends on three factors:
Your Industry Risk
Some industries in Montana carry greater liability exposure than others, with technology consultants in Bozeman and architects serving commercial clients facing higher risks. Real estate agents in smaller communities like Helena or Great Falls or accountants have lower professional liability risks. High-risk fields need more coverage because their services directly impact client operations and financial outcomes. Lower-risk professions require less coverage since their potential for causing client damages is more limited.
Client Requirements
Many clients and contracts in Montana require proof of professional liability insurance at specific limits before work can begin. Corporations, government contracts, and large organizations throughout the state often set minimum coverage levels ranging from $1 million to $2 million per claim. Meeting these requirements is essential for securing major contracts and maintaining business relationships with institutional clients.
Potential Claim Costs
Coverage should reflect the possible financial impact of a lawsuit in Montana, considering both damages and legal defense costs. Small mistakes might result in minor penalties of a few thousand dollars, while errors in larger projects could lead to six-figure damages plus substantial legal fees. The scale of your typical projects and client base should guide your coverage amount to ensure adequate protection against worst-case scenarios.
How to Get the Best Professional Liability Insurance in Montana
We provided the steps on how to get business insurance that matches your Montana professional liability needs and budget.
- 1Evaluate Your Risk Exposure
Montana businesses face varying liability risks based on industry and client interactions. A local engineering firm needs higher coverage limits than a freelance graphic designer. Review your contracts and industry standards to determine appropriate coverage amounts.
- 2Find a Knowledgeable Local Agent
Look for an agent who knows Montana's business landscape and understands how small business insurance cost varies by location and industry. Local expertise helps match your coverage needs with insurers experienced in Montana markets. Regional agents often provide more personalized service than national call centers.
- 3Collect and Compare Quotes
Request quotes from at least three insurer to see which ones have cheap business insurance. Compare policy terms like exclusions and deductibles. A $1,000,000 policy from one carrier may offer different protections than another.
- 4Research Insurer Financial Strength
When researching Montana business insurance, look beyond price. Choose carriers with strong AM Best ratings and solid claims-paying records. Read reviews from other professionals in your field to gauge customer service quality. Financial stability matters when you need coverage most during a claim.
- 5Explore Bundling Opportunities
Many insurers offer discounts when you get several small business insurance coverage types from a single provider. Combine professional liability with general liability or business owner's policies. Bundling can reduce overall costs while simplifying policy management. Ask agents about available package deals in the state.
- 6Maintain Continuous Coverage
Professional liability operates on a claims-made basis, covering only claims filed while your policy remains active. Never let coverage lapse, even when switching carriers. Purchase tail coverage or ensure your new policy includes prior acts coverage to avoid protection gaps.
How to Prevent Professional Liability Claims in Montana
Professional liability claims typically result from poor communication and vague client expectations rather than genuine mistakes. Small misunderstandings can quickly escalate into legal battles costing thousands in fees. These proven strategies help Montana businesses prevent disputes and avoid expensive claims.
Document Everything
Keep written proof of all client interactions, including email confirmations, scope changes and project approvals. This documentation provides a clear record of what was agreed upon and helps prevent disputes over project details. Written records serve as your primary defense if a client questions decisions or deliverables later.
Use Detailed Contracts With Clear Scope
Create contracts that clearly define your responsibilities, project timelines and specific deliverables. Outline what services are included in your fee and what work falls outside the agreed scope to avoid conflicts over additional charges. Well-defined contracts prevent misunderstandings that often lead to professional liability claims.
Communicate Project Changes Immediately
Confirm all client-requested changes in writing before proceeding with additional work. Document how these changes will affect project timelines, budgets and final deliverables to maintain transparency. Immediate communication prevents scope creep and protects you from disputes over unexpected costs or delays.
Set Realistic Expectations Upfront
Be transparent with clients about project timelines, potential challenges and expected results from the start. Honest communication about your capabilities helps avoid overpromising and reduces the likelihood of client disappointment. Setting realistic expectations prevents disputes that arise when clients expect more than what was feasible.
Keep Detailed Project Records
Maintain thorough records of all work performed, decisions made and the reasoning behind your professional recommendations. This documentation demonstrates your diligence and professional standards if your work is later questioned. Detailed records provide essential protection by showing you followed industry best practices and made informed decisions.
Montana Professional Liability: Bottom Line
Professional liability coverage in Montana starts with understanding your business risks and client demands. NEXT ranks as our top provider, but your industry type, contract requirements and budget matter most in your final choice. Assess your needs first, then connect with a local agent to compare coverage options. The right policy delivers solid financial protection when you need it most.
Montana Professional Liability Insurance: FAQ
Here are frequently asked questions about professional liability insurance in Montana.
What does professional liability insurance cost in Montana?
Professional liability insurance in Montana costs between $70 and $88 monthly, depending on your provider. Your premium varies based on your industry's risk level, claims history, coverage limits and business location within the state.
Which professional liability insurance company is best in Montana?
NEXT leads professional liability insurance in Montana with a 4.73 out of 5 rating for its affordable coverage and strong customer service. The Hartford ranks second at 4.70, while Simply Business comes third at 4.52, offering solid alternatives for Montana professionals.
How much professional liability coverage do I need in Montana?
Professional liability coverage needs in Montana vary based on your industry's risk level, client contract demands and potential lawsuit expenses. High-risk professions like architects and consultants require higher coverage limits, while businesses in lower-risk fields may need less comprehensive protection.
Is there a difference between professional liability and E&O insurance?
They're the same coverage: professional liability and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance both protect you from claims about mistakes in your professional services. Some industries prefer one term over the other, but the coverage works identically regardless of what you call it.
How We Scored the Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Montana
A professional liability lawsuit could destroy a small business in Montana overnight. We examined insurers throughout the state to identify which companies provide the best financial protection for businesses from new startups to long-established firms.
Our Scoring System
- Affordability (50%): Price matters most for small business owners making insurance decisions. We gave affordability the highest weight because businesses need solid coverage that fits their budget.
- Customer experience (30%): Quality service during a claim can make or break a business. We analyzed J.D. Power ratings and complaint records from the Montana Department of Insurance to measure insurer performance.
- Coverage options (15%): We reviewed how well policies adapt to different professional services and examined exclusions that could leave local businesses exposed.
- Financial strength (5%): AM Best ratings helped us confirm each insurer has the financial resources to pay professional liability claims reliably.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.
sources
- Alliance Health. "Provider Insurance Requirements." Accessed November 14, 2025.
- Better Business Bureau. "The Hartford Insurance Company | BBB Business Profile." Accessed November 14, 2025.