NEXT offers the best professional liability insurance in Ohio, with affordable rates and reliable customer support. The Hartford ranks second, while Simply Business takes third place.
Professional Liability Insurance in Ohio
NEXT earns the highest score of 4.75 out of 5 in our analysis of the best professional liability insurance in Ohio.
Get matched to the best professional liability insurance provider for your business in Ohio.
Select your industry
Select state
Updated: October 28, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Best Professional Liability Insurance in Ohio: Key Takeaways
NEXT is our top pick for professional liability insurance in Ohio, followed by The Hartford and Simply Business.
Your industry risk, client contracts, potential claim costs and budget determine the best Ohio professional liability insurance for you.
Assess your needs first, then compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best professional liability insurance in Ohio.
Find Insurance for Your Business
Select your industry and state to get a customized quote.
Industry
State
Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Ohio
| NEXT Insurance | 4.75 | $67 |
| The Hartford | 4.70 | $66 |
| Simply Business | 4.53 | $71 |
| Coverdash | 4.46 | $72 |
| Nationwide | 4.46 | $76 |
| biBERK | 4.44 | $74 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.41 | $70 |
| Hiscox | 4.37 | $72 |
| Chubb | 4.28 | $82 |
| Thimble | 4.25 | $71 |
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 is just one piece of your business protection puzzle. Other coverage types work alongside it to create comprehensive financial protection for Ohio businesses.
Best Ohio 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 Ohio businesses.
NEXT
Overall Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.8/ 5
4.8/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Points
Average Monthly Premium
$67These 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
$66These 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 Ohio
The Hartford offers the cheapest professional liability coverage in Ohio at $66 monthly ($793 annually). NEXT provides another affordable option for business owners, with premiums starting at $67 per month.
| The Hartford | $66 | $793 |
| NEXT Insurance | $67 | $800 |
| Progressive Commercial | $70 | $835 |
| Simply Business | $71 | $846 |
| Thimble | $71 | $847 |
| Coverdash | $72 | $863 |
| Hiscox | $72 | $863 |
| biBERK | $74 | $891 |
| Nationwide | $77 | $918 |
| Chubb | $82 | $986 |
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 Ohio
Professional liability insurance costs $72 monthly ($864 annually) in Ohio, which is $6 less than the national average. Home-based businesses pay around $34 per month, while mortgage brokers average $150. Rates also depend on your business location, claims history and coverage limits.
| Accountants | $132 | $1,589 |
| Ad Agency | $94 | $1,133 |
| Auto Repair | $76 | $917 |
| Automotive | $68 | $814 |
| Bakery | $49 | $588 |
| Barber | $40 | $477 |
| Beauty Salon | $46 | $552 |
| Bounce House | $55 | $660 |
| Candle | $39 | $465 |
| Cannabis | $115 | $1,380 |
| Catering | $75 | $896 |
| Cleaning | $51 | $612 |
| Coffee Shop | $56 | $676 |
| Computer Programming | $98 | $1,179 |
| Computer Repair | $58 | $697 |
| Construction | $71 | $856 |
| Consulting | $101 | $1,214 |
| Contractor | $58 | $695 |
| Courier | $46 | $551 |
| DJ | $43 | $512 |
| Daycare | $100 | $1,200 |
| Dental | $75 | $904 |
| Dog Grooming | $50 | $598 |
| Drone | $100 | $1,203 |
| Ecommerce | $56 | $676 |
| Electrical | $60 | $719 |
| Engineering | $97 | $1,161 |
| Excavation | $62 | $747 |
| Florist | $35 | $422 |
| Food | $102 | $1,219 |
| Food Truck | $55 | $654 |
| Funeral Home | $74 | $893 |
| Gardening | $38 | $453 |
| HVAC | $75 | $899 |
| Handyman | $51 | $614 |
| Home-based business | $34 | $409 |
| Hospitality | $68 | $816 |
| Janitorial | $46 | $556 |
| Jewelry | $58 | $691 |
| Junk Removal | $62 | $742 |
| Lawn/Landscaping | $47 | $567 |
| Lawyers | $137 | $1,641 |
| Manufacturing | $56 | $666 |
| Marine | $81 | $976 |
| Massage | $99 | $1,194 |
| Mortgage Broker | $150 | $1,806 |
| Moving | $75 | $904 |
| Nonprofit | $46 | $547 |
| Painting | $59 | $710 |
| Party Rental | $51 | $615 |
| Personal Training | $66 | $795 |
| Pest Control | $89 | $1,071 |
| Pet | $43 | $513 |
| Pharmacy | $54 | $644 |
| Photography | $60 | $716 |
| Physical Therapy | $89 | $1,072 |
| Plumbing | $82 | $987 |
| Pressure Washing | $53 | $636 |
| Real Estate | $118 | $1,417 |
| Restaurant | $77 | $919 |
| Retail | $51 | $610 |
| Roofing | $92 | $1,100 |
| Security | $92 | $1,107 |
| Snack Bars | $43 | $520 |
| Software | $88 | $1,053 |
| Spa/Wellness | $101 | $1,210 |
| Speech Therapist | $90 | $1,085 |
| Startup | $67 | $802 |
| Tech/IT | $90 | $1,080 |
| Transportation | $89 | $1,064 |
| Travel | $91 | $1,092 |
| Tree Service | $69 | $826 |
| Trucking | $103 | $1,239 |
| Tutoring | $56 | $673 |
| Veterinary | $108 | $1,297 |
| Wedding Planning | $72 | $862 |
| Welding | $71 | $854 |
| Wholesale | $56 | $678 |
| Window Cleaning | $58 | $693 |
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 Ohio?
Professional liability insurance requirements differ by profession in Ohio. Health care providers and attorneys typically face mandatory coverage rules, while many other fields don't have legal requirements. Even without state mandates, your coverage amount should reflect your risk level and clients' expectations. Many professionals in higher-risk industries carry $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate coverage. Your coverage decision depends on three factors:
Your Industry Risk
Some industries in Ohio carry greater liability exposure than others, directly affecting your coverage needs. Technology consultants and architects in Columbus or Cincinnati face higher risks due to complex projects and significant client investments. Professional liability insurance for accountants and real estate agents in smaller Ohio cities need lower coverage limits.
Client Requirements
Many clients and contracts in Ohio require proof of professional liability insurance at specific minimum limits before work can begin. Large corporations, government contracts, and healthcare systems throughout Ohio often mandate coverage of $1 million or more, regardless of your business size. Meeting these requirements is essential for securing contracts and maintaining client relationships in Ohio's competitive business environment.
Potential Claim Costs
Your coverage should reflect the possible financial impact of a professional liability lawsuit in Ohio's legal environment. Small errors might result in minor penalties of a few thousand dollars, while mistakes on larger projects could lead to six-figure damages plus substantial legal defense costs. Consider both the size of your typical projects and the potential ripple effects of professional errors when determining coverage limits.
How to Get the Best Professional Liability Insurance in Ohio
Our guide helps you get business insurance that matches your Ohio professional liability needs and budget.
- 1Evaluate Your Risk Exposure
Different businesses face varying liability risks in Ohio. A marketing consultant typically needs lower coverage limits than an engineering firm serving major clients. Review your industry standards and any coverage requirements in client contracts.
- 2Find a Knowledgeable Agent
Look for an agent who knows Ohio's business landscape and understands how business insurance costs vary by location and industry. Local expertise helps match your coverage to regional industry demands. Experienced agents also understand which insurers work best with Ohio businesses.
- 3Request Multiple Quotes
Request quotes from at least three insurers, comparing affordable business insurance rates and policy terms like exclusions and deductibles. A $1 million policy from one company may offer better terms than another.
- 4Research Insurer Quality
When researching business insurance in Ohio, look beyond price. Before choosing, check AM Best's financial ratings and claims handling reputation. Strong insurers pay claims promptly and provide reliable support when problems arise. Industry-specific experience also matters for understanding your business risks.
- 5Explore Bundling Options
Many insurers offer discounts when you get multiple types of business insurance coverage from a single provider. Consider combining professional liability with general liability or business owner's policies. Bundling often reduces total premiums while simplifying policy management. Ask about available package deals in your area.
- 6Maintain Continuous Coverage
Professional liability policies only cover claims filed while coverage is active. Gaps in coverage leave you vulnerable to lawsuits. When switching insurers, secure prior acts coverage or purchase tail coverage to protect against future claims.
How to Prevent Professional Liability Claims in Ohio
Most professional liability claims in Ohio result from poor communication and unclear client expectations rather than actual mistakes. Even small disputes can cost thousands in legal fees. These proven strategies help businesses prevent conflicts and avoid expensive claims.
Document Everything
Keep written proof of all client interactions, including email confirmations, scope changes and client approvals. This documentation helps prevent disputes by providing a clear record of what was agreed upon. Written records serve as your first line of defense if disagreements arise about project details or deliverables.
Use Detailed Contracts with Clear Scope
Create contracts that clearly define responsibilities, timelines and deliverables for every project. Outline what is included in your services and what is excluded to avoid conflicts over additional work. Well-defined contracts protect both you and your clients by setting clear expectations from the start.
Communicate Project Changes Immediately
Confirm all client-requested changes in writing before moving forward with any modifications. Document how these changes affect timelines, budgets and deliverables to prevent misunderstandings later. Immediate communication prevents small adjustments from becoming major disputes.
Set Realistic Expectations Upfront
Be transparent with clients about timelines, potential challenges and expected results from the beginning. Honest communication about your capabilities helps avoid overpromising and reduces the likelihood of disputes. Clients appreciate realistic projections more than optimistic promises that can't be met.
Keep Detailed Project Records
Maintain thorough records of all work performed, decisions made and the reasoning behind your professional choices. This documentation demonstrates your diligence and can provide strong protection if your work is later questioned. Detailed records show that you followed proper procedures and made informed decisions throughout the project.
Ohio Professional Liability: Bottom Line
Selecting professional liability insurance in Ohio requires first understanding your business risks and client needs. NEXT earns our top rating, but your industry, contracts and budget should drive your final choice. Start by evaluating your specific requirements, then work with a local agent to compare coverage options that deliver solid financial protection for your business.
Ohio Professional Liability Insurance: FAQ
Here are frequently asked questions about professional liability insurance in Ohio.
What does professional liability insurance cost in Ohio?
Professional liability insurance in Ohio costs between $66 and $82 monthly, depending on your provider. Actual premiums vary 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 Ohio?
NEXT ranks as the best professional liability insurance company in Ohio, scoring 4.75 out of 5 for its affordable rates and excellent customer service. The Hartford follows closely at 4.70, while Simply Business rounds out the top three at 4.53, providing solid coverage options for Buckeye State professionals.
How much professional liability coverage do I need in Ohio?
Professional liability coverage needs in Ohio 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 lower-risk businesses may need less comprehensive protection to safeguard their operations adequately.
What's the difference between professional liability and E&O insurance?
Professional liability and errors and omissions (E&O) insurance both cover mistakes in your professional services. The different names come from industry preferences: lawyers often say E&O while healthcare providers say professional liability. However, the financial protection works the same way.
How We Scored the Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Ohio
A professional liability lawsuit can devastate a small business in Ohio or force it to close permanently. We studied insurers throughout the state to identify which companies provide the most reliable financial protection for businesses from startups to well-established firms. Our Scoring System
- Affordability (50%): Cost dominates insurance decisions for small businesses. We gave affordability the highest weight because companies need coverage that fits their budget while delivering solid protection.
- Customer experience (30%): Quick, helpful service during a claim can save a business. We analyzed J.D. Power ratings and complaint records from the state's Department of Insurance to measure service quality.
- Coverage options (15%): We reviewed how well policies adapt to different professional services and checked exclusions that could leave local businesses exposed.
- Financial strength (5%): AM Best financial ratings helped us confirm each insurer has the resources to pay claims when businesses need them most.
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.