NEXT offers the best professional liability insurance in Wisconsin with affordable rates and strong customer support. The Hartford ranks second overall, while Simply Business claims third place.
Professional Liability Insurance in Wisconsin
NEXT earns the highest score of 4.69 out of 5 in our analysis of the best professional liability insurance in Wisconsin.
Get matched to the best professional liability insurance providers for your business in Wisconsin below.
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Updated: November 3, 2025
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Best Professional Liability Insurance in Wisconsin: Key Takeaways
NEXT is our top pick for professional liability insurance in Wisconsin, followed by The Hartford and Simply Business.
Your industry risks, client contracts, potential claim costs and budget determine the best Wisconsin professional liability insurance for you.
Assess your needs first, then compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best small business insurance for your professional liability requirements in Wisconsin.
Find Insurance for Your Business
Select your industry and state to get a customized quote.
Industry
State
Best Professional Liability Insurance Companies in Wisconsin
| NEXT Insurance | 4.69 | $72 |
| The Hartford | 4.62 | $70 |
| Simply Business | 4.48 | $75 |
| Coverdash | 4.43 | $76 |
| Nationwide | 4.43 | $81 |
| biBERK | 4.41 | $78 |
| Progressive Commercial | 4.37 | $74 |
| Hiscox | 4.34 | $76 |
| Chubb | 4.25 | $87 |
| Thimble | 4.20 | $74 |
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 alone won't cover all business risks in Wisconsin. Smart business owners layer multiple coverage types together for complete financial protection.
Best Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin businesses.
NEXT
Overall Best Provider
MoneyGeek Rating
4.7/ 5
4.6/5Affordability
4.7/5Customer Experience
4.8/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Premium
$72These 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
4.6/ 5
4.6/5Affordability
4.6/5Customer Experience
4.7/5Coverage Options
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 Wisconsin
The Hartford offers the cheapest professional liability insurance in Wisconsin at $70 monthly ($841 annually). NEXT provides another affordable option for business owners at $72 per month.
| The Hartford | $70 | $841 |
| NEXT Insurance | $72 | $860 |
| Progressive Commercial | $74 | $889 |
| Thimble | $74 | $890 |
| Simply Business | $75 | $904 |
| Hiscox | $76 | $910 |
| Coverdash | $76 | $914 |
| biBERK | $78 | $932 |
| Nationwide | $81 | $969 |
| Chubb | $87 | $1,046 |
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 Wisconsin
Professional liability insurance costs $76 monthly ($916 annually) in Wisconsin, $2 less than the national average. Rates vary by profession, with mortgage brokers paying around $163 monthly while florists pay just $37. Your location, claims history and coverage limits also influence premiums.
| Accountants | $143 | $1,714 |
| Ad Agency | $99 | $1,182 |
| Auto Repair | $82 | $983 |
| Automotive | $73 | $879 |
| Bakery | $53 | $637 |
| Barber | $43 | $513 |
| Beauty Salon | $48 | $573 |
| Bounce House | $58 | $699 |
| Candle | $41 | $489 |
| Cannabis | $119 | $1,425 |
| Catering | $78 | $936 |
| Cleaning | $54 | $643 |
| Coffee Shop | $60 | $716 |
| Computer Programming | $102 | $1,224 |
| Computer Repair | $61 | $734 |
| Construction | $75 | $906 |
| Consulting | $106 | $1,271 |
| Contractor | $61 | $735 |
| Courier | $49 | $583 |
| DJ | $46 | $547 |
| Daycare | $106 | $1,272 |
| Dental | $83 | $998 |
| Dog Grooming | $53 | $638 |
| Drone | $104 | $1,253 |
| Ecommerce | $61 | $731 |
| Electrical | $64 | $765 |
| Engineering | $102 | $1,222 |
| Excavation | $66 | $797 |
| Florist | $37 | $442 |
| Food | $110 | $1,320 |
| Food Truck | $58 | $697 |
| Funeral Home | $79 | $947 |
| Gardening | $39 | $473 |
| HVAC | $79 | $950 |
| Handyman | $52 | $620 |
| Home-based business | $37 | $444 |
| Hospitality | $71 | $857 |
| Janitorial | $49 | $584 |
| Jewelry | $61 | $733 |
| Junk Removal | $66 | $793 |
| Lawn/Landscaping | $52 | $621 |
| Lawyers | $142 | $1,702 |
| Manufacturing | $60 | $718 |
| Marine | $86 | $1,029 |
| Massage | $106 | $1,270 |
| Mortgage Broker | $163 | $1,953 |
| Moving | $81 | $974 |
| Nonprofit | $50 | $600 |
| Painting | $63 | $754 |
| Party Rental | $54 | $643 |
| Personal Training | $69 | $832 |
| Pest Control | $94 | $1,130 |
| Pet | $45 | $540 |
| Pharmacy | $56 | $669 |
| Photography | $63 | $753 |
| Physical Therapy | $92 | $1,099 |
| Plumbing | $90 | $1,077 |
| Pressure Washing | $57 | $683 |
| Real Estate | $122 | $1,465 |
| Restaurant | $81 | $967 |
| Retail | $54 | $651 |
| Roofing | $95 | $1,142 |
| Security | $98 | $1,181 |
| Snack Bars | $48 | $573 |
| Software | $93 | $1,115 |
| Spa/Wellness | $107 | $1,282 |
| Speech Therapist | $97 | $1,165 |
| Startup | $71 | $848 |
| Tech/IT | $96 | $1,156 |
| Transportation | $93 | $1,113 |
| Travel | $96 | $1,157 |
| Tree Service | $75 | $901 |
| Trucking | $109 | $1,311 |
| Tutoring | $59 | $706 |
| Veterinary | $112 | $1,350 |
| Wedding Planning | $75 | $903 |
| Welding | $74 | $892 |
| Wholesale | $62 | $746 |
| Window Cleaning | $61 | $729 |
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 Wisconsin?
Professional liability insurance requirements differ by profession in Wisconsin, with some fields like health care and law facing stricter mandates than others. Even when coverage isn't legally required, the right amount depends on 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 Wisconsin carry greater liability exposure than others due to the nature of their work and potential for costly errors. Technology consultants and architects in Madison and Milwaukee face higher risks and need more coverage. Professional liability insurance for accountants and real estate agents in smaller cities like Green Bay or Eau Claire generally require lower coverage limits.
Client Requirements
Many clients and contracts in Wisconsin require proof of professional liability insurance at specific minimum limits before you can begin work. Large corporations, state and local government contracts, and major organizations throughout Wisconsin often mandate coverage levels ranging from $500,000 to $2 million or more. Meeting these requirements is essential for winning and maintaining business relationships with significant clients.
Potential Claim Costs
Your coverage should reflect the possible financial impact of a professional liability lawsuit in Wisconsin's legal system. Small errors might result in claims of $10,000 to $50,000, while mistakes on larger projects could lead to six-figure damages plus substantial legal defense costs. Even defending against an unfounded claim can cost tens of thousands in attorney fees and court expenses.
How to Get the Best Professional Liability Insurance in Wisconsin
Our step-by-step guide explains how to get business insurance in Wisconsin that matches your professional liability needs and budget.
- 1Evaluate Your Risk Exposure
Different businesses face varying liability risks across Wisconsin. A regional accounting firm typically needs higher coverage limits than a freelance graphic designer. Review your client contracts and industry standards to determine appropriate coverage amounts.
- 2Find a Knowledgeable Local Agent
Look for agents who know Wisconsin's business landscape and understand how business insurance costs vary by location and industry. They can recommend coverage that fits your industry and client base. Wisconsin agents often have relationships with multiple carriers, giving you better options.
- 3Collect and Compare Quotes
Request quotes from at least three insurers, comparing both affordable business insurance rates and 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 business insurance in Wisconsin, look beyond price. Choose carriers with strong AM Best ratings and solid claims-paying reputations. Read professional reviews and check how insurers handle claims in your industry. Financial stability matters when you need coverage most.
- 5Explore Bundle Discount Options
Many Wisconsin insurers offer discounts when you get types of business insurance coverage from a single provider. For example, combining professional liability with general liability or business owner's policies reduces your total insurance costs while simplifying policy management. Ask agents about available package deals.
- 6Maintain Continuous Policy Coverage
Professional liability operates on a claims-made basis, meaning your policy must be active when claims are filed. Coverage gaps leave you exposed to lawsuits from past work. Always secure prior acts coverage or tail coverage when switching insurers.
How to Prevent Professional Liability Claims in Wisconsin
Many professional liability claims happen because of miscommunication and unclear client expectations, not actual mistakes. Even small disputes can lead to thousands in legal fees. Use these strategies to avoid problems and protect your business from expensive claims.
Document Everything
Keep written records of all client interactions, including email confirmations, project scope changes and client approvals. This documentation serves as proof of what was agreed upon and helps prevent disputes by providing a clear timeline of decisions. Written records protect your business when clients question previous agreements or deliverables.
Use Detailed Contracts With Clear Scope
Create contracts that clearly define your responsibilities, project timelines and specific deliverables. Include detailed descriptions of what services are included in your fee and what additional work will require extra payment. This approach prevents conflicts over scope creep and ensures both parties understand the project boundaries from the start.
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. This practice ensures clients understand the full impact of their requests and prevents disputes over unexpected costs or delays.
Set Realistic Expectations Upfront
Be transparent with clients about project timelines, potential challenges and expected results from the beginning. Honest communication about your capabilities and limitations helps avoid overpromising and reduces the likelihood of client disappointment. This approach builds trust and prevents unrealistic expectations that could lead to liability claims.
Keep Detailed Project Records
Maintain thorough documentation of all work performed, decisions made and the reasoning behind your professional recommendations. These records demonstrate your diligence and professional standards if your work is ever questioned. Detailed project files provide crucial evidence of your competence and decision-making process during legal disputes.
Wisconsin Professional Liability: Bottom Line
Professional liability insurance selection in Wisconsin starts with understanding your specific business risks and client requirements. NEXT leads our rankings, but your industry, contracts, and budget should drive your final choice. Assess your coverage needs first, then consult a local agent to compare affordable options that deliver solid financial protection for your business.
Wisconsin Professional Liability Insurance: FAQ
Here are frequently asked questions about professional liability insurance in Wisconsin.
What does professional liability insurance cost in Wisconsin?
Professional liability insurance in Wisconsin ranges from $70 to $87 monthly, depending on your provider. Your actual 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 Wisconsin?
NEXT ranks as the top professional liability insurance provider in Wisconsin, scoring 4.69 out of 5 for its affordable rates and strong customer service. The Hartford follows closely at 4.62, while Simply Business rounds out the top three with a solid 4.48 rating.
How much professional liability coverage do I need in Wisconsin?
Professional liability coverage amounts in Wisconsin depend on your industry's risk level, client contract requirements, and potential lawsuit costs. High-risk professions like architects and consultants need higher coverage limits, while lower-risk businesses can often get by with smaller amounts.
Are professional liability and E&O insurance the same thing?
Yes, they're identical. 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, but the financial protection works the same way.
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 5, 2025.
- Better Business Bureau. "Next Insurance, Inc. | BBB Complaints." Accessed November 5, 2025.
- Better Business Bureau. "The Hartford Insurance Company | BBB Business Profile." Accessed November 5, 2025.