Certificate Holder
What Is a Certificate Holder (for Insurance)?
A certificate holder is a person or business who receives a Certificate of Insurance (COI) to verify the policyholder has active coverage. They “hold” a COI as proof of insurance for their records, but aren’t necessarily covered by the policy.
For example, a venue might ask a caterer for a copy of their COI before an event. Once they receive that COI, the venue becomes a certificate holder with confirmation of the caterer’s liability coverage.
Policyholder vs. Certificate Holder vs. Additional Insured
Policyholder (Named Insured): The person or business directly covered by the insurance policy
Certificate Holder: A person or business who receives your COI as proof you’re insured
Additional Insured: A qualified third party you add to your policy so your coverage extends to them
Example: What Is the Certificate Holder on a Certificate of Insurance?
You might say, “My property manager asked me, the policyholder, for a copy of my COI. They also requested to be added as an additional insured, so my coverage extends to them. Once I give them my COI, they’re considered a certificate holder, with their name listed as an additional insured. Now they know I’m covered — and that they are, too.”
Do Certificate Holders Have Any Coverage or Rights Under My Policy?
No, certificate holders simply hold your COI as proof you’re insured. The COI acts as a green light that it’s safe to do business with you, but it doesn’t give them any coverage under your policy.
What Are Common Examples of Certificate Holders?
Certificate holders are often:
- Landlords
- Property managers
- Event organizers
- Venues
- Clients
Anyone who needs assurance that you’re covered before agreeing to work with you can be a certificate holder.
When Should Someone Be an Additional Insured Instead of a Certificate Holder?
Add someone as an additional insured only when they specifically request it! Otherwise, it’s enough to provide them with your COI so they remain a certificate holder.
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