Business Insurance 101 – What Type You Need, When to Get It, and How Much Is Enough
Protect Your Business the Right Way – A Guide for California Business Owners
As a business owner, you’ve invested time, energy, and resources into building something valuable. But what happens when the unexpected hits—a customer slips, a fire damages your office, or a cyberattack steals client data?
That’s where business insurance comes in. At JSSR Insurance Agency in Lathrop, California, we help business owners across San Joaquin County and beyond get the coverage they need to protect their success.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- 📅 When to get business insurance
- 🛡️ What types of insurance you might need
- 💰 How much coverage is right for your business
📅 When Do You Need Business Insurance?
Right away. Whether you're starting a business, signing a lease, or hiring your first employee—you need coverage before you face risks.
Here are some signs it’s time to get insured:
- You’re leasing or buying office space or equipment
- You’ve hired employees or contractors
- You provide professional advice or services
- You drive for business or use vehicles under your company
- You’re storing client data or accepting payments online
🛡️ What Types of Business Insurance Should You Have?
Not every business is the same—but these are the most common types of coverage for California businesses:
1. General Liability Insurance
Covers accidents, injuries, and legal claims from third parties. Every business should start with this.
2. Commercial Property Insurance
Protects your physical assets—equipment, tools, office space, and inventory—from damage or theft.
3. Workers' Compensation Insurance
Legally required in California if you have even one employee. Covers injuries on the job and lost wages.
4. Commercial Auto Insurance
If you use vehicles for your business—even your personal car for deliveries or client visits—you need this.
5. Professional Liability Insurance (E&O)
Essential for consultants, notaries, realtors, accountants, and anyone who gives advice or services. Covers you if a client claims you made a mistake.
6. Cyber Liability Insurance
If you have a website, take online payments, or store personal data—you’re at risk. This protects against cyberattacks, ransomware, and data breaches.
7. Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)
A great option for small to mid-size businesses. Combines general liability and property coverage into one affordable package.
💰 How Much Coverage Do You Need?
This depends on your industry, size, location, and risk level. Here’s a general starting point:
| Type of Insurance | Recommended Coverage |
|---|---|
| General Liability | $1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate |
| Property Insurance | Full replacement value of your assets |
| Workers' Comp | Based on your payroll & classification |
| Commercial Auto | $1M liability coverage |
| Cyber Liability | Start at $250,000–$1M depending on your data exposure |
| E&O Insurance | $1M–$2M, especially for professionals and service providers |
Want a personalized quote? We’ll review your business needs and give you tailored options with no pressure and no hidden fees.
📍 Serving Business Owners Across San Joaquin County and Beyond
We work with business owners throughout:
- Lathrop, Manteca, Tracy, Stockton, Modesto
- Santa Clara County, Stanislaus, Merced and surrounding regions
Whether you’re a landscaper, restaurant owner, consultant, or contractor—we’ve got the right policy for you.
📞 Let’s Talk — Get Your Free Business Insurance Review
At JSSR Insurance Agency, we’re not just here to sell policies. We’re here to protect your hard work, help you stay compliant, and keep your business running smoothly.
👉 Call us today at (209) 701-6900
👉 Or get your free quote online at jssrinsag.com
Let’s build a custom plan that fits your business and your budget — so you can focus on growth, not risk.
