When does this checklist actually need to be revisited?

Any time you raise, double headcount, sign a meaningfully larger customer, or open a new state. Those four events drive almost every coverage gap we see.

Can we skip D&O until Series B?

Most priced equity rounds will require D&O at closing. Plan for $3M–$5M at Series A; trying to add it mid-round usually delays closing.

Practical Guide · 7 min read

Startup Insurance Checklist by Funding Stage

This is the checklist version of the foundational stage guide — a working document you can hand to your COO or counsel before your next round.

Pre-seed / Seed

General Liability + Cyber baseline. IP assignment in every contractor + employee agreement. Confirm landlord-required certificates if you have leased space.

Series A

D&O at $3M–$5M. EPLI as headcount approaches 15–25 across multiple states. Tech E&O if customers rely on your product to operate theirs. Workers' Comp wherever you have W-2 employees.