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Subscribe30 DEC 2024 / BUSINESS
Accounting practices, especially micro and mid-sized firms, are at risk of hefty penalties, lawsuits, and reputational damage due to errors or oversights. Professional liability insurance offers a critical financial safety net, covering legal fees, settlements, and potential risks such as cyber threats, tax errors, and claims related to new services and legal ambiguities.
Running an accounting practice is rewarding but risky. One error, a missed deadline, a misfiled return—can lead to hefty penalties, lawsuits, and reputational harm. Professional liability insurance is the essential safety net your firm needs to navigate these challenges, ensuring financial security and peace of mind. Let’s explore how liability insurance can shield your practice in 2025, with real-life examples that highlight its critical importance.
Professional liability insurance is like a financial firewall for your firm. For instance, a micro-CPA firm faced a $75,000 negligence claim after a tax preparer’s oversight caused penalties for a client. The legal defense alone cost $15,000. Liability insurance covered both the legal fees and the settlement, saving the firm from a significant financial hit. Without insurance, the firm would have had to deplete its reserves or risk closure. For CPA firms, especially micro and mid-sized ones, having this coverage is indispensable in today’s environment of increased regulatory scrutiny.
Candace Coach, small firms' sales manager at Aon, emphasizes: “As the CPA profession evolves and new services are offered, risks increase. Without proper coverage, firms may not only face financial losses but also reputational damage.”
The risks accountants face is constantly evolving. Here are some key challenges and how liability insurance helps:
When selecting a policy, consider the following insights from industry experts:
When it comes to liability insurance, choosing the right provider is key. Industry leaders include:
Each of these providers brings unique strengths to the table, ensuring your practice is secure and future ready.
Neglecting liability insurance is a gamble that few firms can afford. Legal fees for a single negligence claim can easily exceed $20,000, while settlements often range between $50,000 and $500,000. As Raspante puts it: “Skipping insurance is like walking a financial tightrope without a safety net. The cost of no coverage far outweighs the policy premium.” Can your firm survive such a blow? If not, liability insurance isn’t just a wise choice—it’s essential for your practice’s survival.
In 2025, professional liability insurance is more than a safeguard, it’s an investment in your firm’s growth and resilience. By covering legal fees, settlements, and unforeseen risks, it allows you to focus on what truly matters: serving your clients and expanding your practice. Don’t wait for a costly mistake to take action. Protect your practice today with professional liability insurance and ensure your firm’s stability, reputation, and success for years to come. Stay ahead in accounting, tax, and finance—subscribe to MYCPE ONE Insights for the latest updates and industry news delivered straight to your inbox.
Until next time…
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