What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)for Events?

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document that proves you have active insurance coverage for your event. Venues require COIs before allowing events to take place because they confirm coverage limits, policy dates, and that thevenue is listed as additional insured (including any specific wording).

Event Helper issues COIs instantly after purchase and can send them directly to your venue.

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What Information Does a COI Include?

A COI typically shows:

  • Policyholder name
  • Insurance company
  • Coverage limits
  • Policy effective dates
  • Additional insured parties (like your venue)
  • Certificate holder information

It does not guarantee coverage.  It simply verifies that coverage exists.

Why Venues Require COIs?

Venues require COIs to::

  • Confirm insurance is active
  • Verify coverage limits meet contract requirements
  • Ensure they are listed as additional insured and their required wording is correct

Most venues won’t allow an event without receiving a COI in advance.

How to Name a Venue as an Additional Insured?

When purchasing event insurance:

  • Enter the venue’s legal name, address, and any required custom wording
  • Select “Add Additional Insured”
  • Generate your COI instantly

Event Helper automatically formats certificates to meet venue standards.

How Fast Can I Get a COI?

With Event Helper:

  • Most policies can be purchased in less than 5 minutes
  • COIs are generated immediately upon purchase
  • You can download, print, or email them instantly
  • Simple updates or corrections can be made online
  • If you are hosting a larger event, need special coverages, or have higher risk activities, underwriting and coverage approval may take longer

FAQs

Can I edit my COI myself?
No. COIs must be issued by the insurance provider.

Can I get multiple COIs?
Yes. You can generate COIs for multiple venues or certificate holders involved with the event.

Does a COI guarantee coverage?
No. It’s proof of coverage, but policy terms control coverage

How long is a COI valid?
For the duration of your policy period.

Do vendors need their own COIs?
Yes. Vendors are NOT covered by the event organizer’s policy and most venues require vendors to provide separate certificates.

Get Venue Approved Coverage Fast

Event Helper provides instant, venue-approved event insurance nationwide.

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