What this coverage is
Commercial crime insurance helps protect a business from financial loss caused by criminal acts such as employee theft, forgery, robbery, and certain types of fraud, including some forms of computer and funds-transfer fraud.
These exposures are often excluded or limited under standard property and liability policies, so crime insurance provides dedicated protection. Coverage can be structured around employee dishonesty, third-party crime, or both.
Who commonly needs it
Businesses that handle cash, manage client funds, process payments, or rely on employees with access to assets commonly carry crime coverage to manage internal and external theft exposure.
Where this coverage commonly fits
Supplemental — coverage added to address a specific exposure on top of a core program. Crime coverage is commonly added to address employee dishonesty, theft, and fraud exposures.
- Financial-services and advisory firms
- Retailers handling cash and inventory
- Professional firms managing client funds
- Nonprofits and membership organizations
- Wholesale and distribution operations
What it may cover
- Employee theft of money, securities, or property
- Forgery or alteration of checks and instruments
- Robbery and burglary of business funds
- Computer fraud and funds-transfer fraud, subject to terms
- Loss of money and securities on or off premises
What it typically excludes
- Losses you cannot reasonably prove or document
- Ordinary trade losses and inventory shrinkage without proof of theft
- Acts by owners or partners, in many cases
- Indirect or consequential losses beyond covered amounts
- Losses arising after discovery of prior dishonesty, in some cases
Hypothetical claim scenarios
These illustrative examples are for general understanding only. Coverage depends on the specific policy terms, conditions, and exclusions.
Employee embezzlement
A bookkeeper diverts company funds over several months. Crime insurance may help recover the covered loss once it is discovered and documented, subject to policy terms.
Forged checks
A fraudster forges company checks. The forgery section may help respond to the resulting loss, subject to limits.
Funds-transfer fraud
A criminal tricks staff into transferring funds. Depending on the policy, computer or funds-transfer fraud coverage may help, subject to terms.
What commonly affects cost
- Number of employees and access to funds
- Internal controls and oversight practices
- Industry and amount of money handled
- Selected limits and deductibles
- Claims and loss history
How much does it cost?
On average, many businesses pay roughly $300–$1,500 per year, depending on the limits selected for crime insurance. That figure is a general national average only — your actual premium is set during underwriting.
- Crime Insurance$300–$1,500 per year, depending on the limits selected
These are general national averages shown for comparison only — not a quote. Actual premiums vary widely with underwriting and depend on the factors above and the specifics of your business, including size, revenue, location, claims history, and the limits you choose. See how we estimate costs.
Industries where this coverage is common
Coverage needs vary business to business — most companies consider this protection regardless of industry. These are simply the industries where we see it most often.
See how this coverage works in your industry
A few examples from the business types we cover — this coverage applies well beyond the industries shown here.
Don't see your business type? Browse all industries we cover — coverage recommendations are tailored to every operation.
Frequently asked questions
What does commercial crime insurance cover?
It commonly covers losses from employee theft, forgery, robbery, and certain fraud, including some computer and funds-transfer fraud, subject to policy terms.
Is employee theft really a common risk?
Internal theft is a meaningful exposure for many businesses, particularly where employees have access to cash, inventory, or financial systems.
How is crime insurance different from cyber insurance?
Crime insurance focuses on theft and fraud losses, while cyber insurance focuses on data breaches and cyber incidents. Some fraud exposures may overlap, so coordination matters.
Does it cover losses caused by owners?
Acts by owners or partners are commonly excluded. Coverage typically focuses on employee dishonesty and third-party crime.
Can clients require crime coverage?
Yes. Clients who entrust funds or property to a business sometimes require crime or fidelity coverage as a condition of doing business.
How do I get a quote for this coverage?
Call The Southern Agency at 1-800-777-1872 or request a quote online, and an advisor can help tailor coverage to your business.
Related coverages
- Liquor Liability Insurance Liability coverage for businesses that sell, serve, or furnish alcohol.
- Environmental Liability Insurance Coverage for pollution conditions and environmental cleanup liability.
- Garage Liability Insurance Specialized liability coverage for auto dealers, repair shops, and service garages.
- Motor Truck Cargo Insurance Coverage for freight and cargo hauled by motor carriers.