Why Verification Matters
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is only as good as the coverage it represents. Verification ensures that the certificate reflects actual, active coverage that meets your requirements.
The Verification Checklist
1. Certificate Authenticity
Is the certificate from a licensed insurance agent or carrier?Does the certificate holder name match your organization exactly?Is the policy number format consistent with the carrier's standard?2. Coverage Types
Verify each required coverage type is listed:
General LiabilityAuto Liability (if vendor operates vehicles)Workers' CompensationProfessional Liability / E&O (if applicable)Umbrella / Excess (if required)3. Coverage Amounts
For each coverage type, verify:
Per-occurrence limits meet your minimumsAggregate limits are sufficientDeductibles are within acceptable ranges4. Additional Insured Status
Is your organization listed as Additional Insured?Does the endorsement number match carrier records?Is the endorsement blanket or project-specific?5. Policy Dates
Is the policy currently active?When does it expire?Is there sufficient time before renewal?6. Carrier Verification
Is the carrier licensed in your state?What is the carrier's AM Best rating?Is the carrier on any watch lists?Automation Opportunities
Many verification steps can be automated:
OCR extraction of certificate dataReal-time carrier verificationAutomated expiration alertsAdditional insured confirmationRed Flags
Watch for these warning signs:
Handwritten policy numbersUnusual carrier namesCoverage gaps between policy periodsCertificates dated far in advance of policy effective dates
VenLink automates insurance verification with real-time carrier integration, coverage gap detection, and proactive expiration management.