The short answer
Larger startups may need higher limits, excess layers and closer coordination across policies. The eight-line Series B example in our cost guide totals $52,450–$114,700 annually before workers’ comp, taxes and fees. That is an illustrative budget, not a quote or measured average. Excess layers and transaction-related coverage require carrier review, so allow time before promising a deadline.
Use this guide to prepare questions, not to establish coverage. Any unsourced costs, limits or timing ranges are illustrative planning examples, not quotes, verified market averages or carrier commitments.
How the program changes from Series A to Series B
| Coverage | Typical at Series A | Typical at Series B and beyond |
|---|---|---|
| Tech E&O and cyber | $3M to $5M | $5M to $10M, in layers |
| D&O | $2M to $3M | $3M to $5M, plus Side A excess |
| Employment practices | $1M | $2M or more |
| Umbrella | $2M | $5M |
| Crime | $250K to $1M | $1M or more, with social engineering |
| Workers’ comp | A few states | 10 or more states |
Your Series A program is the starting point; see the Series A insurance bundle.
Excess layers and Side A D&O, explained
Above about $5M, limits are built as layers from different carriers. Each excess layer follows the primary policy’s terms and pays only after the layer below is used up. Excess does not raise sublimits in the primary, so fix those first. The mechanics are in how to build a $5M Tech E&O and cyber tower.
Side A excess D&O protects directors and officers personally when the company can’t or won’t indemnify them, such as in insolvency. Boards often ask for it at Series B. See D&O coverage for startups.
What boards and enterprise customers expect at Series B
- D&O limits that match the board’s size and the capital raised
- Tech E&O and cyber limits that meet your largest customer contracts
- Crime coverage with social engineering, once cash balances grow; see fiduciary and crime coverage
- One renewal date and one schedule of policies for the audit committee
What Series B startup insurance costs
The eight-line Series B budgeting example totals $52,450 to $114,700 annually before workers’ comp, taxes and fees. It includes an illustrative $27,000 to $60,000 Tech E&O/cyber component, not an available carrier offer. These are planning examples rather than measured placement averages. See the assumptions and arithmetic in startup insurance cost by funding stage.
Who can build a layered program
Programs at this size need several carriers and someone to coordinate them. StartupInsurance.ai builds each layer, aligns terms and dates, and reviews the program before each renewal and round.
Get a contract check
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A few more answers
Frequently asked questions
What is Side A D&O, and does a Series B company need it?
Side A covers directors and officers personally when the company can't indemnify them. Many Series B boards ask for a dedicated Side A excess layer, because it can't be used up by claims against the company.
Should a Series B startup switch from an online platform to a broker?
Often, yes. Layered programs need multiple carriers, and single-carrier platforms may not reach the limits your contracts and board require. Compare the full program, not one policy's price.
Does a Series B company need higher employment practices limits?
Often. At 80 or more employees across many states, $2M or more is common, especially with staff in California or New York. Claims and defense costs rise with headcount.
When should we plan D&O run-off for an acquisition?
At the letter of intent. Buyers usually require the target to buy run-off before closing, and pricing and terms take time to agree.
Can we put all our coverages on one renewal date?
Usually, yes. A broker can shorten or extend policy periods at renewal so everything renews together. It simplifies budgeting and board reporting.
General information, not a coverage determination or legal advice. Unless a specific source is identified, prices and timing ranges are illustrative planning examples—not measured market averages, quotes or guarantees. Policy wording, carrier, state and your company’s operations determine what applies.