How to Get a Certificate of Insurance (COI) as a 1099 Contractor

Introduction: Why 1099 Contractors Need a COI

If you’re a 1099 contractor or freelancer, chances are a client has asked you for a Certificate of Insurance (COI)—possibly even before you could start working.

But what exactly is a COI? Why do clients care about it? And most importantly, how do you get one without jumping through hoops or waiting days?

As an industry expert at Bunker, I’ll walk you through exactly what a COI is, how it fits into the insurance landscape for independent contractors, and how we make getting one as simple as clicking a button.

What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?

A Certificate of Insurance is a one-page document that proves you have an active insurance policy. It typically includes:

• Your name and business information 
• Type(s) of insurance coverage (e.g., General Liability, Professional Liability) 
• Policy number 
• Coverage limits 
• Effective and expiration dates 
• Certificate holder (usually your client) 

It’s your official way of saying:
✅ “Yes, I’m covered.”
✅ “No, you’re not liable if something goes wrong.”

Why Clients Require a COI

For many companies, working with an uninsured contractor is a legal and financial risk. By requiring a COI, your client ensures:

• You can cover the costs if you cause damage or make a professional error 
• Their own insurance policies aren’t put at risk 
• Their legal department has documentation for compliance 

In short: if they’re hiring you as a 1099, they want to know you’re not a liability.

Which Types of Insurance Require a COI?

Most commonly, COIs are issued for:

• General Liability Insurance – Covers physical injury or property damage 
• Professional Liability Insurance (aka E&O) – Covers errors in your work 
• Cyber Liability Insurance – Covers data breaches or tech-related risks 
• Workers’ Compensation – If you’re required to carry it (even as a solo contractor) 

If you’re covered by any of these policies, your insurance provider can issue a COI.

How to Get a COI in 3 Simple Steps

At Bunker, we’ve made it ridiculously easy to get your COI—often in under 5 minutes.

Step 1: Choose the Right Insurance Policy

Select a policy that fits your field (e.g., graphic design, consulting, construction). Not all clients need the same type of coverage.

💡 Pro tip: Many clients will specify the limits they expect (like $1M per occurrence), so read the contract carefully.

Step 2: Request a COI From Your Insurance Provider

With Bunker, you can request a COI directly in your dashboard. Just enter the client’s name and email—done.

If you’re working with a traditional agent or provider, you might have to call or email.

Step 3: Share It With Your Client

Send the PDF to your client or upload it to their vendor portal. This is your proof of compliance.

Bonus: If your client ever asks to be added as an Additional Insured, you can request that too—often with just a few clicks through Bunker.

What If You Need a COI Fast?

Some clients won’t let you step on-site or start work until they receive your COI. That’s why at Bunker, we prioritize instant delivery—often in real-time when you buy your policy.

We also offer:

• COIs tailored to specific clients 
• Automatic renewals 
• Access to live support if clients request edits 

Why Bunker Is Built for 1099s

Unlike old-school insurers, Bunker was designed for the way freelancers work today—digital, fast, and flexible.

Here’s what sets us apart:

✅ Instant quotes for 100+ industries
✅ Instant COI delivery
✅ Flexible monthly or annual billing
✅ Affordable policies backed by A-rated carriers
✅ Easy updates if your clients require changes mid-contract

Conclusion: Don’t Let a Missing COI Delay Your Work

As a 1099 contractor, a COI isn’t just a form—it’s your ticket to getting hired, staying compliant, and protecting your reputation.

Need one today? We can help.
👉 Get covered and generate your COI instantly at buildbunker.com