Directors and officers (D&O) insurance
InsuranceFinder coverage guide · Updated September 2026
Directors and officers (D&O) liability insurance commonly responds to claims against directors and officers alleging wrongful acts in managing an organization — such as breach of fiduciary duty, mismanagement, or certain securities and governance disputes — when those claims fall under the form. Side A, B, and C structures and entity coverage vary. What responds still depends on the policy, the claim, and the organization’s structure.
Directors and officers (D&O) coverage breakdown
D&O forms are usually claims-made. Side letters and retentions matter as much as the limit.
Coverage for directors and officers when the organization cannot indemnify them, subject to the form.
Reimburses the organization when it indemnifies directors and officers for covered claims, subject to retention and terms.
Coverage for the organization itself for certain securities or other entity claims when Side C is on the form — common in public-company wording, not automatic everywhere.
Defense for covered claims, often eroding the limit unless the form says otherwise.
Who typically uses directors and officers (D&O) insurance
These policies are typically carried by corporations, nonprofits, boards, and private companies whose directors and officers face governance, employment-related, or stakeholder claim exposure. Lenders, investors, and bylaws often drive the need — the form and Side structure decide.
Fraudulent or criminal acts (often after final adjudication), bodily injury and property damage, and claims covered by other lines (EPL, professional, cyber) are common carve-outs. Prior-notice and insured-vs-insured limitations can create gaps. Education only — not advice to buy.
Agencies specializing in directors and officers (d&o) insurance
Independent agencies published in our database. Open a profile for license details and state DOI links.
National carriers writing directors and officers (d&o) insurance
Admitted national insurance companies writing coverage in multiple states.