Reflecting and Protecting: An End-of-Year Insurance Checklist for ABA Providers

As another year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time for applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy business owners to assess whether their insurance still reflects the reality of their operations. Whether you’ve expanded into new service areas, hired additional registered behavior technicians (RBTs), or updated your client intake process, your coverage may no longer match your risk profile.

This year-end checklist helps ABA practice owners evaluate where they stand — and where they need to be — so their protection evolves alongside their business. Discover how Olson Duncan’s tailored ABA insurance supports providers nationwide.

Have Your Services or Team Changed This Year?

ABA businesses grow — sometimes rapidly. But insurance policies often lag behind operational changes. If your practice expanded in 2025, it’s time to reassess your coverage. Consider the following updates:

  • New services added: Have you expanded to include early intervention or adult programming? New services mean new exposures.
  • Shifts in caseload or location: Taking on more clients or delivering services in new states could impact licensing requirements and liability coverage.
  • Changes in staffing: Whether you’ve hired more RBTs or onboarded independent contractors, your workers’ compensation and liability policies may need revision.

As you reflect on your practice’s growth this year, remember that scaling doesn’t have to come at the cost of quality. The most successful ABA providers build scalable systems — including standardized training, supervision structures, and performance monitoring — to maintain high-quality care across expanding teams. These operational improvements not only support better outcomes but also help you align your insurance coverage with a more complex service model.

Your insurance should grow with you, not hold you back. A proactive review ensures your policy keeps pace with your evolving business model.

Are You Covered for Today’s Risks?

The nature of risk for ABA therapy providers is shifting. The following coverage areas deserve special attention as you head into 2026:

  • Cyber liability: With more ABA records stored electronically, a breach could expose sensitive data. Cyber liability coverage helps manage breach response and recovery.
  • Employment practices liability insurance: Remote teams, complex HR needs, and evolving employment laws make EPLI a wise investment.
  • Sexual misconduct/abuse/molestation coverage: Some states require this protection for professionals working with minors — and for good reason. It’s a critical line of defense in an increasingly litigious landscape.
  • Non-owned auto: If staff drive their own vehicles for client home visits, this coverage fills the gap between personal auto policies and your business’s liability.

These scenarios are becoming standard concerns in the ABA space. Addressing them now reduces the chance of a costly surprise later.

What Does a Smart Year-End Review Look Like?

A thorough insurance review doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Break it into a few focused steps:

  • Meet with your broker: Discuss any claims, near-misses, or operational changes that have occurred over the past year. These conversations help identify gaps.
  • Reevaluate your policy limits: Are your liability limits still adequate? Do you need to add or remove endorsements?
  • Plan for renewals: Begin reviewing renewals 60 to 90 days before the expiration date. That window gives you time to adjust coverage, shop options, and avoid rushed decisions.

The goal isn’t just compliance — it’s confidence. You want to know your business is protected from the ground up.

Start the New Year With Peace of Mind

ABA therapy businesses serve vulnerable populations, often in unpredictable environments. From navigating client homes to managing multi-state staff, your operations carry unique risks — and your insurance should reflect that.

At Olson Duncan, we specialize in coverage designed for ABA providers. From early intervention to adulthood, our solutions evolve with your practice.

Contact us today to schedule a year-end review of your insurance. We’ll help ensure you’re entering the new year with coverage as strong as your mission.

FAQ About ABA Insurance

What insurance policies should ABA therapy businesses review at year-end?

You should evaluate general liability, professional liability, workers’ compensation, cyber liability, EPLI, and non-owned auto policies. Abuse and molestation coverage is also critical if your staff works with minors.

How often should ABA providers update their insurance?

At minimum, review policies annually — but anytime your services, staffing, or location change significantly, it’s smart to reassess.

Why is cyber liability important for ABA providers?

Because ABA therapy involves sensitive health information, providers are at high risk for cyberattacks and data breaches. Cyber coverage helps with legal fees, notifications, and recovery efforts.

Does my policy cover contractors the same as employees?

Not always. Contractors may not be covered under standard workers’ comp or liability policies. Be sure to clarify roles and coverage with your broker.

About Olson Duncan Insurance

Established in 1945, Olson Duncan Insurance has more than 70 years of experience serving the insurance and risk management needs of California residents and businesses. During our seven decades, we’ve earned the trust of our clients and the outstanding reputation of professional integrity by consistently offering individuals and businesses quality insurance products at fair, competitive prices, backed by exceptionally responsive service.

Category: ABA.