Tail coverage
Extended reporting period for claims-made policies after you cancel or change carriers.
Plain definition
Tail coverage (extended reporting period) lets you report claims after a claims-made policy ends for wrongful acts that happened while it was active, if the claim is first made during the tail window. It is usually purchased at cancellation for a one-time premium percentage.
Why it matters
Retiring, selling a practice, or switching E&O carriers without tail leaves prior work exposed to lawsuits filed later.
Example
A consultant closes the business and buys a five-year tail on claims-made E&O. A client sues two years later for old project work; tail may respond if reporting rules are met.
Common misunderstanding
Tail covers reporting timing—not new incidents after the policy ended. Work done after expiration needs new insurance.
Policy language always controls. This is educational content, not advice. See our disclaimer.