The Big ‘I’ Publishes M&A Handbook to Reduce Agency E&O Claims 

Resource provides training and checklists to manage E&O risk during ownership transitions.  

Alexandria, VA, March 18, 2026—“The Handbook for Preventing Errors & Omissions Claims in Insurance Agency Mergers & Acquisitions” offers a step-by-step approach to mitigating errors associated with merging the operations of existing and acquired agencies. 

“With record deal activity, rapidly evolving work environments since COVID and the incredible diversity of business models across the independent agency channel, mergers and acquisitions have never been more complex,” said Nancy Germond, Big “I” executive director, risk management and education. “That complexity makes disciplined attention to E&O risk management essential.” 

Various E&O issues can arise from M&A activity when acquiring agencies fail to take adequate steps to align employee knowledge and operational standards. In some cases, agencies may fail to place vehicles or other property on excess schedules or neglect to list vacant land on policies that provide liability coverage. Other challenges include reviewing legal contracts beyond the scope of insurance requirements and failing to properly document coverage offerings.  

“Deals move fast, but they should not overlook the critical work of aligning procedures, training employees and ensuring coverage is properly reviewed, documented and communicated,” Germond said. “Taking the time to get these fundamentals right can significantly reduce E&O exposure and help agencies build a stronger foundation for success.” 

The handbook outlines the operational advantages and challenges of M&A, along with clear steps and practical checklists to help agencies evaluate existing operations and identify potential gaps early in the process. It also provides tools to assess the skills, knowledge and competency of each acquired employee, as well as worksheets designed to measure and support consistent performance. 

To strengthen onboarding and reduce risk, the handbook includes a variety of targeted E&O training resources for newly acquired employees, including short, focused training modules for specific workflows and individual training plans to monitor employee progress and development. 

“This handbook gives agencies a clear, practical roadmap for building consistent processes, reviewing policies and documenting coverage in a way that protects both the agency and its clients,” said Amanda Juratovic, Big “I” vice president of E&O operations. “By standardizing procedures and strengthening employee training, agencies can reduce uncertainty, improve performance and significantly lower their E&O risk during a merger or acquisition.” 

“The Handbook for Preventing Errors & Omissions Claims in Insurance Agency Mergers & Acquisitions” is available for purchase from the Big “I” Virtual University, with discounted pricing for Big “I” members and free access for current Big “I” Professional Liability program agency E&O policyholders. 

About the Big ‘I’

Founded in 1896, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”) is the nation’s oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers, representing more than 25,000 agency locations. Big “I” members are trusted insurance advisers who offer consumers all types of insurance—property, casualty, life, health, employee benefit plans and retirement products—from a choice of insurance companies. 

About the Big ‘I’ Professional Liability Program 

For more than 35 years, the Big “I” Professional Liability Program, underwritten by Swiss Re Corporate Solutions America Insurance Corporation (rated A+ Superior by AM Best), has been the premier choice of Big “I” member agents for insurance agents and brokers E&O insurance, growing into the largest and most stable insurance agents E&O program in the nation. With the participation of Big “I” members from all U.S. states, the Big “I” Professional Liability Program offers not just a policy, but a comprehensive program for insurance agents. 

About the Big ‘I’ Virtual University 

The Big “I” Virtual University (VU) delivers trusted technical expertise and practical resources to help independent insurance agents navigate complex coverage questions. Through analysis of real-world insurance scenarios, on-demand education and the Ask an Expert service, the VU supports stronger decision-making across personal lines, commercial lines, life and health, and agency management.