What is Money and Securities?
Money and Securities insurance protects an organization against loss of cash, negotiable instruments and securities while on premises, in transit, or in vaults. It’s a specialized form of property coverage that complements commercial liability and helps manage exposures tied to employee dishonesty, robbery, burglary, postal or messenger transit losses, and counterfeit currency incidents. For a broader look at related protections, see the Securities Insurance resource.
Who needs it
Businesses and organizations that handle cash, checks, tokens or transferable securities commonly purchase this coverage. Typical buyers include retailers, clubs and event organizers, financial custodians, and operators who accept high-volume cash or manage ticketed events. Niche operations—like wineries that accept on-site payments and store valuable inventory—often combine specialized protection; one such option is described under Winery Money and Securities Insurance.
What it typically covers
Policies vary, but standard elements may include:
- On-premises loss of money or securities due to theft, burglary, or employee dishonesty.
- In-transit losses while money or securities are being transported by employees or professional couriers.
- Losses from robbery or hold-up, including at ATMs or during night deposits.
- Forgery, counterfeit currency and certain computer-based thefts where funds or negotiable instruments are taken.
Coverage may also interact with equipment coverage if cash-handling machines are damaged in an insured event.
Common exclusions or limitations
Policies usually exclude: losses due to unexplained disappearance, voluntary parting with property when tricked, war or nuclear events, and some cyber-related thefts unless specifically endorsed. Many carriers limit coverage for employee dishonesty by requiring internal controls, and transit coverage can be restricted by approved routes or courier requirements.
Factors that influence cost
Carriers consider underwriting factors such as annual cash handled, frequency of transit, security measures (safes, alarms, armed guards), loss history, and employee screening procedures. Other influences include the value and liquidity of securities held, geographic crime rates, and whether the business also carries commercial liability or property coverage. Strong risk management considerations—like dual-control cash handling and secure transport—often reduce premiums.
Risk scenario: a temporary staff member at a busy event pockets cash receipts and conceals the loss until reconciliations reveal a discrepancy—this illustrates why employee dishonesty checks and inventory controls matter.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Proof of insurance is typically provided via a certificate confirming limits, covered locations, and effective dates. Certain landlords, event venues or regulators may request specific endorsements or limits—review those requirements with your broker or agent before committing to a policy.
How to get a quote
To get an accurate quote, insurers will ask about cash volumes, types of negotiable instruments handled, transit methods, existing security systems, and prior losses. When you’re ready, talk to your agent to compare limits, endorsements, and loss control recommendations; they can also coordinate related protections like commercial liability or equipment coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does money and securities insurance cover theft by an employee?
Many policies offer employee dishonesty or fidelity coverage, but terms and limits vary—insurers typically require proof of internal controls and may cap payouts for such losses.
Is transit coverage automatic when money leaves the premises?
Not always. Transit coverage may be limited by who transports the funds (employee vs. professional courier), approved routes, and declared values—confirm specifics with your insurer.
Can I add limits for high-value securities or large cash deposits?
Yes. Endorsements or higher limits can be purchased to cover unusually large on-premises holdings or frequent high-value transports; underwriting will consider security measures and history.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.