Overview of the Program
Charity First's Religious Program lets independent agents and brokers place multiple lines for congregations and small-to-mid sized religious institutions through a single general agency relationship. The underwriting is tailored to congregational operations and ministry exposures, with optional modules to address counseling, volunteer activities, and abuse/molestation risks commonly faced by faith-based clients. Packaging multiple lines together simplifies placement and helps reduce coverage gaps for your insureds.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
- Small to mid-sized churches (denominational or non-denominational)
- Synagogues and Jewish congregational organizations
- Buddhist temples and similar houses of worship
- Congregations running typical ministries: worship services, religious education, counseling, volunteer programs, outreach and community events
Accounts with large campus operations, standalone K-12 schools, hospitals, residential care facilities, or high-hazard commercial activities typically require referral to specialty markets—submit these accounts so Charity First can assess fit and recommend next steps.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
- Package capability: combine Property, General Liability, Inland Marine, Crime and Automobile for streamlined placement and billing.
- Targeted abuse & molestation and Pastoral Counseling professional liability options to address ministry exposures.
- Umbrella and D&O available to extend limits and protect organizational leaders.
- Workers' Compensation and select International cover where applicable.
- Access to admitted A+ XV paper in most states through multiple carrier partners for agents who prefer admitted placements.
Underwriting Notes & Minimum Premiums
Charity First accepts ACORD applications and hard copy loss runs with submissions. Underwriting reviews congregation size, property values, number and type of programs (youth, counseling, outreach), volunteer screening and training procedures, background checks, and prior loss history. Minimum premiums vary by line and carrier; submit the account or request a quote to confirm minimums and available pricing for your state and exposures.
Territories & Availability
This program is available in most U.S. states. Charity First writes business in the following territories: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY and DC. Not available in FL, LA, and NY.
Why Place This Business Through Charity First
- Program wording and options designed specifically for houses of worship and ministry exposures.
- One general agency relationship provides access to multiple carriers, simplifying submission and placement.
- Admitted market solutions (A+ XV) in most states for agents who prefer admitted placements and state filings.
- Flexible multi-line packaging to help reduce gaps and streamline administration for your clients.
Example Accounts
- Suburban congregation with a sanctuary, education wing and monthly community events seeking Property, GL, Auto for volunteer drivers, and Sexual Abuse coverage for youth volunteers.
- Small synagogue running weekday and weekend programs plus pastoral counseling services that needs combined GL, Pastoral Counseling professional limits, and Crime coverage for donations and collections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of religious organizations are a good fit for this program?
The program is best suited for small to mid-sized congregations—churches, synagogues and temples—with standard ministry activities such as worship services, education, counseling and community outreach.
Which coverages can I package through Charity First's Religious Program?
You can combine Property, General Liability, Inland Marine, Crime, Sexual Abuse/Abuse & Molestation, Pastoral Counseling professional liability, Automobile, Umbrella, Workers' Compensation, D&O, and certain International coverages. Availability varies by carrier and state.
How should I submit an account and what documentation is required?
Submit completed ACORD applications and include hard-copy loss runs when available. Provide program details (youth activities, counseling, volunteer screening), property values and prior loss history to speed underwriting review.
Are admitted paper and admitted pricing available?
Yes. Charity First places admitted A+ XV paper in most of the states listed. Availability and terms depend on carrier appetite and state filings; FL, LA and NY are not available under this program.
What are common reasons an account might not fit this program?
Large campus operations, standalone schools or hospitals, extensive residential programs, or unusually high-hazard activities typically require specialty markets. Submit these accounts for review and Charity First will advise on fit or alternatives.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.