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Understanding the Financial Commitment of Group Captive Insurance Programs

By April 29, 2024May 13th, 2024No Comments

Are you a business owner exploring alternative insurance options? Are you wondering: “What are the  financial costs to join a captive?”  Then, this article is for you!

Beyond the typical annual insurance costs that are established by your individual 5-year loss experience, establishing membership in a group captive involves a one-time fee. This capitalization fee secures your ownership stake in the program and lays the foundation for building equity over time. It’s essential to perceive the upfront cost not as a barrier, but as an investment. This capital expenditure grants you ownership control and access to the benefits of a group captive.

Additionally, collateral is necessary to safeguard the captive members against potential future losses, should a member exit the program or face financial challenges. As a member of the captive, your collateral requirements are initially determined by your loss experience in the first three years after entry. However, once this initial period ends and your collateral is established, your requirements will fluctuate each year based on your needed loss funding amount. Therefore, actively managing and reducing your losses directly impacts your collateral obligations, bolstering your financial standing within the program. Furthermore, your collateral serves as a protective measure for all members, ensuring the program’s stability even in the face of individual challenges.

Moreover, both your capital contribution and collateral generate investment income over time, further enhancing your company’s equity position. This accumulation of investment income, coupled with superior insurance coverage forms compared to the standard market, underscores the financial advantages of group captives.

But the predominant equity is generated by your loss performance.  When you generate more premiums than are needed to pay losses, this surplus not only earns investment income but also is returned to you as a member over time, amplifying the financial rewards of participation.

In conclusion, group captive insurance programs offer a holistic financial vehicle that not only provides superior insurance coverage but also actively builds equity into your organization.

If you’re interested in learning more about group captives or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about how this innovative insurance product can benefit your business.

Dave Chiaverini, CIC, AAI

Business Insurance Executive dchiaverini@ekmcconkey.com 717-505-3140

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