What is a 'Certificate of Authority' in the context of insurance?

A 'Certificate of Authority' is specifically a document that is issued to insurance companies by the state regulatory body, which in this case is Florida. This document is crucial because it allows insurers to legally conduct insurance business within the state, ensuring they meet local regulations and standards.

Obtaining a Certificate of Authority is a requisite step for insurers who wish to provide coverage to residents in Florida, as it verifies that the company is properly licensed and complies with state insurance laws. This protects consumers by ensuring that only financially stable and legally compliant companies can sell insurance policies.

While there are other relevant documents in the insurance field, such as certificates related to policy coverage or those used for auditing purposes, the Certificate of Authority serves a distinct purpose in validating an insurer’s ability to operate within a particular jurisdiction.