At Hausmann Group, we understand that running a business in Wisconsin comes with many responsibilities, especially when it comes to managing employees. Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) helps address potential risks related to employment claims such as discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and more. Whether you have a team of two or two hundred, EPLI coverage can be an important part of your overall risk management strategy.

We work with Wisconsin businesses of all sizes and industries to find coverage options that align with their specific employment risks and organizational goals.

What Is Employment Practices Liability Insurance?

Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) is a type of business insurance that may help provide protection if an employee or job applicant files a claim alleging wrongful acts such as discrimination, retaliation, or wrongful termination. It may also include claims related to sexual harassment, breach of contract, or other employment-related issues.

Even businesses that have detailed employee handbooks, thorough HR procedures, and a positive workplace culture can still face legal challenges from current or former employees. EPLI is designed to help manage the costs associated with defending against those claims.

Why Might Wisconsin Businesses Consider EPLI Coverage?

Wisconsin employers operate in a regulatory environment that continues to evolve, and employment laws at both the state and federal level can present challenges. From small family-owned shops to larger corporations, businesses throughout the state face risks related to how employees are hired, managed, disciplined, or let go.

Legal expenses and settlement costs associated with employment claims can add up quickly. EPLI may help reduce the financial impact of these unexpected situations. At Hausmann Group, we help businesses across Wisconsin explore their coverage options and determine what might be appropriate for their industry and employee structure.

Who Can File a Claim That Might Be Covered by EPLI?

Typically, employment-related claims can come from a wide range of individuals connected to the workplace, not just current employees. These may include:

• Former employees
• Job applicants
• Seasonal or temporary staff
• Independent contractors (in some situations)

The nature of these claims can vary, but common allegations often involve unfair hiring practices, hostile work environments, or wrongful discipline or dismissal.

What Types of Situations Might EPLI Respond To?

While every policy is different and subject to its terms and conditions, some examples of situations that EPLI may help with include:

• An employee alleges they were wrongfully terminated after taking parental leave.
• A job applicant claims they were not hired due to age or race.
• A staff member files a complaint of sexual harassment by a supervisor.
• An employee accuses the business of retaliation after reporting unethical behavior.

These are just a few examples, and EPLI policies may respond differently depending on how the coverage is written. Our team at Hausmann Group can help explain how these coverages typically work and what protections may be available.

How Much Employment Practices Liability Insurance Do Wisconsin Companies Typically Carry?

Coverage limits for EPLI policies vary widely depending on a company’s size, number of employees, claims history, and risk tolerance. Some small businesses may carry lower limits, while larger organizations might opt for more comprehensive coverage.

We work closely with our clients to assess their exposure and recommend coverage limits that align with their needs. Whether your business is located in Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay, or any part of Wisconsin, we can help you understand your options.

How Does EPLI Work with Other Types of Business Insurance?

EPLI is typically a separate policy or an endorsement added to a management liability or business owners policy. While general liability insurance may provide broad coverage for third-party claims like property damage or bodily injury, it generally does not extend to employment-related claims.

In many cases, businesses combine EPLI with Directors & Officers (D&O) coverage or Cyber Liability Insurance as part of a more robust risk management approach. Our team at Hausmann Group will help you understand how EPLI can work alongside your existing insurance policies.

Is EPLI Required for Businesses?

EPLI is not a required coverage by state law. However, it may be a smart addition to your insurance portfolio if you have employees and want to help reduce the financial impact of employment-related claims.

Even with strong HR policies and procedures in place, the potential for legal action still exists. An EPLI policy can help protect your business’s reputation and financial stability if a claim arises.

How Can Hausmann Group Help Wisconsin Businesses with EPLI?

Hausmann Group has been serving Wisconsin businesses for decades. Our team understands the employment challenges local businesses face and the legal landscape in which they operate. We take a consultative approach to insurance—learning about your business, evaluating your exposure, and helping you navigate the range of EPLI options available.

Whether you're just getting started with your first employee or managing a growing workforce, we're here to help you protect what matters.

What Makes EPLI a Smart Consideration in Today’s Workplace?

The modern workplace is more complex than ever. Issues like remote work policies, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and shifting employee expectations can introduce new risks. Even with the best intentions, misunderstandings and miscommunications can lead to legal claims.

EPLI offers a way to help manage those risks and prepare for the unexpected. It’s not just about protection—it’s also about peace of mind.

Ready to Learn More?

If you're a Wisconsin business owner interested in learning more about Employment Practices Liability Insurance, the team at Hausmann Group is here to help. We’ll walk you through what EPLI can offer and help you determine what makes sense for your situation.

Let’s talk about how we can support your business with smart, forward-thinking insurance solutions.