{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "DefinedTerm", "name": "Retroactive Date and Tail Coverage", "description": "On a claims-made policy, the retroactive date limits how far back the coverage applies, and tail coverage extends the reporting window after the policy ends. Both matter when switching carriers or retiring.", "inDefinedTermSet": { "@type": "DefinedTermSet", "name": "Insurance Terms Glossary", "url": "https://olivecover.com/insurance-terms" } }
Olive Cover
AboutFree Coverage Review
General

Retroactive Date and Tail Coverage

On a claims-made policy, the retroactive date limits how far back the coverage applies, and tail coverage extends the reporting window after the policy ends. Both matter when switching carriers or retiring.

On claims-made policies, the retroactive date sets how far back the carrier will cover prior acts. Tail coverage extends the reporting window after the policy ends. Example: a consultant retiring after 20 years on a claims-made professional liability policy buys a 5-year tail. Any claim reported in the next 5 years for work done before retirement is still covered. Without tail, that exposure goes uninsured.