Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why choose CAN Insurance Services (CIS) for our organization's insurance coverages?
Nonprofit agencies choose CIS for a wide range of reasons. Many select us for our access to quality coverages, unbeatable rates and attentive, professional service. Others appreciate our years of experience specializing in insurance products exclusively for nonprofits. As California's leading nonprofit insurance specialist we're able to apply our knowledge and expertise to the advantage of our clients, finding them unique coverages, lower rates and better plans. Still others prefer us for our years of commitment and support to California's nonprofit sector. They like taking advantage of our great insurance products, information & resources and cost savings, but they also like knowing that 100% of the revenue generated through CIS supports the work of CAN (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit association whose mission is to strengthen and support California's nonprofit sector). CIS insures thousands of employees in hundreds of nonprofit organizations throughout California!

2. Can CIS save my agency money on employee benefit plans and/or general liability coverages?
Yes. We frequently find ways to save organizations money on one or more of their insurance plans. These savings often result from finding comparable (and sometimes even better) coverages at lower rates using our thorough knowledge and shopping of the insurance market. Other times we derive savings from re-assessing your risks, re-classifying employees or eliminating unnecessary coverages sold by commissioned, profit-driven brokers. At CIS our goal isn't gross sales or net profits, it's best meeting your agency's specific insurance needs at the most affordable rates.

3. What about getting the best value, not just the best rate?
Absolutely. The savviest insurance buyers know price isn't always the best criteria for selecting an insurance plan. Often, the best option combines comprehensive coverage and quality customer service at an attractive rate. That's why CIS offers a range of price-sensitive, quality coverage options for each of your employee benefit and general liability insurance needs. You also receive support from our outstanding customer service team!

4. Does CIS offer any “exclusive” insurance programs?
Yes. CIS offers several exclusive insurance programs tailored to meet the needs of California nonprofits. Exclusive insurance programs are custom designed plans typically available only to very large corporations or governmental agencies. CIS has been able to create their own exclusive plans by leveraging the buying power of the hundreds of nonprofit agencies we serve. These plans offer greater benefits and special provisions at rates often below those commercially available. Our exclusive plans include offerings for dental, vision, acupuncture, chiropractic and life insurance benefits. These CIS-only exclusives are in addition to the many other options available through us.

5. How long has CIS been meeting nonprofit insurance needs?
CIS was formed in 1984 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the California Association of Nonprofits (CAN). As nonprofits joined CAN, many expressed interest in finding lower cost, alternative sources to the traditional profit-driven insurance brokers. CIS was created to meet this need. By researching nonprofit insurance needs and exploring the broader insurance market, CIS has been able to find and offer highly respected, innovative and affordable insurance options to better meet the needs of nonprofits in California. From our humble beginnings with just 3 staff, CIS has grown to become a leading source of quality, affordable insurance for nonprofits across the state. Now, 20 years later, we have more than 30 employees between our headquarters located in Santa Cruz and our 2 offices in the greater Los Angeles area.

6. What kinds of coverages and insurance programs can CIS offer my agency?
CIS offers the full range of employee benefits coverages and general liability policies necessary to securely manage your nonprofit. You can call on us for all your insurance needs including health, dental, disability, property and casualty, directors' & officers, workers' compensation (and more!). Our staff of nonprofit insurance specialists can help answer your questions and provide you with the quotes and coverage you need. With one call, you can get it all! Moreover, we offer you access to several choices of carriers and plans within each coverage category. And unlike traditional profit-driven brokers, we'll never push you into a plan because it's better for us. We'll always give you the information and comparisons you need to make the best choice for your organization.

7. Will I get the same quality service and attention I can get from a local broker?
Absolutely. In fact, we believe you'll receive more valuable service and personal attention than you get from most local brokers. That's because our staff is dedicated to understanding and meeting the needs of nonprofit agencies like yours. It's our sole mission and we take pride in delivering the most up-to-date information, accurate assessments and prompt responses to each inquiry we receive. You see, we treat every client the way most brokers treat only their largest customers. Our staff is dedicated to the principle that every call, every email and every contact is important and deserves our prompt, professional attention, regardless of your agency's size, location or mission. Plus we strive to keep you proactively informed of important compliance issues, regulations and policy amendments potentially impacting you or your organization. Combine our service performance with the range of desirable products we offer and you'll understand why more than 95% of our clients renew their policies with us year after year!

8. What makes CIS different from other brokers and insurance providers?
CIS has a unique history of dedication to serving the nonprofit organizations of California. Unlike other brokers, CIS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the California Association of Nonprofits (CAN). This relationship demands that we put your needs first, above generating profits. Everything we do is designed specifically to help obtain the best coverages at a reasonable price and tailored for your nonprofit organization. Hence, every nickel we earn goes directly into growing and improving our services to you – things like developing online access to policy information, regional education seminars on how to make the most of your insurance dollars, and printed resources to help keep you informed of the latest insurance trends, compliance issues and management strategies. Please give us a call and let us show you how we deliver customer service and satisfaction.