Massage liability insurance protects massage therapists if they are sued because a client says that he/she suffered an injury or was otherwise harmed during a session. It covers the cost of legal defense, settlements and court judgements. One major claim could ruin your career and personal finances with out this coverage.
Why Massage Therapists Need Liability Insurance
Massage therapy involves direct physical contact, which always carries some risk. Even when you follow proper techniques, a client may claim nerve damage, bruising, muscle pain, or discomfort after a session. These claims can quickly turn into lawsuits.
Most states require massage therapists to carry liability insurance to maintain their license. Professional organizations like the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP) also require it for membership. Many spas and clinics will not allow you to work unless you provide proof of insurance and list them as an additional insured.
Without insurance, your personal savings, home, and other assets could be used to pay legal judgments. Claims often range between $50,000 and $200,000. Most policies are portable, meaning they cover you whether you work in a spa, clinic, home office, or as a mobile therapist.
Professional Liability (Malpractice) Coverage
Professional liability insurance, also called malpractice insurance, is the most important part of a massage therapy policy. It covers claims that you caused bodily injury through mistakes, negligence, or improper techniques during a session.
Standard coverage limits are usually $2 million per claim and $6 million per year. Legal defense costs are typically paid outside these limits, so attorney fees do not reduce your available coverage.
This coverage often includes protection for Good Samaritan acts, such as helping someone outside of work, injuries caused by working on the wrong area of the body, and first aid expenses.
Many policies also pay for license defense if a complaint is filed with a licensing board and cover deposition costs even if a lawsuit is never filed.
Some plans include communicable disease coverage and limited protection if you are assaulted during a session, although assault coverage is not available in Texas.
General and Premises Liability Coverage
General liability insurance protects you from accidents that happen in your workspace rather than during the massage itself. For example, it covers situations where a client slips on oil, trips over equipment, or has a skin reaction to lotions or massage oils.
This coverage usually provides limits of $2 million per claim and $6 million per year. It may also cover damage to nearby property caused by fire or water, minor medical payments for client injuries regardless of fault, and limited coverage for damage to a client’s personal belongings.
Some policies include protection for privacy breaches related to client health information and limited coverage for unfounded sexual misconduct allegations.
Coverage Overview
| Coverage Type | Per Claim Limit | Annual Aggregate | What It Covers |
| Professional Liability | $2M | $6M | Massage-related injuries, errors |
| General Liability | $2M | $6M | Slips, products, property damage |
| Medical Payments | $25K | $100K | Minor client injuries |
| License / Deposition | $25K | Varies | Board hearings, legal fees |
| Assault / First Aid | $25K | $15K–$35K | Attacks, emergency care |
Each massage therapist has their own coverage limits. Policies are not shared with other practitioners.
Exclusions and Coverage Gaps
Massage therapy liability insurance does not cover intentional harm, criminal acts, or services not listed on your policy. If you offer additional modalities such as Reiki or energy work, they must be declared or claims may be denied.
Flood damage, pest issues, and normal wear and tear are excluded. Business equipment like massage tables requires separate property insurance. Some higher-risk services, such as pregnancy massage, may require an added rider. Employee injuries are covered under workers’ compensation, not liability insurance, and your own medical issues are not covered.
Cost and Popular Providers in 2025
Most massage therapists pay between $99 and $260 per year for liability insurance. Many professional memberships include coverage in their annual dues. Pricing depends on how many hours you work, the types of massage you provide, and whether you have had past claims.
Well-known providers include AMTA, ABMP, CM&F, and ChiroSecure. These insurers offer instant certificates of insurance that can be downloaded and shared with employers or clients.
Provider Comparison
| Provider | Coverage Limits | Annual Cost | Notable Features |
| AMTA | $2M / $6M | $260 | Education resources, assault coverage |
| ABMP | $2M / $6M | $249 | No shared aggregate |
| CM&F | $2M / $6M | $125 | Strong medical payments |
| ChiroSecure | $1M / $3M | $99 | Lowest-cost option |
Real Claims and How to File One
A common example involves a client claiming deep tissue massage caused muscle spasms. In one case, the insurer defended the therapist and settled the claim for $75,000. Another example is a client developing a rash from massage oil, which is handled under products liability.
If a claim occurs, notify your insurance provider immediately. Document session notes carefully and follow the insurer’s instructions. Legal defense and settlement payments are managed by the insurance company, and appeals may also be covered when appropriate.
Customizing Coverage and Saving Money
You can adjust your policy based on how you work. Therapists who rent space often add general liability coverage. Mobile therapists may add rental car protection. Some policies also offer identity theft coverage.
You can save money by joining professional associations, maintaining a clean claims history, working part-time if eligible, and renewing your policy on time. Letting coverage lapse can risk your license and ability to work.
State Requirements and Industry Trends
All U.S. states require massage therapists to be licensed, and most require at least $1 million in liability coverage. California and Texas have stricter proof requirements than many other states.
In 2025, more therapists are adding cyber liability coverage because online booking systems and digital client records increase data privacy risks.
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