An insurance certificate, also referred to as a certificate of insurance (COI), is a document provided by an insurance company, agent, or broker. Its purpose is to demonstrate the existence of an insurance agreement between the insurer and the insured party. The certificate includes essential details such as the names of the insurer and insured, policy effective date, and the type of coverage provided. While it serves as evidence of the insurance contract, it is important to note that the certificate of insurance should not be considered the actual contract itself. Essentially, an insurance certificate serves as proof of insurance coverage held by a business or individual.